The New York Herald Newspaper, December 29, 1873, Page 5

THE ASHANTEE WAR, Graphic Letters from the ‘Herald Correspondent at Cape Coast Castle. tA BAD BEGINNING. {he British Commander and His Troops. ‘A RECONNOISSANCE AND A COMBAT. Death of a British Officer and Iliness of Sir Garnet Wolseley. GENERAL ASPECTS OF THE CAMPAIGN. "Care Coast CastTLE, West Coast oF sheet Nov. 13, 1873. ‘hardly know whether to be serious, when writ- fing ofthe Anglo-Ashantee war. It threatens to boo, for a time at least, until the arrival of the (British regulars from England, as fall of insignifi- want details and puerile prognostications as the Carlisto-republicano war now transpiring on the Moerian peninsula, Even then I fear that we shall ‘have nothing to write about unless it be the im- mediate return of the troops to their native Whores. Isee no evidences whatever of the earnest- mess and vigor which distinguished the Abyssinian mpaign, and seldom have I witnessed such inde- wision. Indeed it is dificult to say what will be Mone, whether Sir Garnet Wolseley wil! lead an ‘expedition into Coomassie or whether he has come out as agovernor, with some knowledge of the mili- tary science, to put himself at the head of the con- Wederated tribes for the purpose of repelling the jAshantees and rolling back the tide of invasion rom the protectorate. WHAT WILL THE ASHANTER KING DO? From all I ean hear or see, the whole expedition glepends upon the caprice of King Coffee Calcall. ur this sable gentieman who rules over fetich pro- ected ashantee sees fit, after repeated blows, Misastrous in a measure, given to his army now in whe protectorate, to eat “humble pie” acknowledge tthat he was wrong to disturb the peace of Western Africa, it is reported and believed that Sir Garnet has received orders to close with any prof. fers of peace or settlement that may be received arom the stricken King. As a soldier proud of his mweputation and ardent for fame I presume that Buch a tame conclusion to what promised at first Bight to be such a fair opportunity for glory would ot be very palatable to Sir Garnet; but, then, Sir @arnet is bound to obey orders. AllI can say is shat if England’s lust for peace has gone to such g@length as to hamper Sir Garnet with such con- ditions, considering the many defeats and an- moyances England has suffered at the hands of the Ashantees, there is no hope leftin her, She may be insulted and annoyed with impunity by any Power, great or small. FEELING OF THE ARMY. Almost every officer now on the Gold Coast feels anxious respecting the result of the recent insig. nificant engagements, during which Sir Garnet measured his strength against the Ashantees and felt their power of attack. Without being inspired by any wish to distinguish themselves on the ex- wpedition and so win promotion by gallant conduct, ‘they all express a hope that England will not with- draw from the war, now that she has armed her- self jor an earnest conflict with her old enemy of Ashantee, without retaliating for the long series of enormities against her and her protectorate which Ashantee has committed since the beginning of this century by burning Coomassie, the capital, and reducing it to a smoking ruin like Magdala in 1868. ‘ However, ofMicers, ignorant perhaps of the fall extent of the dread which the British government entertalas of the Peace Society’: and philanthro- pical public opinion, comfort themselves with the dire alternative which Sir Gar- met has prepared for the King of Ashantee Bhould he fecl disposed to cry “Quarter.” It is weported and believed that Sir Garnet has wntten to the King that the only means left to him to avert the vengeance which he has come to inflict fis to acknowledge that he bas been wrong, and is grilling to repair the wrong by iudemnifying every Person in the protectorate who has suffered injury ‘at his hands since February of this year. Consid- ering the extent of the injury 80 many thousands of Fantees have suffered at King Coftee’s hands, {n the utter desolation and havoc wrought in tne proteotorate by his armies, it is somewhat assur- ing to those who have come out to engage in the war to think that King Coffce will never be able to pay one-twentieth of the demands that would be made should he hesitate to prosecute the war and show a desire to avoid the stroke Of retributive dustice by sending propositions for peace. THE CAMPAIGN. When the General arrived here he heard of an immense force of 40,000 Ashantees being in the a@eighborhood of Abracampa and Dunquah, who were increasing the weak garrisons occupying the posts. While staying but long enough at Cape Coast to gather some definite information con- cerning their tactics, their plans and their mode of fighting, he heard that a large force, evidently bent upon fulfilling King Coffee’s threats of cap- turing Eimina, had suddenly diverged from the main road and marched past Abbaye and Napoleon towards that place. Sir Garnet arrived upon the “scene next morning, and, aided by an auxiliary force of marines and sailors, plunged upon the foe after a style which proves him pos- sessed of energy and daring, and deserving of the honor conferred upon him of leading a British army to Coomassie. The enemy lay in wait in the middle of what they call here a bush, but -What should be more appropriately called a Jungle. It is 80 dense in some places that one wonders at first sight, how naked people can have the temerity ‘to risk their bodies in what must necessarily pun- ish their unprotected cuticles most painfully. This jungle probably covers many hundred acres, lit- erally choking the earth with its density and luxu- tiance. It admits every kind of shrub. plant and flower into a close companionship, where they Intermingle each other's luxuriant stalks, where they twist and twine each other's long, slender arms about one another, and defy the utmost power ofthe sun to penetrate the leafy tangle they have reared 10 and 15 feet above the dark earth. “bis is the “bush” into which the Ashantee war- flors creep in on all fours and he in waitin the gloomy recesses for the enemy. It was in such a locality as this that Sir Garnet found the Ashantees, and where he suffered such losses in his stat? and officers. Until the sonorous sounds of Danish musketry awoke the echoes few of the English suspected the foe so near. Until they themseives betrayed their presence the Eng- lish mignt haye searched in yain for the hidden enemy. Secure, however, as they were in their wnapproachable covoerts, the ‘volleys of Snyder bullets which their loud-m outhed challenge had evoked searched many a sinister looking bush, and in a couple of hours had effec- tually silenced their fire, but not betore Colonel MeNeil, the Adjutant General, had the muscies of his forearm torn off by @ discharge of iron siugs, and Vaptain Fremaatie, R. N., and other ofMcers had been wounded. The detuils of this bkimina fight have been known by you long before this, so 1 iced not dwell on an old tale. SIR GARNET WOISELEY AS A GENERAL This was the first affair in which Sir Garnet was engaged, whore he showed himself by his activity and cnergy and disposition of forces to be what he really ta, a dashing, brave and skilul oMcer, who, ithe lives, has a splendid future before him, There is no doubt whatever but he ia possessed of high \ NEW YORK HERALD, MONDAY, DECEMBER 29, 1873—WITH SUPPLEMENT. Nave been passea upon his activity would suflice for even the most ambitious, Indeed, I have heard no general more highly spoken of by his own of- cers after so short an acquaintance than Sir Gar- net has been, THE ASHANTERS PREPARING, After ‘this little brilliant afair the Ashantees seem to have contented themselves with procuring suppiles for their starving numbers, cutting roads “through the bushes towards Abracampa and Dun- ” qual, and avoiding thé Scouts of the allied tribes, “Rumors floated down occasionally that they were *suifering greatly from famine; that in order to .Sausfy craving hunger they lived on early yams and unripe plantains, which disagreed so much “with them that they were fast perishing from dys- -entery and famine fevers. This was borne out, it seems, by the reports of the scouts, who, it was ; said, frequently met the poor, worn-out frame of }an Ashantee who had died the fearful death of "starvation. Meanwhile, in the quiet interval that ,@lapsed after the repulse which the Ashantees "had suffered at Elmina, Sir Garnet was not idie, neither in the bush nor at Cape Coast, The white man’s tactics sorely perplexed the Ashantee chiefs. His scouts, mainly consist- ing of Abrahs, Kossoes and Wuniebahs, with a sprinkling of Houssahs, were everywhere—now along the line of the main road, between the gar- rison posts of Mansu, Dunquah and Abracampa, and soon along the path between Elmina and Abracampa, by Abbaye and Napoleon. His la- borers, under the command of a gallant officer called Gordon, were extending their work beyond Mansu, cutting a road Prahward, who was not to be deterred by ever so many reports of a wild na- ture, and who kept his unarmed and defenceless squad manfully at their toils. Stores were also being landed at Cape Coast by many hundreds of tons. Huts for commissariat stores were put up and hospitals, already prepared tn Englana, were being erected for the reception of the sick. Am- munition and comestibes for the use of the troops were conveyed by male and female porters in long lines to the front, and as day after day passed by without moiestation from the enemy the material of war was being safely transported and housed at Dunquah and.Mansu, two days’ journey from Cape Coast. WATCHING THE ENEMY. While Sir Garnet and his staff were thus busy at Cape Coast the former never lost, an opportunity to glean information of the intents of the enemy. Of every move made by the Ashantees the scouts and the commandants of the advanced posts kept Sir Garnet well informed, ‘The force of the enemy was variously estimated at from 10,000 to 40,000, entirely too large a force to operate against in the bush with his detachment of marines and blue jackets; but at the beginning of this month he heard that the Ashantee General-in- Chief, Amonquatiah, had been recalled by the King and that the enemy was now separated to operate insmall columns. One of these columns ‘was reported to be in the neighborhood of Wam- poh, @ small village not far removed from the main road tothe Prah. The British General, observant of his opportunities, hastily collectea what force of sailors and marines he could, consisting of about 200, and, marching from Cape Coast Castle, en- camped at Assayboo, 10 miles distant. The next morning he proceeded to Abracampa, three miles from Assayboo, and ordered a reconnoissance to be made by Lieutenant Polland with the irregular native troops, who was fortunate enough in mak- ing a few Ashantee prisoners and creating some confusion in the enemy’s van. A RECONNIOSSANCE. While Sir Garnet was resting this day at Abra- campa @ reconnoissance was made by Colonel Festing from Dunquah, a fortified post, situated about 20 miles from Cape Coast Castle, on the way to Coomassie. This was a very successful affair, in- asmuch as the enemy was surprised in his camp while at breakfast. Several prisoners were taken, @ quantity of powder and camp furniture wag destroyed before the enemy recovered itself and sought to redeem its losses by attacking in turn. Following their usual tactics of seeking the bush and hiding in its leafy coverts, the Ashantees were soon ensconced by hundreds all around their old camp, and were blowing gunpowder away in quite alively manner. The British finding themselves opposed so vigorously opened fire with their seven- pounders and rockets, which at the end of a couple of hours had the effect of silencing the wary but insolent toe. When the Ashantees were thus driven away the reconnoitring 1orce returned the Dunquah with- out opposition. Out of nine officers engaged with Lieutenant Colonel Festing five were wounded. Other losses were four wounded out of West India regiment, 42 wounded native allies and one killed. The next day Sir Garnet moved from Abracampa toward Dunquah, hoping to encounter the enemy; but, taught by the signal defeat they had suffered the day before, the Ashantees did not dare tomake their appearance. The commandant at Dunquah, Lieutenant Colonel Festing, of the Royal Marine Artillery, had been requested by Sir Garnet to meet him on this day at a village half way between Dun- quan and Abracampa, but the native troops under his command refused to leave the friendly shelter of the palisades, showing plainly that no reliance could be placed in the Fantee auxiliaries, "MORAL EFFECT OF THE RECONNOISSANCE. Hitherto the Ashantees had boasted that the white men were afraid to meet them in the bush, but the manner in which they were met and forced from their hiding places by Festing’s people has dissipated the illusion. Finding that nothing More could be done against the retreating enemy Sir Garnet, after leaving a force of 50 blue jackets for the desence of Abracampa, returned to Cape Coast Castle. Soon after the British General’s re- turn to the coast the Ashantees once more ap- peared on the scene. Tne Ashantee chief, Amon- quatiab, had sworn to the King that he would destroy the village of Abracampa, and with this view, no doubt, he directed his energies to cutting a road through the jungle toward thia post. His people were said to be “busy as ants” upon the work. A JUNGLE WAR, On the Sth of this month the enemy appeared out of the jungle in force in front of Abracampa and at once opened fire. But the station was well able to sustain such a siege as the Ashantee Gen- eral meditated, or any attack that might have been made. Besides a strong palisade that com- pletely surrounded the village, a deep trench had been excavated and the jungle cleaned for a space of 250 yards around. The attack began at half-past four o’clock P. M., and continued withour inter- mission until half-past five o’clock P. M., accom- panied by vigorous tom-toming at all points and much inharmonious shouting from lusty throats. But the native troops, ensconced behind thick wooden palisades, with superior weapons in their hands, were not to be daunted by never so much tom-toming or tnharmontous vocal music, and re- plied with their Enflelds with such good effect that the enemy were obliged to withdraw fora time, This pause was taken advantage of by the com- Mandant to despatch word to Assayboo that the Ashantees were in the neigh- borhood, evidently determined on a persistent effort to reduce Abracampa, The commandant of Assayboo despatched word to Sir Garnet Wolseley, who received the news about midnight, Whether the British General expected to receive more hopeful news is not known, but he delayed his de- parture from Cape Coast until nine o’clock next morning. Meantime the Ashantees had soon broken the trace, and recommenced their attack after dark, keeping up a determined firing until eleven P.M, At four A. M. they renewed their attack and continued it until the morning of the wth, Sir Garnet had arrived at Assayboo about four P. M, of the 6th, having marched his troops during the hottest part of the day, thereby causing much suffering to the blue jackets under Captain Fremantie. Numbers of these poor fellows fell out on the wayside, completely prostrated by the heat, the glare and thirst induced by the flerce sun, which so enfeebled his force that he was unable to Proceed to the rescue of Abracampa. After Sir Garnet's arrival at the besiegea station the enemy’s firing soon slackened, and finally ceased, RESULT OF THE RECONNOISSANCE. It would be dimcult even for those who saw the action, which I did not, to render any account of the loss inflicted on the enemy. The circumstances under which the siege occarred, though favorable to the besieged, were specially disadvantageous to the besiegers. The besiegea were armed, many of them with first class breechloaders and En- fields, and were provectea by their defences, While the Ashantees, hidden as they were by the jungle, were betrayed by the puffs of white smoke which, in the breezeless air, rested above their heads after they had fired, and consequently the localities became the special regard of many & cool rifeman. It may be presumed that above 100 Ash- antees lost their lives before Abracampa, while only one white sailor and about a dozen natives were wounded of the defenders. But even this great loss inflicted upon the foe hardly compensates for that which was inflicted upon a reconnoitring force that set out from Dunquah on the 4th of November. Colonel Festing, adjured by Str Garnet to be ac- tive and unceasing in persecuting the enemy, had left the garrison station of Dunquah for the Ashan- tee camp, situate a mile beyond the barriers, with @ mixed force, consisting of Houssas, Kossoes, Abras and Annamaboes, Festing attempted to at- tack the camp from the rear, but he waa not so saccessful as he had hoped to be. The Ashantee scouts had already alarmed their people and each warrior had immediately bastened to the bush and taken his post in the vicinity of the abandoned camp. When Festing’s force came up they found the camp had been deserted and their presence known, and barely had they arrived at this conclu sion when the pellets and slugs of the ambushed foe came hurling among them, informing the aston- ished allies of their presence. DEATH OF YOUNG WILMOT. Lieutenant Wilmot, of the artillery, received a severe wound in the left arm as, with revolver in left hand and a sword-bayonet in his right, he was attempting an advance against the enemy, and, by placing himself at the head of his men, hoped to encourage the Annamaboes under his command. ‘The young oficer—he was only 24—fearing to dis- courage his men by going to the rear to have his wound attended to, never moved from his post in the van, but simply told his servant to ran to the fort to get some lint, and continued shouting to his men to aavance, plunging foremost himseif with his sword. When the servant returned with the bandage his master, young Eardley Wilmot, was dead, with a rifle bullet hole through bis heart, The spot where he fell was soon dyed with the blood of his brother officers, for the marksman who had Siti young Wilmot kept his post. Lieutenant Colonel Festing lifting the body of the dead officer was soon hit, and Dr. Gore coming up to offer his services algo received @ wound. Lieu- tenant Jones, not 10 feet off, received @ wound in the groin. Lieutenant Patchett was scarred with asicg, and a non commissioned officer of the West India regiment had a pebble embedaed in his neck at the angle of the jaw, inflicting a ghastly wound. The cowardly allies deserted the fatal spot and the retreat was sounded, but the boay of Wilmot was taken away by Festing, so that it might not be de- capitated by the savages. The victory was un-. doubtedly on the side of the Ashantees at Dun- guah; but those who attacked Abracampa paid dearly for it the next day. The body of Licutenant Eardiey Wilmot was conveyed to Cape Coast, where it was buried in the presence of the Genera) and his staff and a large concourse of officers, THE ENEMY AGAIN ATTACKED, The camp of the enemy in the neighborhood of Abracampa was attacked after Sir Garnet's arrival with reinforcements. So well was the attack planned and so well was it made that the Ashan- tee General Amonquatiah barely escaped capture. One of his wives and two of his nephews tell into the hands of the British, besides his own chair, in which he was accustomed to be carried by his slaves. If reports are to be believed, Amonquatiah is in deep disgrace with his own people, who com- plain that they have been deceived, for when they set out, in February, on this invasion they under- stood that they were to fight against the Fantees; but they now find themselves opposed by the white men, whom, they say, it was never their intention to fight. Even the chiefs own slaves are rebellious, for they refuse to carry him any more. All these, however, may be no more than mere camp rumors, THE NATIVE LEVIES USELESS, The Cape Coast volunteers have fallen into deep disgrace with the British authorities. They were despatched, soon after the defeat of the Ashantees at Abracampa, in pursuit of the fying enemy, along with the brave Abrahs, Kossoes swordmen and some Houssahs. The latter, over eager to harass what they considered to be a demoralized force, hung so close upon the skirts of the retreating Ashantees that they compelled the enemy to turn on them, so that the Abrahs, Kossoes and Houssahs were com- pelied to return faster than they had advanced, As they returned they were met by the Cape Coast volunteers, who, in their fright, mistook them for the Ashantees, and they were fired upon, by which two of their number were killed and six wounded. Sir Garnet, on hearing of their cowardice, dis- armed the Cape Coast volunteers, and transformed them into laborers and commisgariat por. ters. Indeed, it were a wise thing if Sir Garnct transformed the major part of the aliies of the protectorate into pack bearers and commissariat store carriers, the most useful employment he could give them, and one quite in accordance with the opinion of all Europeans who have seen them display their hare- valor in battle. It would be the most politic thing, one that your special correspondent could find it in his heart to warmly commend the young general for immediately doing. ILLNESS OF THE BRITISH COMMANDER, Sir Garnet Wolseley has paid the penalty which dusky Africa inflicts on the sons of Europe who tread her shores. His audacity in braving her hot sun at midday has been punished by an attack of intermittent fever, but fortunately it has beena milé@ attack, just enough to restrain his energies a little and the ardor of his military soul. Others are sufferers as well. Two officers only, however, have been buried since my arrival, Eardley Wilmot, slain in battle, and Harry Mount, of the Control Department, who died of dysentery. Colonel Mac- Neil, the Adjutant General, will shortly depart for Madeira. Captain MacAlmont, Aide-de-Camp, is invalided home. Captains Brackenbury and Char- teris have been on the sick list. Major Baker, Acting Adjutant General, vice MacNetl, has suffered from dysentery. Deputy Surgeon General Home has sore throat, Surgeon Major Jackson has had the iatermittent, and almost every officer who came with Sir Garnet to the Gold Coast has been compelled to succumb to its unhealthiness fora time. Out of 92 laborers who arrived from Sterra Leone lately, 42 have been sent back as unfit for duty. These tacts you may sum up and digest, and perhaps you will admit that tne Ashantee King has terrible allies to fight his battles for him in the shape of fever and dysentery, which attack the highest as well asthe lowest, and penetrate even to the comfortable chambers of Government House. AHOY, FANTEES! Care Coast CastiE, Nov. 15, 1873. The British General, fearful, I suppose, of employ- ing the high powers entrusted to him to their ut- most extent, but desirous of employing every adult to convey stores for the approaching expedition to the front, had recourse to a council of chiefs held at Beulah, a stavion situate a few miles trom the coast, wherein ft was agreed that Sir Garnet should use the power of enforcing the Fantees to comply with his wishes, The following proclama- tion is the result of the counct!:— JUDICIAL ASSESSOR'S COURT. BELD IN THE BRULAM CAMP. NOVEMBER 14, 1873. By the laws and customs of this land every per- gon ought to assist in the defence of his country against its enemies, and if he does not do so will- ingly, he ought to be compelled to doso. We therefore, the Judiciai Assessor and Chiefs of Cape Coast, ina special court held in the camp at Beu- at Ag the following orders :— Every ablebodied man not already en- gaged in the service of his country is immediately to presen’ himself for that service. ‘ Every ablebodied man refusing to do so, without proper excuse, ts to be arrested and com- pelied to work without any pay. Third—Any person engaged in the service of his country, who shall be proved guilty of disobedience or insubordin tion, 18 to be subject to the punish- ment of flo ging. JAMES MARSHALL, Judicial Assessor. Chief QUASIE ATTAH, his X bis X mark, Captain QUOW ASSIMAH, his X mark No. 2. Captain CUDJOE KKOOM, his X mark No, 2. Captain COFFEE MOOASU, his X mark No, 3 Captain CODJOE TOMPOLO, his X mark No. 3. Captain QUAMINA AMINAH, is X mark No, 4 Captain QUOW KOOTAH, his X mark No. 4, Captain QUASIR AMARAHIA, his X mark No. 5. Captain QUOW KSIRAH, his X mark No, 5. Captain CUDJOR AFRIM, his X mark No. 6, Captain QUAMINA SACKEY, his X mark No. 6, Captain QUAMINA KARCOOM, his X mark No. 7. Captain CUDJOE AKIN, his X mark No. 7. Captain QUABINA QUAH AGIL, his X mark No, 9. Captain QUACOE SANKAH, his X mark No. 9% Courr Houss, } = Ae anait® Coast, Nov. 14, 1873, 'e agree to the ve Chiet SAMES ROBERT THOMPSON, Chief JOHN MAYAN, his X mark. ANOTHER AFRICAN WAR. {From the Pall Mall Gazette, Dec. 15.] The Cape mall brings the news of another Afri- can war. Intelligence had reached Cape Town a few days before the steamer sailed that a disturb- ance had occurred in Natal in consequence of a Caffre Chief named Langalibelele refusing to regis- ter his firearms, Alter some delay the carabineey were despatched to intercept him, it being sup- posed that he would endeavor to escape across tae Drachenberg, where the troops were completely surrounded by the Caffres, without provisions. In trying to fight their way out three men were killed, one of them being the #on of the Coionial Secretary, the Hon, Major Erskine, An extra of the Natal Colonist publishes the follow- “(By a telegram from the Colontal {Sec- we learn that there 1s pews from the ition. Langalibelele’s tribe broke through unexpectedly, after a skirmish, in which the Colonial Secretary’s son (Erskine) and young Pot- terit] and Bond were killed. The troops are in pur- suit, It is wished that the intelligence should be known to prevent undue alarm.’ Three natives in our service, it appears, were killed, and five horses. The carabineers were reduced to great straits for want of provisions, and had to kill a beast and eat it raw. Her Majesty’s ship Rattle- snake arrived at Table Bay on the 17th ult., from Simon’s Bay, to be held in readiness to convey troops to Natal should their services be required. The High Commissioner had made arrangements for the immediate departure of a part of the Eighty-sixth Tegiment if necessary, bat it was believed that the half battahon of the Seventy- fifth regiment in Natal would be sufficient, unless the affair assumea greater magnitude. It was said that tne Lieutenant Governor was going to the disturbed country, and that the colonists generally were enthusiastic in support of the administration. AMUSEMENTS. ing: retail expe Germania Theatre—“Les Georgiennes.” Offenbach’s sparkling and mirth-provoking opera, “Les Georgiennes,” which was first introduced to the New York public by Mile. Aimée, at the Grand Opera House, was given last evening at Mr. Adolph Neuendorf’s pretty little theatre, next door to the Academy of Music, in a German form, under the name of ‘Die Schine Wei- ber von Georgien.” Despite the disadvantage con- sequent upon a translation of the fantastic libretto into a language foreign to its very spirit, the per formance was @ very creditable one, the principals in the cast evincing the requisite ¢/an and dash, and the champagne-like masic was tossed off with an ease and heartiness almost Gallic, Mile. Rinold as Ferosa, the general-in-chief of the female warriors of jegani, and also the too indulgent wife of the pusilanimous Jolodin, sung well and acted the part with much of the Aimée spirit, Mile. Heynold, a noacine sou- brette, had a congenial role as Nani, the general's heutenant; and Mr. Merten made much of the part of the Pacha, Herr Schtitz and Kruli as the rentier Boboli and his slave also contributed to the success of the opera. The most popular song in the work, “Ich bin der Pacha,” was deservedly encored. Considering the umited capacity of this stage for processions and other coucomitants of an opera of this kind, the “Schtne Weiber” was pisces on the boards very satisfactorily. It is the tention of the management to bring out in suc- Gession this season all the principal works of the French opéra boujfe. stage at the Germania Theatre, while the dramatic company will appear at Terrace Garden Theatre and in Brooklyn alter- nately. The Germaus seem to be enthusiastic patrons of the Germania Theatre, to judge from the overwhelming house and the frequent ap- plause last evening. Musical and Dramatic Notes. “71 Talismano,” the posthumous opera by Balfe, will be produced next May at Drury Lane, London. Mme. Nilsson will sing the heroine’s part and Sig- nor Campanini will be the Knight of the Leopard, In & new Parisian operetta “La Jolie Parfn- meuse,”’ an old beau creates amusement by iterat- ing a phrase “C'est immense!” The dandy ina farce called the “Irish Lion,’’ which was played 20 years ago on the English stage, made similar fun by capping the climax of each attempt to “draw out” the lion, Tom Moore, with the appreciative ejaculation “demmed joine!” Devices, tricks, plots and phrases are now so much borrowed from France by England and vice versa, that ownership in ideas will become very problematical among authors. The Italian opera season opened at Havana with “La Sonambula” on December 18. Di Murska had a very warm reception. The audience of the Tacon manifested great pleasure at her singing, while the tenor (Veratti) was hissed in the most vigorous manner. The performance was inter- rupted by the uproar raised by the gal- leries at each entrée of this tenor. He was called upon to get out, his voice mimicked, and one voice yelled, “Go and sing in the Congress of the United States." Lucca appeared on the second night, and was given a most enthusiastic reception. She was much ap- plauded, and was called before the curtain some seven oreight times. The audience seemed wild with enthusiam. Vizzani, Jamet and Musi were also very well received. Great satisfaction is felt at the excellence of the company, whicn is better than any which has visited Havana for many years. THE BOSTON REVENUE RAID, Confidence of the Innocence of the Ac- cused Firm—The Investigation Said To Be Prompted by Business Rivals. Boston, Dec, 28, 1873. The action of the government officers in seizing the books and correspondence of Jordan, Marsh & Co, continues to be the sensation of the hour. Not- withstanding the sanctity of the day, it has been the constant topic of comment, to the almost utter exclusion of matters more.in keeping with the sacredness of the Sabbath. Tne Sunday papers, without exception, express confidence that an in- vestigation will show that the firm is innocent of the grave suspicions which have been cast upon its integrity, and this sentiment is echoed by the entire comimunity. All night and all day the books have been undergoing mvestigation, but as there are 70 of them, besides 54 packages of papers, the examination will probably occupy several days. The officials are very reticent about their discov- eries 90 far, but insist that they have an abundance of evidence to make out a case direct and positive. Their evidence, they represent, consists of letters and other documents, which, it 1s alleged, will go to show that the firm was knowingly guilty of frauds extending as far back as January 1, 1569. The implicated parties continue to afford the officials every facility to examine all documents pertaining to their affairs. They believe that the Motive oi the seizure was not wholly a desire of the officers to do their duty, but that they were encouraged by business rivals in Boston whose standing and credit abroad did not enable them to purchase foreign goods at equal rates, and who were thus unable to compete with them in the American market. The result of the seizure and examination will be regarded with great interest by importers all over the country. THAT OURIOUS ORAFT CASE. To THE EpIToR OF THE HERAt: On Friday afternoon last Mr. Burr 8, Craft, my client, as he states in the action in which the order of arrested Was executed by the deputies of Mr. Judson Jarvis, did state to me, in the presence of others, in conversation relative to the theft of his gold certificates, that he had no complaint to make aguinst Mr. Jarvis and had made none, and that he did not believe that Mr. Jarvis haa anything to do with the thett, In the evening Mr. Jarvis called at my office, evidently laboring under great mental distress. I repeated to him the state- ment of Mr. Craft, and upon his urgent solicita- tion, in perfect good faith, and beiteving that Mr. h fully have done the same thing, wrote the card subsequently pup- lushed. [have no interest, aside trom a high per- sonal rd for Mr. Jarvis, in his deience; wrote the ¢ from a kindly feeling, and sincerely hope that a thorough investigation will result in demon- strating the truth of the whole matter. CHARLES 8. SPENCER, DECEMBER 28, 1873. MYSTERIOUS DEATH ON STATEN ISLAND, AN inquest was commenced yesterday afternoon at Edgewater, Staten Island, upon the body of Patrick Byrnes, coachman of Coroner Lee, who was found dead in his bed yesterday morning. The inquest was Copp glee voroner Lee, but adjourned to aliow him to o & post-mortem oxemumation, KAISER WILHELM. —_+___. His Majesty’s Health in Hopeful Convalescence. TELEGRAM 10 THE NEW YORK HERALD. BERLIN, Vee, 28, 1873. The condition of the Emperor’s health to-day ts very Satisfactory. THE VIRGINIUS. Spanish Idea of Restitution by the United Statez. TELEGRAM TO THE NEW YORK HERALD. Maprip, Dec. 28, 1873. The report ts reiterated that the Spanish govern- ment requires of the United States the restitution of tne Virginius and the payment of an indemnity. SPAIN. Caste'ar in Council with Cabinet Colleagues. TELEGRAM TO THE NEW YORK HERALD. MApRID, Dec, 28, 1873. Castelar, Salmeron and Figueras heid a confer- ence yesterday. The Correspondencta thinks that it will result in @ complete agreement; but the Imparciat and Diario say an understanding is impossible. GERMANY AND FRANCE. Republican Assurances Concerring the Anti- Prussian Pastorals. e TELEGRAM TO THE NEW YORK HERALD. Lonvon, Dec, 29—6 A. M. Aspecial despatcn to the Daily Telegraph says France has given satisfactory assurances to Ger- many relative to the hostile pastorals of the French bishops. FRANCE. TELECRAM TO THE NEW YORK HERALD. PaRis, Dec. 28, 1873. The civil burial of Francois Hugo took place to- day. MM. Louis Blanc delivered 9 funeral oration at the late residence of the deceased. Victor Hugo and all the leading radicals of Paris were present. Upwards of 10,000 persons followed the remains to the grave to-da; ITALY. TELEGRAM TO THE NEW YORK HERALD. Rome, Dec. 28, 1873. M. Fournier, the French Minister, has presented his letters of recall, and taken leave of the King of Italy. CUBA. Colonial Opinion of the Mission of Caleb Cusk- ing—Jovellar’s Power of Executive Ex- tended—Cespedes’ Deposition and Citi- zen Charges Against Him. TELEGTAMS TO THE MEW YORK HERALD. Havana, Dec. 28, 1873. The appointment of Hon. Caleb Cushing to be Minister of the United States to Spain is favorably received here. Spaniards are loud in their ex- pressions of satisfaction at the resignation of General Sickles, whom they charge with insti- gating many of the intestine troubles of the penin- sula. JOVELLAR'S GOVERNMENT. The Madrid government has not only refused to accept the resignation of Captain General Jovel- lar, which was forwarded on the 4th inst., but has granted him extended and extraordinary powers. The nature of these powers is not yet known; but itis supposed they embrace authority to declare the island in a state of siege should the Captain General find it necessary. The home government also offers to send addi- tional reinforcements. CESPEDES’ DEPOSITION FROM POWER. The Voz publishes extracts from letters recently captured from the rebels, the originals of which it claims to have in its possession. One irom General Figueredo to Maximo Gomez, referring to the dep- osition of President Cespedes, says:—“The mem- bers of the new government proceeded to the residence of Cespedes to obtain the archives of the Republic. Cespedes at first refused to give them up, but dnaily yielded, being forced to do so.” The charges upon which Cespedes was removed are, according to Figueredo’s tetter, as follows:— First—The abandonment of the Cinco Villas. Second—Violation of article 26 of the constitu- tton. Third—Piacing obstacles in the way of the new Deputies 30 that they could not fulfill their duties. Fourth—Alter the removal of said obstacles, at- tempting to bribe the Deputies 'rom the Cinco Villas by offers of the Ministry of War to Spotorno vere ny command of the Cinco Villas district to arcia. Figueredo adds other accusations even graver, such as having calumntated the legislative body, being @ trattor and conniving with autonomists abroad; and, lastly, threatening to declare the members of Congress rebels if they deposed him. General Burriel Said to Have Been Re- moved from Command. Havana, Dec. 28, 1872, The Voz de Cuda says it is rumored that General Burriel has been relieved of the commana of the Eastern Department by orders from Madrid. MEOCHELLA, THE JERSEY CITY MURDERER. Doubts as to His Sanity—The Court of Pardons To Be Called. To THE Epiror Or THE HERALD:— We desire to make a brief correction in reference to the above case in reply to some statements into which your reporter bas no doubt inadvertently falien, In the first place, the consulting physicians were not ‘unanimous in pronouncing him perfectly sane.” On the contrary, they were unanimous in advising a commutation of the death sentence and in expressing doubts of his sanity or moral re- sponsibility more or less strong. It is not yet proper to make public their reports, but the cliar- acter of the gentiemen consulted is such as to give great weight to their carefully tormed opinions, Next, tue Governor did not, “aiter reviewing ali the facts of the case, decide that there was no ‘ound for @ iurtner session of:the Court of ardons."’ On the contrary, when the preliminary reports of the physicians and other’evidence were for the first time presented to himon Friday night, the Governor thought it his duty to call that Court together, and a session will accordingly take Place. Of course we do not pretend to know or say what the judgment of the Court will be; but we shal t least, diecharge our duty in laying be- fore it the true condition of this imbecile prisoner. Next, the Governor has not “been assailed by a few fanatics trom Jersey City.’ Since the re- prieve we have had no communication with him, thin it Pag 3-3 to await the medical examina- tions. We do not believe that any one bas ‘as- sailed” him without our knowledge, unless it be those who appear to thirst for this man’s blood and to be hostile to any fair and judicial examina- tion of his act wal mental condition. It must be remembered that the County Physi- cian, Dr. Buck, although at first he had suspected Mecheila of leiguing insanity, 1s now convinced that there is no feigning, and has so informed us. In his present view he ts sustained by the other medical authorities. Resides this, a petition for commutation from ail the judges and nine of the jurors who tried the cause, the pros- ecuting attorney and the County Physician, and a petition for reprieve and investigation from 25 or 30 of the leading citizens of the State, are entitled to some consideration irom the Executive. With- out the reward ot either fees or popularity, we are endeavoring a8 @ professional duty to the unfortunate, to ‘see that the case of this miserable man receives ail proper investigation. We submit that it is hard and unfair to excite public opinion against him by such thisstatements of the facts, We confidently expect, in the dis- charge of such a duty, the aid of the public press rather than its hostility, and if your reporter would apply to the proper quarter instead of to those whe are anxious for the sensation of a hang- ing he would be bota more correct in his facts and more just aad merciful in his opinions, ks , . B. WILLIA! A. 8. OLOKE, ue 6 FOREIGN MA‘L DESPATCH. The Ocean Mail Service for Europe, Postmaster General Creswell has settled the mooted question of transporting the transatlan- tic mais from this city in a manner which must prove satisfactory to all the competing steamship companies, besides gaining an additional weekly mail. As will be seen trom the annexed table, there are four mails despatched from the New York Post¢OfMice during the coming month, against three as heretofore. Mr. Creswell has made dili- gent tmquiries concerning the fastest and mest reliable vessels, in which he was greatly assisted by Mr. J. H. Blackfan; Superintendent of Foreign Mails, Washington, and Postmaster James, and om the inspection of the logs of the various vessels he awarded the carrying contract for the month of January, It will be seen that the Inman Line Steamship Company does not appear in the list. This is ow- ing to the fact that this company did not compete for the contract, as their vessels leaving this bar- bor during the coming mouth are by no means fast, but for the month of February this corpora- tion wil! be no mean contestant, The Cunard line carries the Wednesday's matt, and the great Continental mail, on the 27th, ts car~ ried by the new steamship Herder, of the Kagle line. The following steamships have been selected for the transportation of the United States mails from New York to European ports for the month of Jam- uary, 1874:— Name of ‘Steamer. Dott ss ails To Be Conveyed. ‘Saihing. Name of Line, 1374, Jan. 1.|Holsatia....j Hamburg Am. |Britich, German, Bel- Pkt Co......|g1on, ' Nethertands, Swiss and Itrhan closed mails via Ply- mouth ; French direct mails ' via Cher- hourg aud German direct, Swiss, Dautsh, Swedish und Norwe: vi ian closed mails via Hambarg. Mails for the United Kingdom via Queens- town. North | Ger-/German, | Belgian, tau Lioyd.|Netherlands, Swiss land Italian closed mals via Southamp- ton; German direct, land Swiss, Danish, Geen and Norwe- zian closed mails via Bremen. &|British, German, Be gian, Netherlands, Swiss and [talian .|Baltic ......]White Star. Wisconsin..| Williams Guion. jueenstown. Cunard. ......|British, German, Bet- ian, erlands, Italiag closed mails vir Queenstown. Same as January 1. | | .|Calabria.... Swiss 8..|Cimbria. ...| Mamburg Am. Pkt, Co. 10..]Oceanic .. | White Star. :‘:/Same as January 3. 10.!| Weser North man Lloyd. |Same as January 3. 43..|Nevada....)Williams & Guion. e as January 6. 14..jAlgeria.....|Cunard me as January 7. 15. :|Hammonia.|Hamburg Pkt. Co. Same as January 1. 17..|Republic....] White Star....|Same as January 3. 17.,|Nurnberg...|North _ Ger- man Lloyd.|Same as January 3. 20..|/Manhattan.|Willams Guion. Same as January 6 Cunard. ame as January 7. ‘ame as January 1. ‘ame &3 January 3. i Same as January 3 Same as January 6 Same as January 1. Same as January 7. ./Same as January 1. -|Same as Janiiary 3 “Samo as Jandary 3% Ger man Lioy THE VIRGINIUS IN TOW AT SEA. The steamship Georgia, Captatn Crowell, which arrived at this port yesterday from Charleston, re- ports that on Wednesday, the 24th inst., at two o*clock P, M., she passed the steamship Virgintus, in tow, off Cape Romain. NAVAL INTELLIGENOE. The Powhatan at Fortress Monroe. Fortress Monnog, Dec. 28, 1873. The United States steamer Powhatan, Captain Beaumont commanding, arrived here at noon to- day from Key West, and is waiting orders from the department. She experienced heavy weather on the passage and lay to on the bight of the 26th. ANOTHER BANK DEFALCATION. PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 28, 1873. The President of one of the minor national banks of this city has used the whole surplus of the bank, some $200,000, for the benefit of an iron manufac- turing company. and tt will be atotal loss, ‘The capital of the bank, however, is uninjured, A Question in Arithmetic.—At What value do you appraise your life? Is it worth halfa dol- lar? If so, remember that a 50c. bottle ot HALE'S HONKY OF HOREHOUND AND TAR will kill a cough that would otherwke eal yen, PIKE’S TOOTHACHE DROPS cure in one minute. A-—Herald Branch Office, corner Fulton avenue and Boerum street. ‘Open from 5 A. M. to9 P. M. On Sunday trom 3to9 A. M. Ask for Goodall’s—The Finest Importert and cheapest Domestic PLAYING CARDS. Beaatiful new patterns, Sold everywhere. A.—Sealskin Far Ca, and Gloves for gentlemen at extremely low pi ESPENSCHEID, 118 Nassau street. A.—10,000 Pairs SelfActing Overshoes, puton and off without using the Ley indispensable article for New Year's calls, at BROOKS’, ‘Broad- way, corner of Twenty-ninth street. A Choice Selection of Ales, Wines and Liquors, &c. J. J. STAFF, 115 Chambers street. A.—Hernia.—The Surgeon Gene: Washi ym, hasarranged with the ELASTIC TRU: COMPANY, 633 Broadway, to furnish their TRUSS as needed to pensione: oldiers, &c. First Medals Ameri- can Instiwite a cinnati. A Gift of 1874.—Furs for the Wife or daughter anda HAT for the husband or son are usefal holiday gifts and they ean be advantageously procured either ot the KNOXS stores, No. 212 Broadway, in the scott House and Fifth Avenue Hotel. Brooklyn, At this Season of the Year Cou Colds, Hoarseness and other Affections of the Throat and Longs prevail. Madame PORTER'S COUGH BAL- pd 13 &@ most valuable remedy—it has been in use over years. Baker’s Chocolate.—If You Wish the best VANILLA CHOCOLATE get BAKER'S. Baker’s Chocolate.—A Good Cap of Cos coa is casily had af you will insist on your er turnish, fag W. BARER & CO. BREAK PAST COCOA. Batchelor’s Hair Dye is Splendid— Never is, Established 87 years. Sold and properly applied at BATCHELOR’S Wig Factory, 16 Bond st. N. Boots for the Holidays.—Perfect Fit-. ting, combining dazabilty and elegance ; also Overshoes. EUGENE FERRIS & 8 150 Fulton street, Corns Cared, 50c. to $1.—Banions, Nail: &c., treated at 352 Broadway. between Thirteenth ‘and Fourteenth streets. Dr. WESTERVELT, Ohiropodist. David's Holiday Hat for Gentlemen.— 29934 Broadway, near Duane street. Dr. Newton’s Medical and Surgical In- stitute, No. 34 Bond street.—Special attention given to chronic diseases. Consultation tree. Extra Dry bmiccnen ol MOET & CHANDON al ACKER, MERRALL & CONDIT'S, ambers street, a Forty-second street and Broadway. ‘ Havana Lottery.—We ore eon $500,000 in the extraordinary drawing April 22. Circulars sent; Invormation given. J.Be MARTINEZ & CO. 10 Wail street; Post office, New York. Musical iscramenss, awe = Pian On Violins, Accordeon: aD} Os c., cheay for cash (or instalments). at DALY Rese soe Fighth avenue, one door above Nineteenth street, west side, Pianos tuned and repalred. Nights of vest Watchin: xk, orving, children can be avoided b: Heer Melts WINSLOW'S SOOTHING SEKUE, “It ‘tee lieves the little sufferer from pain, cures wind coli: recuintes the stomach and bowels, corrects acidity, an during the Drocess of teething it is invaluable. with Special Notice.—Cigars.—We Offer for 10 days our stock of CIGA! ades and styles, at prices less than manufac dobbers and retailers will do well to call and se themselves. D. HIRSC. jater street. laren aie neoes, aoe 2, Us ane Ab- utely pure, age alone governi 6 peice. MUMMY CHAM Pater yt currency nebers sanally ioe We are agents for the Pleasant Valley Wine Company, lay foreign wine. He. KIRKE Cons) Fulton mscce: Established 1868. Mg mews NEW PUBLICATIONS. A CIRCULAR ON NASAL OAT, |, AN ABSTRACT trot pao, BOW ‘a pre) ma & Work on Le og Cintions Bas. been U °Y, AN. Se ate pet apts the’. uthor, i Ber ith sree a in, ‘OLIDAY BOOKS. ‘The best ‘The Largost 0!