The New York Herald Newspaper, December 26, 1876, Page 3

, CORISTIAS CELEBRATIONS, How the Day Was Observed in the City and Vicinity, IMPRESSIVE RELIGIOUS SER VICES In the Charitable Institutions, Homes, Asylums and Prisons. “CHIEF AMONG THE BLESSED THREE,” The Generous Rich Make the Poor Happy for One Day. The festival of Christmas was observed yesterday in this city everywhere as a holiday ; in fact, it was. more generally observed than it has been for many years, Everybody seemed to enter into the spirit of the occasion, which appeared to be one of ‘merrymaking and joyousness. All the public buildings were closed aud business of all kinds was suspended—even the sidewalk merchants, & general rule, taking a “day off”? In all the Catholic and Episcopal and in many churches of other denonsinations impressive services were held, which ‘were attended by large congregations, the ceremonies in the Cathohe churches especially being more than usually imposing. In the aftcrnoon the streets were slive with people on their way to the Park ponds, where thousands went Yo enjoy the skating. ‘The roadm® and avenues resounded to the music of sleigidelis until Inte into the night, the sleighing beimg excelient in the city as well as beyond the Park limits, The weather, though at timos threatening, was just cold enough to make every one in sleighs, on skates or on foot feel, after a good turkey dinner, like enjoying himself in the bracing air and glad to see everybody else feeling bappy. GRack CHURCH, Relying possibly on the beawsifel proportions and architectural ornamentation of the building and tho music and oratory which characterize its special ser- vices, little had been done in decorating Grace church for the commemoration of the birth of the Babe ot Bethlehem. On the broad sills ander the lower windows Were strewn branches of laurel apd sprays of fir; about the pillars were wreathed spirals of evergreens, The mural supports of tbe ground arches were each brought inte relief by strips of woven fir, and coronals had bound over thom fillets of dark green !oaves, In the chancel there were tuli firtrees trimmed into conical form and evergreens wore placed about the communion tablo, ‘In the ceatre of the rear of the chancel, a five- pointed star ol gas jets twinkled with solt brilliancy; Dut beyond these tucre were uo other decorations. The leatures of the services were printed in black and gold, with medieval initial letters, within a hand- some brouzed border op unexceptionadie paper. The light streaming in through the richly stamed windows Uinging whatever it fell on with the ues of the glass, the aroma of choice perfumes trom the raiment of siately ladies nnd pretty girls, the rusting of costly dresses, the grandeur o! the organ’s tones in the open- Ing strains of the processional hyma— Jt came upon the midnight cleur, ‘That glorious song of old, —wWere strangely io contrast with the scene commem- orated—the scene so peculiarly destitute of these fas! iynable accessories, Pondering the contrast one could not help thinking that im the whole church there Was not one lasuivpable dress that would not have purchased, real estute and all, the stable in which the Judean maiden mother gave birth to the Saviour of the world. A “Gloria Patri,” the “Te Deum,” Mozarv’s ‘Jubilate Deo,” the bymn “Calm on the Listening Ear of Night,” the “Kyrie Eleison,”” “Gloria Tibi” and *‘Adeste Fideles” accompanied the wervice, conducted by the rector, Dr. Potter, and Reva, Messrs. Osgood and Debbetts, and ut the conciusi.n of the last named hymn Dr. Potver preached the sermon. {t was very short, occupying barely ten minutes, and had for 1t8 subject the divinity of the infant born at Bethichem as ea) apg in the phenomenal circum. siances attendivg His birth. A plea was mado that the orphans should be dealt liberally with in the collec- tion, and then Gounod’s offertory anthem, “Ob, Sing to God’ Your Hymu of Giadness,”’ with soprano and tenor solos, Was sung, ST. ALUAN'S CHURCH. At St Alban’s church, in Forty-seventh street, bo. tween Lexington aud Fourth avenues, the music was rendered by a larg dof men and boy choristers, and was unusually grand andimpressive. This part of the programme was as follows:—The processional bymn, ‘Adeste Fideles;” tmtroit, Psalm 98, Gre gorian tone; a part of Berthold Tours’ mass in F; the bymop, ‘Hark! the Herald Angels Sivg,’’ arranged ex- peasy for the cho! n aninem from Monk, ‘*Halie- ujah, tor Unto Us a Child is Born;” the communion hymn No. 345, trom *‘Hymna, Ancient and Modern,” and “Agnus Dei,”’ irom Webbe, The Rev. C. N. Morrill preachea the last of u series of three sermons, entitled ve Ss spel in Epitome,’’ and which was appropriate the day. ST, PATRICK’8 CATHEDRAL Christmas was observed at the Roman Catholic Cathedral yesterday with ail the pomp and beauty of the ceremonials of the Church. Masses were suid at five, seven, hali-past seven, cight, baif-past eight and nine, and at balf-past ten a solemn pontifical high mass was celebrated, Contrary to general expectation His Eminence the Cardinal Archbishop was the celebrant, the assistant priest being the Very Reverend Viear General Quinn; deacon, Rev. U. Morri; sub-deacon, Seminarian Philip Hearn; deacons of honor, Fathers ‘Kane and Hogun, of the Cathedral; masters of cer- monies, Fathers Kearncy and Farley; cross bearer, Fatber Body. His Eminence was apparently in better health than he has been for so! time, bis voice boin tlearer and bis movements indicating renewed physi strength, The altar was not protusely decorated with Aowers, a8 18 the usual custom, but what wi Jacking in ti respect was more than made up for in the muagniticent arrangement of g jets and hundreds of tapers which sued their retulgent Fays oo every side. The ofliciating clergy were clad $n gorgeous roves of golden e¢loth, which contrasted randly with the scarlet and white attire of the acolytes. ‘he music was of the highest order. The quartotte choir, which consisted 0: Mme. Bredelli, s0 prano; M. Bersyn, tenor; Mine, Unger, alto, and Mr, Uneks, ‘were under the leadership-ot the composcr’s vrother and wero assisted by an ample chorus. The solo offor- tory, “Quam Dilecto,” by Mercadante, was superbly rendered by M. Breaeili, Rev. Father George Kenney, of Fordham College, preached a brief but eloquent discourse, tuking tor his \oxt the gospel of the day, in which 1s related the bitth of the child-saviour at Bethlehem. Hedwelt on the lory of thatevent and its sublime importance to allen man He dwelt sete emuil on the surround- ings of the Redeem irtbplace, and said that the poverty, the destitu! , the trials and sufferings of the Man-iod were intended to teach a lesson of humil- ity to bis tollowers throughout ail time. ST. AGNES’ CHURCH. The Church of St. Agnes, East Forty-third street, near Lexington avenue, was crowded yesterday at ull the masses, The interior presented a brilliant appear. ance, being draped with lines and wreaths of ever- green apd the decorations of the altar showing great care and taste in the magnificent display made of the choicest flowers with which it wus fairly surrounded. ‘The solemn high mass wus attended by a large and fasnionable congregation, The choir was orchestraed Dy Signor Marzo, who presided at the organ, the prin- cipal soloits being—sopranos, Miss Lotte Simpson, Mrs, Robinson and Miss Wallace; contralto, Mise Bayres; tenor, Mr. Reidel, and buss, Mr. Salmson. Gtorza’s grand mass was sung ir w superb manner, the principal solos finely rendered by Miss Simpsot aided by the other solos. je Redemptor” the pure voice of Miss Simpson bod (bat of the baritone, Mr. Salmson, were heard to great advantage, Alter the gospel had been read the tor, Rev. Hoary ©. Macdowail, preacved from the fextin'the second chaprer of St! Luke, seventeenth verse, The reverend gentleman reterred to the grand mystery of the birth of the Saviour in a manger, show. ing what sublime lessons were taught by the fact to Christians. 1t had often been suggested that the grand ceremonials and practices of the great festivals of Christmas should be abolished; but why should thoy be abol! : holy rejoic on that day was born a Saviour who was to redeem us {rom sin? We jbould imitate the shepherds who were ied by he ~ostar in the cast to Bethlehem to make their bumbie offerings, and by a practice of the great virtues so sublimely exemplified in the life of tbe Son of God, make ourselves worthy of God’s love. We should be torgiving and charitable to our neighbor and renew in ourselves the faith which comes only from tbe grace of God. Father Macdowall concluded by wishing his congregation a merry Christmas anda bappy New Year on behal! of bimsell and his assist ants, The celebrant of the high mass was Rev, H. Pratt assisted by deacon, Father Macdowall, sabdea- pun, Father P. J. McCloske; It may be mentioned that been presented with ai borate communion service, which was on exbibition at the Centennial Exposition. ST. VRANCIN XAVIER'S CHURCH. Surrounded py all the olements that could possibly inspire a heartielt appreciation of this solemn testi: ‘vai of the nativity of the Saviour, the services at St Father Macdowall has - NEW YORK HERALD, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 26, 1876. tracta large and devout congregation: and had the | edifice been twice as large there is uo doubt there would bh. Deen but little room to spare, 80 mapy were eager to gain admittance. At the last mass the church was crowded to the doors, every seat being occupied long before the solemn procession issued from the vestry. The decorations were chaste and appropriate. Tho splendid programme of sacred music lormed a feature that lent additional solemnity to the occasion. ‘The celebrant of the mass was the the Rey. Fatuer Charaux, Rev. Father Pelletier offici- ang as sub-deacon and Kev, Father Jung 4s sub-dea- con, At the conclusion of the first gospel the Rev. Father Langeake preached a sermon, the subject boing ou the nativity, 1p the course of a Very eloquent anu logical discourse the reverend geutieman aweit at length upon the greatness and goodness of God the Father in sending his only Son to redeom maykin ‘Tbe choral arrangements were superb avd in comple: harmony with the high standard (bat St. Francis Xavier's bas long since attained in this respect, Dr. William Berge, the organist, certainly real. ved the grandest anticipations of those who Were preparea {or a perfect ipierpretation of church music im 18 most majestic form. Augmented by the addition of Thomas’ orchestra and a chorus of nearly thirty woll trained voices tne ‘Messe Solennelie,” by Gounod, was performed with grand effect, Miss Teresa Wernecke, soprano; Miss Slarie Wernceke, contralto; Signor Tamaro, tenor, and ‘M. Dapin, basso, contributing their artistic efforts toward the successtul rendition of the mass, At the oflertory, ‘*Aueste Fideles,” one of Dr. Berge’s most able and impressive arrangements, was happily intro. duced. The introduciiou of the string vstruments was Very appropriate, the noticeable feature, however, being that the Jast verse was sung fully four tones higher than the first, the effect being very lua. ST, STEPHEN'S CHURCH. The ceremonies at this church were of the most im- posing character. Father McCready colebratea the mass and was assisted by Father McCauley, deacon; Father Byron, sub-deacon, and Father Colton, master of ceremonies. The attendance was very large and the music, as usual, Was superb, Father MoGlynn deliv. ered the sermon. He said that Christmas Day recalled how our Lord came among men to be one of them—to teach them the way to win heaven. Though born in a stable the saviour was still the Ktug of Kings and the Lord of Lords. In being ‘ncar- naw He’ wished to soften our hearts, which were 80 much given to worldiy tbings, by showing that He despised them and that Ho lived only to do His Father's will, ‘The church was beautifully decorated with floral de- vices. Atthe left of the altar stood a little thatched crib representing the stable of Bethlehem. ‘The musteal part of the services was as follows Processional march, Verdi; Spattino’s great mass 4n E; ‘Veni Creator,” Denfortu; Otfertor, Fideles. At vespers the Dixet Lominus, ‘Asi tno magnificat “Nini”? the Christmas hymn, ‘Ma gaguini,” tenof solo ‘and violin obsigato, with the ‘fantuin Ergo,” Danforth, soprano solo and chorus, were vory sweetly reudered. The soloists were:— Soprano, Mile, Rosetti; Aito, Mile, Munier; lenor, Mr. Bernard; Baritone, dr, Telle; Baeso, Mr, Higant ‘There was a strong choras and full orchestra, ali under the leadership of Mr. H. B, Dantorth. BT. ANN’S CHURCH. ‘Tho great Christian lestival was celebrated yester- day at St, Ano’s church, Tweltth street, with ceremo. nics commensurate with the solemnity of the occa- sion. The beautiful church was decorated in the most artistic and tasteful manner, ana Rev. Father Shea, 5: J., preached a sermon on the subject of the nativity, deducing from it many valuable lessons as to the ne- cessity of every Christian living in accordance with the precepts laid down by the divine Saviour. The music was particularly grand, M. Louis Dachauer, the organ. fet, beng the director on the occasion, The soloists were Mile, Henriette Corradi, soprano; Mile. Octavio Gomien, alto; Mr. Fritsch, tenor; Mr. Blum, bass. Mr, Biaila played the piano part of the mass, which was by Mine, De Grandvai, a lady who occupies a foremost position among French composers, There wus a well- trained chorus im addition to the solo quartetie. The mass 18 a very ambitious work, full of intensely dri matic phrases, which illu: te in the most vivid m: nor the glorious themes of the Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus and Aguus Dei, It was sung’ by artists who acemed to appreciate the mugnitude of the work, and the skilland experience of the director and crgupist supplemented the talents of tue choir so as to produce an barwonious and effective interpretation. Beiore the sermon Gounod’ ntique de Néel”” was given, and at the Offertory Dachauer’s magnificent “Ave Maria,’’ one of those compositions that seem to spring into iife at an inspired moment of a musician, made an effect of an electric kind. The “Adeste Fideles” was another notable feature of the musical programme, Rev, Father Lynch was tho ceiebrant at bigh mass, OTHER CATHOLIC CHURCHES, The day was celebrated ina fitting manner atthe Church of St. Vincent, the Church of the Holy Re- deemer, the Paulist church andthe Dominican chureh, Masses were said or sung and sermons preached, ‘wnile the musical selections were very fine, IN THE HARBOR, ‘A fow flags were flying at the mastheads of the ves- sels lying at the deserted wharves, but that was tne only gala sign which they presented. Their decks were covered generally with rusty looking tarpaulins, and vowhere was there a bright bit of color or ap indi- cation of active lite to be seen, Here and there We suilors were to beseen perched upon the bottoms of tar buckets or leaning stulidly over a ship’s side; but the reat body of the crews were taking their easo if) «mere cosey Chrissmas quarters far away, A greater contrast it 18 difticult to imagine than these vessels presented in contradistinction to the usual ordimury day bustling life on their decks. At some points along the river front a thin curi of smoke ‘ose trom some cook’s galley out of sight, the only visible evidence to the possible Christmas dinner in prospect below decks. | Nothing, in fact, near the docks wore acheori@i look except an impatient sailor ortwo, who had just been reheved irom duty on wateb, and were rolling post haste up the wharves to gain the inviting shelter of some friendly saloon. It ‘was a positive reef to turn away from the sombro and desortlike sight at the wharves to the light and bustle of the crowded streets distant trom the river fronts, ON THE SCHOOLSMP, At the New York Schoolship St, Marys, moored tor the winter months on the south side of the pier foot of Twenty-third street, Ewst River, Captain Pytbias was found making the boys who were leit on the ship feel as comfortable as could be, This institution is under tho care of the Board of Education, and to it aro sent such youtns as have a desire to be educated in amanship. It is not, as has often been supposed, a ship on which boys are taken because they are uoruly at home, for only boys who have u perfectiy ciean rec- ord are admitted atall; and if they, when papalhied show bad (raits of character, they are sen: awa: present there are, in all, within the school eighty scholars, sixty of the imitiatory cias: twenty of the advanced pupils, During the hoit the majority of the pupils aro allowed to go home, and ‘ot retarn until the 2d of January. Yesterday there e only twenty of the eighty remaining on the ship, the others baying gone to their homes. Those who remained had a dinner of turkey, with nuts, raising and lemonado, and they were exceedingly bappy. BELLEVOR HOSPITAL, Mr. James F. O’Rourke, warcen of Bellevue Hos- Pital, had that institution fitted up in good style. The thirty-six wards were’ nicely dressed and hung with drapery and the American flag. In the middle of each ‘was a beautiful Christmas tree, and these were all un- der the direction of the worthy Warden, who superin- tended the dressing of cach ward. In this he was well assisted by Mr. Jonbn Conway aud Mr. P. T. Standish, ‘The most pleas pg aflair ot all was the dinner of turkeys and chickens, which were served out atthe cook house. Every ward wus supplied with abundance, as also Cranberry sauce, celery, oranges, apples, &o. Rice and other puddings were also in abundance. A very bra dinner was taken and all felt that it was indeed a “Merry Christmas,’? CHARITY HOSPITAL, This institution, on Biackwell’s Island, 18 under the immediate control of Mr. Daniel H. Kitchen, the chiet of the medical staf, At present there are con- tained in its walls 1,050 pationts, who sat down to a dinner at twelve o’clock yesterday, consisting of roast turkey, chicken fricassee und the asual accompuni- ments. Fourteon hundred pounds of poultry bad been provided, of which 115 turkeys were roasted, Hach patient was given in addition two apples, and an oxtra supper of apple sauce und enke was served up at six P.M. In the evening an entertainment, consisting of songs, dances and the three dramas, *‘Live Injun,” “Who Died First” and ‘Landlord in a Fix,’ was given, Tho periormers at this ontertainment were all protes- sionals, who have at times been connected with the various New York theatres,‘somo having volunteered for the occasion and others being now inmates of the hospital, EMIGRANT HONPITAL, ‘The recipients of the city’s charity on the islands were notallowed to forges that yesterday was Christ- mas day. In the morning religious service took piace “at the chapel of the State Emigrant Hospital, Father Daranquet, 8. J., singing a bigh muss for the Catholics tains at present 273 patients, All of them bad a grand Christmas dinner, consisting of turkey, pies, fruit, &c. Although the Commissioners of Emigration are greatly incouvenienced by the withdrawal of the usual head tax, they stil did all in their power to make their protegés a8 happy as possible, HOM@OPATHIC HOSPITAL, Thero are over 500 patients in the Homeopathic Hos- pital, aud they, too, were amply supplied with the goods of the tavlc. Tho large dining hall was hung with evergreens and Christmus greens and presented a very cheeriui and festive appearance, NURSERY HOSPITAL On Randall's Island are the idiot asylum: id bospi- tals for children, a hospital which has been recently prepared for the accommodation of some of the pa. tients of the Charity Hospital, which of late bas be- come excessively crowded, and the House of Refuge on the lower part of the ud, Yesterday morning Mr: A. Gibbons, a benellcent Jady who for the last twenty-nine years has every year visited the island, Mrs, Wickham and a number of other ladies came over supp'ted with a large amount of candy and a whole cuse of dolls tor the girls, The Society of St Vincent de Vault had also it fruitand candies to the island, About 600 pounds o; Wranois Xavier's yosterday were well calculated to at- | turkey had been bought by the Commissioners of Charities and Correction for this and the other insti- tutions uncer their charge on the island. the litle patients, most of whom are idiots, took to the m and caudies which were provided for them with amaz- ing Vigor. Tbe candies and cakes especially seemed to Mil them with delight, and they lauxbed and tod coutinually, that isto say, those why Were welienouga to be out of their beds. ‘There are 214. children uover te care of the institution, and 101 of these aro orphans, A number of these children are attended by their mothers, which 1s a. thing greatly epcouraged by the Commissioners, ab the children fare much better when thus attended, NURSERY SCHOOL, The pupils of this schoo! aro all children of em\- grants, At twelve o'clock thoy had their dinner, and at three they gave a little entertainment in the chapel, Several of the managers of this institution and a con siderable number of ladies and gentlemen were present ‘The exercises, consistiug of piano recitals by some of the teachers and declamations and recitations by the children, were highly iterosting; one little girl, who recited @ poem on “Santa Claus," was especially ro- markabie for the correctness and coolness with which she gave her little selection. Ina corner of the room stood.a large Christmas tree loaded with candics and toys which were distributed aiter the entertainment, and this formed the climax of the little ones’ enjoy: ment THE NKWSBOYS’ LODGING HOUSE. Fully 400 boys assembled last evening in the maiu ball of the Newsboys’ Lodging House, in New Cham- bers street, to celebrate the day. The boys were all clean and neat in their attire, but they were quite democratic in their tastes, for many were in shirt sleeves and a few wore no shoes. The fore part of the proceedings consisted of singing glees and hymus in one graud chorus. Tho boys sang very well, considering, despite the fact that each singer considered himself bound to roar away at the top of his voice. Speeches were made by sevoral gentiomen present, and the festivities con- cluded by the boys marching down stairs to tue dining room in joytul procession to enjoy their dinner, which had been ded by the kind generosity of Mr. Wiliam M. Fliess, a merchant of this city, who has for sume years evinced @ warm interest in the wellare and progress of the newsboys, Among tue visitors present were Mr. Jackson 8. Shaltz and Major Bundy of the Evening Mau and a number of ladies. ‘The aflair was a genuine success, THM RIVINGTON STRERT LODGING HOUSH. Christmas dinner of turkey and plum padding was given to about 150 buys im the Rivington etreet Lodg- ing House, Before entering the reception room each boy was given a card, which entitied him to a red flan- nel shirt, supplied at the expense of Maior Philip Schuyler, of Washington square, and Messrs, W. A. L. and G, Smith, of West Forty-sixth street, The expense of the dinner was also paid by Major Schuyler. Songs and dancing followed atter dinner. The lodgers are inosuy all bootblacks and newsboys, and seem to like, their house, One of them, who has been in the institution about four years, says that when be went thero he did not know tho but ne can now read apd write, although he has a bis living in the intime, TUX ST, VIXCRNT’S HOME FOR BOYS. Asearly astourA M. yesteraay High Mass was celebrated in the little chapel of St Vincent’s Rome for Boys, by Father J. C. Drumgoole, the children singing Webbo’s Mass, and a boy of seven years of ago the Christmas hymn ‘‘Adoste Fidcles.’’ The chapo, wos tastefully decorated and lit up by many tapers and asiights, and a life like representation of tne stable ab Boutehem was constructed at tho side of the altar. Al balf-past seven a substantial breakiast was rerved, and those needing clothing were supphed. Attwo o'clock diuner was served, and after yrace had been gaid by Father Drumgoole 200 boys attacked their Christmas turkey. Beiore dismissing them Fatner Dramgoola made @ short address. THR JUVRNILH GUARDIAN sociETY. ‘The Juvenile Guardian Society celebrated its twonty- ninth Christmas Day at its house, No. 101 St, Mark’s place, yesterday. A towering Christmas tree, brilliant with lights and loaded plentitully with things useful, ornamental aod entertaining attracted not only the attention of a large gathering of children but alsoof interested spectators, Some very fine singing and recitations were given by the chilfron, notably a duet by two sisters, “Now, I Lay Me Down to Steep,” and the recitation, “Nobody's Child.”’ Dr. Ryiance, rector of St. Mark’s church, in closing his address referred to that immortal character of Dickens, “Tiny Tim” and his Christmas blessing over the plum pudding, “God bless us every one.” The Rev. D. F. Robertson und others jnteresied im the institution also delivered short addresses of a practical nature suited to the season and to the hearers. At the close of the exerclees presents were distributed of not only toys and candy, but mbre practical gifts of dresses, hats, &c, THE HOME FOR TUR FRIENDLESK Tho House of Industry and Home tor the Friendless, under the direction of the American Female Guardian Society, is at No, 32 East Thirticth stroet, and extends through to East Twenty-ninth street. The President of the institution is Mrs. Charles C. North, of No. 7 West 129th street; tho Treasurer, Mrs. ©. A. Stono, and the Matron, Mise Sarah C. Wilcox. It bas been in existence a number of years and has ac- complished an immeuso amount of real good for those for whose benefit it was ostub- lished. Yesterday there were a large number of visitors cailing at the institution, and they were shown through the house by Miss Wilcox and her as- sistant, Miss Hurley. A plentiiuil and bounteoas di: ner was supplied to the 140 tomates, and in + evening there was an entertainment consisting of singing and music, provided by the inmates themselves for the amusement of their visitors. Three large Christmas trees, hung with toys, furnished by the patrons of the inatitution, were displayed before the young children, who enjoyed thems-ives heartily 1n their childish way in the large hall of the beilding, Ull called upon by the directress to retire. THK SUKLTERING ARMS, A Heraup reporter was yesterday shown through this building in 129th street by the matron. Oatside the older orphans were playing with sleds, while within the younger ones were amusing themselves with their sents. They had been given a ner, In the dif- greens were plentiful. The store- filled with presents in the shape of iood from outsiders. Tho roal tr is put off antil Thars- day, tho 28th, the east of the Holy Innocents, when four Christmas trees are to be loaded with presents to gladden the orphans’ hearts, THE SOLDIERS AND SAILORS’ ORPHANS’ HOME. ‘Two days were devoted by this institution to giving pleasure to their youth/ul charges, Saturday afternoon interesting songs, orations and dialogues took place in the chapel; after which tho lady managers and visitors, with the children, adjourned to the spacious parlors, where a large tree, fancitully decked, and long table filled with presents, gladdened the nearts of 200 litt ones, Yesterday a Christinar dinner of poultry, p' fruit, &c., was speedily made away with, and a gran frolic in the aiternoon terminated the Christmas tes- tivities, THN FIVE POINTH HOUSE OF INDUSTRY. At three o’clock yesterday about 600 children sat down toan excellent dioner at the Five Points House of Inaustry. Previous tothe cutertainment they as- sembied in the chapel of the institution and sang sev- eral hymns appropriate to tbe great festival of the he chapel was decorated with evergreens und flags. Turkeys in abundance, with the w its, were provided, and the merry Httle ones did justice tothe good things set before them, Alter the edibles had been disposed of each child wax provided with a handdome toy givon by some of our prominent city establishments. It was a joyous oc- casion for all who participated. THE FIVE POINTS MISSION, About 800 children were yesterday provided with toys and other articles at the Five Points Mission, These toys were principally gitts from lead- ing firma, Some 320 pickages of floar were also dis- tributed among the children to be given their needy parents. A rol of goods was received from Groton, Con in which was contained a number of quilts worked by five children of that locality. THE RIGHTH STRERT INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL, About 150 children were present yosterday at the Christmas celebration of the above school, An tm- mense Christmas tree laden with good tbings stood in the centre of the room. The exercises consisted of singing and recitations, which reflect credit on the scholars. Articles of clothing were distributed ju dicivasly among them, and were of substantial assist- ance, if nov as enjoyabi Christmas toys. TUK ST. BARNABAS’ OMR, Asa Herat reporter entered the ball of St, Bar- nabas’ Home yesterday along line of bright and tidy little girls were passing to the dining room, singing with sweet voices, “Merry, merry Christmas,” and their sparkling eyes and happy faces gave proof their hearts were in the song. These were tho I orphans confided to the care ot the good ladies in charge of the institution. hig stairs, the playroom they bad Just deserted was well stocked with toys and candies, which gave evidence thut Santa Clous had dealt very enerously witb them. Tie children of the Industrial chool attached to the Home were also feasted, and the Sunday school children joined with in the disposal of the good things. ‘The day was a happy one, and will be remembered with pleasure by all who were present to enjoy it. THK CATHOLIC PROTECTORY, The day was celebrated at the Catholic Protectory in Westchester connty in the usual manner, On Corist- mas Evo an entertainment was given for the young foiks, consisting of music and singing. Christmas trecs were placed in the class rooms, dining room and in other parts of the building. These were loaded with candies, prayer books and devotional pictures, which were distributed to the children jasterdey, in the morning a solemn high mars was celebrated by Father Mahoney, the chavlain. The choir was composed ex- clusively of boys who belong to the Prowec- tory. Another mass was celebraied by Father Mahoney at balt-past eight for tbe younger children, who were not ablo to attend tho early services, The marble altar in the chapel was appropriately decorated, The day was kept as a holiday, the boys bein allowed to ronm over the grounds with their sieds. bountiiul Christmas dinver was provided by the iman- agers, which was heartily partaken of by the children. Avout sixty of the boys assisted in getting ready the dinner and showed themselves experts in the colinary art, There will be @ mame from school until after Now Year's Day. There are 1,572 boys and 780 girls now in ibe institutiou—several hundved more than | ever belore. THE FOUNDLING ASYLUM Foundlings are, after all, not such unfortunate crea- tures, as all must know who have seen them in the asylum, in Yorkville. Abont 1,730 bouncing, rosy- faced “young ones” were yesterday informed, by pres- ent or otherwise, that the day was an extraordinary one. Children, as the world goes, are considered for- tupate who can celebrate one Ciristmas each year, but what word shail characterize the luck of these “unlucky” toundiings wo celebrate two Christmases in one week! Yesterday those of them whose “den- ticulation” was sufficient!y progressed to apprectate it Were rogaled with ch cken fricassee, During the aiter- Boon toys were distributed among the little ones, and @ regular Christmas day was enjoyed. These joilz little boys and girls are to have a Christinas tree on Thur: day next, when :nore toys and candies are to be di tributed. Yesterday’s feast and liberality will be ag nothing when compared with the good things Thurs- day holds in trust. THM PNOTESTANT MALY ORPHAN ASYLUM, At the abovo institution fitting preparation was made for the reception of Santa Claus, and of 160 stockings hung up in anticipation of his visit every one was found filled to overilowing with a variety of good things yesterday morning. The more familiar triends of the orphans did not forget them either, for shortly after one o'clock they all sat down to a bounti- iui feast of turkey, Besides, each child was presented with a piece of money. THB COLORED ORPHAN ASYLUM. At this asylum, West 143d street, near the Boule- vard, about 285 children wore made happy bv a repas* of turkey and sweets, The boys were sent out doors to play atter their dinner, where they sported in the snow to their hearis’ content, The presents are to be given to-morrow, instead of to-day, and the orpba are to have by this means more than one day: pleasure. CITY INSANE ASYLUM. Santa Claus also thought of the unfortunate inmates of this asylam and provided them with his bounty tu the shape of a splendid dinner, As jar as their inteili- geace went they enjoyed themselves very well. INEBRIATS ASYLUM, In this asylum a first class Christmas dinner was given to the occupants of the house. Pies, fruit, &o, were ip abundance, but nothing stronger than tea and coffee was allowed for drinks. IMloT ASYLUM. It was a strange sight to sce 188 idiot children at dinner. Some were so overcome by the plentifulness of turkey, pies and candies that they could not eat at all at first, but looked irom their plates to their purses, grinning ond chattering all the time. Alter dinner they were taken to the large school room, where they sang several little Christmas sot.gs remarkably well, The manner in which they sang is a splendia testimo- nial to the patience und energy of their teachers. Most of the patients in this asylum are capable of improve. ment, There are, however, a number of incurables. Among these is one by the hame of Jonn Rous, who, though thirty-four years of age, 14 no larger than'a boy of sixteen, ‘THR ORPHAN ASYLUM. At the Roman Catholic Orphan Asylum tho pro- visions lor Christmas cheer were about the same as usual. The 450 orphans who are pow in the institu tion were regaled with a gencrous dinner of turkey, chicken and mince pies. The doorsof the house were open ull day long to receive the visitors and friends of the children, Sister Borromeo, who bas charge of the Filtieth street asylum, received all callers tp her usual generous manner and gladly sent any little presents to those for whom they were destined. On Sunday night swo Jarge Christinas trees wero dressed with candies, toys and flags, aud the younger children were ushered into the rooms where the trees were placed about ten o’ciock in the morning. The shoul of aelght with which these little waits gathered around tne trees, bung as they were with all sorts of things to please the juventle mind, (ully rcpaid the donors for what- ever had been expended for the purpose. There were three masses celebrated im the chapel of the asyluin during tho morning, at Which the Sistors and the cbil- dren under their care attended, LUNATIC ASYLUM (WARD'S ISLAND). The unfortunate inmates of tho Lunatic Asylum on this island, numbering somo 144 persons, were Ukewise supplied with a good dinner, which they en- joyed immensely, A largo number fully understood ‘that yesterday was Christinas and at times gossipped with each other on the festival, The majority, bow- ever, wore completely ignorant of it or even the tact that they had a better dinnor that usual During the past week many of their friends called and left some fittie presents lor them; yesterday, however, hardly any one culled. Inthe evening tho officers of the in- stitution had a reception apd a ball, at which quite a Jarge number of their friends were present. TAK LUNATIO ASYLUM (BLACKWELL'S ISLAND). Tho Lunatic Asylum, which consists of the main building, the Lodge, the Retreat and several pavilions, contained yesterday 1,431 patients, including 65 epileptics, There were devoured at the dinner yester- day 2,000 pounds of poultry and six barrels of apples, It is customary tn the asylum to have frequent enter- tainments, and oue of the pavilions, which bas become vacant by the trausfer of the male epileptics to tho Charity Hospital, has been fitied up with a stage and scenery, and a very pretty diop curtain was painted for it ‘by Matt Morgan, Froquent dramatic per- formances are given in this pavilion, und yes- terday afternoon # ball wi » with an orchestra consisting Of a piano and ‘violin, The lunatics danced with a grace and abandon not sur- pusseu by some of the fashionable balls at the Academy d Irving Hall. Dr, Parson, the resident physician, and Mr. Joralemon, the steward of the asylum, be lieve in the healing influences of mirth and amu: ment fully as much as in medicine, Commissioners Brennan, Cox and Bailey visited the Charity Hospital and Penttentiary during the day, and His Honor Mayor Wickbam also dropped across the river for a short time. ihe Commissioners and the Mayor expressed themselves as entirely satisfied with the arrangements mi by the diferent wardens and physicians. THE LITTLE SISTERS’ HOME. At the Home (or the Aged, under the charge of the Little Sisters of the Poor, a grand dinner was given to sixty-five old gentlemen and eighty-eight old indies. Turkey, with cranverry sauce, plum pudding, apples and oranges went to make up the feast provided by the charity of Mme, Monte and Mr. Michael Connelly. Venerable, even among the cfowd of ancients in tho “Home,” are Mrs. Cosgrove, aged 103 yoars; Mra. McCluskey, 102; Mrs, Scully, 100, aud Mrs, Sheridan, 98, and they all sat downto table with the “young folks’? to dinner. Mme. Monte’s charity did not sliow her to stop at the purchaso of sohds, for she also provided a portion of whiskey puoch forthe old folks. After dinner each old gen- tieman and lady bad a bowl of hot punch, and the afternoon was passed in merry making. Mr, Carrock, the Ole Bull of the institution, produced bis violin after dinner, and the old folks danced Jigs and broak- downs all the afternoov, Many of the merry makers are in second chilibood, and they enjoyed the sport and laughed as heartily as though life were in is morning. In the old iadies’ relectory a Christmas tree was decorated, aud a monitor had to be placed to mind it Jeet the old ladies should siyly puriom the candies, About twenty of them ‘ound the tree and regarded it with as much interest and impatience as little children. HOUSE OF REFUGE Here a tull holiday was allowed to the pupils, comprising inall 987 children. A first clags dinner was given to both buys and girls, The giris also had two Christmas trees literally Joaded with useful arti. cles which were distrivuted in the aftornddn. At four o'clock they gave an entertainment, which was largely attended by the managers as well as friends of the in- tution. In fact during tbe whole afternoon tho little tug Refage, Cuaptein Grace, which belongs to the insti- tution, was plying up and down the rivee, every point to cary visitors over to the The Segram ne sted of dialogues, son; tious by the girls, most of whom were are and hence looked very neat. After the exercises were over, Mr. Edger P. Ketchum, the President of the House of Faleey made an address appropriate to the occasion, and the day closed with a splendid supper, ut which cakes and oranges wore distributed in unlimited quantities. ‘THM BAPTIST HOMN FOR THE AGRD. At the Baptist Home for the Aged the ninety inmates wero treated toa good dinuer, All the delicacies of the season were provided for thom, and tho feeble old souls spent a very happy day of 1t. They bad pleasant little parties amoung themselves. The youngest 1omate of the home is a crippled woman, forty-cight years of ago, and the oldest oinety-three. TAR TOMDS, The inmates of the Tombs were yesterday not forgotten in the general jubilation and feasting. At one o'clock they were served, cach in his cell, withs a thoroughly substantial dinner of stewed turkey and chicken, with the usual ac- companiments of vegetables, &c. The culinury oper- ations were superimtended by Deputy Warden Mark Finley, and the menu was the theme of general praise among the prisoners, Atagix P. M. they were regaled with fresh Dread and tea. Yesterday was by no moans @ gloomy aay in the Tombs. ‘THR PENITRNTIARY. Warden Fox bad provided, under the direction of the Commissioners, a dinuer of chickens aod turkeys made into a stew. The prisoners and oflicers connected with the Penitentiary together number over one thoa- sand, ana for at least once in the year they are relieved from ali duty except that which is unavoidable, Hore, too, 1,400 pounds of turkey had b cooked, which, together with the other arucles, maie a diver woich was eaten with relish and zest by the aniortunate crim- jnals, After the meal jollity and mirth prevailed, and many littie excesses which under ordinary occasions would buve been severely punished were pardoned on account of the day. THR ALMSHOTSES. The malo and female Almshouses together with the male and female Hospitals {or Incurabies, under the charge of Warden Vought, partook also of tho genera; enjoyment. Here, too, the main teature of the day ‘was the dinner, which was served atone o'clock and consisted of turkeys and chickens madé into. a tricas- see. The 1,476 aged, blind and decrepid inmates of hese buildings forzot ior the time ir indirmities | religion was also brought to boar upon these unfor- |. Charles and misfortunes, and ate with zest and thankfulness | the good things whieh had been provided for them by the thoughtlainess of the Commissioners and the care of their Warden, Those whose disabilities were such | that they could not go vo the general tables were not | lett uncured tor, but served in their respective wards, | THE WORKHOUSE. | In the Workhouse, which is mainly filled with the | most abandoned women who are sent to the Island, | the Christmas dinner of turkeys and chickens was served about one o'clock. Warden Allaire hud taken | caro that there should be ample provisions provided | for the 1,096 inmates, and the correctional tnflucace of good living was exerted, it is to be Heial effects, Some little degree of taste had beon shown in tho decoration of the chapel and the Work- house by the women, avd the refining iniluence of tunate creatures, AMONG THR UNKMPLOYED, At a season when every body with any resources for | happimess avails himself of them Yo teel in harmouy | with the general cheer which the season ts by common consent supposed to bring with it, aretrospoct of the | workingmen’s condition in this city for the past four | or five mouths would show how difficuit it must have heen for these men to enter into the spirit of atime which means universal good will and rejoicing, The long weary months of idleness which the workingmen endured have not been calculated to inspire feelings of the kindiiest sort in minds beginning to think the pros- pect for the winter a desperate one, It may be easily imagined, thea, bow, as the Cbristunas approachea, these men looked upon it only as a season when would more forcibly come home totbom tho poverty trom which emselyos and their families were suffering and which, so far as they could see, was becoming more and more severe as cach week passed by, | It was fortunate that the day was brisk and pleasant, | as the fine weather retieved the poor of many of the pangs they would otherwise have bad to boar, As it was, heaven only knows how many hundreds, and prob- ably thousands, of fanulies were suffering yesterday | from want ot fuel. In cold and cheerless rooms there | could be no festivity, and so the poor wanderer in the streets could not escape from the terrible load of de- pression which his position necessarily foreed upon him. That there were numbers of homeless men pa- rading the streets yesterday, cold, hungry and miser- able, Was apparent. ‘The prisoner tn bis cell was tnunitcly better off thun these idie men trying to live somehow or anyhow until a better time comes. Among the familios of the unemployed Christmas must have been for the major. | ity of them a very comtortless day. ‘That | these poor people “were hungry and without | the pleasant home associations which goto make even awong the humblest clusses a merry manifest irom ail the facts which have come to light during the past few w For the 100,000 children | 01 the idle mechanios here wus no Christians joy, no | che rol any sort. The reflections occasioned ‘by ‘the | hard tines could not but have made those families wretched throughout the day, It 184 fact that Christ- mas for the great majority of the idle workingmen was a day of heartgores aud saddening surroundings. These people bave sold or pawned everything they Lave that ‘was worth anything, and they knew not yesterday any of the couforts of home, brignt with hope and pienty. | It was the dreariest day for them in all the year, the contrast marking each particuiar want all the more. It 1s expected that much of the distress whieh hag been famishing the poor for weeks past will next month be partially relieved. Iti aaid that the Board of Apportionient bas ut the present time control of quite a large a:nount of money received from fines un- | der the Excise law which will be distributed among the | poor, This sum will be given to the different cuari- | tble societics in the city in accordance with ruies | established in former years, und it is the only money | upon which the distressed count with any degreo of | certainty to tide them over the severe winier months, The societies which will secure this money will also become the distributors of the coal which the Commissiouers of Charities and Cor- rection have already made arrapgements to purchase i January. Karly next month, then, the poverty stricken will be much beiter relieved than they bave been so far this winter. Those who ought to know moat rolative to the condition of the poer in the city at the present time continue to affirm that the namver of men vow unemployed will render it an absolute necessity to cali in the aid of the wealthy as tho se vances. They say that this winter being ap ceptional one for the working classes the ordinary charity will not be sufficient to meet the distress which exisia. Next week, also, the leaders of the workingmen propose submitting to the pubitc a state. ment of the condition of the men and how best relief can be afforded in this crisis. CHRISTMAS IN DONOVAN’S LANR, At no time is tho truth of the adage, ‘One-half the world know not how the other half lives,” more pal- pable than during the Christmas holidays, and to none is it more forcibly brought home than to the man whose duty brings him im contact with society in all its phases The man engaged upon the daily pross, thrown as he isinto communion with the highest and lowest of God’s creatures, has means of observation accorded only to his privileged craft. In bis Christmas “‘do- tail” he has seen the occupants of the Home for the Aged made joyful at an expense which many a grand indy would consider cheap for a day’s “shopping; he has scon the unknown foundling happy with its single, cheap toy, and f gratitude to the unkoown Santa Claus; he galaxy of bright expectant oyes upturned to the well Ireighted Christmas tree, brilliaut with a hun dred tapers and rich with eclectic’ gifts trom the hamper of the fabled old man, and he has sven, down where poverty shrinks to hide itsel!, neglected by the world, gloom and sad- ness, and huoger and misery. Well might Young's lines to Sleep be repeated of Santa Claus He, like the world, his rendy visit pa: Where Fortune smi The wretened he forsakes. The fortunate thousands, drowsy in the gastronomic felicity of roast turkey and plum pudding, never dreamed yesterday, as they made merry in comfort and plenty, that witbin the sound of the same church bell, there shivered and hungered hundreds, old and eS young. 1t woula be useless to select any one party among the thousand fvrtunates for descrip- tion upon such an occasion as Christmas, for each was in itself sufficiont if, and cach had that element of “*bome” that made it unlike ali others, bright and happy recollections of the may be lected ag faycy dictates, but there is a phase of Christmas that may serve to make permanent those treasures of memory aud heighten by contrast tho pleasure they first gave. In Donovan’s lane, tamous in story and record as tho abode of poverty, romantic and prosy, Christmas came and Went, undignified by a visit from Santa Claua, Hero, where the wretched rag: pickor, the jaded organ-grindet and the dreamy, optut-poisened Celes- tial find a common home, the dainty myth stopped not to bless, True, many o hearth of unsbaken looked back to the grand event commem- orated, and saw beyond their present fato a brilliant and unending promise. Many more without the light of faith felt keenly the discrimination made Against them io the distribution of blessings, and gruibled loudly or sought oblivion in the cup. More Shan one house visited by the writer in the wretched juarters bear the Five Points had added to its travail the mortification of a drunken moester. In some of the bovels visited there was evidence of n tuste be- yond the flela of its displ was succésstul in imparting to rooms a ho and cheery appearance. In aroom on the filth floor of a wretched tenement in Donovan's Inne a HeeaLp reporter found a woman, happy im the company of her four littie ones, sitting close tothe fra The woman bad in ber band a linen mounted copy of the history of Mother Goose and was reading the wonderful tale to the delighted young folks when the reporter entored. Upon a tabie in the middie of the room was a hitle, a yore little, tree, scantily, very scantily dec- orated. Tho little ones and the woman were as appy as though they had been the recipients of the saint's best und choicest gifts. Into the room next this Inttle party the reporter was conducted by the detective who accompanied him. The sole occupant of the room was a dark-faced Italian, who sat before a table on which tallow candle, stuck in the neck of a bottle, threw a faint, uncertain light, The man was eating a crust of broad, and as the party entered unbidden be stopped in his frugal meal, but recognizing the familiar face of the detective he went on with his — eating, In a corner of the room stood a hand organ, and ov 16 perched a loan, cadaverous moukey. The detective called him by name, and he opened yes fora mo- ment and then resumed his dream of land where there are no pennies and no cruel masters, THE DAY IN BROOKLYN, The great festival was very generally observed in Brooklyn. At midnight chimes were rung by the beils of sevorai churches and firearms were discharged by many people in the desire to give vent to their euthu- asm, Theservices at the Mrowstant Episcopal and Roman Catholic churches as well as tho places of worship of other devominations were weil attended, Evergreens and bright lights and flowers were gevor- ously used In the embellishment of the altars, and pas- tors and flock united in lending a holiday garb totbe edifices, At Ann’s Protestant Episcopal, on the Aeights, St. Peter's, Christ church, Church of the Reformation and St, Mark's, there were special musical services. At the Convent chapel of the Sisters Mercy, on Willoughby avenue, mass wags Nevrated at midnight of Sunday. 6 t. Mary’s Roman Catholic, Court street, the frat mass was celebrated, at four o'clock in the morning. At. St. Peter's, St Paul’s, St. Josepb’s, St. meo, St. Patrick’s, St. James’, Our Laay of Mercy ana St. Stephen's high mass was offered upat five o'clock. In all the Cathohe churches of Brook lyn collections kev at cach of the masses and at ‘Vespers ip aid oi the orphan asyiums. THE STREET BOYS’ HOME. The Superintendent of the Brookiyn Children’s Aid Society sent through the mail circular soliciting as- sistance for th Jodging house tor boys, in Poplar street, From his statement it appears that during the past ten years over $40,000 have beon paid into the treasury by the boys toward their own support, In return the institution has given 375,348 loduings and 908,984 meals and 2,264 garments, In the two indus triwi schools 6,460 giris have been taught on sbe sewin, machine and 5,680 homes have been found tor boy: girls in city and country. Only $12,000 por year is ‘used in addition to what the children pay. The treas- ury is now empty, and hence the appeal, THK PUBLIC AND PRIVATE CHAKITIRS, , The unfortunate and overcrowded occupants of the | Kings County Almshouse, Fiatuush, were ginadened Yesterday by a good dinner provided jor them through the Boara of Supervisors. The poultry devoured con- sisted of 1,200 pounds of chickeus and seventy pounds of turkey, They were supplicd witn cranverry sance and potatoes in abundance, Tho inmates of the Lunatic Asylum a've partook of a better bill of fare than is ordinarily provided for their eptertainment, Eight bundred and thirty pounds of cbickens and turkeys were cooked for the asylum difner, The patients ‘nty Hospital were also treated $0 Trnant Home were unusually in. They were weil supplied with turkey and mince pies, At the Penitentiary Keeper Sheviin aud his depaty, Mr. Crummic, superintended the issue of a good and liberal ration of (owl aud vegetables to the convicts, Sheriff Daggett caused a beter dinner than the rules of the Raymond Street Jail demand to be served to the prisoners there at noon. THE SLEIGHING AND SKATING. The orite routes tol in the City of Churches and vicinity were alive yesterday with merry parties oat tn quest of the mvigorating drive. Livery stable keepers who had the good fortune to possess 8 stock of sleighs Feaped enerinvus proflis. The ice on the lake at Prospect Park was ip fine con. dition, and the people, especially the young, did ample justice to the opportuntty afforded for sport. There were several thousand people on the lake. ‘At the Capitoline, which, being a private pond, 18 necessarily more select than the public lake, the vo- taries of the steel-shod sport were numerous during the afternoon and evening. THE DAY ON LONG ISLAND. Christmas was very gonerally observed throughout Long Island, there being, im addition to the several chureh services, reunions, fairs, festivals and enter- tainments for cburch and Sunday school benefit, The sivighing being excellent on ail the country roads there was a constant jingling of the merry bells throughoas the day in ull directions. THE DAY ON STATEN ISLAND. Tho observance of Christmas Day on Staten Island was hearty and general, more extensive preparations having been made for it than on any previous year, The bells of tue various Catholic churches were rang at daylight, and hundreds of people were at that ume in the streets going to and from the places of worship. Sloigh ridivg was kept up throughout the day and even- ing, apparently by all woo were able to raise money enough to pay for a “turn out,” and the livery stables consequently did a thriving business, The American colors were flying {rom most of the pablic institutions. There were services at St, John’s Episcopal church, T ompkinsville, at eleven o’clock A, M.; at St, Paula Memorial church, Tompkinsville, with @ choir of twenty-flve white-robed choristers, who sung a choral aes; at Christ church, West Brighton, with a magic tern exhibition in the evening; at Dr, Rockwell's Presbyterian church, Stapleton; at’ the Calvary Pre: byterian church, Wost Brighton; at Trinity Methodist Episcopal church, West Brighton ; at the Church ot the ‘Ascension, West Brighton, and otuers. Dr. Heary King, physician-in-chief of the Seamen’s Retreat at Siaple- ton, uruished about forty turkeys for the institution, and gavo the inmates a grand dinner, besides furnish. ing the sick and dsabled with suitable delicacies. There were appropriate services, conducted by the chaplain, in the evenmg. Mr. Thomas McCormick, Superintendent of the County Voor House, says he hag 116 men, women and children ip the imatitution, and made them ail nappy with a good roast turkey dinner, besides an extra supper of cakes, pies and sweetmeats, Mrs. Dubois, matron of the Child’s Nursery, at Four Corncrs, gave ber littie army of children, numbering between 800 and 400, a roast turkey dinner, beside giving to a number of poor families about tho island turkeys for their Christmas diner, The superinven- dents of the poor in the various townsuips were very considerate to the unfortunates in their charge, aud muny poor families received supplics of coal ‘from them. THE DAY IN JERSEY CITY. The Christmas festival was opened in Jersey City by midnight masses in all the Catholic churches, In St, Peter's church two masses were celebrated by Re Father Marechal, 8. J., and as half-past ton o'clock a solemn high mass was celebrated, in which the newly ordained priest, Rev, John Growaey, was celebrant, Rev. Father Marechal, 8, J., deacon, aud Rev. Mr. Plant sub-deacon. The announcement that a newly ordained priest was to celebrate mass attracted a large congre- piscopal church the musical service was as follows:— Morning service, commencing at half-past ton troductory, “Behold the Lamb,” J. M. North; ¢ nite,” H. Millard; “Gloria Patri,” T. 8. Lloyd and Dudley Buck; “Glorin’” in C, J. K. Sealey; “Ie Deum” in E flat, festival, D. Buck; ‘Jubilate Doo,’ to E flat, festival, Dr. William Berge; Hymn 1 H. P. Danks; ‘Kyrie Eleison” in 0, Ch. Gonoud; “Gloria Tivi,” 8. J. Anderson; Hymn 19, Adestes Fi- doles; offertory, *‘And there were shepnerds,” H. P. Dauks. The choir was composed of Mrs. J. B. Barker, so- ano; Miss Marie Barker, contraito; Mr. Kienard Rouse, tenor, Mr. H P. Danks, basso; Mr. & J. An- derson, organist, i The Chrisqnas celebration in St. Boniface’s church (German) was most imposing. A midnizhc masa was celebrated by the pasior, Rev. Father Kraus, and at the conclusion of the mass the entire congregation arose and chanted the “fe Deum,’’ making the scene in the church quite impressive, In the charitable insfitutions the bearts of the in- mates were glaadened. A sheep, a hog and a quart ‘of beef were furnished by Mr. Fowler, superintendent of the abbatoir, to eueh of the following institution: St. Mary’s Hospital, St. Francis Hospital, Old Ladies’ Home, Mercer street; St. Michuel’s Orphanage, corner of Erie street and Pavoala avenue; Cuildren's Home and Orphan Asylum, in charge of the Sisters of Charity on Jersey avenue. Christmas dinners were given to the poor inmates of the Hudson County Almsnouse at Snake Hill, the prisoners in the Peniteatiary and the County Juil, and the unfortunate tenants of the Lunatic Asylum, THE DAY IN HOBOKEN. Christmas Day was observed in Hoboken the same as usual Services were celebrated in all the churches, ‘The Lyra Singing Society had an immense Christmas tree at Udd Fellows’ Hall and ramed for prizes; also the Hovoken Quartet Club at Hammonia Hall, and both bad singing and dancing till daylight ‘The streets in and around Hoboken were crowded with sfeighs. The great teaturo of the day among tho Ger- mans, however, was a big bowling match at the Otto Cottage Hotel bowling alley, for alurge silver goblet weighing fourteen ounces, open to New York and Hudson county bowling clubs, and a gold medal for the bowler making the highest score during tt tournament. The following are the scores made :—T' Atlantic, of Hoboken, 449, being the winning scort Young Men's Social Club, of Hoboken, 416; Hudson Bowling Club, Hoboken, 298; Castle Point, Hobokeu, 358; and the ‘tollowing New York clubs:—Atlaatic, 314; Growlers, 346; Gramercy, 346; Terpsichore, 829; Gothata 306; Wedneaday Evening Club, 272; Sat- urday Night Clab, 333, The gold medal for the bighe score was awarded to Nathaniel W. Hicks, who scor 108 out of a possible 120. There were members repre- ented in each club, Twelve clubs contested. No shots were counted unless the head pin was struck, Each man twelve shots, THE DAY IN NEWARK, In the observance’ of Christmas in Nowark there wero no features materially different from what has becn the custom for many years, There was an cutire suspension of business and a geveral abandonment to the usual round of Christmas festivities, In the forenoon the dovoutly and religiously, as well as the fashionably disposed people crowded the cburehe: and in the evening theatres, mupic halls and bal] rooms wore equally well attended. of persuns who could afford it enjoyed the splendid sleighing. At tue various public and charitable institutions the inmates were provided with good cheer, showing that those who are plentoously supplied with the world’s gooas did not forget tho poor and neouy. best of order prevailed through. out the day, the number of persous having an over- Joad of “Christmas” on board being remarkably small, so far ag the arrests made by the police indicated, THE DAY AT TRENTON. In the city of Trenton the aay was colebrated in manner fully in keeping with the importance of tha event, Business was cntiroly suspended, and the streets wore thronged from morning till night by peo. pio dressed in their best holiday attire. In nearly all the churches special services were held, and sermons appropriate to the occasion were preachod by the pis. tors, The Catholic churches, in particular, were the pivots of attraciion, Midaight masses were celebrated in the beautital httle chapel of “Our Lady of Lot ” attached to the Franciscan college, skirts of the city, Father Peter Jaccheti, col hurch, Father Smith, ce! it, church, Father Avoiini, celebrant, Tne decorations wore uuusually fine, particularly those on the altars which were elegantly illaminated; and ‘The Manger at Bethlehem” in the Franciscat chapel was exceedingly unique and impressive. The various choirs displayed excelient skill and taste is selections, that of St. Mary’s taking the lead. Poor received the attention of kind ae ae loaves and a ton of mush; Freese gave a turkey to each driver on tho city railroad, and other charita ble citizens dispensed rellof in a liberal manner, The convicts in the State Prison, numboring 850, wore provided each with a dinner of roast bee! an¢ apple dumplings by the keeper, General Mott. Thea mates of the charitable institations of the city, pum lic and private, were liberaily regaled. MASONIC ELEOLION, The annual election for officers of Arc No, 246, F. and A. M., has resuited in tho choree oi the following officera:—Charles De F, Burne, M.; B, W. Fishor, 8 W.; J. W. Stonobridgo, J. W.5 George W. Dougias, Treasurer ; J, E. Banks, Secretary; W. J.) Sleight, 3. D.; P. Lay dr, J. D.; J. J. Goodwin, J. Ht Decker, Me ol Gi G. Hie Tilliaghaste, MB 'De Aguero, Stewards; Revs. Martin Summerbell, &. A Laveil, Chapiains; Willian Hoartt, Marshal; George Taubill, H. T, Huccuinsom, J. W. Marshal, Trustees: ‘or. oorge ari or. Joba Phillipa.