The New York Herald Newspaper, February 13, 1879, Page 4

4 NEW YORK HERALD, THURSDAY, FEBRUA WASHINGTON. ——aiennaee Mr. Tilden’s Testimony Before the Potter Committee. HOSTILE CRITICISM OF DEMOCRATS The Two Republics of the American Continent. MOVEMENT FOR A NEW TREATY. Personal Taxes in the Dis. trict of Columbia. FROM OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT. WasHINGTON, Feb. 12, 1879, MR, TILDEN BEFORE THE POTTER SUB-COMMIT- TEE—CRITICISMS AMONG PROMINENT DEM- OCRATS ON HIS ATTITUDE. ‘The statement of Mr. Tilden before the Potter Com- mittee remains a matter of interest and discussion among democrats here, many of whom are sore at the revelations made by Pelton and Smith Weed, and gravely dissatisfied with the position in which Mr. ‘Tilden has left himself. It is universally granted that technically and legally Mr, Tilden established, beyond refutation, that he kuew nothing of the cipher despatches and was not im any way concerned in or consenting to any attempts to obtain -by purchase or bribery the electoral votes of any States, But among @ number of democrats of consider- able eminence the result of the examination leaves a painful impression that he is a man ex- tremely and culpably tolerant of a grossly immoral transaction ina person very near to him, having very confidential relations with him, and whom he detected in an attempt to commit, for Mr, Tilden’s benefit, a grave criminal action. “Pelton,” it is said by these democrats, “cor- fesses that he received from Smith Weed an offer to bay the South Carolina electoral vote for a fixed sum; that he accepted the proposition and went to Baltimore to meet Weed and an agent of the Roturn- ing Board to arrange the purchase, and that as he wes getting off for Baltimore he saw Mr. Cooper and told im where he was going and that he might need some money. Mr. Coopsr testifies that the next day Pel- ton telegraphed him for $60,000 or.$80,000, he is not certain which s.m,and that he went at once to Mr. Tilden and told him all about it. Mr, Tilden, in his turn, testifies that on hearing what Mr. Cooper told him, he immediately said no such offer should be entertained, and that no negotiation of that nature should be tolerated; that not a cent should be fur- nished for any such purpose; that Mr, Pelton should be immediately telegraphed for to’ return to New York, Mr. Tilden does not attempt to con- eal that he understood accurately and en- tirely the nature and object of the transaction in which Pelton was engaged and in, which le evi- dently expected Cooper to assist him. He isa clear- headed man; what he saw was that Pelton, his sec- retary, his relative and confidential agent, had been detected in ap act of bribery—an‘act'ecandslous, im- moral and-crittiina’: No -gooner dG, Mr. Cooper tell tim of it tail Me Tilden forbade fy aud ammoned Pelton back.to New York, aa: was? right! “On ‘his"re- turn Mr. THdeh says he recetved him witt an ght burst of impatfetice and displeasute, but that was alt. Pelton testifies that his relations with Mr, Tilden were not materially altered by the transaction. Tilden himself says that he did not remove Pelton from the cousidentiel and influential position, he had occupied, and Pelton adds that after his return he Was in such position and undertook to purchase the Florida Returning Board.” “Now,”’ say these democrats, “was not Mr. Tilden himself gravely lacking in charactor, in that nico sense of honor, in the keen appreciation of a dis- graceful act which aman in his position ought cer} tainly to haye } Ought he not fo, ,haye at ones and carefully excluded Pelton from gil turther share in or kiiowledge of political transactions $ Onght he not to have ‘give “noticed ts Wil hiv“political friends that they must’ not trust Peltoit?* But what hap- pened? Not only did he allow Pelton to be regarded as holding the same confiden- tial positions as before, but all of us who were here during the wintes of 1876-'77 remember yery well that during the last month ‘of the session Pelton was herg at Washington, the openly declared agent of Mr. Tilden, occupied an ex- pensive suit of rooms at @ hotel, had with him» corps of assistants, and was in constant and close communication with Mr. Tilden, aud communicated on his behalf with the most influential men of the party here secretly, urging resistance to the verdict of the Electoral Commission, arranging political alli- ances, making himself a nuisance undoubtedly to Mr. Hewitt and other responsible men in authority, but a nuisance who had Mr. Tilden at his back, and who represented in au especial manner and with especial authority Mr. Tilden’s wishes, Now, know- ing that Pelton had been forturately frustrated at a critical moment in an attempt at bribery which no honorable man in the party woul have tolersted, onght Mr. Tilden to have al- lowed him to come down here as his ambuesador? Was he not bound if Pelton did come to inform us privately that he was not fit to be trnsted with even the petticst affair, and that we must guard ourselves against him as’ against a mad dog? But so far from takiny this just and honorable course Mr. Tilden would find it difficult to deny that in somo matters Which he thonyht of great importance he took Pel- ton’s advicé rather than that of prominent and hon- orable meu, and bade others, his supporters, to take it—advice which was of cotirse as foolish as the offer to buy a Returning Board was wrong and scandal- ous.” This is what is said hore in prominent democratic sircles of Mr. Tilden, and it is said with impatience and sometimes resentment. —— FROM OUR REGULAR CORRESPONDENT. Wasmixotos, Feb, 12, 1879, MEXTCO AND THR UNITED STATES —NECESSITY FOR A MORE EXTENDED TREATY—REPORT oF THE HOUSE COMMITTEE OX, FOREIGN AFFAIRS, The necessity of better treaty relations between the United States and Mexican governments, and the revival of popular interest in the subject by the efforts of merchants and manufacturers of this sountry to enlarge the commercial iatercourse of the two countries, have prompted the House Committec on Foreign Affairs to take under special considcra- tion the joint resolution offered in the’ House by Mr. Casey ot Tennessee, providing for a new treaty and the abrogation of existing con- ventions regulating the relations of the two govern- tents with other, Asa resnit the committee has agrecd upon a report favoring @ vigorous policy for the protection of citizens of the United States in Mexico and on the Mexican border and recommend- ing, as essential to the continuance of amicable rela- tions, the uneonditional abolition of what is called the Free Zone bordering the Rio Grande on its south side and of tho forced joan system now provalent in Young Mexico, #0 far as it affects citizens of this éountty. The entire eibfect had been referred by Chairian Swant to Mr. Wilson, of West Virginia, who, a# a member of the pittee, had given much attention and stady to the Mexican question, and he prepared the report, which has been sanctioned by the committee, reported to the Houre and ordered printed. Mr. Wildon thinks there is little or no doubt of the adoption of the amended form of the resolution, as the eetitiment of thé House is quite nnanitous in of the course proposed by the committees, Me bject. The report and will wake a speech on t Fesoltition are ae follow Thé Committde on Poréign Affaire, to whom waa Teferred Mouse of Kepreseutatives joint resolution No, 220, looking to the establishment of a further treaty with the Republic of Mexico, having had the same under consideration, ~ nies pany resolution were e subjects of cussed by the said committee during the last session of Congress, a8 will be seen by reference to House of Representatives report No. 701, Forty-tifth Congress, second session, |, The Republic of Mexico and the United States are divided by slinost imaginary lines, These lines of boundary extend over many wiles; each is rich in glossom, needed by the other; both have republican forms of government. Intimate commercial rela- tions necessarily bring about intimate socialrela- tions, and the mixing and intercourse of the peoples of the two governments in trade and otherwise will add to of friendship and amity which should exist betweon the two republics, A commercial convention, or meeting, has but re- cently been held in the city of Mexico, attenued by a great many American merchants aud men of busi- ness, and every evidence was given bs d the Mexican government and people of their friendship for our people and government and their desire to extend their trade with us, Your committee refer to the evidence of Major B. F. Ely and General Marcus J. Wright, shemeaheies this report aud referred to as apart thereof. ‘This evicence contains information, statistical and other- wise, which will be of interest and value. In the opinion of your committee the resolution referred to them is too limited in its scope, as it dows: not set forth all of the subjects upon which, in the opinion of your committee, a treaty should be male, | Thoy. therefore, rt back said resolution, with the | recommendation that it do not + Dug as a substi- tute therefor they report the tollowing preambles and resolution, which they recommend shall pass:— Whertas it is the desire and wish of the govern- ment and people of the United States of America to maintain the most amicable relations with the Ro- ublic of Mexico, as exemplified and set forth by the wenty-first and twenty-second articles of the Treaty of Guadaloupe of February 22, 1843, and reafirmed by article 7 of the Gadsden treaty of December 13, 1353; And whereas it is believed to be manifestly the interests of the people of both governments to extend and increase by all proper means the exchange of products, and to factiitate and foster the most liberal commercial relations between the people of the two governments; ‘ And whereas many citizens of the United States have invested their capital, and others are desirous of investing, in the republic of Mexico, in mining, the construction of railroads, banking, farming, stock raising and merchandising and in other enter- prises. And in this view, with the purposeot in- creasing suid investments which are. believed to be mutually beneficial to the people of both govern- ments, a treaty is deemed necessary. f _ And whereas the territory known as the “Free Zone,” on the Mexican border, has been the source from which violations of treaty stipulations, avoid- ance of tariff duties and other irregulariti have roceeded, and to maintain proper commercial and ‘riendly relations between the two countries this “Free Zone,” or ‘‘zona libre,” shall be abolished; And whereas the present extradition treaty between the two countries has proved inadequate for the Purposes for which it was madé and enterea into, und with a view to the prompt rendition and punish- ment of fugitives from justice, turther and more stringent treaty stipulations in this regard are neces- sary; And whereas experience has demonstrated that long delay in the settlement of disputed questions simply adds to the difficulty of this just and proper settlement, and {t is evideutly to the interests of both governments that for the prompt settlement ot all grievances, claims arid demands of the peoples of either government against those of the other they should be . adjudicated and determined by a court of arbitration or other tribunal, to be selected by the two governments in such manner as may be agreed upon, and shall have continuous ex- istence for a iod of ten years or more, and to be with the rank of first lieutenant, and the offices of medical pamoror and assistant seth veyors shall cease with casualty of present inew nts, and thereafter there shall be an office of medical purveyor, with the rank of lieutenant colonel. ‘The pwnber ae Pie seid ae iret iment of artil- ‘peevalry al famtry same respec: Be; - provided by law, but the uumber of N”be reduced—the artillery to tour, t and infantry to twenty, and the Secretary of War shall from ‘time to time, and in such manner as may be for the best interest of the same, discontinue such — regiments as ma rendered | super ry, this <A Ba shall transfer the of supernumerary regiments to other regiments of the same arm as rapidty as vacancies in the retained regiments occur; and he may disc! eo or transfer the enlisted men of the supernumerary regiments, ‘The law limiting the number that may be on the retired list is re} and extending its bereits to captains and lieutenants who have served twenty years in the army on their own application, and also requiring the President to place thereon all officers who, before January 1, 1880, sal be. sixty-two years of age, or Kg served as cheers for torty years. . It further provides for a retimmg board to examine ofiicers ordered before it. Any officer who, before, . January 1, 1880," shall tender his resignation, if the President approve aud accept the same, shall be entitled to receive three years’ full pay, but_no payment shall be made untii his ac- counts are settled. Whenever the number of officers in any staff de- partment is certified by the chiof thereof to be iu- suficient the President may detail officers of the line for such duty. “Nothing in the act is to be held to require the in- voluntary discharge of any oflicer from the army. THE POTTER COMMITTEE, At an informal meeting of the Potter Investigating Committee to-day, at the instance of the republican Members, it was agreed to issue subpanas for Messrs. Coyle, of New York; Woolley, of Cincinnati; Solomon, of South Carolina, and Dunn, of Florida. No other business. of 4 public character was transacted. Although & meeting of the committee is celled for to-morrow, it is not probable that anything interesting will occur until Monday next, at which time the above named persons are expected to arrive in the city. CONGRESSIONAL NOTES, ‘The Senate reeolution providing for an investiga- tion of the Cheyerine massacre was to-day reported back to the Committee on Indian Affairs, and on mo- tion of the Chairman (Mr. Allison), on behalf of the committee, a resolution was agreed to providing for the appointment of a seléct committee of five Sena- tors to sit during the recess and imquire into all thé circumstances connected with the escapo of these Indians and their subsequent slaughter, the com- mittee to have power to examine witnesses, &c. The Senate to-day resumed consideration of the bill to provide additional accommodations for the library of Congress, the pending question being on the motion of Mr. Conkling to recommit the bill to the Library Committee, with instructions to report a Dill providing for a commission of skilled persons to examine and report touching the different sites for the library, and especially touching practical changes which may be made in the Capitol building adapted to the accommodation of the two houses of Congress and the library. An amendment of Mr. Edmunds to the motion of Mr. Conkling was agreed fo, so subject at all Times to ait ad determine cages prop- erly before it on the demand of either government; An@) whereas citizens of either government resid- ing in the other should be exempted from forced loans and illegal and onerous taxation or exactions, therefore be if Resolved by the Senate and House or Representa- tives of the United Statcs of America in Congress assembled, that the President of the United States be and he is hereby requested to 0; diplomatic correspondence with the goyernment of the Republic of xico with a view to enter into further treaty negotiations with said government for the purposes indicated in the foregoing preamble, and such other purposes ag in his discretion he may deem necessary, aud that if, in his opinion, this object can be best accomplished by th» appointment of commissioners, that he be requested to appoiat such commissioners, and that the compen- sation of said commissioners, if appeinted by the President, be fixed by the Secretary of Stute and paid ont of any moneys not otherwise appropriated from the Treasury of the United States. PERSONAL TAX IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA— MR, ATTORNEY RIDDLE'S CONSTRUCTION OF THE LAW. Mr. A. G. Riddle, Attorney for the District of Columbia, to whom the Commissioners yesterday re- ferred the letter from. General B. F, Butler declining to pay his personal tax, has propared an opinion on the subject which he will to-morrow submit to the District Commissiouers. In this opinion he says:— This has reference to that large and im- portant class of; property owners—Senators, members of the Cabinet. and of the House, and others filling important public places, and an increasing number of wealthy persons xojourners at the capital. The law is furnisned by Congress; -its construction ix left to the District ‘Goyymissioners, If misapprehended it may be re- vised by the law officers of the United States or do- tertified by a declaratory act or resolution of the two houses, For the time being nearly tho wholo personm of ali the great departments of the govern- ment are the subjects of the District of Columbia and such authority as hero exists, and share Jargely its advantages and protection, its dixcom- forts snd inconveniences. It is within the rovince of the two houses to define by jaw the exact relatione ot the persome of their members, and of all functionaries to municipal authorities os they are pleased to eet up here. , Until that is done they are to be recognized and governed as all other sojourners not of the foreign legations. The act of March 3, 1877, and the amendatory act of April 3, 1878, form the present Tax law of the Dis- trict. This provides for the levying upon all real and personel property $1 50 for each $100 of assessed valine. It declares that all the property, real and personal, in the District, not owned by the United States, shall be taxed,’ no matter who the Owners are or where they reside. Its sitaa- -tion slone determines its liability. As a general rulo personal property is taxable at the house of the owner, under the principle that its possession tol- lows his person. If, however, the property is per- manently out of the state of his domicile it cannot be taxed there, All personal property can be ta} in the State or jurisdiction where it is. A man who keeps a residence here, the furniture of which con- stautly remains in the house, like itself may be taxed here, thongh the owner may have bis residence else- where, Ifhis furniture comes and goes with him the rule would be otherwise. Moneys, securities and credits, I think, can only be taxed in the home State, and clearly no property should be taxed in two States tor the same time. By the act of April 3, 1878, the provisions are that there shail be levied upon all personal property within the District not taxed elsewhere but owned by persons temporarily residing in the District a tax of $1 50 on each $100 ot the assessed value thereof. This I contend is the text of the present law on which rests the sub- ject matter. It is the object of all general tax laws to reach as. widely as they may, compelling all owners of “ag ty to contribute to the burdens of government. My straction is that it is not the purpox: of the Jaw to subject prop- erty to taxation here upon which the owners pay a tax cleowhere, nor yet to tésess property under it which is here for a temporary purpose though not taxef clscwhere, Mr. Riddle concludes by calling attention to. the fact that other Congressmen havo made similar re- fusal to the demands made on them by the Commis- sioners, and sateastically says these Congressinen who make the law have it in their power to change it to swit themselves. They are the law makers and should not be law breakers, os GENERAL WASHINGTON DESPATCHES. Wasurxertox, Fob, 12, 1879, ARMY REONGANIZATION—AMENDMENT OF SENA- TOR SPENCER TO THE ARMY APPROPRIATION BILL. Souator Spencer's amendment to the Atmy Appro- priation bill offered to-day is in the nature of a sub- stitute for the reorganization sections, 4 to 46 inelu- sive, It provides that there shall be no more promo- tions vor appointments to any grade except as here- after provided, until the number of officers shall be reduced to the following number :—General officers— three major geuerats and six brigadier generals. One adjutant general, with the rank of briadicr general; two colonels, three lietitenaut colonels and eight majors. Otie inspector general, with the rank of Urigadier general; one colonel and two inajors. One judge advocate general, with the tank of briga- dier general, and three majors. One quartermaster genoral, with the rank of briga- ier general; three colonels, six lientenant colonels, twelve majors and twenty-four captains, One commineary general of subsisterice, with the tank of brigadier general; two colonels, three Mou. tenant colonels, 1x majors and ptains. One payniaster general, with she rauk of brigadier general; two colonels, two Heutenant colonels and torty majo One chiet of orduance, with the rank of brigadier general; two colonels, four Hentenant colonels, eight majors, sixteen captsins and twelve first lieutenants, One chiet of engitieers, with the rank of brigadier general; five colonels, nine Heutenant colonels, eighteen majots, twenty-four captains, twenty fitst lieutenants and ten second lieutenants. One surgeon general, with the rank of brigadier genoral; one assistant snrgeon general, with the rank of colonel; theee surgeons, with the raak of colonel; one medical putveyor, with the rattk of lieu tenant colonel; seven surgeons, with the rank of lieutenant. : forty surgeons, with the rank of majors vO axeivtant surgeons with the rank of captaim; torty-@ight assistant surgeons as to provide that the bill be recommitted to the Library Committee with instructions to report.a bill providing for a commission of skilled persons to ex- amine and report to Congress at its next session touching practical changes which may be made in the Capitol building adapted to the accommodation oft the two houses of Congrese and the library, and the original resolution of Mr. Conkling, as thus amended, was agreed to. On motion of Senator Sargent, of California, the House dill to restrict the immigration of Chinese into the United States was taken up so it should ‘be the unfinished business to-morrow. The session of the House to-day was devoted to the consideration or the Legisfative, Judicial and Execu- tive Appropriation bill in Committee of the Whole, Among the amendments adopted was one submitted by Mr. Hewitt, of Alabama, requiring the marshal or officer making arrest of any person charged with vio- lation of the Revenue law to carry his prisoners before the nearest officialwho is authorized to take Dail. . During tlie discussion on the amendment a case was cited where a marshal had brought a prisoner 196 miles, althongh there wae a commissioner near where the arrest was made. Mr. Herbert, of Alabama, also cited a casé where @ Ccmmissioner eat all last winter in the city of Montgomery, insuing. warrants for the arrest of persons all over the State, which persons were carried hundreds of miles to Mont- gomery at great expense to the governmentand to their great inconvenience and injury. FIVE-TWENTIES—EIGHTY-EIGHTH CALL FOR RE- DEMPTION. The Sccretary of the Treasury this afternoon issued tho eighty-cighth call for the redemption of fiyo- twenty bonis of 1865, consols of 1867. The call is for $20,000,000, of which $10,000,009 are coupon and $10,000,000 are registered bonds. The principal and interest will be paid at the Treasury on und after the 12th day of May next, and the interest will cease on that day. Following are descriptions of the bonds:— Coupon bonds, dated July 1, 1867:— 50—No. 80,001 to No, 85,000, both inclusive. 100—No. 130,001 to No. 146,000, both inclusive, $500—No. 41,001 to N 000, both inclusive, $1,000—No, 129,001 to No. 144,000, both inclusive, Total coupon, $10,000,000. Registered bonds, “redeemable at the pleasure of the United States arter the Ist day of July, 1872’ $50—No, 4,101 to No, 3,173, both inclnsive, $100—No. 22,951 to No. 23,200, both inclusive. $500—No. 11,161 to No. 11,300, both inclusive. $1,000—No, 42,301 to No. 43,400, both inclusive, $5,000—No. 12,151 to No. 13,400, both inclusive. $10,000—No. 21,301 to No. 23,00), both inclusive, ‘Total registered, $10,000,000. Aggregate, $20,000,000, THE BLAINE , INVESTIGATION. A DEFEATED CANDIDATE'S STORY OF THE RE- CENT CAMPAIGN IN MISSISSIPPI —FEELING AMONG THE PEOPLE—HORROR OF COLORED RULE—CONDUCT OF BULLDOZERS AC THE HUSTINGS. Wasttxatox, Feb. 12, 1879. The Teller Committee to-day examined General Reuben E, Davis, of Mississippi. There were among the auditors Senator Bruce and Representatives Mul- drow, Hooker, Chalmers dud Money, of that State. General Davis testified that previous to secession he was @ member of the House of Kepresentatives; had been connected with the Judiciary of Mississippi and held office under the Confederate States; he was a candidate for Congtess in tho late election from the First district. He narrated the history of the canvass; there were in that district six “white” and five “colored” counties; lo travelled with Mr. Mul- drow and they made speeches together; Mr. Muldrow was his political opponent; he mentioned several places whore he was not allowed to speak without interruption, and said that he had been informed privately of threats to prevent him from being heard, although Mr. Muldrow was hetrd without any interruption whatever; the iden prevailed, it was said, that he was endeavor, ing to reorganize the negroes in opposition to the democrats; atter the election he heard that he had beoh hanged in -efligy and then burned; he was « greenback candidate, having been nominated by that party in opposition to his own wishes, and was voted for by the colored people, who understood thetr in- terests on that question, : INNEGULANITIES ALLEGRD, The witness spoke of the irregularities in the vote. ‘He was at first inforned that he had been elected, but Sata gg told that Mr. Muldrow was sne- constitu. 4 Senitor Garland, of the comiutttee, asked tho wit- nex whether by did not once nuke a speech in Con- grees «about banging Northern . men, The witness replied that he did make # in Decew' 1860; it was dt the consideration ‘of an election case. In that rs arraigned the republic as rebels; and ipeec! said if Mr. Seward would come South and utter such sentiments as he entertained and had frequently ex- P he (the witness) thought the ie le would hang him before he returned to the North; he wag brought bere as a witness without his consent, but he wold stato thé truth iu response to every ques- tion propounded, Senator Garland asked him whether he was # re- publicién now but not a radical. The witness te- Fine em # re bor democrat; I hold to the lostrine of the greatest good to the greatest number,, and wherever this leads 1 will go; I was kicked ous ot the democratic party when a boy in 1835; 1 lave since been kicked out on the currency question, aud 1am tow out of the party by force.” ABOUT RADICALS, Senator Garlond calied the attention of the witness to his testimony before the Boutwell Committee in 1876, ‘Phe witness said be indorsed every word then uttered by him. He had said that the radicals were bulldozers and that they operated on negroes by superstition, threatening to put snakes ligaras rovision is made for | ito them. He here saded to that testimony that the democrats at the present time are obnoxious to then said of ‘tho radicals. A white mau could not vote in the South against the democracy without Deing ostracised. “But,” said the witness, “1 dread the assassin’s knife more than Ido ostracism.” He said in that soe gro Aire the white man was more moral than and intelicctually superior to the Beara. raised by the democrats more for that tes- timony han for all the other acts of his life to- er, Yet these very men undertook to rally tage tt ihen. egninat YAmD for abet he said on that occasion. He believerl the gréut majority of his district wus against bulldozing and ballot box stutt- ing, but there was a class of ambitious, aspiring men, who sought to render all persous odions who did not adopt their views, and it had been openly declared that any man could express his opin- ions within the limits of the democratic party, but eutside he ‘does so at his peril,. The time was when differouces of opinion were respected, but this was changed and we have in its place falsehood and low, vulgar abuse. He claimed that by a fair count he could have beaten Colonel Muldrow by 10,000 votes, and in conclusion said that recent events had devel- oped the fact that we have the weakest government on earth, “You can, legislate,” he said, ‘and yet you cannot protect me, aud im case of ing death by violence you cannot give my wife and children a pension. The people can say, Jaws we defy ‘and scorn,’ and yet you compel men to tes: tify on subjects which may subject them to personal violence.” * THE CAMPAIGN IN MISRIASIPYI. William H, Vasser, of Mississippi, testified that he was a native of Virginia, bat lived at Aberdeen Since 144; originally he was baptized in the old whig party, and since the war he was elected ou the Alcorn ticket State ‘Treasurer; in the late election he supported the greenback ticket. He gave a faoaing narrative of events in the campaign, stating tha! Okalona the political meeting was very boisterous, two-thirds of the crowd seomed to be drunk; Muldrow was quietly listened to, but Mr. ‘Da was prevented trom speakiny; while he was at West Point ha was y} upon for a talk; he was charged with niakiug a radical speech; ho had put his.speech im print; a crowd came in, an one of the persons comprising it deinanded what ho was reading; he felt satistled it was a bulldozing crowd; ayreat many white people supported Mr, Davis; the yreenback clubs were generally organized by Deane in the country. Senator Cameron, of Wisconsin—What do you call a radical speech? *A,. What you would calla republi- eau speech they would call a radical and insurree- tionary one; everything {is called radical in Migsi sippi that is not democratic; a may who makes such # Speech is considered 4 pest, and if the speaker is a man of ability he is considered a dungeroua pest; a man’s social and business relations sre affected by his political opinions. A RADICAL DEFINED. Senator Kirkwood, of lowa—What is a radical? A. I think a republican Seuator would be called radical. Senator Tellor—A nan not a democrat? A. Every- body not # democrat, Senator Kirkwood—Is it the habit of bulldozers to go inacrowd? A. Yes; but you will find in Missis- sippi middle aged men aud men advanced in life moderate and rospectifil to all citizens; the confu- sion and boisterous and illegal conduct are continued to younger inen, the politics of Mississippi being largoly governed by young men. Senator Kirkwood—I suppose that if white men were to adyisecolored mon to stand up for their rights it would be considered insurrectionary? A. I don’t think such’ persons would be well received. Senator Kirkwood—It would not be considered in- surrectionary to advise 3 white democrat to stand up for his rights? A. Oh, no; that is said on every stump; a white man would lose his social reputation by advising a republican to do so. Senator Teller—Why cannot the republican party be reorganized: in Mississippi? A. The republican party there is virtually deal; it hos had no. vitality since 1875 and 1876; the leaders were mostly Northern men, and since the State passed into democratic hands the republicans have been withont leaders. The wituess in reply to a question by Senator Cam- eron suid the whites would take every measure pos- s.blo to prevent the State from-again iting iuto re- Pi teseae dg. The people havea great horror of cing ruled RA colored people. Rigor ot ‘Teller—Suppose the colored people are in 6 majority— Witness Have no doubt they are. Senator Teller ‘continuing his question)—Would not the white people submit? A. they did for sev- eral years; thoy would resort to every perets it to prevent such a result and to antagonize the blacks, Senator Teller—Is there any objection to Northern into the State? A. ‘They look on it as an think the people have been demoralized men comin: intrusion; by the war. GENERAL CONDITION IN MISSISSIPPI. In further response to questions the witness said he had heard of no convictions in the Chisholm mur- der case; that it is the determination of the white people to keep contfol of affairs in Mississippi; that the colored vote must be suppressed unless it be cast tor the democracy; that the prejudices engen- dered by the war have not subsided on the part of the white people. The witness further said that theré was an effort in Mississippi to divide the dem- ocratic party, aid that he would use his influence to induce the colored men to yote his way. Senator Cameron—Did you ever know a political i punishelin your State? A. Icunnot suy; it is adifiicuit niatter fo get men to go before a grand jury. Senator Kirkwoou—What protection is there for negroes who vote your way? A. The protection given by white men; a colored man wili vote for any man in opposition to the deuocratic party if he can be protected, Senator Cameron—It has been claimed that the colored vote was divided between the republicans und the democrats? A, My observation does not lead me to that conclusion. Ly reo ate then adjourned until to-morrow at o'clock. elev VIOLATIONS OF ELECTION LAWS. ’ Battmong, Feb, 12, 1879. In the United States Circuit Court, Judge Bond pro- siding, in the case of William Rodenhigh, indicted for interfering with a United States marshal and in- timidating voters at the late Congressional election, the jury rendered a verdict of yuilty. Ho was sen- tonced to pay a fine of $5 and costs and to imprison- ment for sixty days. Ricumonn, Va., Feb. 12, 1879. Inthe United States Circuit Court to-day, in the case of Adolphus Gitman, on trial for violation of election laws in forcibly ejecting deputy United States marshal trom the -polling room in the Fifth wi ot Petersburg, which was continued from yesterdiy, Judge Hughes mado # ruling to the effect that deputy marshals of elections have no right xuch room during the progress of voting unless their prosence is needed to quell actual disturbance, or if a supervisor be in actual need of protection, or if fraud be at- tem) The evidence not being of a character to sustain such a charge, the District Attorney entered 8 nolle prosequi_ and the prisoner was discharged. ‘The evidence in the caso of Alexander Vaughan, a judge ot clections in Petersburg, charged with “bal- Jot-box staffing,” was heard and the case continued until to-morrow, ‘The cases, of Parham and Oliver, judges of elec- tion in the same city, were coutinucd till the next term of Court. i LOUISIANA REPUBLICANS, NEw Onvrans, Feb, 12, 1879. The Louisiana republicans organized to-day for the Constitutional Convention campaign, Warmoth, with Dumont, in command; Jack Wharton in the First, Stamps im the Second, Marka in tho Third, Lwonard in the Fotirth, McMillan in tho Fifth and Anderson in the Sixth Congressional districts, with Messrs. Badger, Lewis and Ladd to coustitut : paign committes. They promise vigoruus work. VIRGINIA’S DEBT, A NEW PROPOSITION FROM THE DONDHOLDERS. (ey TELEGRAPH TO THE HERALD.) : Ricumonp, Feb. 12, 1879,¢ The Joint Finance Committee of the House and Senate held asoxsion at the Exthange Hotel this evening, at which au amended proposition for the settloment of the debt question was submitted by representatives of the Americtin Bond Axdo- ciation, of London, Mr. Bourerie, president, and the Funding Association of the Uni Staton, Mr. H. McCulloch, peesidout. This propusition, is simi lar to that recently miad t that, in accordance with a request of a num! ot debt paying members of the General Assembly, the term at thice per dent interest has been extended trom five to ten years. TERMH OF THE NEW PROVUXTTION. As it now stands the two associations of London aud New York agree to fund the entire debt of Var- ginia, both consol and pecier Louds, in few bonds rinning forty yoars at the following rates of in- terest:—Three per cent for ten yeors, four por cent for twenty years and five por cent for years, INOBABLE LEGIALATIVE ACTION. The joint comfuittes by a very decisive vote to report a bill embod; this proposition to their respective houses, to-morrow if sible, if not, @s soon therealter as prssuceble. fe is the opinion of some Vroieee debt payers that such a bill may puss during the present seasion, with some slight modifications, but the indications are it it will meet with strehtious opposition from tho extreme justers in the General Assembly. The commit- tow have already agrees ask the tuning assoc: tions to except from the operation of tax receivable coupons ten cents on $100 for the support of the public sehouls, TENNESSEE'S DEBT. (sy TELEGRAPH TO THE neraLy.} Nasitvinte, Feb. 12, 1879, ‘The proposition from the holders of State boride bronght by General Roger A. Pryot to the Legisia: ture, offering to compromise Tennessee’s $25,000,000 debt at sixty cents on the dollar in bonds bearing sit per cent interest or the reduction of the interest to four per cent on the total amount of the indebtedness in fitty-year bonds, will be, presented in the House to-morrow and be refe: to the Five nance Committee. While there is @ manifest growth of seutiment among the people fat of the wettle- that the presen aid mont of the State debt, ily sald fore ad js ialature haa not yet | wit do nothing toward during this session, RY 13, 1879--TRIPLE SHEET. THE STATE CAPITAL. A Suspicious Quistude About New York City Salaries RUMORS OF A BARGAIN. What the New Building Bill Proposes to Do. [BY TELESRAPH To THE RERALD.) ALnANY, Feb, 12, 1879. ' Not a single representative, political, departmental or civic, appeared before Dr. Hayes’ Assembly Com- mittee on Cities this afternoon in response to thé invitation extended as to a discussicn over salary bills for New York. Mr. Strahan spoke in favor of his bill, cutting down the estimates of thie { it departmenis in 1879 some twenty per cent on the sums allowed during the ‘present year for salaries, The gebtleinan undertook to prove that his bill would result in saving the city of New York over $2,000,000 yearly on the salary account alone! No action was taken by the cominittee upon this proposition.” The neglect of the New York municipal suthorities in failing to send 4 representative to argue in sup- port of a feasible plan for reducing the number of sinecures and the enormous salaries paid to certain political favorites is the subject of considerable discussion here to-night.’ It is conceded, however, that no extended arguments are necessary in this connection. Everybody under- stands that if it is the will of the presont Legislatare tw pass @ bill doing away with evils of this character, & proper measure can be drafted in twenty-four hours which would accomplish so desirable au. object. But’ the _ politics leaders of all parties in New York, it is argued, seem to fear ‘ideutification with such a movement, They know that patronage moaus power and emolaments aud thoy do not particularly care to decrease it by 4 ineasures that will reduce that patronage, It is vaguely hinted that a political deal is likely to be made by which a republican and democratic ring may continue, as in former years, to control the dis- pensation of the loaves and fishes in the metropolis, VOLY RUMORS PREVAILING, A few woeks more must determine the truth of this assertion. Rumors continually float around here of men being bought, either with patronage or by some More questionable means, to achieve cor- rupt ends as far as New York city legislation is con- cerned, The party of “high moral ideas’? must ‘hold itself responsible if those assertions c&n be sub- stantiated at tho end of the session. They must also understand that their peculiar prectices are much more likely to be watched at the present time than heretofore. Formerly public sensibilities were not 80 likely to be shocked by legislative log rolling. Such efforts can now be called by their proper names, “Bribery,” “perjury” and “‘thieving.”’ The out- look to-night, at least as far as metropolitan legisia- tion is concerned, seems to point directly at the usual system of “log rolling” so prevalent every rr. *Sfhe old-now Capitol celebration, Foported further On, came off to-night, and assumed appearance of abroad farce. Everyboily understood that the ceremonies were arranged to ordor, for the purpose of keuping up the. apeironent pees this moustrously extensive and expensive pili Lieutenant Goy- ernor Dorsheimer, as the presiding genius, came in full evening dress, atter a caretul et ofa speech, brimful of enlogy. for tl at things that were to be done by the immact islators under the aome of the luxurious cdifice, one-fifth of which hans cost the people of the State $10,000,000. , Speaker Alyord delivered an ‘address. on the great men that done their work under old Capitol in- finences, Governors, Lieutenant Governors, Comp- trollers, Secretaries, of State and even Canal Com- inissioners. Dix, Seymour and other distinguished Governors were mentioned, but no allusion what- ever wos mude to the work ‘ormed by Tilden. The “Old Man Kloquent” of Onondaga silent upon the virtues of the Gramercy Park statesuian. Tho “funeral cerenionies” Insted until alter ten o'clock. Governor Robinsbn was sensible enough to stay away. : ‘THE BUILDING LAW. : he pioctoal bill introduced in the Assembly to- day tes to the important subject of buildings in the city of New York and tho laws relative thereto. This bill, which is very lengthy, proposes to and reduce to ohe act all statutes bearing upon su maftors hitherto passed by the Legislature. It wax introduced by Mr, Strahan, and referred to the Ju- diciary Committee tor consideration. The loose manner in which many of the buildings are con- structed in ‘the metropolis and the reports current for years as to wholesale corruptions in the depart- ment having control of such matters, it is said, in- duced the present codification and amendments. The penis sections relate to the foundations, walls and method of erecting all classes of buildings. ‘These do not differ materially from the present laws. Section 16 provides that all stores or storehouses or other buildings more than two storics high, or above twenty-five feet in height above thecurb level already erectod, or that may hereatter be built in New York, excep’ welling houses or churches, shall have doors, Dlines or shutters made of fireproof metal on every Window and opening above the first story; hoiatways, levators or woll holes are to be protected by a substantial railing and trap doors. By section 14 mo smoke pipe wil be allowed in any building with wooden or combustible floors, unless shall bo at least eighteen inches from floors or ve! ‘The same section provides further safeguards in foot- lights, location of registers aud other heating appa- ratus. In future all exterior cornices and gutters of all bufldings must bo of some fireproof material. ‘As to the providing of fire escapes section 28 reads as follow: Any dwelling house now erected or that hers erected more than two stories in height, oc built to be oceupied by two vr more familie above.the iret, and all KH ROW erected. mm f by or built tote above tho first .xtor iter may bo pled by or by building alreuly erected wr that may horoafter wo erected hres stories in height, vccupied or He to, Ne ocempled. OF. ned, Rn athe or lodging houre, or any factory, 5 unutactory or workshop In whiew operatives are employed on auy of the atorios above the itat story. and all buildings in an Isvlated position alroady erected, oF that imay heraatter be erectod, more than throw stories in height, built to contain or thas ‘does contain, or is oecupied. by three or more families above the first ‘story shall be pro- vided with suet fire excapes, dlarms and doors as shali be diroetod by the Commissionor of Buildings. As to safoty in public buildings—as hotels, churches, theatres, school houses. restaurants, rail- road depots, public halis and other piaces used or intended io be used for purposes of public amuse- ment or instruction--the Jaw provides that ‘halls, doors, stairways, seats and aisles shall bo #0 arranged an to facilitate egress in (of fite of accident and to afford. the requisite and proper accommodation for public protection im such cases; aud all such aisles and passageways in buildings shall be kept free from Ged stools, Chairs, sofas, persons standing therein other obstructiops during any perform- vervive, exhibition, lecture, concert, ball or ano lic assemblage.” tne following rules are laid down for the erection theatres: The building shall have at least oue front on the public strect, together with au open Space not less than ten feet wide, for theatres ac- commodating not more than one thousand persons; one Of more ontlets on the highway toward the auditorium not less than twenty teet in width; siumi- lar independent outlets to bo provided toward the pone ‘or other theatres the width of the xpaco aud ontleta 1s to be determined by the Commissioner of Buildings according to the number ot persons ac- commodated, Gates, opening out ward, must be sn plied to thon ontlets. A number of other safeguards ue to the location of store rooms, placiug of fire walis between auditorium and stage, interior wall, adjo: ing structures, &e., are alan det down in: the sev tion ‘Tegulating construction of theatres, tage scenory and decorations; and ail wood work in the inity muyt be saturated with some incombastiblo material or otherwixe rendered eee fire to the satixfaction of the Fire Departinent low York city. The location of seats and vther talerer arrangements are also strictly provided tor. ways tiust be constracted of fire-proof material, Further rules are laid down as to placing of boilers, hand pumps, buckets of water and yus mains. Section 3L compels the owner or agent of the biilding where a fire takes plico and luman lit from the Commissioner of Buildings. A large nun bor of other acctions deal with the manner ot pun- ishing offences aguinst the act and the routine to be pursted in sich cases, Scotion 43 enacts that ‘ail the officers of the de- bag tthe attorney, clerks and messeu- gers, alt be ‘Ather Pract! architects, hotise car- penters or masons, and have sorvod # regular approut hip as such.” Concluding sections pro- weribo the duties of there employés and their chief, the Commissioner of dings. An to tho appointment of tho last named oficial & peculiar clause ia invorted which say*:—— “The same porson appointed by the Mayor of the city of New York on the wth day of December, 1474, as Superintendent of Buildings shall be. sioner of Buildiugs, named in this act, which Commissioner shall hold office for the ter six yours and shall receive @ sulary of $6,000 num.” ‘. ‘BROOKLYN ‘TRANACT. Mr. Ogden to-day introduced a bill in sie Ashonibly intended to repeal the charter of the Brooklyn Steam ‘Transit Company, a4 that had not com- pliod with certain provisions by which # part of a ake traneit tos wit to ie condploied ‘een a given 10, onl Meier ny of the State down, and the work they had am r in Uae atdbriots where 5 paried to-day: in Pe 2 todiithids sontftdtén where the cats for wach con plains Ly eed removed previous ae Ane commmeanee ment ot action. was stricken out, as it was coi ee! to be a ona pag pager pro- ‘ult legal authorities on the subjec: thes seidoas to the constitutionality of claakd he will have it reinserted in the Senate. <,. GEREMONIES AT THE SEW CAPITOL, The Bentie and cpeenalie met in joint convention in the Assembly Chamber this evening to participate in eremrmoya ee hry ¥ ot the tnanalag of the ature trom the old to the new Capitol. early two. thousand persons, inelnding many ladies, ¥ At half-past seven o'clock the Speaker called the House to order. that acommittes be appointed Mr. Husted moved §bo Senate that the House was in aie] to aa and ly in joint session. ‘This was and the Chair sas inted Messrs, Husted and Hola- han such cot M Senators Hughes and Edick appeared at the bar of the House and informed the Chair ‘was in sexsion and ready to mmieot in iene Teg va phortl, ter the Senate entered 3] i boa Rad Edad baala.” Prayer Sa spe. cuember ips ie PyBPiPe 4 LETTER FROM THE.GOVERXO) i é lettor was then read from Governor Robinson, ag ollows :— ; 4 Srare ov Naw 4 xcutive Cnasmen, ALBAN ome XN Dousumiaien, Lisiitonans Govern: oxtreine retro 1 tind: with, That T sh prived of tho priviloge of listoning to the adar bel soll, Speaker Alvord and Mr. Brooks. this ing, as Ehad hoped todo. Bvery moment of my time is occupied with pitciad, sducios -of -anuaual urgency: 1 nee. moraorer, by the ‘morning. papers that the coremoniés ane. ox preted’ to occupy threo or four ‘hours, and tam advised by my oculist that there would bo great danger of entirely arrosting the improvement going on with my eyes if [should expose them to the gaslights in the Aj sembiy Chambar eyon for qugtonrth of that timo, and he protests against ie most earnestly. Tam, with great re. spect, yours very truly, L. ROBINSON, yumttbes of tro to laform ec et daags and com: of two to inform the i Y sociate Judges of the Court of Appeals that the Senate and Assembly were in joint convention, and to ine vite their papnenees. The motion was. carried, and Senator Robertson and Assemblyman Penfield 8 sppolnted: as the, conunittee. Bhaty afterward ‘the Jw wi 00) ges entered the Chamber and took seats. a rere pet oie tp eae ead ced by vord, an vered an, addresa on revereuce for places, and sketched what he thonzht would be the future of the Slate. . Speaker Alvord was then introfluced ,by the Lieu- tenant Governor. He spoke of the personnel of the occupants of the old Cupitol, from the o1 asin rmed. Lieutenant Governot Dorsheimer then introduced the Hon. Erastus Brooks, who delivered a very in- teresting address. epuerarrere wanes wnamaseted lieutenant Governor 0! » pepker, of Assembly and the Hon. tus firocke for their clo- quent , and that the same be qeiniegia Be. journals of the Senate and the Assembly, Car- ried. A benediction was then pronounced by the ane. lain of the Senate, the Rev, Dr, Halfey, and the joint convention was then dissolved. NEW JERSEY LEGISLATURE. DISCUSSION OF THE GREAT RAILROAD BRIDGE PROJECT. TaeENTox, Feb. 12, 1879. The great railroad fight opened ‘in earnest this afternoon, when the bill providing for the building of a bridge over the Morris Canal at Washington street. Jersey City, case up before the House of Assembly. The Pennsylvania Railroad Company and the New Jersey Central aro. the contest. ants. The former oppose the building of the bridge and the latter support it. Mr. Dxcon made a long speech in opposition to the bridge. He said it would be a violation of the faith and honor of New Jersey to pass the bill. It was uot 4 general, at fal one. Heo: attention to the act of 1867, hich granted certain privileges to \the Morris Canal Company at the place where the bi was proposed to be built. This company - to the State $25,000 a year for “sy privileges. ‘alluded to the bankruptcy of the Central Railroad Company; who, cannot pay the interest on their bonds, ‘‘Then,”’ asked he, “how could they pay $25,000 a year? A bird in the lisnd is worth two in the bus! “ Dominie Robinson opposed the.bill on the nd exten matinee Mee Improperly an sty, he arent ‘40 home to Patorsoi 4 Mr. Mecks, of Jc City, Ccite the, pound of expense, be f it tax ridden city nal ‘The bill would, if passed, benef Railroad and would not benotit Jersey a ‘Messrs. Rouse and Van Duyne spoke in favor ol the bill, and sul uently it was made the 6: order for next Monday evenin; A WRONGED WOMAN RIGHTED, A HUSBAND'S NEGLECT AND DESERTION DOES NOT DEFEAT THE WIFE'S CLAIM TO A SHARE IN HIS ESTATE, : ‘voted for it Purcaperrats, Feb, 12, 2879, Another interesting case has. come) before the courts, growing out of the confiitting clafha'Ut two th, Women to be considered the legal widolt’ ar who died and left an. estates (Che iu Yess than $10,000)" tut Ehere’”™ cumstances in story which unfolded that the trial make the decision of Judge Hanna, in the Orplians’ Court to-day, one of peculiar the interest and importance. Even in the cold and un- colored ianguage of Judgo Hanna’s legal opinion, giving only the essential facts, there is a pathos th the recital of the wrongs of tho first wife which can- n6t but appeal to all who read the story. Jndge Hanna says:—John Coates and Ellen, his wife, wére married in England on September 1, 1844, find lived together until his departuré for the United States, on April 19, 1847, two children having been born to them betore he eet ont for this country, Coates left England with the knowledge and consent of his wife, but with the understanding and promiso thet he would send for her and his children as soon as he was able to do so, In che year 1850 Coates settled in this city, and on January 2, 1851, he married Mary ‘Aspen, by whom he hed seven children, six of whom are now liv- ing. During the _ years 1850-51 his eldest son William was brought to this country from England by bis uncle, Joseph Coates, and, in 1852, Coates con- sented to have his youngest son Ashton brou; here, but he never sent for his wife or Fone ¥ moneyfor her passage, although it scems that hi was of sufficten: means prior to his so- called marriage with ah, Aspen. From the timo Coates left Eny in 1sd47, notil 1851, he sent his wife but £3 sterling for her support and mainte. nance, and from the time he departed tor the United States she was compelled to labor to maintain her- self and children until the latter were sent for tojoin their father. Coates married Mary Aspen in Jautiary, 1851, and about the same time his English wife was informed hy wet who had left this a and had returned to the village in which she had lived since her has! vt had fett her that he was keeping com- pany with snother woman. She believed this. report to be truce, because he had not replied to her le! and she had written many imploring him to relicva her from her destitution. She heard nothing, and wert tack to her menial labor. Jn the course of time the neglected, Re: stricken ,wife was my of acts of infidelity, for which censure showla lightly on her, rentember- ing that she was embittered by her husband's neglect and that she had no husband or tor infact. She remained in England until the death of Coates, wlien her son Ashton scht her » at once pat in claim for, ad Band's estate an against the will, in which te lad re- meottibered only hix second wife. ‘The second wife's counsel the ground that by i rights fo the estate, | pi case, tn jo Fengercreh deo ty. He abe aving wny ¢laim upon the a remet only t widow who was left Fostieuto in Engl . alias A JUDG MANNA’S DECISION. From these facts it i evident that if the testator wae n occaston tot marringe vows. i " rol Se rane mene of tie weiace hapes atid atILL ho acca te ieee wlth ait his roy goods, Ue his young children to battle wit et and hor to temptation and di fia We dutributed. to hor sipport, oF even an hor a, I aint ait patiently welded watt! he would Aa \e z mralned [althfal oe Perey Nome But he was forgetio fol. und now bis reprosentatives caa- ‘own Wrong. law of the case Judge Hentia of the widow under the ect of 1860 ta to ty her dower at common law, the torent (n ¥ sd line. not forfeived hue th ft nor oven Wateot Rdwant, which |e hore in fare. eho did ive desert of abandon hor hw al with ramour, but her dons id Sarg ctt her, and left her i Feats to, ktrnuile for 4 Tivelibuod, battling Agatwet sick. hens dnd poworty. In view of tho tacts we thinkit ts elogr that she, ist ar of her a of her right to elect to tke Wor internet | ty net at i, Bion r jou will theretare be award: after doddicting tho tn Xponses of the sottlone twdnens of of the estate, lawful, widow and june the second MR. GREEN AND MAYOR COOPER. The ex-Comptroller pagsed tome time yest y in consultation with Mayor Cooper, and as he walked ont of the latter's office he looked birriediy around ty #00 if he waa being watched. Mr. Groen was with the Mager ‘uesday night exactly sixty-thres aud ;