The Philadelphia Inquirer from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania • Page 2

THE PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER, WEDNESDAY. JULY 23, 1884. CATHOLIC HI3TOST. LEGISLATION. AMERICAN SHIPPING.

ALLEGHENY VALLEY. HEARING IN THIS CI XT IN THE FORECLOSURE 8UI1. Society; empowering the Water Department to sell any old material that might acctimu late; authorizing the repayment of worth of twice paid, over paid and paid in error water rents; the construction of a brick or stone arched bridge over Cresheim creek, st Germantown avenue, to oost $0000, to be supplied irom certain unexpended balances, slid a transfer of X00 in the County Commissioners' appropriation for eight electrical lights on Lancaster avenue, west from Thirty-eighth street. TEE NEW ORLEANS EXPOSITION. THAT IMMENSE SHORTAGE.

How the Alleged Great Lous of Coal Is Kx-plHined. The special investigation committee of the Board of Gas Trustees of the Philadelphia Gas Works appointed at the meeting of the Committee on Works on the 10th iustant to examine the charge of shortage in the coal delivered at the Pcint Breeze Gas Works, yesterday visited the works for the purpose of investigating the matter. F. A. Diugee, president of the Penn Gas Coal Company, it will be remembered, sent the communication to the Trustees giving figures showing the great discrepancy i the loss of coal at the Point Breeze works when compared with that of the Market street and Twenty-fifth ward works combined.

According to President Dingee's statement during the months of January, February, March and April his company shipped to tin Market street and Twenty-fifth ward works together 32(58 cars and the shortage was 2,475,000 pounds, while the shortago on the 1412 cars to Point Breeze was 9,302,000 pounds. Mr. Dingee was particularly desirous that the matter should be investigated, as the railroad company, it is said, refused to settle on such shortages, and consequently his company would be at a considerable loss. Chief Engineer Park was unable to explain the difficulty, but said he was inclined to believe the scales were defective. In order to make a satisfactorv report the sub-committee, composed of William D.

Gardner, James Work aud William If. Smith, as before stated, visited the works yesterday in company with President Dingee, of the Penn Gas Coal Company, to ascertain if possible the cause of the shortage. The party also included William J. Latta, general agent of the Pennsylvania Railroad, wno had been invited to participate in the investigation, as it was over that road the coal was shipped, and Gas Trustee James E. S-tlter, Chief Engineer Park, Controller McCleary and the maker of the scales.

They were conveyed over the Pennsylvania Road to the scales, which are situated about a quarter of a mile from the works. They are of the large platform style, and are located near the point where the siding leaves the main line. Every car which passe over this quarter mile of track must ruu over the scales, and it was stated it frequently happens that cars and even locomotives are frequently permitted to remain on the platform lor a considerable period. After a thorough examination, said President Oirduer last evening, it was shown that all the weight Were correct. A careful test was then made of ttie pi t-form.

First each of three cars, loaded with coal, was weighed, and afterward they were placed on the platform together, and the difference between the sum of the several amounts obtained aud the aggregate weight recorded carefully noted. Then the cars were placed at different points on the scales and other measures resorted to. It was found that there was a difference of several hundred pounds. It was also learned that the cars containing coal, after being weighed, have been allowed to remain on the track outside of the works over night with no watchman to guard them. That a considerable amount of coal was stolen owing to this practice can not be doubted.

"Of course," remarked President Gardner, to the representative of The Inquirer, "I cannot give you an 'official' report until the committee meets and again considers tho matter. A meeting will held on Thursday prior to the regular convening hour of the committee." 1 Bocloty to Collect Facts About the Early Days of the Church In America. In pursuance of a call issued by a Jnumber if prominent clergy and others a meeting was held yesterday afternoon at Cathedral Hall, Sixteenth street, above Vine, for the purpose of considering a proposition to organize a Catholic Historical Society "to extend historical search so as to cover American Catholic history and to make plain the early work of the church and its children in America." Mr. John H. Campbell, who called the meeting to order, stated that the early history of the Catholics.of this section of the United States is comparatively unknown, and unless some effort is soon made to collect the important data in the form of documents and letters much of the early Catholic history of this diocese would be lost.

The members of the Catholic Church, he said, in the days of the Kevolution, in this part of the country at least, were invariably found fighting for the establishment of the Republic; no one of them is known to have been in the ranks of the Tories. To refute the popular impression that Catholics were inimical to the Republic, he believed it to be of the greatest importance to gather the mass of facts to the contrary. He was authorized by the Cathedral T. A. Society to tender the use of the hall to the Historical Society upon its organization and to extend to its members the free use of the library.

A letter from Brintou Cox, president of the Pennsylvania Historical Society, was then read. The writer extended to the now society a cordial welcome to the historic field, and, alter reminding the originators of the importance of the task, gave some suggestions as to the lest mode of procedure. Letters from Rev. P. A.

Jordan, 8. Professor E. Roth, from Jamestown, 14. Rav. A.

Isoleri, William F. Harrity, and others, were read expressing sympathy with the movement, and. in some cases, the writers desired to be enrolled as members. On motion John 11. Campbell was chosen temporary chairman, and Martin I.

J. Griffin secretary. George B. Wolff, editor of the Catholic Stundard, stated that he recognized the importance of the proposed society. His attention had been drawn to the subject some years ago by frequent intercourse with prominent clergy, many of whom are now dead.

He alluded to the work of an historical society as a landscape in which all the minor touches were required to bring out the beauty of the picture. ot only the bare facts should be obtained, but many valuable circumstances might be gathered from those who are now nearing their end. Hence the desirability of going to work at once. On motion of ltobert M. McWade, the establishment of the Catholic Historical Society of Pennsylvania was then agreed to, aud the following names were enrolled: Messrs.

John H. Campbell, M. I. J. Griffin F.

X. Betiss. Dr. W. O'H-wa, Dr.

E. J. Nolan, R. M. McWade, Atlee Douredonre, Bernard L.

Douredoure, Prof. E. Roth, George D. Wolff, Rev. Thomas Middletou, O.

S. Rev. P. A. Jordan, 8.

Thompson Westcott, William F. Harrity, William H. Gorman, Rev. Ignatius F. Horstmann, Rev.

P. Beresford, Charles H. A. Ealing, William J. Campbell, M.

D.j J. C. McCaffrey, Rev. John J. Elcock.

Before joining the society Mr. Westcott inquired whether non-Catholics were eligible to membership. It was generally agreed that no restrictions would be made on the question of religion. Mr. Wolff remarked that the object of the society was to secure facts, and any one who would aid in the promotion of that work should be permitted to join the organization.

Remarks were then made by Mr. Westcott, Rev. Father Middletou and others. A committee composed of M. I.

J. Griffin, Dr. M. O'Hara, B. L.

Douredoure, Dr. W. J. Campbell aud G. D.

Wolff was appointed to draft a constitution and by-laws and prepare an address to be distributed to the public The meeting adjourned until Tuesday evening next. MARINE NOTE3. Matters of General Interest In Maritime Circles. The Red Star line steamship Switzerland, Captain De Smet, sails from this port to-day for Antwerp, with a miscellaneous cargo. The steamboat David Reeves, belonging to the Chester Steamboat Company, has been purchased by Mr.

Fenimore, the extensive peach grower of Leipsic, Delaware. The boat will be run between Leipsic and this city, and will be used to convey passengers and truck in season. The schooner Eddie, of Milford, went ashore yesterday at Uallett's Point, but was pulled off by a tug and proceeded to New York. On Friday last the schooner William n. Hopkins, of Soniers Point, N.

was fallen in with off Key West by a passing vessel and supplied with provisions. The Hopkins left Coatzacoalcos on the 27th ultimo for New York. That the Southern fruit season is almost ended is evident from the cargo of the steam ship Dessong, Captain Smith, which arrived here yesterday irom Savannah. The steamers ot this line have been bringing large shipments of fruit and vegetables from Florida, including thousands of watermelons. The Dessong, according to the manifest, brought 1 barrel and 150 crates of fruit and 14 barrels and 8 crates of vegetables.

The cargo, however, included a large assorted freight. The schooner Mathilda Kranz, Capt. Rich, ice laden, from Boothbay, which was towed up the Schuylkill" river yesterday to the Knickerbocker Ice Company's wharves, is, perhaps, the deepest vessel (the schooner draws 18 feet of water) that has passed up that river for some time. The hull and cargo of the schooner Autumn Leaf (Br), from Philadelphia for Yarmouth, N. ashore near Jonesport, have been sold by auction, the former bringing $300 and the latter $75.

The materials saved from the wreck, consisting of 75 pieces cordage, 50 blocks, wheel, chronometer, baromoter, compasses, Bails, boat, lanterns, and a few kegs of white lead, arrived at St. John, N. 17th inst. in the schooner Nettie B. Dobbin.

Hospital of the tiood Shepherd for Children. Next Friday, July 25, is the annual donation day, and, as usual, the authorities hope for liberal gifts of money, groceries, sheeting, muslin, rugs, carpet remnants, toweling, table covers, shoes, boys' clothing, small rockers and other chairs, a sewing machine in fact, whatever is useful in a large family. The former quarters having become too small, a much larger and substantial building, in the same neighborhood, was purchased early in the presout year, at a cost, with repairs, of about $14,500, capable of accommodating forty children. Already the number of patients has increased from 23 to 34, and as many of them are received at a merely nominal rate of hoard, and some of them without charge, liberal contributions of money and goods are absolutely needed to meet the increased expenditure. Carriages will meet most of the afternoon trains for Rosemont, Pennsylvania Railroad, which is the nearest station to the hospital.

An advertisement in another column states where gifts may be sent, and how addressed and train hours. A MIDSUMMER MEETING OP COM-WON COOCIL. The New Orleans Exhibition-Street Pay-lug The Helms Eridgre Contract Cheap Gad Another Police Prohibition. Common Council held iulong-expflcted special turning yesterday afternoon at the usual hour, and, though the session wag rather a quiet and uneventful one, made a muster of the necessary two-thirds and got through with the more important of the transfers, so that nothing now remains upon which depends the progress of any pressing work to be done for the city. The members deserve credit for thus devoting to the business of the public hours which most of them, no doubt, if at liberty, would spend in the freshness of rural shades.

It will be necessary, however, as will be seen in the account of the session, to hold still one other meeting, at least, as the New Orleans Kxbibition Committee have asked for a $10,000 appropriation. Very little business was originated in the Chamber, and what there was went to committees, as it came up in forms requiring preliminary action to make it the subject of legislative resolution or enactment. Two messages were received from his Honor Mayor Smith, the first in reference to the appropriation required for the New Orleans Exhibition, the sum asked for being and the other submitting the report of the experts on street paving. The former went to the Finance and the latter to the Highway Committee. Mr.

Wallace offered a resolution.which was adopted, for the publication of 1200 copies of the report for the benelit of the community. From Colonel Ludlow, Chief Kiigineer of the Water Department, there was received, and referred to the Water Committee, a communication in reference to the shocking condition of the water in Wissahlckon creek. Another, which was referred to the Oas Committee, was received from President Klkins, of the Economy Gas Company, asking leave to lay pipes in the Northern Liberties to supply consumers with l(i-caudle power gas at fl.dO per thousand. Commissioner Entahrook's communication in reference to the Fiftieth street sewer, and the question whether the assessment should be rural or suburban, and of the relief of the contractors, should they be found to have signed under a mistake, was referred to fie Highway Committee. Mr.

Thompson introduced an ordinance for a new tire station at Nos. 321 and Xi ran eh street, which was sent to the Fire Committee. Mr. Banes introduced an ordinance, which was projierly referred, for placing Salmou street on the city plan. That llrldge Contract.

A communication was read from tho Chief Engineer and Surveyor in reference to Sebastian Helms' warrant fur his pay for constructing draw bridge over Fraiikrord uteok. Mr. llolemsn preseuted a resolution requesting the Controller to countersign the warrant, and Mr. Kowan explained that the contractor was honestly entitled to his money. Investigation by engineers had shown that the bridge was not iu need of repairs; for the one pier which was snppoeed to lie in a tottering condition Mr.

Suiedley had told Mr. Helms that if he would put the work upon a wharf that really required repairs he would "call it square." The contractor had gone ahead in good faith, aud Mr. Smedloy bad "called it square," but the City Controller hadn't. He considered the whole proceeding irregular and declined to "give the countersign." General Owen was not willing to oppose the resolution, as he understood that the contractor had acted in good faith aud had earned his money; but he desired to protest against the exercise by the head of a department of any discretionary power not expressly assigned to him by Councils, and to give notice that he would oppose such resolutions in future. The matter was referred to the Survey Committee.

Inspection of City Property Work. An ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of Markets and City Property to appoint, at 2.50 per diem while employed, iu-tipectors ot work and material, to c.o the same sort of work done by Mr. Addis for the Hundred Committee and by the highway inspec-lors, led to some discussion, Mr. Springer, of the Eleventh ward, moving to postpone, as he doubted the possi bi li of get ti ng coin peten men at the pay propose I On Mr. Hards-ley's referring to the highway inspectors, Mr.

Springer laid down accidentally the startling proposition, "if it's worth doing well it's worth doing at all," and under the mental contusion thereby occasioned the Chamber unanimously sustained Mr. Itardsley's suggestion to recommit the ordinance. TheChamlter concurred in the resolution directing the Dcpaitments of Electricity, l'o 1'ce aud Highway to assist the Electric Exhibition. Ordinances introduced by Mr. Rowan for the extension of the Uockland Street Hail way track; by Mr.

Bardsley for paving Tyson street from Eighth to Ninth; for laying water pipe on Sixteenth street, and for Tax Department transfers were referred respectively to the Kailway, Highway, Water aud Finance Committees. Miscellaneous Resolutions. Resolutions were concurred in requesting theCity Hall Commissioners toexclude certain objectionable newspapers from that buildiug; the Mayor to prohibit poilceuieu from joiuing political parades; the Controller to countersign the Gas Trustees' warrants for gas furnished the public schools, 1793. On motion of Mr. Kowan a resolution regarding the introduction of water pipes into the fire aud police stations was referred to the Joint committees on those departments.

Select Council's amendment to the resolution to the Hill Committee striking out the authority given to the chairman and three members to sign for the others, was non-concurred in. The resolution instructing the Chief Engineer and Surveyor to prepare plans and sieeitications for the Thompson street bridge over the Heading Railroad was sent to the Highway Committee. The Chamber concurred in discharging the City Property Committee from considering the ordinance on the plans and specifications for Rittenhouse Square, and also a resolution of instruction to the Commissioner on the same subject. Ordinances ruxj, Ordinances were passed authorizing the construction and occupation by Samuel Boll Son and others of a railroad on Canal street, between Delaware avenue and Laurel street, to connect with the River Front Railway; the construction of a railroad track o.i Jeflerson street, by Frederick A. Poth aud Henry Muller's estate, also granting the West Philadelphia Passenger Railroad Com- 5 any the exclusive use of the north side of larket street bridge for their cable line; fixing at $950, without bouses, the salaries of two assistant engineers of the Water lepartment and directing the removal of the buildings hitherto so occupied at the Spring Garden pumping station; authorizing water pipe for the use of the Agricultural itECENT CONGRESSIONAL LEGISLATION IN 1TH FAVOIt.

Operations of the Dlngley Bill A Grew Refuse to Ship at Reduced Wages Boarding-house Ksepars' Dilemma, An advertisement for firemen, coal-passers and able seamen for a run to Liverpool appeared in one of the morning papers yesterday. It was very brief, yet thereby hangs a tale. That advertisement was necessitated by events that occurred weeks ago at Washington, for it was the result of the first practical operation of the now Dingloy Shipping bill. Congressman Dingley's object was the patriotic one of the relief of American shipowners. American commerce is no longer American.

The few American steamships afloat were losing money for their owners, while English vessels were running merrily over the ocean to and fro between the mother csuntry and the United States, bringing home golden harvests at every voyage. What was the reason? Congressman Dingley's question was answered by the owners as one man: "We cannot compete with the English while we have to pay such high wages." The obvious remedy was to lower the wages. But how? By allowing the ship owners to engage crews of foreigners in foreign ports to sail tinder the American flag. This put the Yankee tar at an immediate and decidod disadvantage. His services were no longer imperative under the Stars and Slripes.

To what extent it practically cut down his wages a few figures will show. English firemen on English steamers receive monthly a sum equivalent to (22.50; English coal passers, 17.50; English seamen, $20. The American rates were respectively $10, $30 aud $25. Crews at English Kates. The section of the bill which gives to shipowners the above advantage was the section which gave rise to the advertisement above referred to.

The steamer Illinois, of the American line, is just now in port, and is to sail to-morrow. Day before yesterday Port Engineer Vert called her firemen aud coal passers together and made them an offer of an advance on their regular wages for the run to Liverpool, but with the understanding that ouce on the other side their engagement terminated aud they were to reship at the English rates. The firemen were to have $25 and the coal passers $20 for the run out, but coming back they were to ship for the $22.50 and $17.50. The actual reduction for the first month was considerably lessened by the liberal oft'er of the company, but the firemen and coal passers, without an exception, declined to sail on such terms. Yesterday the mate of the Illinois called the sailors together and offered them $15 for the run, but on the same conditions as to reshipment.

The reduction in their case waa but 25 per but the sailors rejected it as promptly as the other hands had done, hence the advertisement referred to above. In response there were auite a number of applications yesterday for positions on board the steamer and the new bauds were directed to return this morning between seven and eight o'clock to sign their shipping articles. ltoardlug-IIoase Keepers Puzzled. Another provision of the bill, which, however, does not appear to have entered at all into the wages question, as it presented itself in the case of the Illinois, has produced a considerable sensation among the keepers of seamen's "homes." The credit system, in full operation, as everybody knows, bet ween the sailors and their landlords, has received an abrupt aud dislocating check from the section that makes it illegal to advance any portion of a seaman's wages, except to his wife, mother or other relative. It was that advance of wages that made a happy man while in port.

If he came back destitute from a voyage he found good Samaritans who not only were willing to supply him with shelter, food and clothing, but actually competed for his patronage and for the honor of giving him credit, in expectation of being reimbursed with a liberal percentage of profit when he shipped tor hip next voyage. The sudden interruption of this system, which for so many years has fostered improvidence among seamen and has no doubt done much to them down in the world, leaves many of the sailors in an unpleasant predicament, and many of the boarding-house keepers With debtors on their hands, who cannot now obtain the money to pay, yet whose obligations are mounting up with every day they remain ashore. Such are one or two of the hitches caused by tne operation of the new law, but that the bill, when things have shaken down, will work smoothly notiody seems to doubt. On the lakes, for example, the advance system is unknown, and, as some of the. sailors themselves say, "Abolish the advance note and we shall be lietter oft'." There are also other provisions in the law which the mariners very cordially indorse.

FIGHTING ON A CHURCH A rrobably Fatal Ouarrel Between Slate Hoofers The Assailant Arrested. While Frederick Meisternack, forty-five years of age, of No. Darien street, and John Derr, forty-nine years of age, of No. 1.321 Alder street, were employed in slating the roof of the church at Eighth street and Columbia avenue, yesterday afternoon, a quarrel arose, which resulted in Meisternack being struck on the left side of the head with, a slater's hammer, fracturing his skull and producing a probably fatal injury. As soon as the blow had been struck Derr made his escape, but was subsequently captured by Special Officer Ehrman, of the Twelfth district, in the second story of the bouse of a neighbor, where he had secreted himself.

Meisternack was removed to the German Hospital in an unconscious condition, but he revived sufficiently, after having his wound dressed, to give an account of the affair. The injury consists of a compound fracture of the skull, and the surgeons at the hospital are of the opinion that the fracture extends to the base of the skull, and that there is but little hoe for his recovery. The quarrel between the men is of long standing, and was renewed yesterday by Derr accusing Meisternack of speaking disparagingly of him to bis employer. It was generally known by their fellow-workmen that bad "blood existed between the men, but it was not thought that it would ever result in blows. Derr is a German and cannot speak English.

Since his arrest he has shown a great deal of remorse over the unfortunate occurrence, and bewails his position. Both men have families dependent on them for support. Derr was locked up at the Twelfth District Station House to await the result of Meister-nack's injuries. Chief Eiipineer and Riirvevor Smodley Bays that South street bridge is neither decayed nor unsafe. Of course, it has deteriorated somewhat since it was built, and it is not so strong as it was then, but it is sate.

PeEneylvanla's Claim Against the Road Testimony as to the Funded Debt Other Important Railroad News. A hearing was held in the office of the Pennsylvania Railroad in this city yesterday in the suit of that company to foreclose the mortgage of the Allegheny Valley Railroad. The proceedings took place before John Armstrong, of Greensburg, who was appointed by the Westmoreland County Court master to take testimony. Ex-Judge James A. Logan, assistant general solicitor of the Pennsylvania Railroad, appeared for that company; J.

A. Marchatid appeared for the Allegheny Valley Railroad, and ex-City Solicitor Nelson West for the trustees of the mortgage. Judge Logan called as witnesses State Treasurer Livsey, Thomas R. Robinson, treasurer, and T. F.

Brown, auditor, of the Alleghany Valley Road; Vice President Edmund Smith and Treasurer John D. Taylor, of the Pennsylvania, and W. J. Howard, formerly general solicitor of the Pennsylvania. By these witnesses it was shown that the funded debt of the Allegheny Valley consisted of a first mortgage oi $4,000,000 on the River division; a first mortgage of $10,000,000 on the Low Grade division, and a second mortgage on the Low Grade division amounting at present to which is held by the Comuiouwealth, aud au income mortgage of $10,000,000.

The capital stock is Hie Pennsylvania Railroad Company holds $4,000,000 of coupons of the Low Grade division $10,000,000 mortgage, and seeks to foreclose the road because of non payment of interest. Evidence of the debt was produced, the non-payment of the interest and the consequent insolvency on the part of the Alle. gheny Valley was also demonstrated and the prosecution rested. No witnessts were produced by the defendant's counsel and no defense was made. The case was thereupon closed and the master will make a report to the Westmoreland County Court, which will thereupon act upon the testimony.

The Allegheny Valley Railroad Company operates 250 miles of railroad, comprising lour divisions. The River division, extending from Pittsburg along the east bank of the Allegheny river north to Oil City, a distance of 132 miles; the Low Grade division, extending from Red Bank, G4 miles north of Pittsburg, on the River division, to Drittwood, on the Philadelphia and Erie road, 110 miles long, and two small branches, whose combined length is 17 miles. The road has been under the control of the Pennsylvania for several years, and a short time ago was put into the hands of receivers upon the application of that company. The Heading and Pottsville Road. The engineers who have been making surveys for the proposed Reading and Potts-ville Railroad, the new line which it is expected will form a link in the line connecting this city with the Lehigh Valley Road at Mahanoy City, have about completed their work and will submit their maps to Mr.

J. C. Bright, president of the road, this week or next. The Reading and Pottsville will, it is thought, be an extension of the Pennsylvania Schuylkill Valley and will connect at Pottsville with the Pottsville and Mahanoy City, by means of which the Lehigh Valley will be reached. The route of the Reading and Pottsville Road will, of course, be practically parallel to the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad, but its exact location is yet to be determined.

Mr. J. C. Bright, the president of the company, is connected with the Lehigh Valley Railroad in some enterprises. It is also surmised that Mr.

Bright will not lack financial support from the great railroads. There is considerable litigation in progress at present with the Reading Railroad, and the condition of trade is such that it is not believed there will be any active operations for some time. All Ball Line to Ocean City. Great progress is being made on Pennsylvania's new line of railroad from Sea Isle to Ocean City, and not many days will elapse before the line is in working order. There are now two hundred and fifty men employed, and four and a quarter miles of track have been laid.

Iron was put down over the first bridge last week and spikes were being driven for the main thoroughfare bridge, which will be six hundred feet long. The present way of reaching Ocean City is by the West Jersey and Atlantic road to Pleasantville, thence by the Ocean City road to Soniers Point and across the bay by boat. The new route will be by the West Jersey to Sea Isle City and thence up the coast to Ocean City, where good terminal facilities have been given the company. The lKat ride across Great Egg Harbor Bay bag been a serious objection to the growth of Ocean City, but when the all-rail line is opened the place is expected to take a "boom." Ocean City is at present known as one of the popular Methodist summer resorts. Obituary, Samuel Sloan, aged sixty-nine year3, formerly a well-known architect of this city, died after a short illness on Saturday last, at Raleigh, North Carolina.

He was born in Chester county, and was, for many years, in partnership with Mr. Addison Hutton, tho architect. Mr. Sloan prepared the plans for a large number of institutions and buildings, among others the Episcopal Hospital, the old Masonic Temple, Chestnut street, above Seventh, the residence of Joseph Harrison, on Rittenhouse Square, St. Charles Borromeo College, Overbrook; the Pennsylvania Hospi-pital for the Insane, the Tradesmens National Bank, and Blockley Hospital for the Insane.

He drew the plans during his life of no less than thirty-two asylum buildings. He commenced in 1808 the publication of the Architectural Review and Builder' Journal, in this city. The remains will be brought for interment to this city. Death from Natural Causes, An autopsy was held yesterday on the body of Elwood Kelly, aged sixty years, who died suddenly on Sunday. Mr.

Kelly was found in a dying condition at his boarding house, No. 1507 Race street. Dr. Huidekoper, who made the autopsy at No. 2411 Fairmount avenue, the residence of the son of deceased, announced that Mr.

Kelly's disease was congestion of the brain, which passed into meningitis, from the effects of which he died. The deceased gentleman was well known in this city, and was at ona time proprietor of the Point Breeze Driving Park. He had many friends, who will be gratified to know that his death was from natural causes and not from suicide, as had been reported. Coroner's Cases. Mrs.

Ann Bell, eighty-five years of age, of No. 1210 Poplar street, died suddenly at ber home last evening. The body of a female child, apparently about four weeks old, was found last evening in the rear of the hydraulic works at Twenty-second street and Washington avenue. It was taken to the First District Station House, and the Coroner notified. I lie Mayor's Message to Councils The Citizens' Committee Knlarged.

Mayor Smith forwarded to Com men Council yesterday the following message relative to the New Orleans Exposition: To the Select and Common Councils of the City ol Philadelphia (ientlemen: It is my pleasure to inform 3 on that, upon the desire of many of our leading manufacturers and business men, 1 was induced to call a punlic meeting of alt those interested to perfect a display of all the manufacturing interests of Philadelphia at the World's industrial and Centennial Exposition, to be held in New Orleans, opening December 1, 1 HH-1, and continuing until June 1, 1HH5. The advantages to be derired from an exhibit of our varied product to the people of South America aud the opening up of close business relations with the Houtliwestern sections of our own nation, are certainly worthy of our most careful consideration, and as an evidence of the feelings of our citizens, I tiaiJMint herewith a resolution, which was unanimously adopted at said meeting, Jinulved, That this meeting of citizens cordially reroinincnd to City Councils the propriety ot an official exhibition of the corporation of Philadelphia, embracing its historical, educational, public and scientifhi institutions, and hat a sum not exceeding lo.ooo be appropriated i arrange for the proper ditplay of tho foregoing features of the city aud the proper exhibition ot her great iiiaiinla Hiring interests anil features, i nd that the Mayor be requested to make application to Councils for said appropriation. Pursuant to the action of the meeting a committee of twenty-live pr iinlnent business men have been appointed to organi.e for the most creditable display of exhibits from 1'liiladclphia, and your ollicial sanction and participation will be ol great benefit in securing for the industries of our city the attention and notice which they require in order to comuete with other couutries and manufactures. Apart from all other reasons permit me to suggest that an active interest in the first national exhibition in which all the Htates shall he represented will also cement and strengthen the bonds of amity and good feeling and help to practically reunite the interests aud strengthen the ties of national pride and patronize the work in which the City of Brotherly Love should take no uncertain part. Your earliest and most thoughtful consideration ill he of much benefit to those desiring to participate.

1 have the honor to be, yours truly, William B. Smith, Mayor. Common Council acted on the above by referring it to the Committee on Finance. The following circular letter was yesterday issued front the Mayor's Ollice: Circular No. 2.

OFTICK OF T1IK MAYOK OK TUB ClTY OF Philadelphia, July T2, 18H4. At a meeting of the Committee of Thirteen upon the New Orleans Exhibition, held at the Mayor's Ollice on Monday, July it was resolved to enlarge the general committee to twenty-five members. In accordance with this action the following will conMiuno me committee: John Welsh, William If. Ithawn, John lianlsley, Thomas Hlmpson, John C. Uraliain, John Ilromley, I'Uonias I Man.

John Miindell, James Moore, William Klkins, Oenrge I). McCreary, William Potter, W. W. Harding, John Wananiaker, Ed. C.

Km tht, Jxnies liolmon, William Kc.llrs, Oden lloiHluian, John l.ncns, Kenj. H. Hhoemaker, Charles E. Meyer, Johu Charles II. Cramp, Charles T.

Parry, Hamilton Disslon, Alonzo Hlmtwell, 'J he committee will meet at the Mayor's Office on Friday, '2 1th at twelve o'clock noon. The conimisHloner and alternate from Pennsylvania are expected to be present. Wim.iam RMrrrr, Chairman of Committee. IN DANGER, The Itecent Assault on Lawrence Dunn by Superintendent Ward. As has already been published in The In-qi'irkk, Lawrence Dunn, aged sixty years, residing at No.

134.1 Poplar street, was sitting reading with his wife in Cathedral Cemetery on Sunday afternoon, June 1, when Superintendent Ward accosted him in a rough manner, and told him he must leave, as it was six o'olock. There were some words between the men and a scullle ensued. After they were separated Ward struck Dunn with a heavy stone pitcher on the leg near the knee, inflict ing a serious wound. Dunn lias been ever since confined to his lied and has lieen a great suflerer. He is not able to change his position, aud during the past few days there has been a change for the worse in his condition.

The doctors entertain little hope of his recovery unless th-leg is amputated, anil yesterday Drs. Agnew, Gerhart and Stump visited Ilium's house in order to perform tho operation. Dunn wan so extremely weak that it was deemed ad visable not to amputate the limb at present Ward was arrested soon after the assault and held in $1500 bail t3 await the result of Dunn's injuries. He has made several efforts to settle the case, and one of the fathers from the Church of the Gesu also visited the familv with that object in view, but their efforts were ineffectual. Superintendent Ward procured last week a warrant for the arrest of Dunn aud placed It in the bands of Constable Devine.

The latter visited Dunn's house, but, seeing his condition, did not even state the object ot his visit. THE KERN MURDER. The Widow Held to Await the Action of the District Attorney, An inquest was held yesterday by the Coroner in the case of James Kern, aired fiftv- three years, residing So. Simes street, wno tiled on Sunday in the Presbyterian Hospital from injuries received bv f.Lllinu down stairs. The widow, who had been charged with causi ng the death of her bus-baud, was present in the custody of an otlicer.

Marv Mcflowan. who r.wl.l.n In 1.1. 1 1. house, testiliwl that It'nrn iml liii to all apjiearauces sober on Saturday night, and Mrs. Kern subsequently told her she had pushed her husbaud down stairs.

i rnux ivern, a sou ol the deceased, testified that he did not kuow of any quarrel on Saturday evening between his parents. The testimony of Policeman Dillaril was to the effect that Mrs. Kern told him that her husbaud tried to strike her and she pushed him down stairs. The medical testimony was to the effect that death was caused by compression of the brain from a fracture of the skull. The verdict of the jury was that Mary Kern was responsible for her husband's death and she was committed to await the action of the District Attorney.

The Sheltering Arms. Among the many charitable institutions of this city none is more worthv of praise and support than the Sheltering Arms. Here little waifs who would otherwise have no home are taken in and kindly cared for. An appeal is made by the managers for ad.ti-tional funds to carry on the good work. Con-tributions may be sent to Orlando Crease.

treasurer, No. 1014 Chestnut street, or to the Sheltering Arms, southeast corner Franklin and Brown streets. THE WATER SUPPLY. Timely Words from Chief Engineer Ludlow Pollution of the Wissahlckon. Chief Engineer Ludlow, of the Water Do partment, forwarded to Common Council yesterday the following communication relative to the pollution of Wissahlckon creek: Philadelphia Watbb Department, July '22, 1H81.

To the Heleet and Common Councils of the City of Philadelphia Gentlemen: I have the honor to transmit herewith a carefully prepared report upon the several causes of pollution to the waters of Wistahickon creek which discbarge into the Schuylkill and affect the water supply of the city. Some of these are of a highly deleterious and dangerous character, and all are susceptible of abatement by readily-applied means. 'Hie annual report ot the department for the year 1 883 contains a general statement of the ot-jectionahle matters which reach the Schuylkill river, and under date of July 2 I reported upon the solid matters deposited in the stream hetween hit Itock dam and mouth of the Wixsahickon. The present report covers the pollution of the imuhickon, and a further report is in course of preparation to complete the Investigation on both banks of the Kairmount pool to the dam. hile earnest attention is drawn to questions of public safety br the appearance of an epidemic in Europe wiiich may ultimately reach our shores, it would seem a proper time to take such action as is requisite, not only to enforce and maintain the cleanliness which is essential to the preservation of the public health, hut also, as far as shall be possible, to purify and guard the water supply of the city.

I do not need to urge the argument that whlie every precaution may be taken, by the purification of domiciles and streets, and the most minute attention to the rules of health, to put the city in good sanitary condition, there will still remain the possibility that the supply mains of the citv may become the general distributing airent of an epidemic, should a local outbreak occur at any point whence the germs can reach the water used for drinking purposes. Too great care and too stringent measures, therefore, cannot be used to guard the water supply from the possibility of contamination, and no question of personal convenience or economy should be permitted to endanger the common gaiety. 'ibe powers of Councils are ample, withiu their legal jurisdiction, and even beyond the corporation limits the law autborizes and will support measures to comiel the protection of streams which supply the drinking water of the city from the discharge or deposit in them of any matters prejudicial to the public health. Respectfully, (Signed) William Lfplow, Chief Engineer. The above communication was, on motion, referred to the Water Committee.

Alleged Attempted Murder. John Donohue, of Conshohocken, who is said to have been a member ot Mayor Fox's police force, is in trouble in Norristown. The Times, of that borough, reports that Donohue went into John Harrold's saloon and attempted to raise a row. Being summarily ejected, he returned with a gun, and taking a position behind a tree on the opposite side of the street, leveled the piece at the private entrance, where Mr. Harrold's mother and sister and a young gentleman were seated.

The latter wore a coat similar to Harrold's, and was undoubtedly mistaken for the proprietor of the place. The weapon, however, for some unexplained reason, did not go off. Donohue was subsequently arrested, and at a bearing before Squire Haywood on Monday was remanded to jail without bail. The lire Department. The stated meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners was held yesterday afternoon at the headquarters ot the department, No.

1328 Race street. The Committee ou Supplies and Repairs reported the repairs to the apparatus of the department since the last meeting of the board. At the meeting of the Board of Fire Escapes yesterday a number of fire escapes were approved, and certificates were grauted for the Fob Dbt Goods, Stbawbridqi Clothikb.