The New York Herald Newspaper, December 26, 1878, Page 6

6 NEW YORK HERALD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26 1878. now become an essential in Christmas shopping, and their human benefgctors. According to the custom chanting tones of the Te Deum and Jubilate at Kyrie, intoned by Miss Mary Wernecke, and opening a the County Jail, at Richmond, the prisoners had or ER Christmas was rarely passed. Tu the upper streets | in giving His Son to the world, and said that people | tions ge the grand edifice a magnificent appearance, | Throst, was supported by @ strong amateur chorus, | Church, New Brighton, Mr. John H, Rrewer, organist the lifted shades and brilliant (laminations showed | sent presents to them at Christmas time because they | the pil being wound with ropes of evergreens and | The music of Leprevost's mass is singularly beauti- | of the Clinton Avenue Congregational Church (Rev. how generally the festival was being observed. Great | wished to imitate His goodness as far as possible. He | the chancel ‘altar festooned with holly and myr- | ful, preserving, as it does, many touching themes by Dr. Bi # in, aa ta trees, beautifully decked with tinsel ornaments | hoped the children would be grateful both to Godand | tle. After the morning prayer and the Venite the en- | the older masters. The iuost notable parts were the - Budington’s), Brooklyn, presided organ, OUCH The Praises, Revels and Congratulations of Another Christmas, HUMANITY AT ITS BEST. Dinners Worth Remembering for the Poor and Friendless. CHURCH SERVICES. BRILLIANT All Sorts of Pleasant Events in Town and Suburbs, Although there are in New York and its immediate Vicinity about one million people, to each one of whom Christmas brought some special joy or grief, the observances of the sacred anniversary were di- vided easily into two general kinds—domestic and public, There were many to whom the festal occa- sion had no siguificance, unless, indeed, it was to put @ conspicuous stamp on their routine wretchedness, and others into whose homes sickness, disaster or death had carried mourning; but the great majority, washed and unwashed, rich and poor, good and bad, recognized the propriety, not to say the necessity, of some unusual action other than the cessation from work. Of public entertainments there was no deurth. Outdoor and indoor sports were provided for the mul- titude, religious services were held for the benefit of those who understood and cared to commemorate the holy day, and special bills were in many instances prepared by managers who are professional caterers to the public taste. ° CHRISTMAS IN THE MORNIN While the average child began the day by a wild “and reckless plunge for his stocking, the universal man initiated his Christmas by an anxious glance at the HERap “weather” predictions, from which he Jearned that low teimperatyre would prevail for some ‘days to come, and that that particular day would be cold and blustery, with westerly and northwesterly winds. It would be difficult to say just how many excursions and drives that severe sentence inter- fered with. There is yery little pleasure in @ drive on the road in a hired wagon on a cold, blustery day, and what the livery stables lost the theatres gained thereby. Early in the morning, shortly after the gun of sunrise an- nounced from the harbor fort the arrival of the day, shrill whistles and infant drums made their appear- ance on the wind swept streets. Where so many noisy boys came from on Christmas morning is one of the mysteries. Every mother will certify that none of her children left the house before breakfast, but hundreds of distracted householders will cheerfully testify that boy after boy, groups and gangs of them, passed and repassed their houses with eur piercing whistle, ear deafening drum and ear rasping trumpet hours before any well conducted family dreamed of attacking the matutinal repast. It is unnecessary to draw the veil from strongly contrasted homes, where the children of the rich were cloyed with an overplus of gifts, where the children of the poor were made happy with an in pensive toy, where “nobo cried for crusts and hungered for the commonest food to put sirength in their chilled and wasted bodies. Thut ‘would but tell the well worn story of the ages, and impart uo novelty to the day's report. The unmense sales of the week before Christmas, greater than in Several years past, would seem to contradict the cry of hard times, Shopkeepers and tradesmen of all kinds agree that while purchasers were dixposed to drive sharp bargains, bargains were nevertheless ‘made and huge stocks of fancy wares, toys, pretty things and purely ornamental articles were sold; just @s in the great jewellers’ warehouses and dry goods stores the proprietors were amazed at the ease and rapidity with which their costliest exhibits went off. The city was literally alive in the morning with fast yoing express wagons and loafing messengers, and far into the day parcel delivery was the one active occupation, From all this it is reasonable to infer that the little folks, to whom Christmas distinctively Delongs, were well cared for and that the ingenuous eyes of babyhood were made radiant by a sight of Santa Claus as he was vicariously shown in the @uniling countenances of father and mother. Each household is a law unto itself, and the cus- toms of one would seem odd and outré in anotl In many New York homes the regular Christmas pro- gramme is—Breakfast and the emptying of stockings, ehureh, Christmas dinner and a family reunion in the evening. For such the churches and Sunday chile schools of the city afford ample entertainment. In the Catholic and Episcopal churches exceptionally fine musical programmes were provided, and that they were not prepared in vain is evident by the fact that some of the largest edifices were uncomfortably erowded, and all of them were well filled. ‘These ser- ‘vices are properly of a festal type, and sermons only ‘would be voted a bore and an intrusion. Long lines of well-dressed people thronged the dusty streets, aad rich sud poor joined in the enjoyments that were free to all. Noted as our metropolitan directors tre for their Christmas outpourings of praise and thanksgiving, it may be doubted if they did more to deserve their reputation than on this ocea- ion, when standard masses, choice morceaux from favorite oratorios, and sweet operatic arias “adapted” to sacred use were equisitely rondered by artists of renown. In some of the churches it is the custom to call the children of the Sunday school together, and after boring them with a long talk by the pastor and superintendent to reward their pati by a present from the Christmas tree. In Brother Beecher’s school there was a great gathering of little o to whom a pleasant talk from their pastor had been promised, in addition to the annual presents. ‘waited and waited, but as usnal Mr. Be qutich more a preacher than 4 pastor, failed to come. It was announced that he and “Ma’ had gone to Peckskill and would probably be detained there. THE SPORTS OF YOUTH. The keen, cutting air, that penetrated weather strips, made ice houses of tenements and refrigerat Of mansions, inspired the youth of the metropolis With a desire for sport. es in hand they trooped upon the streets and rushed as best and as fast as they could to the eral places where the Jong expected ball was « Others who bad no skates extemporized long slides on the pavements, in lots aud in t r gutters, A company n forty, promenaded uptown stre ‘wearing a piper cap bordered with a gilt band, he: by acaptarn with asword and two youngsters with drums. The watchmen of edifices’ on Fourteenth street now building had their hands full with acrowd wao played “I Spy the Wolf” and “Rhoderic Dh Other boys urged their paternal ancestor to take them to the Aqui . Here and there a parent ly the houses of entertainment were Foariousuess of the New York youths, IN THE A¥TEMNOON. ‘The elevated roads did not do much business in the early part of the day; in the afternoon they “picked up" considerably. ‘The unfortunate passengers who ¢ clevated road Under the seats are admirable pipes for onnectious won't work, and the new not fitted with the necessary appli- cottus. rode on the Third aven to the boue. steam, but the engines in use a All day long the cars were like lon Everybody shivered, and probubly each conductor explained at least one hundred times the cause of the non-use of steam. Family parties rede up town and down town; many went to Brooklyn and Jersey City, Sud those cities returned the compli t, if not the complement. For a wonder Ce Ordinaril chilled as lively with driving. aventics are compara: not only hi Piazza to sec neither to sought pleasure in the theatre 6 wore well but not largely patronized, butas a prominent member of the pro: fession said, it was “a positive treat to play to people who enjoy everything.” Tho audiences seemed to fev! that they we art and parcel of the occasion, and by (heir enthusiasm encouraged the actors to do their best, IN THE RVESING. Dinner parties, skating, Christmas trees and the theatres tell the story of the waning Christmas, In Deimonteo's and the Brunswick several large and fundry stall dinner parties were given, and the pro: prictor of the former is of the opinion that a joliier | beguars, The regular house to honse beggars, with heavily lade with presents, could be seen in scores of magnificent mansions in’ the fashionable part of the city; and the constant rumbling of carr they rapidly rolled from street to street, gave graphic testimony to the interest maintained in the Christian holiday. CHRISTMAS AT NIGHT. It will be a pleasant year when it can truthfully be written that John Barleycorn did not disgrace the city. Last night John was on a rampage. He had several serious encounters on stations on the elevated roxds; he roamed recklessly up and down Broadway; he infested theatre lobbies and caroused in the terry houses. A gang of half drunken lads made the vicin- ity of Union square ring with their merriment. Another set went from pillar to post in Chatham square and thence down toward Printing House square, where they got into a free fight among themselves and variously wandered away in the mazes of the City Hall Park. The cold seemed to have a favorable effect on comfortable woollen shawls, thick boots, mittens and large baskets, were out in full force, but the profes- sionals, with’ painted eyes, distorted features and supple limbs, preferred the comfort of home to the precarious charity of streets filled with holiday people, ‘That there was great trouble, privation and wretchedness in New York yesterday who can doubt ? but so far as the surface view is concerned the Christmas of 1878 must rank with the merriest and pass into history as a fit forerunner of the Happy New Year, PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS, ON THE ISLANDS. The 1,000 patients in the Charity Hospital on Blackwell's Island were served with a dinner at twelve o'clock, consisting of poultry, apples, cakes and ice cream. ‘The amount consumed was 1,300 pounds of turkey and chicken, four barrels of apples, 1,000 cakes and several gallous of ice cream, High mass was said by Rev. Father Vetten, of the Society of Jesus, at eight o'clock, and at nine o'clock there were Protestant services by’ Rev. Mr. Baum. In the Penitentiary Rey. Father Vettin conducted Catholic services at ten A, M. At the usual dinner hour the prisoners were conducted from their cells to the dining hall, where they received a bountiful meal of vegetables, poultry, cakes, pies and sauce, One thousand and four persons partook of this cheer— 184 women and 820 men. There were consumed 1,450. pounds of poultry, one barrel or 200 pounds of pork, one barrel of potatees, one barrel of apples, one bar- rel of onions and one-half barrel of rice, The inmates of the Male and Female Alms House and Incurable Hospital—6t4 males and 641 females— disposed of 650 pounds of turkey, 960 pounds of chicken, 5 barrels of potatoes, 5 barreis of apples, 4 barrels of onions, and at three o'clock in the after- noon euch one was given a Christmas cake. Morning muss was celebrated at four o’clock by Rey. Father Regnier, chaplain, and Protestant my Soap services at Lalf-past ten o'clock, in the alms house chapel, by Rev. W. G. French. The chapel and each of the hos- ital wards had been decorated by the ladies of the Samaritan Mission. At the Work House the 984 inmates satdown to a sumptuous repast, and disposed of 1,270 pounds of poultry, besides a large amount of yexetables and pastry. Rev. Father Regnier celebrated high mass at ten o'clock, and in the afternoon there were Protes- tant Episcopal services. ‘The 2,000 unfortunate inmates of the Lunatic Asy- lum were given their share of “turkey” at the usual dinner hour, At the Male Insane Asylum and Homeopathic Hos- pital, on Ward’s Island, a Christmas dinner was served at halt-past twelve, aud many of the inmates received presents from outside parties. In the Entante" Hospital and Randali’s Island Hos- pital about 2,000 mouths did away with 1,500 pounds of poultry, aud munched several barrels of apples and cakes. Mrs. S. H. Gibbins, of No. 111 West Forty- fourth street, visited the Islund, taking with her dolls, toys, tops and every imaginable plaything, and presented them to the children in the Infauis’ Hospital. On Hart's Island at the Work House and Hospital the exercises were similar to those on Randall's Is- land, with high mass in the morning, and Protestant Episcopal ceremonies in the afternoon, Comiissioners Brenuan, Cox and Bailey, accom- panied by several friends, were present at the dinner at the Charity Hospital, after which they visited the other institutions on Blackweil’s and Randall's is- lauds. IN THE TOMBS. ‘The dreary interior of the Tombs Prison was en- liveued as much as a liberal display of Christmas green could make it, and its inmates were in a 1 ful mvod, Warden Finn was actively engaged dur-uy the torcnoon surperiutending the preparation ot Luc turkey dinner to be served at noon, while Lae keepers aud attendants were busy conveying tu the prison cells lite packages left at the “wicket by the prisoners’ friends. Deputy Warden Finn paid special attention to three immense caldrons in the cook house, which were brim full of chicken soup, onion stew and vegetables. Seven hundred pounds of roast turkey tell under the carving knife and were served as an entree, Dessert consisted of apples and oranges, of which there was a plentiful supply, aud they were no doubt more pulatable, coming to the guests, as they did, from the hands of kind hearted ladies, who came to distribute them. Religious exercises were held morning and afternoon, and it is safe to say that there was not an inmate of the place on whose mind the lesson of the day was wholly lost. BELLEVUE HOSPITAL. ‘At Bellevue Hospital the exercises were commenced in the morning at seven o'clock with high mass by the chaplain. At half-past ten o'clock there was an Episcopal service in the chapel, and again at three o'clock in the afternoon. There are” now 630 patients in the hospital, about 400 of whom are abie to sit at the table. ‘To the remuin- ing 230 dinner was se in their beds. ‘There were consumed at this mea! 1,000 pounds of turkey, 5 burrels of apples, 1,000 cakes, 30 bunches of celery, several jars of cranberry swuce and nearly 200 mince pies. ‘The children’s Christmas tree was exhibited on ‘Tuesday night and was well tilled with presents for the little ones. Mrs. Marshal O, Roberts donated many of the presents. Several wards in the hospital were finely decorated with evergreens and palm. THE CATHOLIC PROTECTORY. ‘The boys under the charge of the Christian Brothers in the male department of the Catholic Protectory at Westchester were delighted with the Christuuas euter- tainments offered them by tue Board of Managers. Devotional exercises were held in the early moruing, atter which the boys attended a grand high mass, ebrated by their chaplain, Father O’Kourke. feature was the singing of Christmas hymns by the boy and inany of the uptown residents who were at the service were well pleased with its effect. nwhile the work of providing a dinner for was in progress in the refectory. At the lower end of this room a typical representation of the scene at Bethlehem was piaced and the room fes- tooned with evergreens. ‘the band, compos boys of the Protectory, was brought in, and Rev. Fathers O'Rourke and Spencer. They pre the latter with an address, read on the part of the boys by Louis Walsh. ‘The little teliows were allowed to’ be called upon by their parents and frieuds in the large ree: room on the first floor, and many of them received tangible proofs of the love in which they were held, ‘The large building in which the young girls and in- fants are placed, under charge of the Sisters, was ablaze with light at an early hour yesterday morning. ‘Thi children, formed in three divisions, went thro: the house singing cheerful Christmas carols, The 800 girls attended inass. They were taken afterward to their respective divisions and shown their Christ- mas trees and allowed to romp and play in these rooms for the remainder of the day to their hearts’ content. THE CHARITIES. NEWSHOYS’ LODGING HOUSE. Five hundred newsboys sat down at the Newsboys’ Howe, in Chambers street, to a plentifal dinner sup- plied by thetr long time benefactor, Mr. William M. Fliess. To say that they thoroughly enjoyed the re- past provided for them would but faintly express the relish with which these youthful venders of news devoured the good things set before them, aud Mr. Fliess, at present confined to a sick bed, will naturally feel rejviced to think what pleasure he has giver to so many of the world’s orphans. The boys were assembled in the large meeting room on the top floor of the building, at six o’clock P. M., where they were agdressed by several gentiemen—Mr. T. Mar- shall, from Baltimore, Mr. Roise and Commissioner Bailey. There was quite a number ladies and gen- tlomen present interested in the institution, and the boys amused them for some time singing in chorus “Marching Through Georgia,” “Hold the and other popular songs of the day. A gen- tleman known as “Paddy Beet,” twenty years ago an te of the Original Newsboys’ lodging house and now an owner of a stall in Washington Market, gave the boys some practical ideas as to what a lite | of honesty nce hud done for him aud would undoubtedly do tor them if they followed his line of conduct, which was never to lic, never to steal, and do any and every work set before them. ercises and speeches lasted one hour, but the itself lasted but twenty minutes, and the dis- with which these 500 newsboys disposed of 600 dis of roast beef, twenty barrels of potatoes and mince pies was perfectly bewildering. FIVE POINTS MIBKION » children of the Five Points Mission assembled ne Mission Building, No. 61 Park street, at half- A.M. Five hundred of the largest met in sroom, eighty stualler ones had # room while 130 very small infant department, ‘Th in prayer Christmas ased out in each vived presen departme fruit and ¢ “When Shep le Their Plocks by Night and a printed copy of the hymn. In the large room @ nunaber of visitors w present, Mrs. W. B, Skid- of the Mission charity was given to many poor peo- ple who called at the office during the day. ¥IVE POINTS HOUSE OF INDUSTRY. The children of the Five Points House of Industry to the number of 350 gave an entertainment in the large room of the bi at two P.M, The lite ones were seated on a raised platform, while their friends and the patrons of the charity crowded the body of the hail. The exercises consisted inainly of singing, and the children, most of whom are very young, did wonders under the leadership of Mr. 5. N. Penfield. Several peotty recitations by some of the smallest children were ‘d with great interest. ‘The most noteworthy feature of the entertainment was ‘a series of ‘Mother Goose Pantomimes,”” Some of little ones performed the stories of “Jack and Gill “Baa, Baa, Black Sheep,” “The Cat's in the Wel and other nursery rhymes. Pretty costumes and some simple ‘properties’ were provided, and the ertoanes, and the audience seemed alike delighted. he exercises were managed by Mr, W, F. Barnard and Mrs. Martin. Mr, Barnard made a tew remarks to the audience regarding the management of the in- stitution, thanking for presence and the interest they showed in its success, The crowd then adjourned to the dining room, where the children were regaled with turkey and vegetables and a dessert of fruit and mince pie. JUVENILE GUARDIAN SOCIETY. The thirtieth Christmas festival of the New York Juvenile Guardian Society took in the Seventh Street Methodist Church, near Third avenue, Abun- dant Sapulies had been sent in by liberal friends— toys, books, candies, oranges and substantial winter wear, besides dinners and repasts for 100 poor fami- lies. Interesting addresses were delivered by Rev. Dr. J, L. Gilder, Chauncey Schaffer and the secretary of the society, Rev. D. F. Robertson. Of the numer- ous pieces rendered by the children, one by Katie Lomertin—Not Dead, But Sleepest—was of rare merit, HOWARD MISSION, Few anniversaries of the Christmas festival were celebrated in a more thoroughly Chnistian spirit tuan that in the Howard Mission. In that institution char- ity was strictly detined asa commingling of prayers aud good works. The benefactors of that institution will learn with pleasure that 960 children partook of an oyster: dinner, as well as fruits, cakes and confectionery. ‘But the charity did not stop here. Piles of clothing were strewn along the tabies in the lower hall for distribution to needy sutierers, Hats, coats, felt skirts, shoes, stockinys, jackets and waists were given with onen handed generosity. Mr, Willard Parsons, superintendent of the Mission, remained with the little ones during the day, and before their departure each one was required to examine the Christmas tree, laden with candles, fruits and flowers. Many patrons of the institution calied during the afternoon with presents for the children. The enjoyment of the occasion was en- hanced by a musical entertainment at the close, in which some favorite ballads were sung. CHILDREN’S AID SOCIETY, The homeless boys of the east side were entertained in grand style at the Rivington street branch of the Children’s Aid Society. General James H. Van Alen, at present residing in France, sent $250 to the super- intendent forthe purpose of providing a bountiful dinner of turkey, with all the fixings and ice cream dessert, Major Philip Schuyler and John Crosby Brown also sent generous contributions of funds with which to purchase clothing and shoes for desti- tute boys. The reception and dining rooms were profusely decorated with evergreens, plants and flags of all nations, After dinner a number of prominent citizens made short addresses to the boys. ST, VINCENT’S HOME FOR BOYS. The festivities at St. Vincent’s Home for Boys, in Warren street, were more than usually interesting, and over three hundred and seventy-five children of the mission sat down to the ample dinner which had been provided. Besides 210 chik from Fort Wash- ington, who are, in fact, a partof Father Drumgooic's flock, and who were brought to the Warren street Home .in charge of Miss Morrissey and Miss McGinn, were entertained, and through- out the day many persons who came in from the street were provided with a good meal. There were consumed over 600 pounds of turkey, 300 pounds of plum pudding, 100 pounds of beet, 200 bunches of celery and 200 pies, besides other good things. The religious and literary exercises were ulso of more than ordinary interest. At the high mass at four o’clock in the morning Singeu- berger's mass in D was sung bya full choir of the children of the Home, and at the offertory the Adeste Pideles was sung by a young orphan, of whom it is said that, in answer to # lady, he declared: have no mother but the Queen of Heaven, no father but holy St. Joseph and no home but the mission.” Father Drumgoole preached an impressive sermon on the birth of Christ, and 150of the inmates approached the holy communion. Of these thirty of the younger children made their first communion. After break- fast over 200 full suits of clothing were distributed among the children, and a concert followed, which was participated in by inmates of the Heme. A poem, ‘Phe Homeless Child,”’ composed for this oc- casion by Mr. Marcus Quinn, was recited by one of the boys with quivering voice, and the recital of the episode recounted in these lines brought tears to many eyes:— The flaring gas lamps dimly light the street, Tie watchin: poses oult his Glenehents He halts before a little trembliug trame, A heap of rags, a child without a name. Loath he to break the puny vagrant’s rest Hy cruel clad, or een by stern request, But bending o'er, tooks on with kindling tye, ‘hen slowly turns and sadly passes by. leep on, fone one, though cold and hard thy bed, 6 guardian angel’s nigh, though all have fled; perchance some bright unhoped f Will beam to-morrow on thee—homeless boy. And s n, till break of day, The piping winds stili cleave their blust'ring way, Awakening chords that swell within his breast, ‘That thrill bis soul with songs of swoetest rest. ‘Then through the long array of coming years A golden era like some vision near: ‘The blush of sunrise spreads, and seraph choirs, In choral harmony now sweep their lyres, are clasped—he smiles—the twilight’s past— A rush of angel wings—he’s home wt last, ST. BARNABAS’ HOME. Inthe morning the Episcopal Christmas service was read in the chapel of St. Barnabas’ Home, No. 304 Mulberry street, anda nusaber of indigent women attended, The services were conducted by Ve 8S. B. Moore, chaplain of the order, who in his sermon touched’ on the significance of the ccle- bration and told his listeners that the bounty of the patrons of the Home had provided a turkey dinner, to which all were invited. ‘The dinner was served at two P. M., but as the dining room is of only limited capacity several tables had to be set. From the hour named until long after four o’cloek the yood sisters, «under the direction of Sister Ellen, the prefect of the Home, continued to wait on a hangry multitude of women and children. The adult portion of the guests were the mothers who leave their children to the care of the sisters on week days while they are abroad at work. Of these there are upward of eighty, and in addition to chis number about fitty communi- cants at the chupel accepted the bounty of the patron of the Home, ‘The ‘regular boarders,” as thechildren of the working women are called, and the children of the Sunday School attached to the Home, together with the adults, numbered nearly five hundred. The little ones enjoyed the repast, and those more hungry than their fellows who, like Oliver Twist, called for “more,” were not cudgeled with a soup ladle, but served until they were satisfied. The meal consisted of turkey, bread, turnips, potatoes and mince pic. ‘fo this lust item of the bill the younger por- tice, and the number of jaw that figured in A tion of the guests did full j grandmothers and moth post praudial dreams no man can ever compute. Christmas tree will be provided for the School children of St. Barnabas ou Friday evening, in St. Ann’s Church, No. 9 West Kightcentn street. THE CHURCH'S, OLD ‘TRINITY. Trinity Church, where for nearly a century and a haif Christmas time has been celebrated by sacred service and by joyful song, was distinguished by a more than usually brilliant celebration. At half-past ten o'clock in the morning the music of the chimes rang out as the body of the church became filled with worshippers who had braved the terrors of the keen wintry blast in order to be present at the great Christ- mas ceremony of the year. A few minutes before eleven Mr. Henry Carter, at the great organ, gave the march from Raff's Leonora syinphony. This was im- mediately followed by the processional hymn of G. F. Le June, The Faithful Shepherds Keep, sung by the priests and choir as they took their places at the altar, After the opening prayers i. G. Thunder's anthem, a beautiful arrangement of Adeste Fideles, was sung to hymn 19, O Come all Ye Faithful. Dr. Dix ascended the pulpit and delivered a short address appropriate to the festival of the day, in the course of which he said:— Christmas Day, we were to remember, was meant for Christians, not for pagans. It was not intended that we should dislike the world, but that we should do everything in preparation for the coming of God's holy kingdom, Therefore the sounds of Christmas chimes might have for us an undertone of sadness in thera to men who listened to them not knowing what they meant and knowing that no effort was made to draw them to the true riches of the Gospel. We should not, theretore, forget, as Christians, at this wur, that our first duty was to give a yus direction to the festival and to see that the of God was honored betore anything else was Without the legends of the Gospel Christmas- tide would have no meaning—a child’s play, a thing that may or may not be omitted, a meré society entertainment, But these holy offices were like grace before meat in our rejoicings, and in that hristmas should be kept. e should thank His mercies to as in this world, but first of ali for the gift of His Son, our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Chr in whom we have salvation.’ ‘The ser- lowed by the Kyrie, the Credo and 11 the offertory was male, during wh jade's Offertory, Ye Seraphic Hosts. n service Mr. Carter played, on the Trio, Brosay; ante in I sharp, We He Shall Feed His Piock wiah; the choir sang Gloria in k Christmas in MeGrayn nm and Mr. Herman 7 mn was Hark! the Sing, an adaptation of Mendelesolin, J Meswiter was with the choir at the chancel orga GRACE CHURC more, the superintendent of the institution, pre . Kev. 8. C. Browa, the manuger, made @ short address to the children, ‘He puiuted out tie goodness of God Grace Church, noted for its « ent musical ser- vices, was crowded to repletion even before eleven o'clock by ap immense congregation, The decor once convinced all worshippers that the services of the day were of a high order, The Gloria Tibi fol- lowed, after which the rector preached the sermon propriate to the day and showed how, amid all the anges in the world’s history, the anniversary of Christ's birth remained forever the great festival of civilization and joy reigned supreme everywhere, The Gloria in Excelsis was next admirably ven- dered, the choir in the chancel, composed of twenty voices, and the one in the gallery, of thirty, being un- der adiirable discipline, the organist, Samuel 2. Warren, acting as director. ST. TIMOTHY'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH. ‘The wide yard in front of St. Timothy's Protestant Episcopal Church, in West Fifty-seventh street, was cold and dreary, but within all was bright and warm, ‘The large stained glass window in rear of the altar ‘was tastefully adorned with vines and branches and from the ceiling above a long, thick rope of ever- grecn hung down to the wall on either side. Every chandelier was decorated with holly, and green boughs graced the rear window, while other branches filled the wide recess above the main entrance. The lecturn, altar and organ front were graced with tlow- ers and vines, while the woodwork above each door was daintily trimmed with green. ‘The morning service began late and was not concluded till some time after one P.M. Rev. Dr. George Jarvis Geer, rector of the church, preached a short sermon appro- priate to the di ay tak: his text from St. i—‘And she uke, ii, brought forth her first-born son, and wrapped him in swad- dling clothes’ and laid him in a manger,” The musical portion of the service comprised a Venite, in D, from the manuscript; Millard’s Gloria, in Eand A; a Te Deum, in C, from the manuscript, containing two soprano solos; @ Jubilate, in C, from the manuscript; Haydn's hymn, Angels From the Realms of Glory; Kyrie, from the manuscript; an- them, Hark! the Herald Angels Sing, by Wilson, con- taining solos for soprano, tenor and’ basso; baritone solo from Gounod’s Nazareth; a ‘Tersanctus by Mer- becke, a communion hymn by Wheales, an old Gloria in Excelsis; hymu from the manuscript, While Shep- herds Watched Their Flocks by Night. The choir nsists of Mme. Valentine, soprano; Mrs, Sidell, contralto; Mr. Mygatt, tenor and director; Mr. Mills, busso; Mrs. Marcus, organist. The congregation also joined in the singing. ST. BARTHOLOMEW’S. The magnificent dome of St. Bartholomew's Prot- estant Episcopal Church resounded with the music of the merry Christmas which has not been, heard therein for a year. The church itself was remiurkable for the absence of any special adornment for this season. A large star of evergreens sent forth its soli- tary fragrance, so to say, from the front of the organ gallery, and from the pulpit and chancel chairs a tew festoons of the same answered back. But the body of the building was devoid of anything save what is seen there every day of the week. On thecom- munion table a large evergreen cross rested; and the baptismal font was also festooned. The blue naye- vault and rich gilding of the arches fitly crowned the massive pillars of the beautiful edifice. A couple of ‘wreaths suspended from the gaslights at either end of the chancel wall. The services began with Haydn's processional hymn, The Heavens are ‘Telling (Crea- tion). The anthem, Palm Branches, by Faure, was sung as a baritone solo, witha chorus accom- paniment. The Te Deum was by Ward, and the fubilate from Rossini’s Inflammatus in the Stabat Mater. The Kev. Dr. Samuel Cooke preached the sermon of the day from the words, “And thou Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall come forth he that shall rule my people Israel."’ Just preceding the sermon and at its close more than half the people present left the church, Most of them had attended for the music's sake. ZION CHURCH. Zion Protestant Episcopal Church, corner of Madi- son avenue and Thirty-eighth street, was tastefully Avcorated with greens and Scriptural texts appropri- ate to the day. The space back of the chancel was one solid mass of greens, and ropes of greens wero twined about the pillars. ‘The railing of the steps leading to the pulpit was similarly dressed. An ever- green tree spread its graceful branches across each of the stained glass windows and softened the light of the gay December morning that shone through the many-colored glass. The music was excellently rendered by the regular quartet choir of the church, consisting of Miss Mary E. Turner, soprano; Mrs. Marie L. Russeil, contralto; Mr. Fred, A. Guild, tenvr, and Mr, James Aiken Metcalf, basso, with the addition of Mr. J. H, Cann, tenor, and Miss Virginia soprano; Mr. 8. B. Whiteley, organist and direct The ality ot the music was of the best. The Adeste Fideles was arranged by Novello, the Venite by Robinson, the Gloria Patria by Mercadante, Gunter and Mozart, and the anthem by Mendelssohn. In place of the second hymn the choir sang Victor ‘Adams’ Cantique de Noel, Miss Turner, the soprano, singing the first stanza with a great deal of expression and in a rich voice, inclined to the mezzo quality, the choir joining in the second part. The second stanza was sung by Mr. Guild. The preacher spoke from the text “Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehera of Judea, in the days of Herod the King, behoid there came Wise men from the East to Jerusalem, saying ‘Where 1s he that is born King of the Jews? for we be seen his star in the east and are come to worship an.’ CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION, The Church of the Ascension, corner of Tenth street and Fitth avenue, was artistically decorated with Christmas emblems, while over the chancel was placed a brilliant, burning star, symbolic of that which guided the wise men to the manger at Bethlehem, where lay the infant Saviour of the world. The special choral — ser- vice. was rendered in an_ eifective manner. Dr. John Cotton Smith, the rector, in his discourse vividly delineated the birth of our Saviour, who, to attest His great love tor mankind, took upou Himselt our nature, was born a child, passed through the sufferings of infancy snd finally died on the cross for us, The commemoration of this anniversary has survived that of all other great events, and was to- day being observed by Christians all over the world. ST. MARY THE VIRGIN. Christmas was ushered in at the Church of St. Mary the Virgin with unwonted pomp and splendor. ‘The interior of the small but pleasing edifice was tastefully decorated, euch of the massive columns on the east aisle being completely encircled with a con- tinuous wreath. ‘Che altar was brilliantly illuminated with candles in glittering candelabra. ‘The contribu- tion of flowers was more than usually liberal and very tastefully arranged. There were three celebrations of the holy communion during the morning. The low celebrations were largely attended, aud at the high celebration at eleven o'clock the ceremonies and music were exceedingly claborate and impressive. ey. Father McNoyes acted as celebrant, the Rev. ywn as deacon and the Rey. Father Kerr as e Promptly at the hour appointed the procession moved from the sacristy preceded by a censor bearer swinging the censor. en tollowed an acolyte holding # crucifix accompanied by two thurifers. The choir of men and boys followed in stately procession, the rear being composed of the holy van. The priests were attired in full festal vest- ments, including the berretta. After the singing of the processional high mass was proceeded with. ‘Pho second Christmas vespers were sung at four o'clock in the afternoon, the ceremonies being exceedingly elaborate and impressive. ST. IGNATIUS. St. Ignatins’ Church, in Fortieth street, between Fifth and Sixth avenues, of which the Rev. Dr. Ewer is rector, was beautifully and profusely decorated. Large banners emblomatical ot various Scriptural events, as well as curiously entwined wreaths, adorned the walls. The chancel was surmonnted by an arch attyched to the ceiling at theceutre, ‘The choir stalls, organ and other portions of the chancel were like- wise tastefully adorned. The sanctuary was illumi- nated with ndmberless candles and was fragrant with the perfume of the flowers, At the high cele- bration at eleven o'clock the Rev. Dr. Ewer acted as celebrant. The choir, composed of men aud boys, executed selections from Schubert's mass with ple ing effect. This church is of the ritualistic ° and the ceremonies differed but little from the Roman Catholic mass, The procession was preceded pacifix, and was followed by the banner of St. he celebrant was ‘The service wat ; by Schubert, was excellently rendered, as was also the Sanctus ‘aud Agnus Dei. ‘The soprano at this chureh is a boy scarcely fourteen years old, possess- ing @ pureand sympathetic voice and trained to per- fection. Vespers were sung at half-past four o'clock, SE. FRANCIS XAVIER'S. Impressive services marked the celebration of the holy Christmastide in the Church of St. Francis Xavier, West Sixteenth strect. All the pomp and ceremony of the Roman Catholic faith were combined to win the thoughts of the faithful to the far-off stable of Bethichem, where the infant Saviour o! mankind first drew breath of human life, Nothin. that could suggest the glorious mystery of the day was forgot nid as toned organ's swell ows vowe aud fell 1 ound; And the Te Deum ru ‘Asit by angels sung, In space profound. Forth the majestic anthem rolled harmony complete, and t A torth the angel's song of Peace on earth, good will to men.” pillar hung graceful festoons of box- wood branches, giving the iuterior of the church o holiday aspect keeping with the occasion, ‘The altar was ablaze with lighted tapers interspersed with flowers, among which the lily predominated, Crowning the illumination was @ biazing star, sym- bolizing the Star in the Kast waich led the wandering shepherds to the cradle of Him who was to be the King of the Jews, and on either side of the altar the statues of the Virgin and St. J rounded by gas jets and votive o! ers. Above all, in frosted real the inseription, “Gloria in while on the golden tabernacle in the centre of the altar was set in large letters the words ‘ Venite Adoremus.”” ‘the effect of the whole decoration was brilliant and artistic, but so ordered as in no way to. distract the minds of the congregation trom the ser- vices. In all parts the church was thronged with de- vout worshippers, and as the priests, habited in gold and white, moved out from the sacristy, followea by miber of attendant acolytes babited in white and the orchestra and organ burst forth in a tri- v hant march, The celebrant of the high mass was Father Charaud, assisted by Father etier as dl: con @ud Father Young as sub<deacon. 1 music selected for the day was Loprevost's “i Mass, su for the first time in t vountry with ful orchestral accompanine Owing to sickness Mr. Berge was absent trom at the organ, his place being sup; by \ hony David. The double quartet, compose Misses Wernecke, Mra. Berg From roof to of ‘8. Sehultz, Mr, . Tawero and Me, Leubner, Mr, Dupin and Mr, ith a chorus by the soprani, which is taken up by the tenoré ; this dying away gave place to a solo by Miss Teresa Wernccke, the Whole closing with & pr staccato earanes’: The Gove isa ici om certed piece, aflordiug Mr. Dupin a yood opportunity fora display of his resonant vole and excellent method in the solo Domine Deus. But perhaps the most thrill- ing and ithpressive sages were to be found in the Credo, opening oth og a splendid volume of = mony, and in which the whole chorus joined. Miss Mary Wernecke sang with excellent etfect the solo fone E Unum Sanctum, It would be ditticult to imag- ne anything more impressive than this splendid mu- sical service, which seemed to fill the thoughts and hearts of the congregation with a glow of retigious enthusiasm well calculated to carry heayenward the human heart. A sermon drawn trom the epistle of the day, and filled with apt allusions to the holy festi- yal of Christmas, was preached by the pastor, Father Merrick. The feature of the afternoon service was the singing for the first time of Saint Saen’s beauti- ful cantata, Noel, with an Ave Verum, specially composed for the occasion by Dr, Witliam Berge, ST. PATRICK'S CATHEDRAL, Alarge congregation assembled betore ten o'clock in St. Patrick’s Cathedral to take part inthe solemn Christmas services of the Catholic Church. The main altar, as well as those of St. Joseph and the Blessed Virgin, was decorated with evergreens and wreaths, On the top of the tabernacle was a blazing cross, and the pillars on each side of the main altar had also across of fire, underneath which were en- twined a bunch of roses, the only floral display in the building. ‘The pillars surrounding the statues of the apostles, which are situated back of the main altar, were entwined with evergreens, and from the top of the representation ofthe crucifixion depended acanopy of cardinal and gold cloth, On the main and two side altars were myriads of tapers and gas jets in the shape of arches, wreaths, hearts and stars, which flooded the sanctuary with light, At halt-past ten o’clock the procession entered the sanc- tuary, headed by censors, cross bearer and acolytes. ‘Then came the Rey. Father Kearney, master of cere- monies, with fourteen altar boys in red cassocks and the archiepiscopal cross bearer, followed by deacons of honor. Next in order was the Rev. William Quinn, vicar general of the diocese, celebrant of the mass; the Rev. Mr. Cunion, deacon, and the Rev. Mr. Hugh Kelly, sub-deacon. Then followed Cardinal John McCloskey, in the full robes of his office, supported on either side by Rev. Fathers Farley and Kane, with Rev. Father Mori and eight altar boys in purple cassocks bringing up the rear. The Cardinal knelt for a few moments at the foot of the altar in silent prayer and then proceeded to his throne at the right of the sanctuary, where he re- mained until the offertory, when he again knelt before the main altar, At that part of the mass where the priest turns and blesses the people Father Quinn turned toward the Cardinal, and the latter gave the priests in the sanctuary and the congregation his pon- tifical blessing. The Vicar General, at the close of the mass, announced to the congregation that the Holy See had granted to His Eminence, the Cardinal, the power to grant a plenary indulgence to all those present who had worthily approached the sacraments of pounce and holy communion on Christmas Day; and, after Father Farley had chanted the Confiteor, absolution was pronounced by the Cardinal. ‘The sermon of the day was delivered by the Rev. Father Halpin, S. J., of Fordham College, who read from the gospel of the day, taken from St. Luke ii., :—“And it came to pass that,in those days there went out @ decree from Cwsar Augustus that tho whole world should be enrolled.” The music, under the direction of Mr. John White, was excellentin every particular. There was a chorus of forty voices and @ double quartet. The choir consists of Miss von Heimburg, soprano; Mme. Unger, contralto; My. H. Bersin, tenor; Mr. F, ©. Urchs, basso, and Mr. John White, organist and director. SL. AGNES’ ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH. At the Church of St. Agnes, on East Forty-third street, of which Father MacDowall is pastor, the se vices were very interesting. The celebrant at high inass was Rev. Joseph Bigley, who was ordained last week. A sermon on the Nativity was preached by Rey. Father Charles, of the Passionist r. Matteo Salvi’s grand mass was performed bv the regular choir, increased largely for the occasion, under the direction of Signor Eduardo Marzo, organist of the church, The soloists were Miss Lottie Simpson, Miss Sayers, Miss Brophy, Mr. Riedel, Dr. Leon and Mr. Dolan. The ‘Credo’ is worthy of special men- tion as being very impressive and the execution of the whole mass, and especially of the fugue at the end of the Gloria, was highly creditable. Signor Marzo’s Jesu Redemptor was sung during the Offertory by Miss Simpson, Dr. Leon and chorus. S81. THOMAS’ CHURCH. Viewed from one of the many little side galleries that nestle under the high arches the interior of St. ‘Thomas’ Church was 3 scene of impressive beauty. A full chorus and choir, consisting ot Mrs. L. L. Dan- forth, solo soprano; Miss Emily Winant, solo con- tralto; Mr. Fred, Jameson, solo tenor, and Dr. L. L. Danforth, solo basso, with organ, harp and viol accompaniment, dispensed music of high order. Many had evidently been attracted by the fine programme of musie, for quite « number left im- mediately before the sermon. Rev. Mr. ¥. Morgan, D, D., the rector, preached a short sermon from the words found in Galatians, “God sent forth his son to redeem them that were under the law.” BANNER BLESSING. ‘The Germans of the East side of the city centred at the Roman Catholic Church of the Redeemer, in ‘Third street, between avenucs A and B, to witness the blessing of the banner of the St. Aloysius Young Men's Benevolent Society. At three P, M, the church was beseiged by an immense crowd, and a few minutes later the societies represented in the ceremonies filed in and were given seats on either side of the centre aisle. The banner, which was blessed by Rev. Father Anwander, rector; Rev. Father Frisehbier, deacon, and Rev. Father Gessen, sub- deacon, was of white silk, with a picture of St. Aloy- sius in the centre and a liberal fringing of gold tassels and drapery. Among the benevolent socicties attached to the church which participated in the corey were the St. James’, St. Jacob's and St. john’s. CHRISTMAS CANTATA, A somewhat new and novel style of entertainment for this city was introduced last evening by the chil- dren of St. Bernard’s Sunday School, Pourteenth street, between Eighth and Ninth avenues. It is said to be the only cantata of the kind in the country, and illustrates, in a simple but impressive manner, the story of the birth of the Redeemer and His adoration by the shepherds and the wise men of the East. The characters were artistically rendered under the direc- tion of Father Healy, pastor of St. Bernard’s, the singing by the children of the school being much applauded. ‘There were eight diffcrent scenes or tableaux, cach being personated by characters in ap- propriate costume. After the Christmas Bells the Annunciation, with the carol Holy Night, was sung. Then came the Blessed Virgin Mary's Visit to Her Cousin, St. Elizabeth, with the hymn, Holy God, We Praise Thy Name. The Birth of Our Divine Lord x8 Announced to the Shepherds, with the carol, Christ is Born, was very pret- tily rendered, ‘hen came the visit of the Magi to King Herod, the visit to the crib in which the new-born Saviour lay, Herod's order to murder the innocents, entrance of the Holy Lonocents, with a carol and hymns, and the finale a tableau, with carols and recitations, Adeste Fideles. These enter- tainments will be continued every evening until January 6 next, except New Year's evening. ‘They afford an innocent and instructive source of amuse- ment to all who feel un interest in the events of the life of the Redeemer. IN BROOKLYN. In Brooklyn services were held in the various churches, Missionary fund subscriptions and doua- tious to the orphans were received, and the spirit of beneficence and charity was everywhere made mani- fest. The convicts, to the number of about eight hundred, were treated to extra provender at the Peni- tentiary, and the inmates of the Raymond Street Jail also partook of something better than the ordi- nary fare provided for them. At the Newsboys’ Home, in Poplar street; the Home for Aged and Lndi- gout Females, the Industrial School, the Orphan asy- lums and other institutions poate: pudding and pics were served at the principal meal. “There were matince and evening performances at the Brooklyn ‘Theatre, the Academy ot Music and other places of amusement, all of which were well patronized. There was @ brilliant sssemblage in the Sands Street Methodist Episcopal Church in the forenoon, the ve- casion being the anniversary of the Juvenile Mission. ary Society of that church, which was established about one hundred years ago. The edifice was taste- tully decorated with evergreens, and the galleries and clwnecl were adorned with appropriate Scriptural scottoes, Rev. Henry Ward Beecher was introduced aud spoke for about half an hour. IN WILLIAMSBURG. Tho biting weather kept the streets comparatively clear all day, though at the time of going to and coming from church the thronged sidewalks gaye ample evidence of more than usually large congrega- tions at the several houses of worship. The most noted event of the morning was the dedication of the portion of the new Church of the Atonement, Re- ol scopal, on the corner of Marcy avonue and Keaf street. ‘The basement only is completed and rooted in, as the congrogation do not intend to com- plete the building ull they have the money in hand ‘The dedicatory sermon was preached 4. The children of the Industrial 01, on South Third strect, were fur- uished with a bountiful dinner, and during the after- A the presents for'a large and brilliant)y iliuminated tree. The Williamsburg Benevolent Leg ciety turnished 350 families, or over 700 persons, with clothing aud provisions, the distribution taking place, as usual, from the Turner School building, in Meserole street, ELSEWHERE ON LONG ISLAND, Christmas was very quietly observed on Long Is- land. Tho villages teemed with strange faces visit- ing friends and acquaintances, but there was not the wonted frivolity owing to the excessive cold. On tho evening previous the Sundgy school festivals were held. Special trains were rin over the Lon, Isiund railroads to aud from New York, but travel was very light, STATEN ISLAND. In the Episcopal, Roman Catholic and Lutheran churches of Staten Island there were services during the day, and in some of the churches the musical programmes were elaborate and excellent. At Christ the past two weeks been busy in mak- ing strings of. 3 for the various churches of the island. “The jail was very prettily decorated with greens, both inside and out, while Sheriff Brown, assisted by several ladies in the neigh- borbood, provided the ners with turkey, chicken and other good things the way of a Christmas dinner. ‘Two hundred and fifty pounds of turkey, with its accessories, were furnished to the patients at the Seaman's Retreat, at Stapleton, und some four hundred pounds were cooked for the “Snugs”’ in the Sailor's Snug Harbor, At the Poorhouse, Uld Ladies’ Home and the Home for the Orphans of Sailors ex- tras to the regular dinner were provided. The young pore of the island were given ample opportunity ‘or skating. Silver Lake was about two-thirds frozen over, the ice was in excellent condition, and during the antiye day there was a continual throng of skaters present WESTCHESTER COUNTY, Westchester county religious services were held in the various Catholic and in most of the Episcopal churches, At the Catholic Protectory, in the town of Westchester, which is the home of about two thous- and juveniles, special and imposing religious services were held in the morning, suoeceded Uy. a hearty turkey dinner, Sheritf Brundage treat his large quota of county jail prisoners to a happy fill of chicken and other articles of diet foreign to regular prison fare. Keeper Hammond, at the County House, gladdened the paupers with similar extras, and at Sing Sing Prison no labor was done except by the cooks, who prepared a feast of chicken for their con- vict fellows. y IN NEW JERSEY. Services were held in all the churches in Jersey City, those in St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church and St. Mary’s Church, Hoboken, being more than usually imposing. Atthe former the musical programme was conducted by Professor Dressler, and at the late ter the music was rendered by the choir under the leadership of Professor Ad, Neuendorf. At the County Jail Keeper Allen, with his usual generosity, supplied the prsonere with an abundance of roast turkey and chicken, which was partaken of with great relish, At the Penitentiary, Almshouse and Lunatic Asylum, at Snake Hill, the inmates were sup- lied with turkey, chicken, cake and apples. The unatics in the asylum were treated to a promenade concert in the evening eae were plentifully supplied with candy. The orphans inthe Home for Friend- less Children, on Glenwood avenue, were treated to a sumptuous repast by the managers, and many of the juveniles received presents. ‘The streets during the day were almost completely deserted, the ice on the numerous ponds in the city attracting nearly all who ventured outside their homes. The Jersey City Heights Gun Club engaged in a series of sweepstake pigeon matches at the grounds at West End, and in the evening held an entertainment at their rooms on Newark avenue. Church going, feasting, frolicking and giving and xecely ing presents attended the celebration of Christ- mas in Newark, as everywhere else throughout the’ country. Despite the cold weather the Catholic and Episcopal churches were crowded with people de- sirous of enjoying the rich musical and regulam Christmas Day ‘servicés. Good cheer was supplied in all the public institutions. 2 RAPID TRANSIT. ANOTHER TRIP TO HARLEM ON THE THIRD AVE~ NUE ROAD—THE PUBLIC OPENING DELAYED—~ WORK ON THE METROPOLITAN EXTENSION. ‘The Harlemites, who expected that Mr. Cyrus W. Field would make them a welcome Christmas present by opening for the public travel the Third Avenue Elevated road to Harlem yesterday, looked in vain for the familiar trains above Lighty-ninth street. Only one train was run to Harlem yesterday, and that waa devoted exclusively to a number of friends of the iuanagers of the road, among whom the fair sex formed a majority. ‘The train started at eleven o’clocls in the morning and, luckily, not being detained as much by delays as the train which was run for the benefit of the press on Christmas eve, it made much better time and reached 129th street station in three- quarters of an hour, The ladies were delighted with the trip and did not exhibit the slightest timidity when the train entered upon the hitherto unused track above Eighty-ninth street. When the Harlem flats were passed, one of the party face- tiously cried out, “Harlem flat bouquet,” and signi- ficantly sniffed in the fragrant odor of that delightful region. 'The return trip was made in an equally short time, and all the party were unanimous in declaring that rapid transit to Harlem was indeed a welcome resont to the people for the new year. Colonel Ricker and Mr. Onderdonk explained to their guests that as soon a the road was in yood running order to. Harlem the schedule time would be reduced from forty-five to forty minutes. THE PUBLIC OPENING. It was decided yesterday morning that it would be better not to open the road to Harlem until matters were arranged so as to run trains with suflicient regu- larity, and to avoid complaints, and for that reason it was concluded to posipone the public opening for @ few days. It isto be remembered that if the road be even not fully opened until New Year’s Day—next Wednesday—the welcome event will have taken lace much sooner than most people had anticipated, it looks, however, as if the opening will very probably take place before next Wednesday. Until the central car depot at Ninety-eighth street is finished and can be used trains will run only to 125th street, the four blocks from 125th to 129th streets being required for the laying up of engines and cars. No stop will be made at Ninety-eighth street until the depotis finished, so that, for tlie first few wecks, only three stops will be made above the present terminus at Eighty-ninth street—namely, at 100th, 116th and 125th streets. For- tunately the buildings at these three new stations are nearly completed, so that passengers will not be ex- sed to the cutting winds and stinging cold of this cidedly “fresh” region. ‘THE METROPOLITAN EXTENSION. While the east side now has virtually secured the much coveted boon of rapid transit to the Harlem River the west side is also rapidly advancing toward that hitherto so far distant goal. ‘The work of dig- i. excavations on the Metropolitan extension eyond Kighty-third street has been pushed during the past and present week with a vigor and an energy which recall those famous scenes on West Broadway and Sixth avenue of last winter when the nights were illumined with the blazing lanterns of hundreds of workmen. Mr. Rape git ‘adel has Pome sonal charge of this primary stage e unde! , Was ordered to puton 28 men the very day the contracts were signed, and already the work has advanced uy to 120th street, All the people of the vicinity speal in terms of wonder of the I te with which the work has been pushed forw: in spite of the extremely cold weather. To-day over three hundred men will be hard at work on Ninth avenue, from Eighty-third to 110th street, and on Eighth avenue, from 110th to 120th strect, aud next week Mr, Conover thinks he will be able to set up the iron bases upon the foundations. Meanw! the iron columns and girders are being man’ in Phonixville, Pa, and as soon as they begin to arrive the force of laborers will be increased to 1,000 work- ing all the way botween Eighty-third street and 165th street. It will be remem! by many who curi- ously watched the progress of last winter's work how fortunate the company was in a mterrupted so little by slushy or muddy days, and it now looks as if they will be equally tortunate this winter in having clear aud bright though probably very cold weather. RAPID TRANSIT TO KIGHTH AVENUE. ‘The residents of the upper part of Eighth avenue are also soon to cnjoy the benefits of direct rapid transit to their thoroughfare. The Fifty-third street con- nection between the Sixth and the Ninth avenue lines of the Metropolitan Elevated Railway is idly ap- proaching completion, and work is progres: also very rapidly upon the commodious and handsome station which the Metropolitan company have placed at the intersection of Eighth avenue and Fifty-third street. It is expected that soon atter New Year's trains will be run from Rector street to this point, A LESSON IN ENGLISH. “Yon were drunk, John?” inquired Judge Morgan at Jefferson Market Police Court, yesterday, of a dirty looking manikin, with tawny, tangled beard. “Franzman. Me no unstan,” answered the pris- oner, with a shrug of the shoulders. “You're French and can't understand, ch? Where did you get him, officer?” “Asleep in the back yard of the premises men- tioned, Yer Honor.” ‘ou were asleep, John?” Franzman, Me'no unstan.” Another shrug of the shoulders, accompanied by asmile. foo much Christmas, eh?” ‘ranzman. Me no unstan.” “Too bad you don’t talk English.” “Franzman. Me no unstan. Three months on the Islan “Sac-r-r-re!” hissed John. “Ah, you understand that. I thought you would,” AN ESCAPING PRISONER SHOT, Jack Rogors, who is a “pal” of “Shorty” Lent, the burglor, was arrested yesterday afternoon by Deteos tive Murphy and Officer Gans, of the Ninth sub precinct of Brooklyn, at James slip, where he was lounging at the time, On their way to the Fulton ferry Rogers attempted to escape by breaking away from his captors, when officer Gans drow his pistol and fired ashot at him. The bali passed through the left hip, ne a severe flesh wound, The prisoner was taken to the Chambers Stroot Hospital, where his wound was dressed. He was then conveyed in a cars Fee to the Ninth sub-precinct station house and locked up for the night. The prisoner, who is thirty two years of age, is arrested on a warrant ed by Judge Semler, of the Sixth District Court, harging with committing # burglary at the residence o} J. Sebaffenergo, in Brooklyn, on Saturday night last. He will be arraigned for examination this morning, «t*