The New York Herald Newspaper, January 2, 1870, Page 3

HAPPY NEW YEAR. The Feast of the Circumeision--- ‘he “ Fast” of “New Year’s Day.” Observance of the Festival in This City and Elsewhere. .~ Old Customs Revived—Receptions by the Mayor and Others—The Day in the Institutions and Churches, Taken on the whole, yesterday was perhaps the Mout thoroughly enjoyed holiday marking the open- img of the new year that the citizens of New York and of the thickly populated suburbs have ever had since the days of old Diedrich Knickerbocker and Peter Stuyvesant, The grand old social custom of ex- cbanging visits and congratulations at the opening of a fresh period in the calendar of Time flourished 4m all fts undiminished glory. If the old Hollanders, who settled the primitive jinn of Manhattan and taid the foundations of its future greatness and prosperity, left us no other relic of their presence aud worth 98 8 gommunity, they must nevertheless be accorded the credit of instituting a fes- tval which, in ita intrinsic soctat value, is bus lightly measured by words, The bDeantifal idea conveyed in the annual reunion of ‘riends and acquaintances, long, perhaps involun- tarily dissevered or estranged, speaks volumes for the deep-seated impulse which prompts man to meet and fraternise, at east once a year, on terms of friendship and equality with his fellow man. Ao- quaintance begets intimacy; from intercourse grows friendship. The ‘‘day we celebrate”’ is, in this view, the happiest and best bigot of republican cus- toms and sanctioned by traditions of Mauhatian island. Dutch in its origin, it has become Ameri- can in ite observance, and it 1s now an accepted Institution of tne State. That it 1s not generally ob- served over the entire country, is to ve regretted; ‘but as civilization and enlightenment advance, the Whole country will see its beauty, ahd even cold Boston and all Massachusetts may melt before the genial raysof New Year's Day. The day in the churches, in the public institutions, &c., was duly celebrated, and, as usual, the fullest reports of the ‘most important occrrances will be found below. AT ST. ALBAN’S CHURCH, The festival of the Redeemer’s Circumcision was celebrated yesterday at St. Alban’s by what is called ip the langugge of these ritualists a “high celebra- tion.” The church was bung through its entire length with rich festoons of the choicest evergreens and the sanctuary was ablaze with golden light, two candelabra at either side of the altar making two beautiful contcal pillars of starlike constelia- tions. A banner of rich white flowered satin and gold, on woich was an exquisite painting of the “Holy Family,” afver the style of Raphael, was sus- pended at the right side of the sanctuary, while on the left was another equally valuable banner, on which was wrought in gold a chalic2, eurmounted by the host emiiling a flood of haloed rays. At eight in the morning the extra service commenced by ® procession of acolytes and priests. which. hay- Wi pearance” a” Aolnun Calais and Mr. as deacon. A lergyman, suspended in Massachusetts, tor ritualistic practices, acted as enb-deacon. The congregation was large and highly respectable, and was evident of a devotiobal turn of mii having ‘com of people , meariy 100 persons mm of the communion. After the anion the et ee Jong in pra} ving, uik of the congrega- ton having previously retired. The chasiole and other vestments used were extremely gorgeous, and the ceremonial throughout was such as to appeai Jargely to the senses snd the imagination. ‘ere AT THE CITY HALL ‘Tue day was celebrated witn much of the old-time democratic whole-souledness. Early in the morn- ing the flags were raised on the City Hall stats and the gates were thrown open. No previous notice of apy public reception had been given, but from results it may be judged that no such notice was needed. Had such notice been made there might have been an immenae crowd of idle, careless ana curious “‘callers;” but, as it was, those who came ‘were impelled by admiration of the city’s chief ex- ecutive and the hope that he might renew the good old-time custom and give them an opportunity to [pay their respects. In days ‘lang syne” the head Burgomaster of New Amsterdam would sit on his “stoep’’ (stoop), and gave to the children New Year’s cakes. The burgo- masters began to vie with each other in the size if not in the substantia! quality and distinguishing beauty of the cakes until the custom grew to be almost obnoxious. The goog nature which prompted the custom was lost sight of, and abuse crept in ‘until 12 some cases the burgomasters, in putting forth extraordinary efforts and giving out extraordi- nary “‘cakes,”’ became insolvent, and go the practice ‘Was stopped. In later years the Mayors held ‘open house,” and received the calls of the citizens on New Years Day, immediately after taking the oath of office. Last year there was @ change and no public reception was given. Yesterday, however, Mayor Hall reccived a numerous crowd of happy, hearty callers, During a couple of hours they came ia gorse steady string. Filing in from the xoain Bs way of what might be called the ‘a boudoir, the ‘‘callers’” passed through to the other exquisitely furnisbed room, and here the Mayor stood receive them. A smile, a stake by the hand anda pleasant word for each one made the entire party happy. Indeed, so numerous, so quick, 80 Varied and yet S80 apropos were the mots dispensed by Mr. Hall that it mignt have been sup- posed he had been feeding on ‘snapping mot-toes’” tor a w eek, but not for any weak attempt at wit, Had Jenkins been around he would have observed that Mr. Hall was dressed in blue coat and vest, cut low, not quite 4 la Pompadour, for there was no odor of pomp about him. He worea black and white check neckerchief, typical, no doubt, of the check he intends to place on the usurpers of the rights of tue Mayoralty. Green malachite studs and buttons ornamented his pure white linen, to give the pure lovers of the ‘oe who might call upov him some reason to recail ae jays of old, —the di When Malacht wore the collar of gold, The indispensable eyeglasses were in their accus- tomed place, and served to show how much better ‘ward the present Mayor can keep of the interests of the public than one of his illustrious predecessors bragged of. The gent last referred to had ‘a single eye t the public good,” but Mayor Hall has four as many. But to the reception. There were hundreds of old and young, and among others the “Bootblack Brigade” and a number of small but evidently strong young femaics, Amoi she latter was oue carrying a baby, waich greete the Mayor with a lively bawl, evidently embarrass- ing its young nurse. e embarrassment ,and an. noyance was alleviated by the Mayor, who came to the rescue of the nurse's feelings Dy exciaiming, “Ab, alive dolly! That's very nice.” This. brought a smile to the faces of all who were in the rom, nd they passed on to the large room where the “License Bureau’ sign 18 conspicuous. The fre ‘was burning brightly in the grate, and maue the yoom as cheerful looking as one might wish; but cheerful and ‘grateful’ as the fire seemed, there was goo@ cheer of another kind to make the “callers” grateful. There were stacks of sandwiches, plethoric .and wholesome; piles of the traditional Knickerbocker New Year's cake, kews of lager and gallons of lemonade. The visitors marshalled along in front of the tabies, although the Marshal was Dot present, and each of the young females took her share, notwittstanding the absence of Tooker. It might be questioned whether the kixcise Board has not a right to haul Mayor Hall “over the coals’ Jor “publicly giving away” lager beer, aud having no license therefor, although the ‘giving away” was done on the premises of the License bureau. But leave that question to the wiseacres of the E: cise Board to exercise their blissiul min upon, The ‘callers’ at the hail cared not for them, their powers, their practices or their pretensions ycaterday, they enjoyed the homely fare ‘which although Knickerbockerish was not too tonic, end some of the urchins were as well pleased with 46 that they commenced tien and there practising for the “repeater’s” répertoie. But aside trom such ttle incidents the compiiment to the Mayor was an ‘undoubtedly spontaneous one, devoid of anything like shoddy or the associations of those who Crook the pregnant hinges of the knee ‘That thrift may follow fawning, In anotner part of the City Hail butiding the cour- teous and aimost ubiquituous Keeper, Mr. G. W. Koome, with his Cty oa universally bs peal family, received during vee f hundreds offvisitors, embraciag representatives of all grades of oMictal life and good social circies, and maintained in an eminent degree their characteristic kindness and Bospisalits. NEW YORK HERALD, SUNDAY, JANUARY 2, 1870.—TRIPLE SHEET. Among the most brilliant private receptions of New York city which took place yesterday that of ‘Admiral Farragut wil undoubtedly claim attention. The gallant old Admiral, the Nelson of America, was in the best of health, and there is no doubt but that he has fully recovered from the effects of his recent iness. From nine o’clock 1a the morning Uill ten at night tne Admiral presided in the recep- tion rooms and maintained his ground against ybe formidable phalanx of frieuds who came in to wish their lllustrious friend many additional years of usefuiness and happiness. Many and mauy were the congratulations that were omered apa him, Expressions of joy that he had been sp! to the natiop for many more years of | usefulness was the general theme of the large and | Infuential cifele of Imends aud acquaintances there { assembed, To all the old Admiral hada pleasant word to say in answer to expressions of cordiality and good will, which were assailing the Admiral with as much vies a8 the rebel shot before the bat- teries of Port Hudson. ‘The reception was con- ducted in the magnificent room at 113 Keast Thirty- sixth street, and refreshments were provided and Out with most recherché style in the ous gnte- room adjoining. The following are a few of the prominent personages who honored the Admiral With @ visit:—General Rufus I General Mc- Dowell, General Pieasonton, Genera: Wall e dier General H. D. Wright, Adrmiral Dupont, Benator BS bald, Nye, of Nevada; British Consul, of New York; Commod: ©. McKeever, 0. A. Dana, William Garter, M. Bigelow, i i’ Look: wood, James 5, ir, Dr. Draper, jam E Ohittenten ands rs.” The number of viaitor iit not fall short of 300, and if the weather had been more favorable there can be no doubt that this large member would have been considerably augmented. AT THE PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS, The new year dawned gloriously on the unfortu- nate specimens of humanity confined in the various formatory institutions end asylums of Ward's, Randall’s and Blackweil’s islands, For reasons best known to tne Commussioners of Charity and Correction the usual New Year's ainner to the convicts was dispensed with this season, to the discomfiture or hundreds of poor fellows who Were doubtless calculating upon having one gooa “square meal,” at east, at the expense of the city, ff nothing more during the year. Notwithstanding this gloomy atate of affairs numer- ous warm hearted individuals of bis city visited the different institutions during the morning and left as souvenirs of their visit quantities of ‘poultry and delicacies for the inmates, which, with their usual fare, contributed im a manner to assuage their misery. At Ward's Island the immatea of the Inebriate Asylum held a grand joilifcation among themselves; speeches, toasts and the read of various poems were the order of the day, those who were unable through a lack of means to enjoy themselves were erously supplied py their com] let through- Randa Island reouieneres out the day, with the ex: mn of & collation given to the children and convicts detailed there from other institutions, At two o’clock an exhibition drill was given on the green in front of the institution by the celebrated lhputian troop of Grenadiers who exe- cuted their evolutions with the precision of veterans to the satisfaction of the visitors. Bellevue Hospital was tni throughout the day with visitors and friends of the patients despite the inclement state of the weather, which towards the afternoon became very disagreeable. Warden eae rene to the serene patients in 1@ hospital a generous supply of soups ana delica- cies, which through bis enorts he had received from parties in the city. At Blackwell's Island the day passed off quietty at the Workhouse, Penitentiary and Charity Hospital. ‘The convicts were placed tn thetr cells at ten o'clock, and at twelve o’clock were provided. with a sub- stantial dinner, con of prison fare and the contributions of ci No work was allowed during tae day, which act offkindness was highly uppreciated by those in confinement. AT THE NEWSBOYS" LODGING HOUSE. The newsboys spent tié Gay in their usual happy manner, Although it was not the lot of these little wanderers to give and receive calls and participate in the pleasures which area distinctive teature of the day, yet this was amply atoned for by the boun- tiful arrangement and good cheer provided by the managers for this occasion. The tostitution now affords shelter and reilef to about 220 boys. Un New Year’s Eve each of the boys was presented with a socks, while others who were not of these articles received shir and other articies of clothing, and the. bath) Tope lg meng of the voungsters en the amply repaid the donors for well timed liveralty. No festivities took place, but the boys were provided with an additional allowance of food, and on the whole they have no cause for dissatisfaction with thelr condition on the beginning of the year 1870, AT THE FIVE PONTS HOUSE OF INDUSTRY. ‘This excellent and valuable charity was, as usual, devoted to the alleviation of the misery and want so common in this city, but more especially prevaient im the immediate vicinity of the society's establsh- ment. If any one was skeptical as to the need of such an institution @ visit yesterday to the House would have immediately dispelled any doubte already existing. Work of every description was suspended and the children were given a holiday and provided with sundry amusemetits to Keep them out of mischief. The society afford relief and shelter to 200 children, and 200 more children are cared for, ‘but they do not sleep within the building. Year's Eve the children were provided with:a supply ofcandy. Many calls were made at the institution, but they were not calls for congratulation or friendly visits, Dut in order to appease the wants of hunger and famine. The soctety gave {esterday 1,200 meals, and nothing more need be satd in support of such a society, devoted to objects so noble and humane. THE DAY AT THE “BANKS.” Gambling in America ts an established fact. The allurements of Baden-Baden exist no more as ex- clusively pertaining to European vice. They are re- produced in New York. He, who, across the water, appears in faultless costume, who supports rare gems, who drives fast horses, who is elegant in figure, blasé in tout ensemble and impersonates an intmitable suavity, is no longer indigenous to trans- aulantic shores. Yesterday developed him as the metropolitan gambier. New Year’s was nowhere so sumptuousiy ana universally celebrated as at the gambling palaces of the first of the fraternity. The Fiftm Avenue Hotel is the nucleus of the triune brotherhood that claims the most eminent superiority. Chamberlain was the first. Entering by massive brown stone steps and passing through a door with glass elabo- rately carved, the guest stands in @ spacious hall, A white-aproned, cleanly-shaven, obsequious darkey settles the preliminaries. Hats, canes, overcoats and rubbers are received and appropriately checked. Chamberlain himself, a man of great personal mag- netism, rotund face, dark eyes, jolly expression and black mustache. wearing a diamond rock and at- ured in the latest fashionable cuts, ushers the visitors into his double parlors. Hundreds are seated around. Smoke 18 the atmosphere. If fire, earin and water were the elements, water were champagne, earth mines of the gastronomic art, aud fire the combustion of Havanas’ most fragrant exportations, The geymbiers tatked of faro, of gain, of loss, of borses, debts and sport generally. ‘This we obtained in the front parlor; in the back parior was @ sumptuous spread. The centre table supported @ dazzling array of all that could tempt the appetite. Drinkstwere in abundance. hino, Curacoa, champagne, port and Widow Cliquot, were on hand to temper the blood; chicken salads, terrapin roast meats, rare vegetables, oy: ters, and all that the palate could suggest. The hos- pitailty of Chamoeriain iliustrates tne prover- bial lavishness of the gauibler. Diamond pins flashed in every breast, and gold repeaters ticked in every pocket. Money was pleuty; but the word was “we sell nothing here!” Laat might at tweive o’cloc k the revels had not ceased. pair oP shoes and in National prestige Was added tothe reception given |" by the purly Jol Morrissey. Not only did politicat friends pay their respects to the most renowned of all pugilistic legislators, but Congressmen, judges, editors, actors, and tne throngs of gay and festive gathered about the “Hon. John's” board and made merry. Liquers, brandied sweetmeats, peaches and ali fruits, but no game, were played upon, and played out. The “Hon. John” himself greeted his company with that dignity and hospitality tor which he 1s Su justly celebrated. In the evening carriages thronged in front the door; thousands called and the tempting viands died with humaa consumption. Other places equally noted were the scenes of the meeting of the fast as contradistingutshed from te slow {n this unworthy nineteenth century, Ran- some, elegant and solid in furniture, was inspected by thousands, and half tipsey visitors in maudiin ‘Ways inquired “nave we Bourbon among us?’? ‘Without circumlocution, indeed, in the most direct ‘ay possidle, many got drunk, and looked careless and anxious in temporary sleep. Revelry lasted long aud thousands who did not lose thelr money lost their senses, THE DAY IN BROOKLYN was observed with the utmost zest by the young and old of the sterner sex, who are wont to “go the rounds” among their friends on the 1st of January. The “callers” were out quite early in the day, as were also many ladies in elegant attire, tne latter “bound out” to assiat their lady friends in receiving calis. The neat white blinds, half raised, and the pretty lace curtains hanging at either side of the window, visible through the venetians, bespoke that there was ® very general observance of the time-honored custom in Brooklyn. The courts, Police and justice of the peace, were Open im the morning for the purpose of hearing the cases .of ‘“bummers” and others bd La yt = their sapere, monies Kd ance ¢ day they originally purposed to ce! brate, There was bo reception at the City Hall, owing to the recent death of the wife of Mayor Kalb- fleisch, There was but little arunkenness observ- able on any side, and but few arrests were made, ‘The afternoon and evening fpimnictg at Hooley’s Opera House and Mrs. F. B, Conway’s Park theatre were very | ly attended. There were masses in all the Catholic churcheg in commemoration of the “Feast of the Circumeiasion of our Di- vine Lord.” Tne clergymen advised their congregations as to the necessities of availing them- selves of the present time in attending to their reli- gow duties, and calling atteution to the record of he past year enlarged upon the uncertainties of the future upon which we were entering. In several of the churches the flock was admonished to be abste- mons in thelr visite aud advised as to the evils of intemperance, Taken ali in all New Year's day,-1870, will long be Temembered by thowe wno took part in ite lesluvities an the City of Churches, 108 SUBURBS, In Jersey City. New Year’s Day was observed as usual by suepen- sion of business and numerous visite to those who ‘Were kind enough to refrain from ciosing their win- dows as a sure sign that no friends could be seen. In the various churches religious services were held both in the forenoon and evening. the streets looked quite [+1 allmeaaiahaee ling line became brisk as THE DAY IN in Hoboken the observance of the day was fully as grand tn com- Parison as it ever Wasin this city. Preparations for the celebration of the day were being made all day on Friday and at night— ‘When the brazen tongue of clamorous th Stood (rembiing on tbe midnight verge, wis there seemed to come o lull, such as the silence in the chamber of death. Presently the ‘verge’ bad been reached, and, stroke after stroke, the parting Knell of the old year rung out upon the air, The death of one who bad been sp loved in its time by all seemed to the breath of ali numanity. In moment the was broken. The bells which nad tolled the: knell rang cheerily @ welcome to the new year, from every side came the greet- New Year!” Tia horns were tooted, ) Dolay welcome of all sort en, all Hobokex seemed to be alive and wide awake. Throughout the day there were innu- merabie calla made, and, of course, received, and the young belles and beaux of Hoboken, as well as Ve humerous descendants of Teutonia who there reside, have reason to remember New Year's Day, 1870, a8 among the happiest of tueir lives. In Newark. Yesterday the inangural day of 1870 was celebra- ted with considerably more than usual spirit in Newark. As on Christmas Day business was en- tirely suspended and citizens generally exerted themselves to the very utmost in the effort to spend “avery happy New Year.” While the religious and devoutly ed were attending divine service at the lic and Episcopal churches in the forenoon an immense throng of citizens, besides the members of the Common Council, headed Pagel ¢ Daniel Baker, called upon the ihcomil the outgoing Mayors, Messrs. F. H. Ricord and Thomas B. Peddie, atthe City Hall, where retresaments for 1,000 had been provided. "There remained oniy enough to teed @ few sparrows by noon, which speaks well for the gastronomic powers of the gallant 1,500. Subse- quently the Mayor and Mayor elect feogived, from ex-Governor Marcus L. Ward, Mr. Joseph M. Ward, ¢x-Mayors Pigeon and Potnier, ex-President of the Council €. 8. knet and several other lead- tag public and private citizens. The weather was pretty fair for New Years day, and com! the opening day of 1809 was cellent for ing calls, This time honored custom is said to have been first introduced tuto Newark by a party of seven gentlemen in 1882, Dr. Penrington, Dr. Mercer, and the late Kev, ©. A. Halsey were of the seven. It would have these gentlemen hugely, no doubt, ‘could they have Witnessed the unanimity with which their example was carried out yest by the foiks of Newark, who are living, unfortunately, ‘faster’ as years go by. Making all Gue allowance for the exuberance of spirit, the reult of frequent imbibattonsfof a spiritu- ous nature, the day passed off orderly and quietly. few arrests for trif_ing offences were made, but up toa late hour in the evening nothing had occurred to rufie the smooth course of New Year's Day, 1870. In Paterson the day was observed by a genera! suspension of business and @ universal relaxation from it. ‘There was no festivity of a public character, but the usual calling routine was kept up from an early hour untli late in the evening. The nard shower in the afternoon seemed to have but little effect in dampening the ardor of fashion’s devotees of the Inale persuasion. The evening was observed by a number of balls, and Terpsichorean exercises clored =o evidently well enjoy by the entire com- munity. i At Sing Sing Prison. Yesterday the inmates of Sing Sing Prison were entertained with @ vocal and instrumental concert, given in the spacious chapel of that institution, by a band of twelve convict performers, whose versatile musical and vocal abilities woula not suffer by a comparison with most of the negro minstrel com- nies of the day. The chapel was taste- iy adorned wito evergreens for the oc- casion, and evidenced remarkable skili and Ingenuity on the part of convict fingers. At the conclusion of the performance, which lasted about three hours, the men were marched to their cells, where they were served with ® holiday dinner, after which they were permitted to talk and sing iu their ceils until the usual hour for Sohne yening the lights, The prison hospital was also artistically decorated with numerous band- somely wrought ornaments and embiems, while the words “Happy New Year,” peautifuily devised, reeted the visitor’s eye in ap eabie manner, th here and tn the chapel. In addition to being cheered by separate musical entertainment the patients were furnished with @ delicate and grateful repast commemorative of New Year’s Day. HOW THE DAY WAS OBSERVED THROUGH- OUT THE COUNTRY. At Albany—The Governor’s Reception. ALBANY, Jan. 1, 1870. ‘The weather was beautifolly mild and the holiday generally observed. The Governor received calls in the Executive Chamber. ‘The Jackson corps paraded, making a fine appearance. Nearly every house en- tertained callers, and festivity prevalied throughout the city. At SyracusemA Grand Barbecue for the En- tertainment of the Poor. SYRACUSE, Jan. 1, 1870, Agreat barbecue was held here to-day for the entertainment of the poor of Syracuse. it was pro- vided by John Greenway. Thousands of persons from the surrounding country came to town, and the streets have ali day worn a holiday appearance. Clinton square was packed with spectators, esti- mated at from 20,000 to 30,000 in number. Two whole beeves were roasted and another cut up raw and distributed to the poor, together with 5,000 loaves of bread. The butchers and bakers aided in the preparations. Several ex-mayors and other prominent citizens, wearing white aprons, waited upon the crowds of applicants for food. The whole community seemed to take great interest in the The Day in Richmond, Va.—Speech of Gove ernor Walker to His Negro Visitors. RICHMOND, Jan, 1, 1870. New Year’s Day was observed here as never be fore. Calls were general. General Canby, the Gov- ernor and Mayor, gave a public reception, at which the army officers attended in a body in fail uniform, and also by a large number of citizens, Ex-Governor Wells gave reception which was well attended by officers and citizens. ‘The Colored Society celebraved the Emancipation Proclamation, and called upon Governor Walker, who made them a speech, in which he reverted to the oecasion which they celebrated, and told them they were his peers before the law, and vested with the same rights and privileges, and he, as Governor, would see that these rights and privileges were secured to them, would stand by and protect them as far as the power was with him. He appealed to them to show oy their action that they appreciated these rights, and what had been called an experiment in regard to colored people would prove most suc- cessful. Governor Walker was followed by General Imbo- den, who spoke in the same manner, The speeches were enthusiastically receivea, Celebration of the Day In Loviswiile, Ky. LOvIsvILiR, Jan. 1, 1870. ‘The colored people celebrated the anniversary of emancipation with the reading of the prociamation, the delivery of speecnes and a public procession. Business was generally suspended, NEW YEAR'S IN WASHINGTON. Receptions by President Grant, Vico President Colfax, Cabinet Seo- retaries and Other Dignitaries. Animated and Pleasant Scene—A Rush to the White House—The Niggers Insulted— Reception of the Diplomatic Corps by President Grant—Particular Atten- tion Paid to the Colored Minister from Hayti—End of a Most Agreeable Occasion — Recep- tions by Vice President Col- fax and Others — Lavish Hospitality and Gene- ral Pleasure. WasHINGToN, Jan, 1, 1870, New Year’a atthe nations! capital to-day was observed more generaily than for many yei Everything combined to make the day pleasant. ‘The sky was clear, the temperature pleasant and the streets miraculonsly clean, considering the mud and slush that abounded for two or three days pre- coding, and, everybody with a penchant for “call- ing’’ seemed disposed to make the most of the favor- able condition of things by exhausting the list of fends, acquaintances and public oMcials. The oldest residents declared that a happier New Year never came and went; never were so many merry callers abroad; never were receptions more agreea- able and cordia). And the oldest residents certainly ought 0 know. To describe the celebration here to-day may ap- Pear to be repeating an oft told tale, and, generally speaking, this ts tru: Teasures about the occasion to-day that entitle it to some larger mention than a brief summary could afford, And Mrst of these features is te be found tn the fact thas the soldier President gave bis first New Year’s reception, to which event nearly ali Wash- ington, high and low, white and biack, native and foreign, contributed, It was really @ great day ut the Executive Mansion, outside as well as tn. Though the programme said the reception of President Grant would not commence intil eleven A. M., and that then it would be confined to the Cabinet and foreign Ministers, crowds had gathered about the Executive Mansion as early as half-past nine o’clock and clamored for admission. All the gates leading to the mansion, however, were closed and guarded by energetic policemen, who had received accurate and strict orders from Super- intendent Richards, and therefore barred the entrance of all but a few members of the press and the momentaruy arriving carriages containing the Cabimes members and foreign Miniatera, Si 0 Tnsulted. Among the throng of spectators were hundreds of American citizens of African descent, who had been thrown into a fever of ex- cltement by a report that the President had {esued an order insulting to tneir race, and which they regarded as subversive of the Chicago Convention platform, to say nothing of the fifteenth amendinent of the constitution, This sup- ‘posed order was that the African cailers were to be kept in the background until all the white citizens should have an opportunity to squeeze the Presi- dential digits; in other words, that Sambo’s equality ‘Was not to be recognized on this any more than on some former public occasions of not very remote Sntiquity. The colored gentry were muttering they iscontent both loud and deep at the alleged Presi- dential discrimination on account of race and color. ‘They considered 1t the unkindest cut of all that Grant, thetr second Moses, the chosen of their own—he to whom they all looked as their great champion since the day when he spoke so bravely to General Tate, the Haytien Minister, and so kindly of their race, should, or an Occasion like this, coldly and treacherously turn his back on them. I find it hard to ascertain whether the colored community had just ground for thelr complaint or not, but certain it Is that some one gave verbal instructions to Superintendent of Police Richards not to admit the blacks unul all the whites had got through and that somebody pre- tenaed to have authority therefor from the Presi- dent himeelf. Mr. Richards did give such instruc- tions to his police subordinates and was under the impression that the instructions thereto emanated from the President, He so informed your corres- pondent and seemed to regard the order as unneces- sary and unwise, How i was carricd out will be noted further on. Receiving Visitors, Passing through one of the iron gates on Penn- sylvania avenue and proceeding along the circular road brought me under the spacious portico of the Executive residence. A formidable force of police were on duty at the spot, Ralf a dozen police ushers, headed by our oid friends, Dunn and Fox, in neat black suits and immaculate shirt bosoms, danced over the carpeted stone pavement with agility and attended to the arriving visitors with a grace that Might rival that of my Lord Chamberlain. Just inside the grand entrance one beheld a scene of rare interest and beauty. The beautiful reception hall, or anteroom, was occupied by a number of newspaper mea of Washington, Richmond and New York ranged at either side and Ieasting upon the grand panoramic’ view presented, by the rapidly arriving visitors—particuarly the ladies—and che richly arrayed foreign representatives. At one side of the hall the Marie Band was stationed, enhanc- ing the pleasure of the scene by the performance of choicest music, General Frederic T. Dent was in his glory. marching to and froin full uniform and re- ceiving the visitors with graceful courtesy prelimi- nary to their presentatton to the President, The Cabinet Ministers were the first to arrive, Sec re- tary Fish, with his lady, appeared about half-past ten. ‘Then came Creswell, the ‘ Post- master Gen with Mrs. Creswell and two other ladies; then Boutwell, the Financial Secretary accompanied by Mrs. Boutwell and danghter; then Belknap, the successor of the two distinguished administrators of the War Oillce, Stanton and Rawlins; General Belknap was accom- panied by bis charming lady. Assistant Secretary of State Davis, with Mrs. Davis, followed Belknap, and lastly, Secretary of the Interior Cox. The luvk- less Attorney General put in no appearance at all. The Diplomatic Corps. And now came the diplomatic corps roiling up to the portico in carriage after carriage, and passing through the ante-room to a private apartment, where they were received by Mr. Fish. As each of the richly attired representatives ef kings, queens, emperors, princes, dukes and other potentates made his appearance there was hardly suppressed cry of admiration. Ye gods what a picturesque display of colors, what a flashing of crossea and brililant decorations! The Prussian, the Russian, the Aus- trian, the Spantard, the Turk, the Frenchman, Bel- gian, Briton, Greek, Dane, ltahan, Mexican, Swede, Norwegiaa, Swiss, Dutch, South American and even Haytien were all dazzlingly represented by minis- ters at the repubitean court of Ulysses. Baron Geroit, courtly and dignified, with his lady and daughters, ‘was among the earliest arrivals of the diplomatic corps. Blacque Bey, the Turkish Minister, by bis | peculiar Ottoman costume and towering figure, was easily singled out, is highly accomplished lady (none more so m Washington) accompa nied M. Blacque; also the handsome bal- lazzi, bis secretary; Mr, ‘Thornton, the British Minister, passed on with stately mien; Count Favernay, French Chargé d’Afaires, and the gay and exquisite Comte de Lurenne ap- peared in superb costume. ‘Then there was the short, sharp and decisive Catacazy, of Russia, the Czar’s new representative bere, Catacazy was re- splendent in garments and’ decorations. Sefor Roberts, the Spanish Minister, was not less remark- able for the brilliancy of his costume. Baron Lede- rer, the Austrian Minister; Garcia, of the Argentine republic; Magathaeus and Fleury, of Bra: Del- of Peru; Lewenhaupt, of Sweden and Norway, and, last of all, Tate, of Hayti—Tate, the colored man, the representative of the leveller of all distinctions on account of race and color. it would ocoupy too much space to dwell more at length on all these ministers, and go we will let them all pasd and note what follows, Judges, Senators, Keprosentatives aud Lesser Mortals. The United States Supreme Court was represented | by the mayestic Chase, the ancient Cliora, erudite Swayne, and Field, of California, next appeared, each accompanied by two or three ladtes, ‘Then some Senators, Representatives, district judges army and navy officers, headed by Sherman and Porter, and last of all, the profanne vulyarts. Whether there were orders against Sambo or not, Sambo of a verity was not controlled by them. At the signal for citizens generally to ap- proach the colored portion shot ahead toward the entrance of the Executive Mansion with a force that overcame every obstacie, No order of discrimina- ton could aval, Whites and blacks became mixed up promiscuousiy and thus mixed passed into the Executive Mansion, By eleven o'clock the Blue Par- lor of the Executive Mansion presented a scene of unusual elegance. The glitter of gilt and satin which dazzled the eye upon ordinary occasions of receptions was now completely lost in the elegant dresses of the ladies, the full dress of the Cabinet members and the gorgeous costumes of the repre- sentatives or the foreign courts. The President and Mrs, Grant had not yet entered the room. ‘he tme was therefore occupied in conversation. Arrival of the President. Shortly after eleven o'clock the President, with Mrs, Grant on his arm, passed into the main corridor from the private part of the mansion, and thence moved into the Blue Parlor. Ashe made his ap- pearance the Marine Band struck up the air, ‘‘Hall to the Chief,” There was a general stir in the room, and all heads bowed, The President, with Mrs, Grant on his right, took @ position in the centre of the room. He was dressed in ful! party costume. Mra. Grant was attired in @ rich black Lyons silk velvet, with train, high vodice, biack gatun and lace trimmings, black satin sash, diamonds and pearis. ‘The dress was one of those recently recelved by Mra. Graut from Paris. The President was surrounded by his Cabinet Ministers and Secretaries and their wives; also Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Smith, of Washing- ton, Pa., now visiting the President's family. Some of the dresses of the ladies were really su- perb. Mrs. Secretary Beiknap wore a green gros grain silk, with deep black,iace founces ana black lace shawl, Mrs. W. W, Smith wore a pearl silk, trimmings of white satin and white lace. Mrs. Dr, Sharp wore @ blue gros grain silk, with white trim- mings. Mra. General Porter displayed a rich black velvet, trimmed with folds of black gatta. Mrs. General Dent wore a lavender silk, with white trim- mings. Miss Nellie Grant wore @ pink stik poplin, with pink satin trimmings. she entered the parior with her youngest brother, Jesse, The Cabinet Ministers having presented the com- pliments of the day Secretary Fish introduced the veteran diplomat, Baron Gerolt, to the President. The President shook the Baron warmly by the hand. The other Foreign Minis- ters were presented without any regard for national rank, the Secretary commencing their names to the President as they approached. ‘The ladies of the foreign Ministers present were pre- seuted to dirs. Grant vy Mrs. Fish. A Gorgeous Nigger. L-~ After most of the diplomatic corps had been pre- sented General Alexander Tate, the new Haytien Minister (@ colored man), entered the parior. Mr. Fish introduced him in the most cordial monzer, and he was received with marked warmth by the President, General Tate delivered a little speech, filled with compltuents, to which the Presideut replied by thanking Lim ior the expressions which he hag ut- tered. The President and General Tate entered into conversation, which was only interrupted by the arri- val of fresh visitors. Several of the Cabinet Minis- ters requested and were introduced to General Tate. Postmaster General Creswell entertained hin for some minules, The civility which was shown to the colored diplomat dia not extend to bis colleagues in the foreign representation. He seemed to be entirely ignored by them. General Tate, however, must have been gratified by the cor- diality with which he was met by the heads of the government. The General was quite eiaborately dressed—swallow tail, with gold band about the collar and on the lappels, and a wide gold band on his pantaloons. In his hand he carried a diplomatic chapeau. There was no one in the large assem- blage who presented a fincr appearance than Gene- ral Tate or displayed more courtly eiegance of manner, Presentation to Lesser Lights. Having been presented, the members of the dipio- matic corps remained in conversation for some min- utes and then retired. Next in the order of admis- sion came the veneral Justices of the Supreme Court of the United States, headed by Chief Justice Chase. A number of Senators and members fol- Jowed, and after them the Judges of the Supreme Court of the District of Colum- bia, At precisely twelve o'clock the officers of the navy arrived, headed by Admirals Porter, Shuprick and Bailey. Admiral Porter presented the oMcers as they came up. The navy was followed by the officers of marines, headed by General Zelin, ‘The ofMcers ot the army next arrived, led by General Sherman, who presented each by nawe to the Presi- dent. This terminated the formal receptions, The City Fathers of Georgetown and Washington, the heroes vf Bladensburg and the oldest mbabitants came laterin a body. At hsi{-past twelve opders were given to throw open the gates leading up the circular road. No sooner had these iron obstruc- tons sprung back upon their binges than the im- mense crowd that had gathered on the ouside rushed tn. Everybody seemed determined w be first. Accordingly, in their order, ladies and gentlewen, boys and girls rushed up the circular road on 4% regular charge. ‘The crowd at the main entrance to the mansion be- came in a few seconds a perfect jam, so much so us to completely bar tne door. it was several minutes before any one could get in. During the two hours and a hall that the public reception lasted thousands of persons, Of all ages, se Xes, Conditions and colors, took the President by the hand. The reception was without doubt one of the best arranged that nas ever been held at the White House. Generals Porter, Babcock and Dent were constant- ly by the «ide of the President attending to the car- rying out of the programme with martial preciston. ‘The throng separated vo cail upon the members of the Cabinet or personal frien 1s, Receptions by Vice President Colfax. ‘The residence of the Vice President, on Lafayette equare (the Sickles mansion), Was, 43 usual, we scene of a popular assemblage. Vice President and Mrs. Colfax received all callers with that warm cor- diality for which they are fauious. They were as- sisted by Mr. and Mrs, Hollisier, the sister and brother-in-law of the Vice Freaident. The pressure began about one o’clock, and the stream of ladies and gentlemen kept pouring in until three, when the reception ceased. The Vice President wore a suit of plain black, and Mra, Coifax was attired in a white corded silk trimmed with point lace. Among the callers were members of the diplomatic corps, Senators and members of the flouse of Kepresenta- tuves, oMcers of the army and navy aud distin- guished citizens visiting and resident in Wasnipg- ton. The Vice President was as smiling as ever and greeted all his old friends as 1amiiiarly as if he was still Speaker of the House, instead of Vice President of the United States aud President of the Senate. In the room adjoining where Mr, Colfax received, was atable spread with all the delicacies of the season aud an abuudant supply of temperance beverages. Reception by the Secretary of State. Secretary and Mrs. Fish received their friends at their elegant residence, corner of Fifteenth and I streets, in the most recnerché style, Of course the foreign ministers and their attaches all made a point of paying their respects to the Secretary of State. ‘The jabver of French, Spanish, German and other European languages was constant in the magni(- cent salons of the Secretary, from the time the recep- tion commenced natil it closed. There did not aj pear, however, to be any serious discussion of for- eign afaira, The themes were the delightfui weather, the general observance of the day, the elegant tollettes of tne ladies, the forse, of Belgium; Bille, of Denmark; Rangavee, of claasic Greece; Mariscal. of Mexico’ Freyre, manner in which the Presitent recetved the members of the corps diplomatique, and $$$ other subjects, light as air. Nobody seemed to be in the humor for heavy business, and tts introduction Was tabooed. The representative of the Regent of Spain met the representative of his Imperial High- hess the Emperor of the French with as bland s Smile as tf both countries were in a state of perfect peace aud security, Her Britannic Majesty’s Minia- ter hobnovbed with the representative of the Czar Of all the Kussias as freely as if there had never been @ Criinean war. Everybody feltim good humor and general enjoyment was the order of the aay. Governor Fish never looked better; his lady aud their charming daughter added to the pleasure of the humerous visitors. In tneir capacious dining room good cheer was dispensed after the old fash- loned Knickerbocker style to all wno chose to par- lake, “A happy New Year; inany returns,” were the greetings of the host and hostess to their numer- ons visitors. Secretary Boutwells Reception. ‘The residence of Secretary HBoutwell, as might be expected, was the rallying point of the New England- ers. In their own plain way the Secretary and Mrs. Boutwell, assisted by Miss Boutweil, welcomed all who came, There was no great dispiay and no re- freshments, but the Secretary's cordial manner of receiving bis visitors compensated for the lack of tuese. He had something pleasaat to say to every- body, and there was @ noticeable absence of any- thing like putting on airs. Boutweill has not bad tis head turned by bis elevation to the Cabinet; vo his old friends he is the same pow as when he was a Member of the House. Being the favorite in the Cabinet with the Members of the House of course all of them who were in town made it a point wo call upon him. There was a goodly number of Senators, also a (air sprinkling of diplomats, officers of the army and navy and all the Treasury Department officials and employcs. Reception by Secretary Belknap. The vicinity of the mansion now occupied by Sec retary of War Belknap waa the scene of # curious conglomeration of gay equipages, liverics, hacks, vehicles of different styles and descriptions. The brusque Secretary aud his hanasome lady received in true Western style. There was an alr of hearti- ness and hospitality about the manner in which everybody was met and welcomed, which made you feel at home. The Secretary and Mrs, Belknap were assisted by two daughters of Mr. Justice Swayne. Whenever he could get an opportunity the Secretary would proceed to the back parlor where the refresh ments were, to see that nobody was being over- looked or neglected, ‘Come and see us again,” he would shout, as some old friend took his departure; “always glad to see you." The Bachelor of the Navy Department Re« celves. Secretary Rotbson, the jolly bachelor who 18 at tho head of the Navy Department, was uot behind any of bis Cabinet colleagues in the heartiness won which he received his irtends, The Secret».y has recently meved into his new residence on I street, which has been furnisbed and fitted up in handsome style. He recetved ail alone, but Lis beaming coun- tenance and genial, affabie manners made up for the absence of a parmer. It was like going into the house of a lifelong friend to call upon Robeson, Whatever might be said of New Jersey in other re- spects, she certainly no cause to be ashamed of the contribution she has made to Grant’s Cabine.. A more whole-souled, jolly fellow could scarcely be found. You may be sure there were few, if any, long-faced, sour-visaged people in Secretary Robeson’s palatial saloons to-day. Ifa man felt ma bad humor when he entered he must have been very dyspeptic if he did not get ria of tt immediately on seeing the good-natured, smiling face of the Secre- tary. inthe rear parlor was a table furnished with all the delicacies of the season, served jn Wormiey's best style. There was something to suit everybody's taste. Robeson, like Belknap, was anxious that no person should go away empty or dissatisfied. When- ever he could get a chance be would run into the refreshment room and insist upon nis guests taking something more. People went away loud ta their praises of the Secretary of the Navy, and everybody protested that Jersey was a State in the Union. Reception by the Psstmaster General. Postmaster General ard Mrs. Creswell, assisted by Miss Chandler, daughter of the Michigan Senator, and Miss Mcintyre, sister of Mrs. Or eswell, rece!ved at their residence and dispensed ho»pitaliy to ail callers, The heads of the bureaus and employes of the Post Office Department wre out in ful force to pay their respects to their cl.Jef. At the Rensidenc: of Mr. Cox. Secretary Cox received his friends at his reste dence, Mra. Cox and daughter and lady friend from Cincinnati assisted in doing the honors of this hospitable home. A fine and tempting ‘isplay of refreshments were at band, and generuliy very favorably considered, At Chief Justice Chase’s, Admira’, Porters end Elsewhere. Next door to Postmaster General Creswell’s rest- dence is that of Chief Justice Chase. People went out of the one house into the other, The Ctuef 7Zas- tice received, assisted by his daughter, Mise Nettie Chase, with all the ease and dignity for which he is famous. Mrs. Admiral Porter was at home, though her.gal- lant husband was out calling. She received her own friends and those of the Adiiral, and their name is: legion, with an ease and grace which made every one feel welcome, There was abundance of refresh- ments for all who wished them, Mrs, J. ©. Bancroft Davis, assisted by a couple of lady friends, received visitors, while the Assistant Secretary of State was out calling upon the dignt- taries of State and his friends generally. Among the callers upon Mrs. Davis were a large number of the members of the dipiomatic corps. General Sherman's residence from noon until three o’clock was the objective of a general change of four wheeled velicies and pedestrians. Tho General acted the hospitable host in fine style. He bas areputation for frigidity of manner, bnt was particularly mellow on this occasion. A cavalry orderly announced the names of callers and ushered them into the parlor, where the General received them and introduced them to Mrs, Sherman and the ladies assisting in the reception. 4m elegantly spread table abundantly supplied with cakes, ices and confections occupied the diniag room and was well patronize A Chinaman’s Opinion of His Countrymen— Thoy Claim to be Useful and Orderly Citie zens. : An able and exhaustive article was published in | the New Yor« HenaLp tast Sunday op the social condition, habits of life and character of the Chinese resident in the metropolis. Many new facts and de- tails were ascertained in relation to the city Celes- tlals with which the people at large were w some extent wholly unacquainted. Below wili be found a Jetter from @ Chinaman in relation to his peopie, being a defence = the charges of ignorance and 10 freely launched against thein. Judgin, ter the natives of the Flowery Land holt certain views and entertain some aspirations which many other people would do weil to entertain. The Celestials, through their spokesman, admit that they have no objection to be domiciled in brown stone houses, & powt which any one will at one concede. ‘The assertion that Chinamen do not believe in dress- ing themselves finely when they are unable to mect their obligations is an excellent principle, and, if true, no one wiil feel disposed to deny full political and social rights to them. The following 1s the let- ter from Mr. James Baptiste, a Chinaman, and for the admirable and clear exposition of tre writer's ideas he is at least entitied to some praise:— the Chinese in New in the dark, narrow ould Like very much to live tn four sory If the genileman who talks about ont way of living would found such a charity as Mr. A. T. Blew- arty aud Luild a free hotel for us to live in we would like it fs well as other people. Ciluamen don't belicye in drens- jog themselves when they cannot pay their debis. It” we were well off wo would never have been | im New York’ city. The American people will find Tuany of our countryiuen very weaithy in their own countr: but when in foreign countrien they are very mirerable, 1? we were well off we could do better in our own country. Ip Now York we act as stowarda, cooks makers, We are poor and have to work for our living, but we do not beg orsieal. When wo need help we go to our own countrymen i to others, You say tn last Sauday's HeRALD that mostly opium smokers. Do not think that there are more than one-third of he Chinamen bere who smoke opi- Um. Our countrymen in New. York are moit all deserters the faland oc Cuba. The Spanish people go to Chica id decetre our people, many promises to them, Dut Keop them, and when they atrive at Cuba du not treat ‘as good.piaces an our cireumstances will allow, nd We clean abd arrange our rooms once a week. We want good places to work and we try to do well. You # ‘e never the don't understand us; men cannot strike ber, so stays. Baptists, JAMES