The New York Herald Newspaper, December 8, 1876, Page 11

CONGRESS. Debate on the Report of the Louisiana Visiting Committee. Republican Defence of the Re- turning Board. THE ELECTORAL VOTE OF OREGON Republican Denunciation of the Ac- tion of Governor Grover. BENATE. Wasutscrox, Dec. 7, 1876, The Cuare laid before the Senate a communication signed by Carl Schurz and J. B. Henderson, dated St. Louis, December 4, praying that o constitutional amendment be submitted to the various States by which the counting of the electoral vote for President and Vice President and declaring the rosult thereof be sopferred upon the Supreme Court of the United States, Mr. Epuunps, (rep.) of Vt., moved that the commu- Bication be laid on the tabie, the subject haying already been reported to the Senate, So ordered, THE LOUISIANA REPORT. Mr. AxtHowy, (rep.) of R. L, trom the Committee on Printing, to which was referred the motion to print the depositions accompanying the communication of Hon. Jobn Sherman and otbers to the President in re- gard to tho late clection in Louisiana, reported in tavor of printing all the depositions. Mr, Savtssury, (dem.) of Del., a member of the Committee on Printing, dissented from the report of the majority and said he could not give bis consent to publishing such matter, He honestly believed that all these ez parte statements should not be distributed to the public as testimony. Mr. McDonaup, (dem.) of Ind., said he was willing to print all the testimony on both sides bearing on the Jate election in South Carolina, Louisiana and Florida, Ho sent to the Clerk’s desk and had read the address of tho democratic committee which attended the ses- sion of the Returning Board in New Orleans, to tho effect that the Tilden electors bad a majority of votes in Lougsiana, and also from the preamble of the report made to tho House of Representatives by a committes of that body, on the 23d day of February, 1875, in roy gard to elections in that Stato, Mr, Suznmay, (rep.) of Ohio, in reply to a question of Mr. Merrimon, said there were three classes of testi- mony presented with the communication. First—Oral testimony taken before the Roturning Board and the proceedings of the Board, Second—The s.atement ot the supervisors of eleo- tions and affida Lhird—Vhe testimony on, according to the laws of Louisiana, on interrogatories and cross-interroga- tories, Mr Eatox, (dew.) of Conn., opposed tho printing of the documents, because they were not brought here by the action of the Senate. Proper testimony in re- fee to the late election in South Carolina, Florida and Louisiana would be taken both by tho Senate and House ot Re} bot this pai ntatives, and that should be printed; fh matter, ARGUMENT OF MR. THURMAN. Mr. Tuurmay, (dem.) of Onio, sa did not object to the printing of these papers because be wanted to suppress the publication of any tacts, but bo aid not want public opinion to be forestalied by a premature publication of only a partof the tacts, He was op- posed to scattering broadcast over the land this one- siled statement that conclusions might bo formed on it, If this matter should be delayed till ail the testimuny was fully produced, as it would bo shortly, be would not ubject to the publica. tion. ‘He commentod on the action of the Louisiana Returning Board, and said this was the third time that that Board bad set aside tho will of the people of the State. Now, the matter Concerned pot the State of Louisiana alone, but the whole Republic, and he (Mr. Thurman) wanted to scrutinize the testimony upon which this extraordinary result had beeu reached by tho Board. If his col- Jeague (Mr. Sherman) had stated the acts of tho Re- turping Board, so jar as bo knew them, he (Mr. Sher- man) had not said avything in regard to the secret sessions of tbat Bourd. The country wanted to know what the sccret resolutions of that Board. were, by which an upparent mayor. ity of 7,000 for Tilden was converted into majority of 3,000 for Hayes and Wheeler. That wa: done in secrecy, and the worst kind of secrecy. The vacuncy in the Board was never filled, aod tne reason ol this was the miserable pretext that the Board could not agree upon aman, Nutone of the 83,000 men im Louisiana who voted for Tilden could be named but what two members of the board were for the appoint. ment and two against it, The very thing on its showed a determined purpose to do wrong. Li there been a democrat on the Board he would have seen what was done in secrot. All the whitowasbing 30 the world could not wipe out or bide this guilt. The majority of this Senate might make efforts to forestall pabiic opin:on and distribute this testimony, would go to the country stamped with the siig Deing a one sided statement. He protested against tho ptblication of these depositions in the name of fair play. He hoped they wouid be allowed to lay upon the table until the other side should be heard from, then print all. Mr. Moros, (rep.) of Ind., said the Senate had the aipgular spectacle here of denuneiation of the Return- ing Board of Louisiana tor fraud, while at the same time resistance was made to laying before the country the evidence upon which the action of that Board was base}. The Democratic Committee in New Orieaus was invited by the Republican Committee to publish the testimony taken by it, together with that taken by the republicans, but the democrats were not willing to make pubhe theit case a8 it was before the Board, ‘Ihey wanted to wait to get more testimony, ond thus have acage which Was not beiore the Board. Thiy thus con.essed that they were not satisfied with their case, but wanted to make a new one, This {ree de- nunciativa ot the Returning Board unfair. If tho Buard acted unfairly, let the democrats bring forward their evidence to that effect. He was not afraid of the testimony of the latter. Mr. TNURMAx satd he did not know why the Demo cratic Committee in New Orleans deciined to tarnish their testimony to the Repablican Committes, but had he been # memver of the Democratic Committee he would have reiused to (urnieh tne testimony, and ho thought the committce acted fairly in retusing to fur- mish the republicans with their testimony. His col- leagua (Mr. Sherinun) and comrades went to New Uriesns at the request of the President. They did not ask the democratic committee to join them im making a report to the President, but asked at the democratic testimony be piaced in their bands that they—the five repuvitcan goutiomen—might make up the verdict and tend it to the President, Who constituted the Sena- tor trom Ohio (Sir. Sherman) and bis four associates in New Orieans the sole judges in this case? There never was atime in the history of this nation when the forms of government and the constitution were put to @ more severe test than now, and everything dove by Congress should an example of calmness to the people. Mr. Mortoy said that all of the ingenuity that could be brought to bear on the othor side could not’change the dilemma im which the democrats were placed. When the Republican Commitice in New Orleans, said he, offered to lay the whole testimony of both ‘sides betore the country, the democrats declined to furnish that of their side; and when the republicans camo for- ward to pablish what they bad they were asked by the democrats not to do 80, REMARKS OF MR. SUKRMAN, Mr. Suxrmay, of Obio, detens the action of the commitice with which he aeted, and said the commit- tee presented particle of timony which they could get. They tried to obtain ou both sides, but sould not doso. He argued that it was on the teste Moay now betore the Senate that the decisioa of the Returning Board was made, Mr. THURMAN said it was upon one side ot the case that the Retorning Board rendered its decision and reversed a popular inajority of 7,000. Where, asked he, is the statute which authorized the commutice which visited New Orleans to report to the Presiaent? The meinvers of that committee were not public off- cers, [i they were the President invited none but members of hia own party to serve on the committee. The attempt to place tho garments of office on this thing will not vo. Mr. Evuuxps, of Vermont, saia that the third sec- tion of the second article of the constitution of the United States required the President of the United Statos to transinit to Congress, from time to time, tn- formation regarding the sti of tho Union, He was commanded to periorm t duty and bound to obey the command. To obtain information in regaru to ‘inion the Presiieut invited t that Siato and obtain such in- formation, and Teceived it he communicated it to Congress, believed 18 character justilied its transmission, Ho argued that it had ever been unu- fual in the bistory of the government to refuse to print in‘ormation sent by the President. Mr, Wuyte, (dem) ot Md,, suid if it were possibic for the testimony to be witnowed by somo impartial hand and the chal separated from the real grain he would have no objection to printing tt. The proceeuings of the Returning Board and ‘he statements of the super- visors inight be printed, but he could uot consent to the printing of ail these depositions, In this very building, under the examimation of the Committee on Privileges and Election, and under the conduct ot the former Senator from Wisconsin (Mr. Carpenter), the revelation had been made to the country that an affidavit mill existed in Louisiana where they ground out allidavits by. the bushel He then quoted irom the testimony of Theodore Jacque before the Carpenter committee to the effect that ho manulue. tured over 1,200 affidavits in Louis: ‘Signed bat marks upon them, Take out these deposi- NEW YORK HERALD, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 1876.—TRIPLE SHEET. tions and he would not object to the printing of ti otner testimony, but he would never agree to the Printing of these depositions and the circulation of them throughout the Jand to influence honest men who desired to do right In reply to the argoment of Mr. Edmunds he said President had the right to send information to ongress as to the State of the Union, bus it was bis duty to ascertain im advance if the inform: true. The Sepate repudiated Pinchback because the Legislature which sent him here was an unlawful one, This Returning Board was a creature of the same Leg- islature which elected Pinchback, Mr. West, of Louisiana, said there was ne analogy between the testimony now before the Senate and that of 1872 It did not follow that the whole State was made up of porjurers, When the affidavit mill of tho democratic party should go to work in Louisiana Senate would see ine affidavits, They were on printed forms and were distributed throughout the State, to be sworn to by any one they could get. H detended the action of the Returni: rd and spol = the frauds perpetrated by the democrats in the tate, Mr. Bayarp, (dem.) of Del., said it was usual to esas documents sent to the Senate by the Presiden' ut these papers were not officia! and did not preten to be official They were not accompanied by any recommendation of the President calling tor the action of Congress. The office of Vresidentot the United States no mere connected him with the election in avy oMfce of Senator connected him lection. Theroforo the whole action of thi with sue! President leans = was)=s without = warrant of law, It the two committees in New Orleans had co- operated and destroyed the partisan teatures there would pave been a combined scrutiny of the count, and the country would have had at least an al tempt to agree upon the law and tho facts. If there should be a delay unt) the testimony of the other sido was presented #0 that both might be printed and gu out sogother he would not object, Mo desired every tact made public 1m connection with the Lo: the position the Sonate was now placed it bo no shuffling, but overy Senator must stand on the rock of law and travb, THR YOTR OF ORKGOX, Mr. Sanorst, (rep.) of Cahtorpia, sald the Sonal had been told there must ve no shuilling, no party trick in this Presidential matter; that the people wou.d not tolerate any such thing. He concurred in these statements, Ho then referred to the action of the Governor of Uregon in issuing a certificate of eleo- torship to Cronin on accoant of the alleged ineligi- bility uf Watts, and said that the people of the State of Oregon had been detrauded of the intelligent vot which they gave by this action of the Governor. This was o partisan trick; it was shuiiling, Mr. Sargent then quoted trom the ‘ot Orego: argued tha: under the law ol State, if a ancy occurr from any cause, whether inehgibility or otherwise, the other electors were authorized to fill such vacancy. He also quoted from the decision of the New York Court of Appeals to the effect that a person receiving a minority of votes cast atan election could not ve considered cieoted on account of the ineli another candidate, Resuming his argument if a more stupendous trick for partisan ends had ever been played than this act of the Governor of Oregon. ‘The trick, he said, had been worked ap andthe whole Electoral College was shafiled out of si thanked God that one whole centennial of tho exist- enc? of tho American people had passed before their history recorded such an instance as this, Mr. Sancext also quoted trom the case of Vance against Abbott, a contested election case before the Senate, in which the Senate decided that the dis- abilities of Vance did not have the effect of electing | Abbott, his opponent, to a seat in the Sepate irom | ‘ were | North Carolina, The jocratic Senator unanimous in holding this view and supporting the decision. He next read from the law of Oregon, re- quiring the Governor to deliver to the clectors their certificates, and said, instead of doing so, be delivered them to Cronin, He asked if any Senator would de- fond this act of the Governor of Oregon. Mr. Mxkximon, (dem.) of N. C., said shore had been many respectable decisions both ways on the sabject of whether the person receiving the next highest number of votes was elected im case of the ineligibil- ity of the person receiving the highest num! ‘Mr. MiTCHRLL, (rep.) of Oregon, denied that tho Governor of a State, a mere ministerial officer, bad a right to defeat the will ot the peopic, as bad been done by the Governor of Oregon. Mr, Sancest, of California, said he hoped the demo- crats would examine the rious proceedings of their Governor in Oregon, and when they coud clear their skirts of that action, let them denounce returning boards in Louisiana, When he saw a whole Electoral College in a State destroyed he was prepared tv belicve that the democratic party would do almost anything to yet possession of the government. party woula not accept control of this government if they got it by fraud, The republicau party desired and bad desired powcr by the fair, unbiased, unintim- idated voice of the people. He (Mr. Sargent) wouid not adhere to a party which built itself up by fraud. Mr. Moxron said tho case could pot be found where the minority candidate had been ciected on account of the inoligibility of the person receiving the majority of the votes cast. The question had been settled just the other way in the Senate, and had also been 80 decided tn the House of Representatives in the case ut Jobn Young Brown, of Kentucky. Ho then quoted at jength from Euglish and American wuthori on the subject, and also referred to the case of Abbot against Vance, contestants fora seat in the Senate irom North Carolina, Abbott claimed tobe elected because Mr. Vance was disqualified; but the Senato i held that the votes thrown tor Vance were not nul tles, and Abbott was not elected. The samo princip! had been held in the case of Yulee, of Florid many years ago, an¢ in tho case uf General Shields, of Ilimoig He (Mr. Morton) not allow himself at this thme to characterize this transaction of the Governor of Oregon. He believed there were four or tivo instancos where democratic electors were disqualified, at least to th tent ot the elector Watts, in Urogon. The conduct of the Governor of Oregou cvuld find no justification in law, in moi or in tolerance of the people of the United States of all tu B mie, ‘Taurmay also quoted extensively from the cases. of Abbott, Shields and others, and said he was not pro- pared to discuss this question now. He read from tho constitution the clause deciaring that no person “*hold- ing au office of trast or protit under the United States shall be appojoted an elector,” &c, and said there was certainly a disqualifying clause, Whether the others knew of the disqualification or not be was not pre- pared to fon 6 Whether the man recoiving tho next highest number o{ votes was elected on account of the ineligibility of the one receiving the highest oumber ‘was another question, which he (Mr. Toarman) would not go into now, Mr. Epauxps, of Vermont, said he had seen it stated in the newspapers that the Governor of Oregon had undertaken to say that the man whom the people declared elected was not elected. He (Mr. imunus) did not believe this, If this should be true, was it democratic virtue and reform? He did not wonder that the honorable Senator frum Ohio (Mr. Thurman) said he wuuld hold up a little before arguing in favor of such action as that of the Governor of Oregon. He read {froin various legal authorities to show that the practice in both this country and Enviana had been Just the opposite to the doctrine mantained by tho Governor of Oregon, The question being on the report of the Committce on Printing to print the depositions taken in Loui: iana and sent to the President by Mr. Sherman's com- mittee, it was agreed to—yens, 40; naya, 1d—Messrs, Key, McDonald, Rindolph, Wailace and Kernan voting with the republicans in the affirmative. Mr. Mircuxut, of Oregom, submitted the foliow- Whereas at the late Presidential election in the State o Oregon ‘he poopie, by w majority of over 1,100, chose elec tors who 6 pledy to vote for for P nt and William A. Whe den! whereas th jover upon the pretext that J. W, Watt wns at the time of his election fied to one O democratic electuen' and elected in the fac ap: tont he had deen defeated by the majority before state And wherens, the Guvernor placed in the hands of the said E, A. Cronin the certiticntes of the other two electors m sending a committee to New Or. | In | ‘the republican | | i chosen to vote for Hayes and Wheeler, instead of putting | mi into the as the lnw required, who resained them iu his possession Ute oxhivit them ; wnd Whereas thix E. A, Cronin assumed to appoint tw ors, aul with ¢ om pretended to cast the electoral vote of the State aud cortitied it up to the President of the and whereas the action of the said Governor in is certifiente of election to ynid Cronin wax wholly wt ized, iliezal and fraudulent and n gross violath rights of the people of Orogun, und the action of sa in assuming to wet as an elector an .t two others was wholly feandulent and wicked: therefore, Kesoived, &c., That the Comimittes on Privileges and Elections is hereby instructed to investizate the facts nt tending the »ppointmen jectors and pretended electors, t the Secretary of 31 i D Toport the same to the sen tats purpose may employ a stenographer, sent (Oe persons: und papers, administer oaths and examine witness@n Orderod to be printed and lie on the table. Me. Hows, (rep.) ot Wis., introduced » bill to re- strain unauthorized persons trom assuming to act as electors for President and Vice President. Reterred to the Judicmry Committee. Mr. Papvoox, (rep.) cf Neb., introduced a bill to pro- vide for a full distribution of the public documents printed or ordered to be printed. Heterred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads. Mr. GaMEROS, (rep.) of Wis., introduced a bill con- cerning commerce and navigation, aud the regulation of steam vessels iling vessels, Referred to the Committee on Commerce, Mr. EpMUNDs gave notice that he would call up to- morrow the proposed constitutional amendment in relation to countizg the voto for President and Vice President. The Senate then, at five o’clock, adjourned, wetion of the Go to them HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. Wasmixatox, Dec. 7, 1876, Mr. Arxixs, (dem.) of Tenn, a member of tno Ap- propriation Committee, réported the Pension Appro- Priatiou bill, and gave out that he would call it up to- morrow morning. The bill appropriates $38,358,000, BILLS INTRODUCED, The following vilis were introduced and referred :— By Mr. Donsuwt, (rop.) of Mion.—Amendatory of the act of 1866, making additional gr: f tand to Minnesota in alternate sections, to aid in the construc. tion of rattroads, Dy Mr. Lorragu., (dem.) of Cal (by req: )—To quiet land claims In California; also conferring the right of pre-emption to lands in California in cortain cases. Mr. Monro, (rep.) of Ohio—Desired to make a mo- tion in regard to a Senate bill of last se: yn, Dut the Speaker decided that the motion could not be entered | without unanimous consent, inasinuch as ft condicted | with the jomt rules, One of these provides that at a second or subse- quent session of Congress all matters pending atthe adjournment of the previous session abail, 9 the end | nominations of Mr, Kelly as Comptroiler of siz days, resume their respective positions on the calendar. CANVASSING THE ELECTORAL VOTR. Mr, McCrary, (rep.) of lowa, offered the following resolution :— there are difference: mig the el and f determining qnes- ry analy re. as it is of im portan ences of opinion, and uncertainty on these questions should'be removed, to the end thas the votes muy de counted aud the result declared bye tribunal whose au- e gan question, and whose decision all will we- 5 committee of five be appoi with any similar e . ind report, without delay, islative or constitutional, as may calculated to accomptish the de- id committee have leave to report Mr. Woop, (dem.) of N. Y., suggested that a subject of so much importance should be referred to a com- mittee of the House, and heped that the gentieman trom lowa would have it referred to the Judiciary Gom- mittee, of which he himself (Mr, McCrary) was a member. Tho Sreaxer—And, also, that it be printed. Mr. Haus, (rep.) of Me.—If it goes to the Judiciary Committee let that committee have leave to report it at any time. Mr. Woop—Certainly. Mr. McCrany—If the gentlemen desire that course, ofcourse I shall acquiesce in it; although we ail on- derstand how important it is to have prompt action oa the subject. Mr. Woop—Certainly; we all appreciate It Tho resolution was thereupon referred to the Judi- clary Committee, with leavo to report at any time. Mr. Furx, (rep.) of Me, presented the protest of tho Colorado Legisiature against the refusal of the House to admit to his seat the member elect from that State. Referred to the Judiciary Committee. The Sreaker appointed Mr. Beebe, of New York, Louisiana Committee instcad of Mr. Lynde, ex- Mr. Laman, (dem. ), of Miss. Chairman e Pacific Railroad Committee, reported back the Senate bill to ‘tend the time for the construction aud completion of the Northern Pacific Railroad, and asked that it bo made the special order tor Wednesday, December 20. Mr. HuRLBvT, (rep.) of LIL, inquired what the present condition of that bill was, and whether it was on the re Mr. Huniecr—Then I object to taking it op, Mr. Hotwas—Of course 1t cannot ve reported if it ts not on the Speaker’s table. The Speaker remarked that it was an impot to know whether the bill was on the Speaker’ in commitiee. A rvierence to the record of jast session showed that the bill was in committee, and that therefuro it might be reported. Mr, Houmay, of Indiana, made the point of order, that the bill had firat to be considered in Committee of | the Wholw, and as that pomt was sustained by the peaker Mr, Lamar withdrow the bill, ‘Tho SPKAKKR then proceeded to call committees for reports, and among the bills reported were tue follow. ing:— Ghaoging the name of the First National Bank of Amesbury, Mass., 10 that of First National Bank of Merrimack. Passod, The Sevate bili changing the time and places of hold- ing United States Circuit Courts in Arkansas, Passed, with amendments, Mr. McCrary, of Indiana, fromthe Judictary Com- mitice, reported a bill to amend the Pacitic Railroad acts by making the Burlington and Missouri Kiver Railroaa in Nebraska a brauch of tho Union Pacific Ruilroaa, and requiring both roads to be operated cun- jointly. : Me. Prre, of Maine, made tho point of order that, as the bill aifected a land grant road, 1% must firs bo cons dered in Commitice of the Whole. The Sreaken overruled the point of order, as the Dill big etn neitber money nor land, Mr. Frye said that bis only motive wasto havea full discussion of the bill, which was a very important ‘one, as aflesting the interests of the government and the Union Pacitic Railroad Company. He desired its consideration postponed. Mr. Crounss, (rep.) of Neb., opposed postponement as og A another means of defeating the bill, Mr, McCrary, (rep,) of lowa, proceeded to expiain and advocate the measure, It declares tho Buriiugiou aud Missouri Railroad in Nebraska, a branch of the Union Paciilc Railroad, entitled to ail rights and priv- flegos and salject to all the duties and requirements provided by sections 9 and 15 of the act of July 2, 1864, rovided that no government bonas shall ever @ issued to the Burlington and Missouri River Raiiroad to aid im is Construction, and that this act shall not affect the extent or the conditions of the land grant, It also provides that, in order to secure the government and the public equal advantages and facilities as to rates, and to prevent discrimination, the Union Pacitic Rail- road Company shall operate its line in connection with the Burlington ana Missouri River Railroad, and shall charge for freight and passengers the same rate per mile. He contended that Congress had a clear right to poss the bill—first, under the genoral power to alter or amend the charter of the Union Pacitic Railroad Com- pauy; and, second, because the President might now exeiciso bis prerogative to ux the terms and condi- lines shoula connect with the ‘The morning hour expired and tho bill went over to the next inorning hour. Mr. Houmas, of indiana, chairman of the Committce on Appropriations, offerod a resolution appropriating 1,000 tor the expenses of the special Southern Com- | Mittee. Adopted. would Mr. Woop, of New York, asked leave to offer a reso- lution calling op the President for copies of orders and directious emanating from him or trom avy of the Executive departments of the government to any mili tary or civil officer w.th regurd to the services of the army in Virginia, South Carolina, Louisiana and Fiorida Mr. Kasson, (rep.) of Iowa, objected. Mr. Mints, (dem.) of Texas, offered a resolution call- jog on tho President for information with regard to the removal of tno Sioux Indians to Indian Territory. Adopted. The Houso then, ata quarter to two o’clock P. M., adjourned, the democratic members remaining in the hall to attend a caucus. THE BROCK MURDER. RELEASE ON BAIL OF AN ALLEGED ACCESSORY— THE RYAN-OSCHWALD WRIT OF ERROR STILL IN JUDGE DEPUE'S HANDS, Soon after the arrest of Ryan and Oschwald tor tho murdor of J. Stanley Brock, the Newark policeman, the police apprebended oue Reuben Roe, Roe has the Teputation of being what the police call a “fence’’— that is to say, a receiver of stolen goods. It was to his saloon that the accused were traced the morning of the burglary and tragedy. Into his back yard a man, since proven to havo been Uschwald, was observed to pass carrying a block beg, the one stolen {rom Bedeli*s house, For some days this bog could not be found, despite tho closest examination made by the police of the premises All at once it turned up mysteriously, Roe was then apprehended and lodge. in jail, Subsequently he was indicted by the Grand Jury as an accessory afler the fast, ay ing, as allege¢, criminally concealed important evi- dence, thus endcavoring to de 18 of justice, He has been in jail ever since, Yesterday ho was ad- mitted to bati by Judge Depue, his bail being fixed at the sum of $1,000, RYAN AND OSCHWALD. Mattors are still in statu quo in tho case of Ryan and Uschwald. Owing to the great demands on Judge De+ 5 pue’s eo he bas not been able to com. plete review of the papers necessary to his signing and forwarding them to the Chanevllor, His earnest desire is to do so a8 soon as po-sible, inthe meantime the venernbie, respected and almos' ken hearted parents of the condemned men express stroog hopes that even if a new triyl is not granted the Court of Pardons may be influenced to an exercise of mercy. Special Treasury Agent Brackett, with Inspectors | Nevin and Jackson, of his office, boarded tho Havana steamer Columbus, on her arrival at Quarantine on Wednesday evening, for the purpose of searching her for smuggled goods, At noon to-day they had discov ered and seized over 3,000 cigars, The oilicers intend toremain by the steamer until her cargo has been discharged, order that thei¢ search may prove a thorough o1 BOARD OF ALDERMEN. THE PAY OF THE ATTACHES OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY CANVASSERS—IS MR, SLEVIN AN ALDERMAN. Alter the Aidermen had confirmed yesterday the and Mr, Whitney as Corporation Counsel a resolution was called up im favor of paying the attachds of tho late Board of Canvassers, some twenty-five in number. Alcerman Cole objected, on the ground that some of these gentiemen had not discharged any duty what- ever, Consideration of the matter was finally laid over antl the next meeting. ALDERMAN BLEVIN'S CASE, Tho following communication was sent in irom the Finance Department, received by the Board and or. dered to be printed:— To tax Hoxonas.x tux Common Councit:— Board of Aldermen no member of the Lexi uement within this sca ates irom the Governor, t| civil appr United st or from the Lexisiatare, or from any city governin he shail have beon elected, and all ing the tine vor which from the ety mty of ew York for ihe yent, 187 would seem to be precluded from taking the office of Alder- of th New York, and the eetion in electing him as many acts of the A by vie votes of the party wh: to fill this vacancy, especiaily when in have been ‘ndvanced from tho Lroasury based on such nets, questions will arise as to their falldity, and contusion and love ara Hikely tv result, there. A respectiully the attention of your le matter. ars to me to be a cle body to thi which appe: ‘vhoe oe bitational Very rei ee Fee aie i SURE, comple THE NEW.DEAL. John Kelly Nominated and Confirmed as Comptroller. ; Corporation Counsel Whitney His Own Successor. The Courteous Way Mr. Green Received the Tammany Chieftain. THE CITY FINANOES. Tho likelihood that another name would be sent in by Mayor Wickham yesterday for Comptroller, in case of the witharawalot Mr, James 8, Thayer, attracted a largo crowd to the room of the Board of Aldermen and the vestibule of the City Hall, A number of local politicians were also on hand, among them Police Commissioner Nichols, Colonel Thomas Duniap, ex-County Clerk Loew, Sheriff Reilly, Sherif! Conner, E. D. Galo, Excise Commissioner Murpby, ex-Judge Hogan, Coroner Woiltman, Peter McGinness, ex-Assem- biyman Patien, Coroner Croker, Phillip Furley, John J. O'Brien, A, 8. Sullivan and others, Nearly all of theso politicians were Tammany men, who came with the confident expectation that Mr, Kelly was to be the Mayor’s nominee, The Aldermanic chamber.was crowded long before the hour for commencing business, MR, -THAYER’S WITHORAWAL. After somo preliminary business had been trans- acted, the following communications were read from the Mayor:— Execotivs Durartusyt, City Hatt, New Yorn, Dee, 7, 1876, To TARE HONORABLE THX BOAKD OF ALDERMKN:— GENTLEMEN—In compliance with tho request of James 3. Thayer, expressed in the letier from him, whicb is hereto annexed and forwarded for your ex- amination, | hereby withdraw the nomination made in my communication to you of the 27th ult. in which James 8. Thayer was nominated for appointment by and with your consent tothe Comptrollerstip of the city of Now York and bead of the Finance Department im place of Andrew H. Green, whose term has expired, WILLIAM RB, WICKUAM, Mayor, The following 1s Mr. Thayer’s letter: — To tux Hox, Wittuam H, Wicknam, Mayor oF Tun Ciry or New York :— Deax Siu—I tuily appreciate the honor which you have done mo in sending ny name to the Board of Al- dermoen for confirmation os Comptroiler of the city. I flod, however, upon consideration of my personal and business affairs and of the onerous aud responsible duties connected with that office, that 1 cannot at this time with justice to mysclt assume the business of the position, and thereiore beg you will withdraw my m the further consideration uf the Common banking you for the high comph- ment you havo paid me, 1 am, vary truly, yours, JAMES S. THAYER, Next came Mayor Wickham’s communication nom inating Mr, John Kelly for the office of Comptroiler for four years, in placo of Andrew H. Green. Tho namo was regeivod with stamping of feet. Alderman Purroy moved the immediate confirmation of Mr. Kelly in the following speech :— I never performed any act with the pleasure and satisfaction with which I now move to coniirm the nomination of Jobn Kelly as Comptroller. If a stern and unyielding sonseo! justice, so great thut it has never perinitted bim throughout his lopg public career to subinit tor a moment his honest convictions to the demands of expediency; af a reputation tor sterling hovesty, so well rocognized and acknowledged that tt has passed into a proverb; if enti i the public affairs of this his native city; and unsurpassed mo: id physical courage—if gre the qualifications essential in tho make up of a model Comptroller for this city, then, sir, I assert, without lear of contradiction by the moat bitter partie san, that all these qualifications are found united in the gentieman whose name is now betore this Board, With bim as Comptroller the reign of favoritism wiil end. No unjust or uureasonable claim will ve paid, no matter who may be the claimant, while every honest Obligation of tnocity will bo promptly and honorably met, With Jono Kelly as Comptroller and smith Ely 8 Mayor !t seems to me that a new cra ot good gov- ‘nment is about to Gawn on the city, and Iam very proud that it has fallen to my lot to take part in the {nitration of this movement. Therefore, I now move that this Board confirm the nomination of John Kelly as Compirolier, Alderman Purroy's motion was seconded by Alder- man John Reilly. Complimentary remarks were then made as to Mr, Keliy’s character by Aldermen Cole, Tuomey and others from tho democratic side. The nomination wax confirmed by. the vote of fitteen democrats Six ofthe republicans voted in the neg- ative, Alderman Mess being excused from voting. TESTING THK LEGALITY OF APPOINTMENT, The following resolution was offered by Alderman Morris and placed on fil Wherons grave doubts oxist ns tothe lawful power of tho Mayor and Aldermen to sppoint a Comptroller of this ei:y: and whereas itis the opinion of eminent counsel that an of the Gomptrouier of this tty depends upon rn the Attorney General of the state, and that he be respec fully requested to give to this Board his official opinion thereon us early as practicable, of that wcase be made com- prehending nil the points involved and submitted to the courts tor decision before this Board take any action in tho premises, WILLIAM ©. WHITNEY CONYIRMED. Mayor Wickham next sent in a communication nam- ing William U, Whitney for Corporation Counsel fora four years’ term. This nomination was also promptly confirmed by a voto of 21 to 1, Alderman Morris alone being recorded in the negative. « THY NKW COMPTROLLER BWORN IN, A few minutes after the appoimtment was an- nounced Mr. Jobn Kelly, accompanied by bis suret Messrs. August Belmont and dir, Augustus Schell, ap peared belore che ayo worn in. The th: gentiemen, accompanied by the Corporation Coun: then proceeded to the Comptrolier’s office in the new Court House. “HAIL TO THE critny.”? During the alternoon the Compitrolior’s office bore the customary busy aspect. Clerks wore engaged at their desks and boys hurried trom place to place in the usual dinoharge of their duties. Thore wero hardly any visitors, save those who came im on business. About three o’o,ock, however, the office was gradually filiea with @ crowd of m most of thein politi. cians. They remained standing in little groups about the room and anxiously awaited the new Comptroiler’s arrival to see “how he looked” and to congratalate him on the honor that bad been conterred upon bim. At balf-past three the doors were thrown open, and in waiked Mr. Kelly, who at onco became the cynosure of all eyes, Ho was accompanied by Messra. August Belmont and Augusius Schell, his sureties, and Corporation Counsel W. C. Whitney. The party walked into the Comptroller's private seated at the time, As the gentiemon walked upto Mr. Green's desk, at which Green remarked, he was seated, Mr. addressing himselt to Mr. Keit: understau ir, that you are my successor,” “Yes, sir, I am,’ replied ‘Mr, Kolly, showing his certificuto of appoimtment. Mr, Green merely glanced at the paper in Mr. Kelly’: hand, looked over some papers on a desk at tho jur- ther end of the room, catied for his bat and overcoat, and walked out without saying « word. Mr. Kelly then “made himself comfortavie,” as the saying is, and quietly took the seat which his predecessor had vacated. He had scarcely seated himself when the demceratic Aldermen came in 10 a body, and presented their compliments to the new Comptrolicr, Mr. Kelly shook hands with each of them, wad, inviting them to be seated, exchanged a tew words with them. During the whole afternvon Tammany politicians surget in aud out, enger to be among the first to wish Mr, Kelly success In his new career, THX UNTERRIFIED EXUNERANT. The recipient of all these attentions looked perfectly calm aad bappy, and dit the honors of the house as if be had been Comptroller during his whole life. In tho course of alternoon Mr. Whitney introduced the new Comptroller to the Deputy Comptrolier, Mr. Karte, Mr. Jackson, Auditor of Accounts, and other officers in the Department, Mr. Kelly told them that they would rem: duties as they had hitherto, and that they would act as if no change had occurred in the office. Before the arrival of Mr. Kelly a numbor of men bad conan near the desk of the Deputy Comp- troller, Mr. Earle, and loudly exuiied over the sup- fact that bis place would soun be occupied by what they termed ‘a better map.”’ In a conversation which the Hat reporter bad with Mr, Earle he said that he did not pay any attention to the pambers around, and ia consequence had not heard any of their conversation, “1 do not expect a change beiore to- morrow, but lam sure it will come soon, 1 have never known & change in the régime to occur without a cor- responding change in the nel of the office, As regards myseli, if | should be notified thut my sere vices ate no longer pecessary 1 would jeave the office cheerfully. I believe Mr. Keliy to be a man fully com. etent jor the oflice he is about to enter, and | am sure ¢ has the best intontions in the world for the pubhe benelit und the will and energy to carry them oul.” MAYOR WICKHAM'S JOY. About five o’clock Mayor Wickham also called upou the now Comptroller, and after shaking hands with him, comfortably located himself tn a chi rigot of Mr, Kelly. He said that be was extr fslled with Mr, Kelly's easy entrance into office, and exe preesod hia full confidence in the abiiity of Mr. Kei “As rogerds his integrity,’”’ be said to a Henan re- porter, **{ bel ere 18 NO Heocssity of my relerring to it, am it is already so wel) known. | am sure his oc- the bei a "s chair will be a benefit to OF course,” added His Honor, “Mz, Kelly trom this out gives up ali active interest in pol- js henceforth a simple ‘servant of the» COMPTROLLER GREEN'S PRONUNCIAMENTO—RE- PORT OF HIS FIVE YEARS’ ADMINISTRATION TO A COMMITTEE OF CITIZENS—PRESENT CONDITION OF CITY FINANCES--HIS PLAN FOR THE REDUCTION OF TAXES, . In a communication addressed to Messrs, William A. Booth, George W. Lane, William H. Macy, Parker Handy, Benjamin B. Sherman, J, D. Vermilyo, James M. Brown, U. L. Jenkins, Joha J. Cisco and F. D. Tappen, Comptroller Green yesterday submited for their ‘perusal the ‘following very briet notes” rela- EEE OO Il ize any Improvem to be carried on by the further issue of bonds, and that any loose provisi of law that now exist authorizing the issue of bonds for euch Purposes should be repealed, There is now tn the treasury the sam of $326,484 94, which, by law, may at any time as reqaired be appre priated vo the daflicted. Tvere 6 ple pro pair, repave and put in order our downtown strvets, I found the city like a great fleld in whieh herds, tossing the golden sueaves, bad lo! hoof inarks upon every rood ot it fertile lene, 1 found the city like an estate which its casy-noing owner had left Lo the negiet of heedioss bailiffs an stewards. Its mansions dilapidated, \ts gardens over. grown, its orchards exhausted, its forests dismanties its rents uncollected, its crops ungarnered and riot ap ruin wasting its every feature and every interest. It may in moderation be asseried that someshing tive to the city debt: — COMPARATIVE STATEMKNT OF THE CITY DEBT AS OF skrTemnen 16, 1871, AND NovEMBER 20, 1876, Tho funaed debt, ‘November 20, 1876, loss the sinkiug fund, wa: The ng ( ly can be ascertained) existing November 20, 1876, not esti- mating loss artstug from non- coliection of assessments, will But exceed (SeC DOLE)....+00506 391,102,375 Total debt, November 20, 1876. . The funded debt, September 16, 1871, when Comptrotier Green took’ office, less the ein! fund, was.. 162, 696, 825. The floating de! date, us since ascertained und liquidated, was. sees 21,038,651 Total actual debt of September 16, 1871, so far as ascertained and liquidated, ..... There has been paid sinco Sep tember 16, 1571, for land tor the city and for permanent im- provements, being an incre of city property. And yet the net city croused during this period (more than five years) only... $9,866,898 ASSESSMENT NONDS. Total assessment bonds outstanding No- vember 1876. September 1) 1871. 83,735,476 An increase of. . se $10,571, 960 The outstanding aud monts amounted, November 20, 187 10,907,545 The ady es tocontractors, &c., on account progress, and lor which assess- ments areto be levied, + 11,351,336 Making a total of assessments to be lovied aud collected of., + +++ $22,258,881 1t wilt be sven that if all these assessments are col- lected they will produce an amount very nearly ade- quate to pay all the assessinent bonds outstanding, but it 18 to be remembered that there 18 a number of law- yers who make a living by using technical objections to got rid of assessments which should be paid by the property benefited by them, The plan of these law- yers is to make an agreement with the owner for say iwonty-live per cont of the amount of the assessment if it 18 thrown {rom the owner—who should pay t— upon the taxpayer, who should not pay it, A consid- erable amount ol these assessments {3 upon property owned by the city or charged upon the city by some act of tho Legislature, These of course will not be productive of any ineans toward paying tho assess- ment bouds, Perhaps. fairestimate of the not yicld of these assessments would be $13,v00,000, REVENUE BONDS. Tho revenue bonds outstanding September . dint seilkpasine abbots sins «SSS 1062 Tho revenue bonds outstanding November 20, 1876. ...c essen seseeenees 18,604,062 Decrease in amount revenue bonds...... $9,162,137 ‘Tho amount ot taxes uncollected Novembor 20, 1874, was :— Taxes of 1876, real and personal...........$15,485,085 Arrears of taxcs— 17,743,660 collected taxes ........ sees $33,178,605 mount $20,0.0,000 will probably bo collected, Notx.—Amount of personal tax prior to 1871 in ar- Tears, Included in above, $7,080,483, SINKING | FUND. Tho amount in tho sinking fund for redomp- tion of the city debt November 20, was, Septem! Being an (2crease Of...........0eeeeeese+ $9,863,404 ‘This increase 1s uot {rom sales of real estate belong: ing to the city—only $213,040 of 1t having been aerived from that source. It is due to the more effectual and economical co lec- tion and care of the renis, tecs and other revenues of the city. These collections aro still tar irom being as complete as they should bo, as resistance is made to their payment by litigation and by such other embar- Tassinents as those who ought tv pay can surrouad their obligations. A FEW COMPARISONS. Printing and Stationery, The amount expended jor printing aud onary 10 1871 was. eee $1,018,958 The amount expended tor printing and sta- ticnery in 1875 was.....,..... 157,741 This amount, under proper management, could be Bull further reduced twenty: five per cent. Advertising. The amount expended for advertising for tho eily and county government for 1871 was. $1,093,360 The amount expended for advertising tor tne city and county government in 1875 was., 48,510 Gas, mount charged for gus for the city in was ov 000,000 The umount expended ior gas for the city (excluding the Twenty-third and Twenty- fourth eee which did not belong to tho jor 1875 was........ $ aa for lighting each lamp in 1876 is $23 to ce number of street lamps lighted in 1875 was 17,77! When the present Comptroiler took office there wero newspaper claims for advertising for the city in the office waiting payment amvunting to $2,500,000. ‘The reduction of those claims toa fair amount lett the origival bills standing evidences of shameicss frand attempted upon the city treasury. Under this process many journals expired, aud the degree of iraudulence of ihe claim of a journal may be clearly gauged by the tntonsi f its rancor against the Comptroiler. The Comptroller has borrowed this year on revenue bonds at arate as low as 2% percent, Tho averago rate, during the your 1876, uas been about 4 per ceut per annum, The long city bonds, bearing 5 per cent interest, cur- rency, are selling aatraction above par, Tno city securities never sold higher than now, and its credit never was better. T stem prescribed by the charter of 15873, of having one department for the audit and payment of all cluims againat the city, has beeu put in in spite of years of the most determined rcs and it 1m developing the very best results. of each departinent having 1/8 treasury and paying its bills, without a sapervising audit, this is now done in the Finunce Department The Board of Educagion and the College of the City. of New York, under the advico of most of its lawyer Inembers, Stoou out against this salutary practice until adecision of the Court of Appeals required acquics- cence. The Polico Department ts now the only exception to this rule. It was especially excepted 1h 1873 Ww serve ho good public purpose, and the Jaw should be amended this winter to bring this department also within the rule which prevails in ali tho other departments. There is no good reason for its exception, If this de- partment were coniormed to the general rule thero might at the ond ot each year be exhibited trom tho Finance Department a complete and most instructive photograph of ail the monetary transactions of each department and of the whole cily for the year, ‘THK RNLARGED crty. During this period we havo aunexed a territory al most equal in area to the old city. Its confused ac- counts and neglected obligations have been ascertained and liquidated, and its seimi-rural methods bave been assimilated to the metropolitan system, PAY AS YOU GO. Ever since the preset Comptroller took office it has been bis determined purposo, so far as his own action and influence would accomplish it, to establish the rule that cach year should meet its own obligations; that every department should be kept within its ap- propriations. Great progress has been made in this n, 1 spite Of loose Interpretativns of the laws by lawyers, departments and courts. «From September 15, 14871, when tho present Comp- troilor touk oflice, to December 31, 1874, a period of more than three and one-quarter years, the total nuin- ber of judgments obtained against the city was S44, amounting to $1,935,359 94, 1m which sum was included tor cosis $63,082 28; of these 272 were for vacating as- sesamenta. Five hundrod and seventy of these judgmonts (in- cluding cosis, $47,331 97), amounting to $1, 80 73, of avont two-thirds of the whole in number obtained, and more than one-half jn amount, are on causes of action originating prior to the present Comptroller's accession to office. orty-three of them are for salaries of Su in addition to their salaries x8 Aidermen, amounting to $13,937 82; 66 are for wages of Boulevard mon suj~ d to havo deen illegally employed, amounting to $4,819 18; 175 are miscellaneous, amounting to 641,201 31, Judgments obtained in favor of the eny are not iuciuded In the above. The statements are made up to January 1, 1875. Tin wanting to complete the statement up to this time with accuracy. The saving je result of litiga- tun since that time hus been at icast in as great pro- portion, Thi bas been saved to the city, in all probability, in ench one of twenty individual case: more money than all the costs have atnounted to in ail es cases since the present Comptrolier camo into office. THx FOTURR, Lam satisfied that the number of persons employed by the city is largely in excess of the reqairemonts ‘ot the public service; (hat ite amount paid for salaries ought to be greatly reduced, and thata great many unnecessary expenditures ought to be cus off. 1am Satisfied that ail needed improvements, except, rhaps, in extraordinary cases not likely to arize, can pe carried on Without increusing our city debt one dole lar, and tbat the city government can be property car- Tied On at arate of taxation not exceeding one and three-quarters per cent. 1 am. satisfied that a constitutional amendment should be adopted limiting the power to contract debt yn behalf of the city. 4m satisfied that the Logislature should not author- effected to re re order and ba financial aflaira, to economize expendit ny ite administration out of the ulter degradation inte which it had fallen. itespecttully, ANDREW H. GRSEN, Comptroller, IMPEACHED PARK COMMIS. SIONERS. THE CONCLUSION OF THE EXAMINATION BEFORE MAYOR WICKHAM--ARGUMENTS OF COLONEL HAWKINS, DORMAN 3B, EATON AND COMMIS+ SIONER MARTIN, The concluding session of the citizens’ committee, who have preterred charges agaipst Park Commission ers Martin and O’Donohue, was held in the Mayors office yesterday. Several members of the committee wore present, accompanied by their counsel, Colonel Kush C. Hawkins and Mr. Dorman B. Eaton, Before the proceedings commenced Mayor Wickham called at- tention to the fact that Mr. O'Donobue, having accepted the position of Presidential ciector, he thereby va- cated his place as Park Commissioner, So far as the charges against that gentleman were concerned they were therefore dropped. The examination as to the charges against Mr. Mar tin wag then continued. In answer to Colonel Haw. kins, Commissioner Stebbins stated that the discharges bad taken place in coosequence of a necessity for re- duction of expenses by tho cutting down ot their esti- mates for L Tae employés had not been notified, In two tustances no successors had been appointed, but in four tho positions had been tilled by others, THE DISTRIBUTION OF LABOR TIOKRTS, Mr. Eaton asked Commissioner Martin if labor tickets had not been distrivuted to Aldermen by the Park Commission. Mr. Martin answered that this was not done by him, and he had absolutely refused to do so under all oir cumstances, He had laicly made two personal ene mics by such course of acti Comuissioner Stebuins » d that the department aS A department, had never recoguized any such rule The habit of the department bad been to give to cuct Commissioner the right to name an equal number 0 laborers. ‘Tickets were then distributed, with thot names inscribed thereon, to the Commissioners them. selves. He bad known of cases where Aldermen had received ticke! In fuct he had given out some bim- self in this way. He had also Known of those tickets being disposed of ata premium, dir, Martin in an affidavit from Mr. Olmsted as to the nece: employing a superior class of lavorers in the manage- ment ofthe parks, An affidavit trom Superintendent Murkwite covered the same point, Colonel Hawkins asked if Work on Tompxins square park required skilled favor. Mr, Martin said 1t was work of a similar character with that tn the other parks of the city, SUMMING UP THE CASE. This closed the testimony in the caso, and Colonel Hawkins proceeded to sum up on behalf of the com- plainants, He called attention to tho leading pointe Which, in his opinion, proved that tho two Commisslon. ers hud violated their duties ia discharging employ és without notice in pursuance of the statutes and in pays ing lavorers upon the parks $2 per day when private parties were paying only trom 90 conts to $1 25. Commissioner Martin followed by reading a volumi- nous and able defence, in which bo pleaded that all actions of himself and colleagues bad been entirely joga They had a perfect right to remove a certain class of employés without giving notice. Defence to the other enarge was contained in very lengthy pointa, getting forth that lavor in the parks Was of an excep- onal character, the proceedings thon terminated, n Will hot give a decision fora few days. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, THE NAUTICAL SCHOOL— PROPOSED FREE PURS CHASE OF SHIPPING, WHEREVER BUILT—TEE QUARANTINE LAWS OF NEW YORK. The Chamber of Commerce held its monthly meet- ing yesterday, Mr. S, D. Babcock in the chair. Ro- ports wero presented on various subjects of interest aud submitted forthe action of tho Board. A favora- blo report was presented concerning the Nautical School, and a resolution was adopted to tho effect that prizes be offered by the Chamber at tho annual exam- ination to the three scholars rating highest during the term of one year. A resolution was also adopted point- ing toareform in tho quarantine laws of the port ot New York. ELECTION OF MEMBERS. The first business transacted was the election of members, Hon, Elliot C, Cowdin, on behalf of the Executive Committee, reported the names of the fol- lowing gontlemen, who were unanimously elected:— James Buell, Anson W. Hard and Jamos 3. Ruggles. THY NAUTICAL SCHOOL, Mr. Charles H, Marshall, Chairman of the Council of the Nautical School, then presented bis report, which described the results of a visit to the schoolship St, Marys on November 17, 1n company with a committee of experts, Tho boys, the report stated, appeared te bein good health and physical condition, and the greater part of them bore evidence of intelligence ang capacity and created a very favorable impression as te the material composing tho school Thoir examina- tion by the committee of experts had proved very sav Isfactory. Ailuding to the necessity of finding a carcer for these young men the report lamented the de- cadence of American commerce. The NauticalSchool, it said, could not do everything, although, if properly condacted, it would do much. would not give us back our lost commerce, but it would im. prove what was leit. ‘Other agencies more powerful mast bo set to work before sips and stoain- ers claiming American nationality would materially jucrease in numbers and bear our products to distant nations. A just system of taxation, the sweepin away of burdons already too heavy to be bor pertect and absolute freedom in the purchase a: try of Veesels, wherever built, could alone restore our shattered commercial industries and reuder the nauu- cal profe-sion whut jt should bo and what it is no Jonger—a carcer where advancement can be boped for und honor obtained. The clause having reference to the purchase and . istry of vessels, ‘wherever buili’’? did not meet wi the entire approval of the Chamber, but an amend- ment to reject 1t Was lost, and the report was adopted, 1t was alsy ordered that 4 copy be sent to the Superin- tendent of Public Lasiruction. Captain Stow, on behall of Mr. John D. Jones, pre- souted # resolution appropriating $150, to be given in three prizes, at the annual examination of the Nautt- cal School, ‘It was unanimousiy adopted, THR VAST MAIL SERVICE. It was then resolved to forward answers toa set of questions propounded by the special Postal Railway Commission for the parpose of obtaining the views of the mercantile community of New York in rogard to tho necessities of the Stite for mail communication with other parts of the country, and especially im ref erence to the fast mail service. An act to facilitats the negotiation of bills of lading and other commercial instrume: and to prevent froud therein, was submitted and approved by the Chamber, NEW YORK QUARANTINE, Mr, Solon Hampureys moved that « special commite tee of five members bo appointed to prepare an net ior presentation to the Legislature, retorming existing laws and regalations of the qaarantine of the State of New York, the committee to have power to Invite the co-operation of other bodies. Ho called ate tention to the abuses pret committee whieh had bes vestigate the subject, Th perpetrated unaer the then and still which consisted of miny complicates acts and amena- ments, mostly the work of quarantine officials dur. ing the past twonty-five years, and whieh were dificult to adjust to the requirem of the present admitted that Dr. Vander. poot had administered the quarantine of tho port with great credit to himself, and in a manner that bad entirely relieved its commerce irom burdensome had p to the entire satisfaction of all, He believed thore could not be found a merobant or ship-owner with whom Dr. Vanderree! had come in contact who would not speak in tho most unquaiifed commendation of bis administration, Tho time was near, however, whoa the office weuld probably pass into other hands, and, under the oxisting jaws, they would bo liable tog renewal of the oid extortions aud abuses, For thig reason he offercd bis resolution, The motion wag adopted. TRIBUTE TO A DECEASED MEMBER, On the motion of Mr. Gustav Schwab tion ‘was adopted expressing regret for tho loss which the Chamber had sustamed tn the death of Mr. Jobn Wiltams, one of its members, It was also dt that a copy of the resolution bo sent to tho family of the deceased, THK POCKS DEPARTMENT WANT ADVICR, A communicavion was read (rom the Dock Commis sioners requesting the counsel and co-operation of tha Chamber in doveriioiny the nature and extent of 1 improvements required by the commercial “ the eliy on that portion of the water front south of Canal street, on the North and East rivers, The Ppointinent of a coinmittee Was also requested to a.conference with comumittees trom eac ‘Trade, Produce Exchung sociation, Cotton Exchange soc.avon. belle od baa ot pig special urge subject, 4 dourned,