The Philadelphia Inquirer from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania • Page 1

i If PHILADELPHIA, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 1870. PRICE TWO CENTS. PRICE TWO CENTS. Messenger), official newspaper, published an edi other on si racy afloat, in fact, we all knew it I telegraphed Booth thus: tees were not ready for work. In tbe House only the Postal Committee were ready, and they used 11 alt the afternoon in nreasinr throtli.il their A RAILROAD PROJECT; HEAVY DRAFT ON THE STATE FINANCES" i.

i-i i ihi $10,000 per Annum at one Dip! SHAMEFUL LEGISLATION' Hakkisbcro, Dec 7. Special despatck to tht Inquirer. An Interesting railroad case has been' sent to the Supreme Cort for adjustment. It Is. tbat of the Milford and Matamoro Riilrosd Company vs.

Dimmick and others, and tbe facts -appear to be as follows: In tbe northeastern angle of Pennsrlvani Is situated the county of Pike. The eonnty seat Is Milford, on the Delaware river. Milford is with-! out cny railroad communication with lhe rest ol 1 lhe world, but la within twenty miles of Mat-, moros station, on the New York and Erie Rail way. A number of years since charter was granted by the Legislature to connect Milford with Matamoro, but tbe project wa uwac-' ceiifut. Years rolled on until the Legislature of 1870 as sembled.

Some intellectual native of Pike county then devised plan by which a railroad could be built, but tbe old charter either did not salt bins or he bad forgotten its existence. In thi execu tion of his new plan be bad passed by the Legis lature of last' winter a new charter, wbicb be also desiguated the "Milford and Matamoros Railroad." But charters will not build railroads i nor buy locomotives. Forthwith a brilliant, bnt as yet unsuccessful icheme was originated. It wa well known that the Erie Railway Com pany, of New York, paid the sum of $10,000 per annum to the Commonwealth for tbe privilege of running through the State. Tbe financiers of Pike county coveted this amount, but did not dare to make an open application to the Legisla ture of 1870 for the subsidy.

Tbe law-makers, were not particularly moral, but would have best- tatcd before taking per annum out of tbe pockets of the people. If tbe legislators could not be driven they might be blindfolded? But whether they were driven or blindfolded, the attempt was made and was a success. A trifling little bill was introduced Into the Iloute aud passed, giving authority to the Mil- ford and Matamoro Railroad Company to mini-' pnlate its directors or its elections in some way. This was harmless. But when tbe bil Ireached tfas -Senate it Was quietly amended.

Tbe amendment provided tbat the Milford and Matamorof' Company should receive tbe 110,000 per annum1 Instead of tbe State. Nobody In tbe Legislature except tbe originator and a few friends seem ic have known anything about this matter. It; passed as hundreds of other Infamous laws pass, and was seut to the Governor. This was on one of the last day of tbe set-! sion, when members were crowding around Uie) desk of lit Excellency. Under an assnrancs from one of these membere that the "supplement" wa a private on and designed to benefit tbe people, the Governor good-naturedly signed it.

His faith was misplaced and hit confidence violated, but it wa not until nearly month had elapsed that the real meaning of the law was discovered. Tbe true object had been disguised in a flow o() legal language. Bnt the framer of tbe supplement had been too acute for bis own good. Ha had simply called his protege "A Supplement to tbe Milford and Matamoros Railroad;" but he bad forgotten that there were too Milford and Mats-. moras Railroads.

Very naturally contest arose is to which of these two roads wai entitled to the (10,000 per annum, and th! (is a slightly different slupe) appears to have been the quee- tion submitted to the Supreme court. The legal form of the case appears to be an application by the owners of both charters for themselves lo be declared the original and iden tical Milford and Matamoros Railroad. Which-ever party 1 successful will no dou bt go imme-k diatelv in pursuit of that 810,000 per annum. Perhaps, Indeed, now parties win comome. ins contestants are represented by iome of the most able lawyer in Philadelphia At this point the State appears opon tbe scene.

As soon ss tbe Governor ascertained that bis tig-: nature had been unwittingly given to such bill, be beld consultation with tbe Secretary of tbe Commonwealth and the Attorney-General, and an official notice wa at once sent to the New York and Erie Railroad Company not to pay the yearlr eubsidy to any one except tha agent of tbe State. The president of tbe railway, Jay Gould, replied immediately, etating that b. knew no party in the matter except tb Common-, wealth, and tnai uu company were reu to comply with the requirement of the act of Assembly granting them tho right of way through. 't tbe State. The whole affair is one of the result of the disreputable and shameful system of legislation la -vogue in 1870.

It is no part of tbe design of this article to prejudice tbe standing of any partie in court, or to prejudge a legal caso. but simply to expose a sbameiut piece oi wmcu calculated to deplete the State Treasury at the rats of 110,009 perpetuo. MISSOURI. Boaaary-Nawapaaor Boeponded. St.

Loots, Dec. 7 The ileeplng-room of W. J. Boden, formerly receiver of the United 8tates Land Office la 8prlngfleld, was entered ana robbed on Tuesday night of $5000. No clue to the thieve.

The Evening Tribune, the McClQiT rgao bere, suspended to-dy. Ixxcerr lajonetloav St. Lock, Dc temporary injunction was granted by Judg Wadill, of tbe Circuit Court, to-day. on tbe petition of Benjamin F. -Wood, of New York, restraining Murray, Miller Co.

from any further management of the lote terr holiness in thi city, and Basil Duke was ap pointed receiver, to take possession of all the property, and hold it subject to the order of tbe court. Wood claims tbat he owo thirty-nine and a hall shares in tbe business, but tbe present managers will not mako return lo mm or enow nun aj control of it affairs. There will be no interruption of busines. Similar injunction will be ap- plied for both in Kentucky and Louisiana. ew Cnttem Honeo.

The committee appointed some day ago by tbe City Council to make selection of a suitable lot tor the new custom bouse, "Oder the recent act of Congres. appropriating $300,000 for building, providing tne city would donate ths groundf met Ihi. evening and heard I proiition. from several prominent citixen. Tb menu of twoor three site.

wre discussed but no defim! action was taken. THE CONSPIRATORS. Tlielp riot and Its Execution LECTURE BY JOHN H. SURRATT He Telle a Ixmgr fistory THE PART WHICH HE PLAYED His Introduction to the Assassin THE PLAN TO ABDUCT THE PRESIDENT ItfJ Attempt and Xallnre JOURNEYS TO RICHMOND AD CANADA Traveling Under False Colors THE DISGUISE THAT WAS ADOPTED Evading the Officers of Justice THEY CONTINUE CLOSE OX II 1 3 TRACE Surprised at the Torn of Events A HISTORY OF HIS WANDERINGS Special Despatches to th Inqairsi. Washington.

Dec. 7. arratt oa tha Wllke Booth Affair. John H. Surratt delivered lecture last night at Rockville, in the course of which lie said be was Introduced to John Wilkes Booth In the tall of 1SG4.

After meeting several times. Booth disclosed to him a plan for effecting an exchange of prisoners, which the United States Government, he said, had refused. The plan was to kldn.ip President Liucoln and carry him to Richmond. Surratt, after two days' reflection, informed Booth of bis willingnsss to Join In tbe plot, but such thing as assassination was never spoken of by any of the party. Months passed before an opportunity was preseuted for attempting the capture.

All arrangements were perfected, and boats were in readiness to carry them across the river. One day they received information that the President would visit Seventh Street Hospital for tbe purpose of being present at an entertainment to be given for the benefit of wounded soldiers. The report reached them only about three-quar ters of an hour before the time appointed, but so perfect was their communication that they were instantly in tbelr saddles en tbe way to the hospital. This between na and two o'clock iu the afternoon. It was their mtention to scire tb carriage, which was drawn by a splendid pair of horses, and to have one of their men mount the box and drive direct for Southern Maryland, via Benmng's bridge, over the eas tsrn branch of the Potomac.

They felt confident that all tbe cavalry In Washington could never overtake them. They were mounted on swift horses, besides having a thorough knowledge of tbe country, it being determined to abandon tbe carriage after passing the eity limits. They depended for success upon the effective ness of the blow and the celerity of their move ments. Te their great disappointment, however, the President was not there, but another of the Government officials, Mr, Chase, he believed. They did not disturb him.

This was their last at tempt. A separation finally took place. This scheme of abduction was concocted with out the knowledge or the assistance of the Confederate Government in any shape or form. Surratt left Washington on the 4th of April for New York, two days before Lincoln's death. After the abduction scheme had failed I went to Richmond to carry a message to Canada, and returned aud succeeded In reaching Washington safely, and In passing up Seventh street I met one of the conspirators, who inquired what had become of Booth.

I told him where I had been, that I was then on my way to Canada, and that I had not seen nor heard anything of Booth since our separation. In view of tha fact that Richmond bad fallen, and that all hopes of the abduction of the President bad been given up, I advised lilin to go home and go to work. Tbat was the last time I saw any of tbe party. I went to hotel and stopped over that night, as a detective had been to my house inquiring of a servant of my whereabouts. In the early train next morning, Tuesday, I left for New York, and that was the last time lever was in Washington until brought there Iu Iron.

Upon arriving Ui New York I called at Booth's bouse, and was told by the servant that he had left that morn Ing suddenly, on the pretense of going to Boston to fulfill an engagement at a.tueatre. In the evening ef the same day I took the cars tor Montreal, ar riving there the next day. I put up at tb St. Lawrence Hotel, registering myself as John Harrison, such being my two first names. Blioitiy after ward I saw General Edward Lee, to whom my despatches were directed, and delivered them to him.

They were accounts of some money transac tions, nothing more nor less. A week or so after my arrival there. General Lee came to my room and told me he had a plan on foot to release the Confederate prisoners then in Elinira, N. Y. He said he bad sent many parties there, but they always got frightened and only halt executed their orders.

He asked me if I would go there and take a sketch of tbe prison, and find out the number of prisoners; also, minor details in regard to the number of soldiers on guard, canusn, small arms. I went to Klin Ira, arriving there on Wednesday, two days before Mr. Lincoln's death, and registered at the Braluard House as usual, as John Harrison. The following day I went to work and made a complete sketch of the prison and surroundings. About ten o'clock on Friday night I retired, little thinking tbat on that night a blow would be struck which would forever blast my hopes and make me a wanderer in a foreign land.

I slept that night through, and came down next morning little dreaming of the storm then brewing around my head. When I took my seat at the table about nine o'clock A. M. a gentleman to my left remarked, "Have you heard the news?" "No, I've not." I replied. "What is ft?" "Why President Lincoln and Secretary Seward have been assassinated.

It's he said, at the same time drawing outs paper and showing it to me. Sure enongh there I saw an account of what be told me; but, as no names were mentioned.it never occurred to me for an Instant that It could have been Booth, or any of our party, for the reason that I bad never heard anything regarding as-sai nation spoken of during my Interview with them. 1 had good reason to believe that there was an THE FREriCH CRISIS mo Knd Fat Avproacliing PRESENT C0XDITI0X OF TOE CAPITAL Capitulation Expected in Three Weeks DISMAY AT THE ORLEANS NEWS Great Numbers of Citizens Ime Tours HIGH eKFlCIAIS AIXTSKD OP SWINDLING Fraudulent Contracts for Food and Arms GENERAL TROCHU ISSUES SEVERAL WAR BULLETINS Character of tho Recent Fighting BOW HEN. PALLADIA KS RETREATED Strength of the French Army GAMBETTA SAYS THE SITUATION IS GOOD Another Appeal to Maintain Resistance TOR PRISSIAXS SAVE GREAT SUCCESSES FItAXCE. Official Meporl of Engagement.

Toors, Dec. 6. The official reports of the battles, near Orleans, show that the Prussians attacked each corps d'armee separately in greater force, thus repulsing the left of the Army of the Loire and turning (Orleans, so as to render the evacuation oi the town necessary. UambeUa an the ailoallon. Gsmbetla has issued a circular to the prefects, saying that the situation of the array is good; that heavy reinforcements are arriving, and the forward movement will soon be resumed.

The opposition are attempting the circulation of false rumors to discourage and demoralize, but tbelr assertions may be confidently denied. Ye terday the right wing of the Army of the Loire had a successful engagement with the Prussians near Moutargis. The Prussian prefects of departments occupied by the invaders have issued a decree that all men between the sges of eighteen and forty will be considcr3d prisoners of war, and that they will be shot if they entreavor to escape. -Ja spltcJ of this decree a great number manage to escape to the French lines, aided by the people, where they enlist In the French ranks. There are no ijUS of the Government leaving Tours.

Tho Coin of the reach Army. Tours, Dec. 5. Special to the New lurk world. The direction the French army has taken is not stated, bnt Is believed to be towards Gien.

In the fighting of the last three days the French covered themselves with glory, but fate was adverse. In the engagement of the 3d at Patsy, 20,000 French held their ground against 60,000 of Frederick Charles' army, but they were cut to pieces by shells. The German artillery was served with fearful and overwhelming effect The Papal Zouaves fought with superhuman bravery. Nearly all were killed. The government appeals to the people of France to still maintain resistance, which is cer tain finally to end in triumph.

(strength of (ha French Farm. TbeArmy of the Loire is still over 200,000 strong. During another month 800,000 French men will be in arms. The Wernian Forces Operating Before Orleans. Londoh, Dec.

6. Special to the New York World. A Tours despatch of tbe 5th says the German forces encaged In tbe battle of yester day north of Orleans embr accd tbe united armies of Frederick Charles; the Third, Ninth, and Tenth Corps, under the Duke of Mecklenburg; one Bavarian corps, and two infantry and cavalry divisions one hundred and fifty thousand men in all. Tbe French forces consisted of six corps, aggregating one hundred and sixty thousand men, but was deficient in cavalry. The combat ended with a repulse on Sunday.

It commenced on Thursday, and continued with varying sue cesses dnring Friday and Saturday, but on 8un day tbe snccesses of the Germans were great, though purchased at equally great cost. The Recent Engagement and Their Bta- an It a. London, Dec. 6. The telegraph lines connecting with Orleans gave out on Sunday, and the lines communicating with Tours were cut by Prussian cavalry on Monday afternoon.

Com roniiication with Tours, partly by couriers, how ever, lias been re-established. The losses of tin Germans have been exaggerated. Minister Washbumes secretary writes from Paris that, according to his information, the French have been beaten at all points, and the i end is apparently near at hand. The capituiation of Paris within three weeks is looked for. There have been no cases of starvation reported, nl- provisions are scarce sua aear.

Prominent mem bers of the Provisional Government are accused swindling by means of fraudulent contracts for arms and food. Detail af Palladia' Bel rent. Ton ks, Dec. 6. General Falladiuet retreated from Orleans with a force believed to be 200,000 strong.

Be bad 500 cannon. Tbe government authorities wished him to remain at Orleans and receive the Prussian attack, but they gave way to tbe General's opinion that tbe place was untenable. Subsequently the General fought to the utmost, but was powerless to effect anything. At 1130 the Germans demanded the evacuation of the city, threatening to bombard it in esse of refusal. Tbe Prussians captured but few prison- era and no ammunition.

RUSSIA. Tha Position of tha fJevernment. Sr. Pn-CKammo, Dec. 6.

Immediately after the publication of GorUchukotTs note to Granville, private subscriptions were opened here for toe purpose of building a fleet to operate on the Black Sea. The Jitoier Ungutbete (Government torial laying the scheme wu not necessary, is tb defenses were secure, and this was a time of peace. It Is understood the subscriptions have been prohibited by the government. EKULAXD. The Sabllin rerte.

London, Dec. 6. A despatch from Constanti nople announces that tbe Sublime Porte has sig hted bis willingness to accept a conference for tbe settlement of tbe questions raised by Russia relating to the Black Sea, provided the discussion is confined exclusively to this topic. Egypt A ruins. The feeling of insecurity caused by the demand of Russia relative to tho Paris Treaty baa almost entirely vanished.

It is reported by telegrams from Alcxaudria that the Khedive of Egypt will be prepared within few days to arm one hundred thousand men with breech-loaders. Tb London (Stock Market. London, Dec. 61 30 P. At this hour the Stock market is absolutely inactive, awaiting events in France and tbe effects of President Grants, Message.

Tha President neosag la London. Some of the journals appear with a long syn opsis of that document this morning, bnt none of them have any comments. Passenger Beecned. A despatch from Peterhead, Scotland, dated Monday, tbe 5th, announces that the North Ger man Lloyd steamer "Ilansa" had taken on board the passengers of the ill-fated steamer "Union." They numbered three hundred and ten. Tbe cargo and stores go to Bremen in other steamers.

It is now thought probable that the "Union' will be saved. Tbe Introduction of tbe Prussian loan on the market here has been deferred. The President- He-Mage. London, Dec 610 A. Tbe transmission of tbe President's Message and Secretory Bout- well's report eastward is just concluded, and tbe cable lines will now be able to accommodate other business.

Libel Salt Withdrawn. London, Dec. 6 Tbe libel suit of Edmunds vs. Gladstone and others, has been withdrawn. HovemeBU of Minister Motley.

It is said that Mr. Motley will go to tbe Hague to-day. naning implement as war, London, Dec. 6 Special to the New York World. The English Government has given a contract for sixty batteries, of eight guns each, of Gattling mitrailleuse, to be made in America.

lhe Kussian Uovernment has In Its employ a numoer oi American workmen engaged in manu Tact rtmrmltrallleuses. PRUSSIA. Tha Mew Loan. Berlin, Dec. 6.

The bankers of this city, on the 3d instant, paid in thirty-four millions of the new loan of one hundred millions recently authorized by Parliament. They announce their readiness to take seventeen millions more The Berliner Kreu Ztttuna of to-day savs the Chambers will! probably be convoked on the mil. GERMAN T. A Royal Heejacab Munich, Dec. 6.

Tbe King of Bavaria sent a note to King William, inviting him to assume th title or Emperor oi uermsny. The assent of the authorities iu the other States Is also pected. FINANCIAL AND COMMERCIAL. Financial. London.

Dee. 6 Morning. Consols opened at 92(i)t)2U for both money and account. United Slates Donus quiet ano steady, ozusoi iwj, Of 165, old, 8H: of 1S67. 90'4: 10 Ill's, 87Ji.

Stocks quiet Erie, 2n; Illinois Ceutral, 111H; Atlantic ana ureat western, zo. bankfort, Dec. united states o-ara. Commercial. Liverpool.

Pec. 6 Morning. Cotton dull. Mid dlinguplands, 8d. middling Orleans, The sales are estimated at 10,000 bales, Flour firmer.

feas declining. Liverpool. Dec. 6 130 P. M.

Receipt of wheat lor three days, 13,500 quarters, of which 3500 were American. Teas. 39s. 9d. Pork buoyant.

New beef. 1274. 6d. London. Dec.

vssr. m. American securities auiet. btocks quiet. ClUMHURo.Dee.

6. Petroleum, 13 mare bancos, 0 schillings. iskembn, uee. o. reiroieuin, tuaiers, a groats.

Marine. Oi'EBNstown. Dee. 5 Evening. Tbe following steamships arrived to day en route from New York totl.iverpool: "Colorado," "City of Brook.

vn." "lama." Londonderry, Dee. 6. Tha steamer "Mora- vlan" from Portland for Liverpool, arrived to-day ALABAMA. Tha Political DMIIcaltic-Cenator Kleeted Montgomery, Dec 7. Yesterday tbe House seated Mr.

Forrester and unseated Mr. Davis, tbe sitting member, Mr. Forrester having the certificate of election. Mr. Forrester is a Republi can, and Davis a Democrat.

Mr. Davis will probably regain his seat, as he bad a majority of the voteacast in the county. At the (joint convention for the election of Senator, Mr. Uoidtbwaite (Dem.) received 6a votes: Warner 50, and Henderson 14 votes. Goldtbwaite received 1 majority of all tbe votes cast, and was declared elected for six years from the 4th of March next.

One Democratic member wu absent, lick, and two Republicans were in tbe eity, bnt did not vote. Mr. Goldthwalte has been a Judge of the Circuit and Supreme Courts, is an able lawyer, and citizen of Montgomery county for over forty years. Tbe people are greatly rejoiced at me result. This morning; in the Circuit Court, Judge Smith (Republican), summoned W.

II. Smith, who still holds the Executive Chambe to appear before him, this afternoon, and show cause for withholding the books, papers and other State documents from Mr. Liudsey. who formally demanded them. At three o'clock Smith appeared in court.

Pending the argument tbe coiirt adjourned until ten o'clock to-morrow, the Judge ordering the sheriff to take possession of all the State property mentioned in the warrant of arrest until the court meets. Tbe disabilities of tbe 8enstor elect, Goldthwalte, were removed by act of Congress. Tber is great rejoicing over his election. Since dark an immento meeting assembled, guns were urea, ana speevur mnn. a procession sere naded Goldtbwaite, who spoke conservatively, Tbe whole city is given up to rejoicing.

Over a thousaud visitors are here, attending tt.e Grand Lodge and tbe Methodist Conference, who take part In the demonstrations of jo J. W. New York If vmi am In New Tnrx telegraph me. John Hakrison. Elinira, New The operator, after looking over it, said "Is it J.

W. to which I replied, Yes." He evidently wanted the whole name, and had scarcely finished telegraphing when doorjrlght near the office, and opening on the street, was pushed open and I heard some one say "Yes, there are three or tou brothers of them, John, Junius, Brutus, Edwin and J. Wilkes Booth." The whole truth flashed on me In an instant, and I said to myself, "My God, what have I done?" The despatch was still lying before me, and I reached over and took it up for tbe purpose ot destroying It, but tbe operator stretched forth his hand and said be must file all telegrams. My first Impulse was to tear it up, but I pitched it back and walked off. The town was in the greatest uproar; flaifs at half mast, bells tolling, Still I did not think that I was in danger, and determined to go Immediately to Baltimore to find out tho particulars of the tragedy.

I left Elinira with the intention of going to Baltimore. I really did not comprehend at that time the danger I was In. As there was no train going south that evening I concluded to go to Cauandaigui, and from there to Baltimore by way of Elmira and New York. Upon arriving at Canandaigua on Saturday even ing I learned to my utter disappointment that no train left until the Monday following, so I took a room at the Webster House registering myself as John Harrison. Next day 1 went to church.

It was a very fortunate thing for me that I could not leave Cauaudaigua. At the time ot my trial the proprietor ot the ebster House In Canandaigua could sot find the cash book ot the hotel, In which there should have been an entry In favor of John Harrison for so much cash. When he re turned to Canandaigua. my trial being then ended. he wrote Mr.

Bradley that be bad found tbe cash book, and sent it to blm. On Monday, when I was leaving Canandai gua, I bought some New York papers. Is looking over them my eye lit on the following paragraph, which I have never forgotten, and don't think I ever will. It ran thus: "The assassin ot Secretary Seward is said to be John H. Surratt.

a notorious Secessionist, of South ern Maryland. His name, with that of J. Wilkes ttoot win lorever neau au liuainoua rou oi assas sins." I could scarcely believe my senses. I gazed upon my name, the letters of which seemed sometimes to grow as large as mountain, and then to dwio die away to nothing. After fully realiziug the state of the ease, I concluded to change my course, and go direct to Canada, I left Canandaigua on Monday, at 12 going to Albany, and arrived there on Tuesday morning, in time for breakfast.

When I stepped on the platform of the depot at St Albans, I noticed that on of the detectives scanned every one from head to foot, myself as well as the rest. Before leaving Montreal for El mira I provided myself with an Oxford-cut jacket and round-top hat, peculiar to Canada at that time. I knew my trip to Elinira would be a dangerous one, and I wished to pass myself off as a Cana dian id I succeeded In so doing, as was proved in Plmlra. "I believe that the rostnme guarded me safely tHrAllBhrttt. Alhana 1 went In Wltll OthcIS Slid moved around, with detecrtves standing there of the time looking at us.

Of course I was obliged to talk as loud as anvbodv about the late tragedv. After having a hearty me' "cniea a seear and walked uptown. Onenf thedetectivcsap- pi-oached me. staring me dlrectlr in the ace, and I iilrnH him nniptlv hrk. In a few minutes I was speeding on my way to Montreal, where I arrived at two o'clock in the afternoon, going again to the St.

Lawrence Hotel. Soon after I called on a friend, to whom I explained my former connection wilh Booth, nnd fold him I was afraid the United States Govern, ment would suspect me of complicity in the plot of assassination. He advised to make invself scarce. I immediately went to the hotel, got mv things and repaired to tne room or a friend. When mv friend's tea time came I would not eo to the table wilh him.

but remained in his room. The ladies wanted to know why he did not bring his friend to tea wttn mm. He replied tliat I did not want any. One of the ladles remarked, "I expect you have got Booth in there." "Perhar so." he answered laughingly. At nightfall I went to the limine of one who afterward proved to be a most devoted friend there I remained until the evening of the next dav.

when I was driven out In a carriage with two gentlemen, strangers to me. One day I walked out and saw Wrichman on the lookout for me. One night about eleven o'clock, my friend, in whose hon I wa, lame to me and said In a smiling wav, "The detectives hsve offered me twenty thousand dollars if I would tell them where you are." "Very well." said I. "Give me one-half, and let them know." They suspected this gentleman of pro-terting me. and thev had really ma'le him the offer.

On another dav, about twelve o'clock, I was told they were going to search the house, and that I must leave Immediately, which I did. Tliev searched it before morning. I remained with this eentlenian until I left Montreal, within a week or so afterward. Detectives were now hunting very closely, and would nave, a ou Ml ess. succeeded In capturing me had it not been for a blunder on the rart of Weichman.

He had, it appear, started detectives on tne wrong track by telling them that I left the house of Mr. rorterfleld In company with some oiners, ana was gome norm oi in oni real. Soon that section was swarming with detectives. I was not with that party, but about the same time I too lefr. Montreal in a hack, going some eipht or nine miles down tne m.

Lawrence river, crowing that stream in a small canoe. I was at-tiiert as a huntsman. At three o'clock on Wed. nesday morning we arrived our destination the small town lying soiun oi nonireai. we entered the village very quietly, hoping no one would see us.

When I left Montreal there was no cause for uneasiness on my part, and noon my arrival In the country I wrote to my friends in Montreal to keep me posted in regard to the approaching trial, and to send me newspapers regularly. I received letters from them frequently, in all of which ihe fissured me there was no cause of anxlatv: that it was only a matter uf time, and it would all be well after awhile. The papers did not come so regularly, and inos uiai aid spoke very encouragingly. A little while afterwards, when they came, sen-tenoea were mutilated Willi Ink and pen. I nro tnared against such action, and for some lima I received no papers at all.

I then sent a friend to Washington to see now me iana lay, and lie wrote me to keep quiet. He also sent me conies of the National Intellt. geneer containing evidence for the defense. I cer tainly leu creHiiy rvnevru. hjousii noienureiy satisfied, when this news reached me.

Some time In the latter part of June, on the eve of my departure to join a party of gentlemen on a hunting excursion, while I was waiting at the hotel for the train, the proprietor Handed me a paper and said, Read that about tbe conspirators." The naoer informed me that on aday which was then present and at an hour which had then come and gone, a most wicked deed was to be enacted. It had been determined upon and carried out even befor I had an iutimaiion that there was any danger. After gazing at the paper for some time I dropped it on tne noor. turning on mv neel, and went directly to the house where I had been stoo ping before. When I entered tha room I found my friend sitting there.

As soon as he saw me he turned deadly pale, but never uttered a word. I said "YoudouOtiess thought you were acting a friend's part toward me, but you have deceived me. I mav forgive you, but lean never forget it." "We all thought it for tb bet, Charley." he commenced to say. but I did not stay to hear more. I went to my room, remained there until dark, and then sonified mv Intention to leave the nlacn lin.

niediauly. 1 felt reckless as to what should become of me. Alter visiting Quebec and other places, wibii iucicnmi twenty iiiuuBant! aoiiars naug. ing overiny head. I did not think it safe to re.

main there, and so I concluded to seek an asylum in iorein utuus. Work la Centre. Tbe Senate did nothing to day, as the com mi I' codification and amendments of the Postal laws. which will probably be completed to morrow, and both Houses adjourn over until Monday. a Seuloa Is There appears to be more hostility to th repeal of the act providing for a session of Congress ou March Sib, than was supposed.

Tbe heoate is favorable to repeal, but the action ot the House is doubtful. The Senate Committee Have all been harmoniously reconstructed. No change has been made with Schurz. They will be reported to-morrow. Despatches to Associated Free.

Foreign Commercial Relation. The Secretary of State. In transmitting to Con gress a report on the commercial relations of the nited States and foreign countries, says the ma- juiujr ui tne reiurns column no iiiloruialiou regarding the commerce between foreign nations, aud very limited statements concerning that bo-tween the United States and other countries, since they are for the most part confined to cargoes of veasels can yirni the national flat, and hence scarcely any Information relating to foreign commerce Is furnlsiied, by which comparison may be instituted, and account IS taken 01 the lane nail of American merehan. dise winch, in lit present degeneracy ot our mercantile navy, is carried in foreign vessels. For the purpose oi correcting tnis deficiency it is contemplated to Issue additional instructions to con sular oflicers.

requiring them to forward to the State Drpartmeul statemsnts of commerce, show- ins descriptions, amount ana value of the imports and exports of each pun, as well as the several countries whence the merchandise arrives, or whither it is sent. The returns of navigation and commerce contain but Hunted informal ion, being colli) ned to merchandise carried iu vessels properly belonging to the United Slates. Post Oltlee Appropriation. The Postmaster. lin unt latter tlm House of Kepreseutatives, asking for an appropriation of for service ending June 30, 187A The receipts from postage and the siaudiug appropriations for full mail service are estimated at leaving to be appropriated out of the jieasury to make the receipts enual to tue esliinaied expenditures, and the further sum oi tiK.uuooi special appropriation for steam- amy service.

i Bond Cllvea to the Government. An important decision In respect to bonds given to the government under the Internal Revenue laws was delivered nt the Supreme Court, yesterday, in the case of the United States vs. Hudson. The suit was on a distiller's bo.id. which, instead of conforming to the form set out in the statute, provided generally that the obligor would conform to an present ana iuture laws in respect to distil.

ling, and which. It was contended, was void, as uot complying with the statute. The Court, reversing the judgment, hold lhat as the bond was voluntarily entered into bytheile- ivnuauks lur a siiiiiuwui. coiisiuurauon, anu eon. tains nothing in itself illegal, it is valid and bind tug, although not iu the form or condition that the statute prescribes.

This renders valid a large number of similar bonds which have been in suit in liferent parts of th country, aud which many circuit uiinges nave aeciareu to 06 void. Air, Justice Swajue delivered the opinion of the Court, Th Seulona af Centre. The House Judiciary Committee at tbe last ses si on agreed to report a bill repealing the act of January 22. 1867, which provides that the Fortieth and each succeeding Congress should meet at noon on the 4th of March, immediately aier the adjournment ot the preceding Congress. The determination, however, of the committee will probably be reconsidered, and they may agree to let the act or January, wi, stand, so that tne next session will meet immediately at tbe close of tbe present one.

CANADA. The Navigation of tho Law renee. Toronto, Dec. 7. The Globe on President Grant' Menage says, with respect to the St.

Lawrence navigation: It is only passable by tbe aid of canals, tbe re sult of Canadian enterprise. The river cannot even be reached by the shipping of tbe United State without passing through the canal cut in Canadian territory. He surely hardly expects us to rectify the important geogrspbic.il difficulties with our own capital, lo throw open our canals to American without some equivalent, would be a little too much for President Grant to ak. "With regard to tbe fisheries, does it not occur to President Grant that to come down upon Canada with his threats ana muster, tbe anti podes of courage? How is it tbat he is going, by his acts, to recognize us an equal and inde pendent Power, the Dominion of Canada, of which, as bis language implies, he has no official knowledge? The construction of the Treaty of 1818 is for the United States sud Great Britain to eltle. In the maintenance of the treaty for the igbts and preservation of the fisheries Eogland.

with Canada, has a common interest. "If President Grant cannt tee tbe false position in which he has placed himself, it may be hoped that Congress will discover it for him. He may exclude Canadian vessels from bis ports and try by any other petty means to harms us. Tbat was tried when tbe Reciprocity Treaty was repealed. and we bave thriven ever since beyond all antici pations.

President Grant may be equal to taking a broad and liberal view of the case as it circumstances require, but hit will is not omnipotent, and should weigh but ligbtly against the clear and obvious interest of the nation. These noint at once to the removal of nil grounds of irritation, all pretexts for tirades by unscrupulous party leaders, and all risks of collision between tbe powers tbat showed the world an example of amity and peace; and it is certain that in thus paying oomage to a signer principle the pecuniary gain to both Canada aud tbe United State would be beyond all calculation." The Preeas Ida at Poller. Ottawa, Dec 7. President Grant's Message excites considerable amount of comment in political circle here. It is understood tbat the Dominion Government bave no Idea of abandon- ins their present line of policy, although tho roughly desirous of behaving in the most friendly manner to iui iuneu ouue.

mcy icei, now ever, that the people of Cauada have indorsed and will sustain their policy, and also that tbe Imperial authorities bave approved of tbe action of our government in tne matter. Tha Ontario Parliament of tha Lleutenant-uevernor. ToROSTO, Dec. 7. The Lieutenant-Governor opened the Ontario Parliament to-day at three o'clock P.

M. In his speech be congratulated tbe members on the increased prosperity of the Province. A large surplus of fund remained in tbe Dublic Treasury. He recommended amlviner portion in aeveioping ice resources of tbe Pro vince Dy aavancing me commercial and agricultural interests and stimulating well-considered and bona fide railroad enterprises into tbe free land grant districts and to tbe inland lakes. Tbe Governor conclude bv stating mat tne Province is in a condition hopeful in th ex treme, With a rapid advance in trade, agriculture and manufactures; ind, cherishing our owo hearty preference for Brillsn lnstisuuou, wo uvo uu cause to envy the condition of our neighbors and hopes that thi flattering prospect will sot be marred by distensions among ourseive.

Eseltement er drant Hoosaco. Ottawa, Dec Special to the New York Tribune. There is considerable excitement in government circles here over Grant's Mesbage, which is almost unonlmonilv looked upon as hostile and insulting to ths Dominion. Reference is made to tbe fact toat no condemnation appears in the message of tbe Fenian raid. 1 i 1.1.