Staunton Spectator from Staunton, Virginia • Page 2

Convention, to preserve, in connection with the permanent civil government ofthe State, a complete history of the several steps taken in the reconstruction of the State; it is therefore "Resolved, list That Maj. Gen. Schofield be especially requested to furnish to the Secretary ofthe Commonwealth, to be preserved in his office among the archives of the State, authentic copies of all military orders issued in this military district having relation to the subject of reconstruction, and an authentic copy of the registration lists made in the several counties and cities in the State. "2d. That he be respectfully requested to cause an authentic copy of the registration by districts in each county and city to be filed with the clerk of the county or corporation courts to be preserved with the record of the office." Adopted.

POWERS OP THE CONVENTION. Mr. Porter offered the following: "Whereas resolutions are daily introduced in the Convention of a character indicating that their authors are of the opinion that this body possesses the power of legislation and whereas it is highly important that the powers of this Convention should be clearly understood, so as to prevent the introduction of extraneous matters if legislative powers do not belong to this body, and to authorize the reception of subjects of a legislative character, if such power is possessed by this body; therefore be it "Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to inquire and report at an early day whether this Convention has legislative powers other than that which relates to framing the organic law ofthe State." After considerable discussion, the resolution was laid on the table. NEGRO CIVIL EQUALITY. Jones (negro) offered the following: "Whereas the custom, and, in part, some of the laws of Virginia, known as District No.

1 and whereas this Convention is vested with power to blot out all proscription in the District or State of Virginia; therefore "Resolved, That this Convention do insert in the constitution to be framed a clause prohibiting any distinction whatever in public conveyance. "2. Resolved, That all public institutions, such as railroads, steamboats, chartered for public purposes, shall make no such distinction." Referred. Wednesday, Dec. Southall submitted his reply to the petition of Captain lukey contesting his seat in the Convention; which was ordered to be printed and referred to the committee on privileges and elections.

Mr. Allen, from the committee on printing, submitted a report awarding the printing of the journal and the debates and proceedings of the Convention to Messrs. Hunnicutt Brother, allowing 75 cents per token for press work instead of GO cents as recommended by the select committee. Mr. Bowden moved that the report be recommitted to the committee with instructions to report prices conforming with the recommendation of the select committee.

Mr. Norval Wilson spoke in favor of recommitment. Mr. Carr called the previous question; which was seconded, and sustained. The vote on recommitment was taken with ayes and noes, and 50 noes 43.

adjournment for the holidays. Morgan (mulatto) offered a resolution fixing the adjournment of the Convention on Monday next, and the time of the re-assembling as Thursday, the 2d of January. Mr. Snead hoped that the decision of the Convention to adjourn on Friday would be adhered to, in order to give time to members from remote distances to get home by Christmas day. Considerable discussion ensued; during which it was decided that the question as to the time ofthe adjournment had been settled on j-esterday.

Morgan offered his motion as a substitute which was lost by a vote of 43 to 47. The question recurring upon the amended resolution of Mr. Thomas, adjourning on Friday next to Tuesday, January 7,1868, and in which all claims for per diem were waived by the members, it was voted upon with ayes and noes, and 45 noes, 55. Mr. Bowden offered a resolution adjourning Monday next to meet on Friday, the 3d of January.

Mr. Porter moved to amend by the insertion that there shall be no recess except that there shall be no session on the 25th of December and on the Ist of January. Mr. Scott offered as a substitute that the Convention adjourn Friday to meet on the 3d of January. Mr.

Porter spoke upon his resolution, urging its importance, to avoid delay in the important duties before the Convention. Bayne (negro) said that he wa3 certinly in favor of an adjournment during the Some members had said that the Convention hadn't done no work. Did they call breakin new ground and throwin out roots not working. He hoped that it wouldn't be his painful duty to deny this emphatically. It might be said that they was all an ignorant set of fellows new hands at the bellows; but if they was, they blowed though.

Some of those men who had been rocked in de cradle of education from their birth up might say the Convention hadn't done nothin, but he would say they had without fear of contradiction. He had just seen dat mornin a piece of paper sayin what de Governor should git a year, an' how long he should stay in office, and he had no doubt that other committees were doing de same. Boys where studied books must have vacation, and the Convention must have der holidays. When de time for wotin came, this Convention would jus' as certain wote to adjourn as he was goin' to set down in They might talk and talk "enter night, and the 'journment would be woted for, and he'd tell de reasons why. In the first place, many resolutions has been offered on this side of de house, which you all on that side said was foolish, and many has been offered on this side of de house which they said was foolish and it didn't riiake no difference whether they was foolish or not, de boys put 'em through to go in de committee, didn't they? The committees had been steadily engaged picking these resolutions and throwin' out de bad and retainin' de good.

This adjournment must be had. "I has in my eye now a bright-eyed man, lately married, an he ain't worth two cents five minutes at a time; and he can't keep still ten minutes to save his life, an I know he'sgoin home whether you adjourn or not. There ain't no use talkin, you got to adjourn, or won't have no members here. Our wives is lookin for us. De turkey is already bought, and de pig is already killed and hung up, an we must adjourn from next Monday untwell de 3d of January.

They could go home aud consult with their constituents, and git new ideas and better manners if they wanted 'em. And above all things, let de rum bottle alone, as I has heard suggested. If by accident it should slip in, don't say nothing about it. Now, the gentleman from Chester" field and some of de gentlemen from Bichmond can very easily talk about no 'journment, when they is right here at home." Mr. Porter called Bayne to order, as he was making a remark reflecting upon him.

Bayne: Very well; I'll leave it to de Chair to decide, and then proceed. He concluded by asserting that it want no use talking, the 'journment would be voted for. Mr. Porter's amendment was lost. Mr.

Scott's substitute was carried by ayes and 53 noes, 47. The Convention will, therefore, adjourn Friday to meet again on the 3d day of January. suffering poor. Mr. Massie offered a preamble and resolutions setting forth that there was a great deal of suffering and oppression among poorllepublicans in Bichmond, and providing that the per diem accumulating during the adjournment should be contributed to the suffering poor of Bichmond.

Laid on the table. The Convention then adjourned to meet again at 12 o'clock to-morrow. Thursday, Dec. Thomas, from the committee on the Judiciary, submitted a report upon the resolution of Teamoh (negro) setting forth that the Convention could not Take action upon the subject, or interfere in any way with private contracts. In conclusion, he recommended the following resolution: "Resolved, That the Convention has no power to grant the relief sought in the resolution aforesaid, and that the committee be discharged from the further consideration ofthe subject." On motion of Mr.

Haine, the report was laid on the table to be printed. printing. Mr. Allen, from the committee on Printing, reported the resolution of yesterday, with an alteration, reducing the price of press-work per token, octavo form, from seventy-five to sixty cents. It was also recommended that 1,000 instead of 500 copies of the debates of the Convention be printed.

Mr. Clements thought that the number of copies of debates recommended by the committee was too great. In his estimation, two hundred and forty copies were sufficient. The amendment suggested by Mr. Clements, that 240 copies be printed instead of 1,000, being accepted by unanimous consent, the report, as amended, was adopted.

VERBATIM REPORTS. Mr. Gibson offered the following: "Resolved, That the stenographer who reports the debates of this Convention is instructed to report the exact language used by members, and is forbidden to publish any language not used." Laid on the table. VOTING. Mr.

H. H. Lee offered the following: "Resolved, That the subject of the form of voting be referred to the committee on the Elective Franchise, and that the committee consider the propriety and expediency of providing that future voting in the State of Virginia be done by viva voce vote, and not by secret ballot. Laid on the table. STATE CREDIT.

Mr. H. 11. Lee offered the following "Whereas, through a resolution lately submitted to this there has originated an impression concerning the State finances calculated to affect the credit of the State; therefore, "Resolved, That, in the opinion ofthe Convention, there are no grounds for apprehension on the part ofthe public creditors that contracts of the State will not be complied with; and, furthermore, in the opinion of' this Convention, the good people of Virginia are determined that the credit ofthe State shall not be impaired which it is in their power to prevent." Laid on the table. CIVIL EQUALITY GENERALLY.

Mr. White submitted the following petition "To the Constitutional Convention of Virginia "We, the undersigned, citizens of Elizabeth City and Warwick counties, Virginia, pray that no steamboats shall traverse Virginia waters which make any distinction between their passengers on account of race or color that no railroad making such distinction shall traverse Virginia soil; that no 'white-ball street cars' shall insult us when in Richmond that there shall be no separate schools, but simple christian legislation, such as becomes a people who believe that 'God hath made of one blood all nations of And your petitioners will ever pray." IThen follows a list of names, nearly all written in one hand. EQUAL RESPECT TO MEMBERS ON BAILROADS. Bland (negro) offered the following "Whereas considerable discomforture is felt by a portion ofthe members of this Convention and other respectable citizens of this State by reason ofthe fact that they are proscribed and very often greatly annoyed by the agents and employees of public conveyances, such as railroads and steamboats therefore be it "Resolved, That General J. M.

Schofield be and he is hereby requested to issue an order to the effect that no corporation, company, employee, or agent thereof, within the limits of this State, shall refuse to convey as first-class passengers any one of the delegates here assembled, or any other respectable citizens of this Commonwealth." J. T. S. Taylor (negro) offered the following: "Whereas, the ballot is the palladium of American liberty; and whereas, the disloyal men of Virginia are seeking by every means in their power to prevent the free exercise of the elective franchise; therefore "Resolved, That the committee on the Elective Franchise and Qualifications for Office be requested to incorporate into the Constitution ofthe State of Virginia that all voting shall be by ballot." Beferred. By Mr.

McLaughlin: "Resejlved, That the Auditor of Public Accounts be requested to furnish the Convention with a tabular statement showing the amount ofthe capitation tax assessed aud actually collected iv the several cities and counties of the Commonwealth for the year of 1866, also show ing the amount of tax on licenses, real property, personal property, incomes, salaries, assessed for the year of 1867." By Nash (negro): "Resolved, That the committee on Education be instructed to consider and report upon the propriety or impropriety of inserting in the Constitution the provision making it obligatory upon the General Assembly to impose a capitation tax, not to exceed two dollars per head, on the male citizens of the Commonwealth over the age of sixteen years, to be devoted exclusively to the purposes of education." Mr. Woodson offered the following "Whereas the Auditor ofthe Commonwealth is of opinion that he has no right to pay the per diem of the members and officers of this Convention without a further order from General Schofield therefore be it "Resolved, That the Secretary of this Convention request General Schofield to issue such orders as may be necessary in the Laid on the table. The Convention then adjourned. Friday, Dec. Convention met at the usual hour.

PREAMBLE AND BILL OP RIGHTS. Mr. Platte, from the committee on a preamble and Bill of Bights, reported a preamble, not differing from the present one except by the addition of the following as the second clause of the Bill of Bights "11. That the authority ofthe general Government of the United States is paramount to that of an individual State, except as to rights guaranteed to each State by the Constitution of the United States; and that therefore the first allegiance of a citizen of any State is due to the general Government." The present second clause is made the third and so on. The following is added to the preamble: "And whereas the Congress of the United States did, by an act passed on the 2d day of March, in the year one thousand eight hundred and sixty-seven, and entitled 'an act to provide for the more efficient government of the rebel and by acts supplementary thereto, passed on the 23d day of March and the 19th day of July, in the year one thousand eight hundred aud sixty-seven, provide for the election, by the people of Virginia, qualified to vote under the provisions of said acts, of delegates to meet in convention to frame a constitution or form of government for Virginia in conformity with said acts, and by the same acts did further provide for the submitting of such constitution to the qualified voters for ratification or rejection, we, therefore, the good people of Virginia elected and in convention assembled, in pursuance of said acts, have adopted the following constitution and form of government for this Commonwealth." The report was laid on the table to be printed.

TAXATION. Hodges (negro) offered the following "Resolved, That the interest on the State debt, together with all the ordinary expenses of the State government, should be paid by a tax upon the property of the State, both real and personal, and not by special taxes or licenses on useful and lawful business pursuits, trades, professions, or occupations; and that all poll taxes and all fines collected for violations of law should be devoted to the education of the children of the State." PRINTING. Mr. J. C.

Gibson offered the following "Resolved, That John J. Palmer, the Superintendent of Public Printing, be instructed to require Messrs. Hunnicutt and Hunnicutt to furnish him with a copy of every article or thing printed, marked with the number of copies printed." The Chair ruled the resolution out of order. On motion of Mr. Hunnicutt, the Convention adjourned until 12 o'clock on the 2d day of January.

Such as want fine cards should apply at the Spectator Office, where they can be printed in the best style and furnished at cheap rates. Our great aim in the South is to escape from negro supremacy, and the assembled conservative wisdom of this State has but recently counseled us to organization, in order that we may as a unit exercise the incomplete and unsatisfactory suffrage with which we are invested to effect our escape from that supremacy. Rich. Whig. STAUNTON SPECTATOR AND GENERAL ADVERTISER.

JSpedator. The Spectator having about as many subscribers as both of the other papers published in this place, it is to the interest of persons to advertise in the Spectator, and itis the duty of those who advertise for others to advertise in that paper which has the largest circulation. It becomes the duty of agents, commissioners, administrators, executors, and all who are entrusted with the interests of others to advertise in the SPECTATOR, as it has a much larger circulation than any other paper published here. Christmas Greeting. Though, before the dawn of to-morrow's Christmas morn will purple the Eastern sky, the Editor of this journal will be "o'er the mountains and far away," yet, through its columns, he takes great pleasure in tendering to its many generous readers the kindly and friendly compliments of the season wishing each and all a "merry Christmas and happy New Year." For forty-five years this journal has expressed its kindly greetings to its numerous readers.

No paper has better reasons for expressing kindly feelings for its readers, for none has a list of better subscribers. We hope that they will live to enjoy many years of health, peace, happiness and prosperity, and that their cares and troubles may diminish as their years increase. Could our wishes be granted, the ears of the readers of this journal would be greeted for many years more with that grand Christmas anthem, which, "on Christmas day, beginning at Jerusalem in the Church of the Se- pulchre of our Lord, has travelled with the star that stood above his cradle, from region to region, from communion to communion, and from tongue to tongue, till it has compassed the land and sea, and returned to melt away upon the sides of Mount Zion." The Duty ofthe Hour. With the Norfolk Virginian, we feel that "the supreme duty of the hour is to preserve the public liberties. This is no empty phrase, no idle declaration.

It means escape from negro rule based on the arrogant assumption that the true white men ofthe South have no rights which need be respected. It means escape from ruinous taxes, disqualifying oaths, negro police, proscription in trade as well as politics, equal seats in public schools, hotels, theatres, public vehicles, and churches. The public liberties, then, include a great deal, fellow-citizens, and the man who fails to understand this truth is indeed sanguine, or insane. We beg you to run over the list of taxes, oaths and other cruel oppressions which the people of West Virginia and Tennessee groan under. In the latter State, the negroes, after having taken on several possession ofthe trains, have just been authorized by law to ride with white people in all public conveyances.

Now, when the scum of population, the low whites and the ignorant blacks get possession of the Legislature, what earthly chance could there be for a decent citizen to escape their oppression? There can be but one answer to this. A white man or conservative negro would find himself the object at once of plunder and oppression. We all admit this. We all feel this. Hence we say that the supreme duty of the hour is for us to preserve the public liberties.

The Convention Holiday. It will be seen, by reference to the proceedings of Wednesday of the Constitutional Con vention, so-called, that that mongrel body has voted itself a recess of two weeks, during which time each member will receive eight dollars per day, whilst doing nothing but warming their ebo-shins before blazing Christmas fires. They will receive $112 each, or in the aggregate -770, for doing nothing, while the country is in poverty and want, and people are starving for food. This does not include clerks, sergeantat-arms, door-keepers, and pages, whose pay will add smartly to this large aggregate. We have no doubt that the people of the State would be willing to double their per diem if they would stay at home all the time.

P. infer from the following statement of the Dispatch that Gen. Schofield will not allow the per diem to be paid for the time ofthe recess. That journal says: "We have the highest authority for stating that no per diem will be paid to members of the Convention during the interim caused by the adjournment of that body for the holidays neither will they be allowed mileage." Governor Humphreys, of Mississippi, has issued a proclamation stating that he had received communications from gentlemen of high official and social position, in different portions of the State, expressing serious apprehensions that combinations and conspiracies are being formed by the negroes to seize the lands of the white inhabitants and establish farms. Governor Humphreys warns the black people against lawless violence, and notifies them that the first outbreak in insurrection will signalize the destruction of their hopes and the ruin of their race.

On Thursday night week, as Mr. Cannon Cox was returning from Newborn to his. home, he was attacked by three negro highwaymen, one of whom succeeded in jumping into his wagon, and seized Mr. Cox by the throat. Mr.

however, shook off his grasp, and got the negro by the throat and held him until (his horse running in the meantime at full speed) he reached his house, when, upon calling for assistance, it was found that the negro was dead. A jury of inquest rendered a verdict that Mr. acted in self-defence. Such papers as, from week to week, urged the voters of this State to vote in favor of the Convention to change the Constitution to suit the Badicals and negroes can see, in the proceedings of that Mongrel body in Bichmond, the character ofthe Convention for which they urged the citizens to vote. It is hoped that this State will never witness again any of its journals advocating the call of a Convention, the chief object of which shall be the incorporation of universal negro suffrage into the Constitution ofthe Stale.

General Hancock has issued orders for an election for or against a convention in Texas from February 10th to 14th inclusive. Ninety delegates are to be chosen by 104,259 registered voters. The regulations are the same as those adopted heretofore in other States with some exceptions. Each ballot presented by a colored voter will be marked "colored" by the judge of election. At Quincy, Illinois, is a German with a curious blood-mark.

It is a perfect deer, about the size of a silver dollar, and on his right check. The form and outline of the deer are as perfect as could be drawn by an artist, and show a deer in the act of leaping. It is of a bright red color. The Mercury tells of a radical candidate at Meridian, who, returning from preaching, took a sable damsel up behind him. As he rode off an influential old darkey exclaimed, "Ijes as soon vote far dat ar man as a nigger." Tuesday, Becember 24, 1867.

Punic Faith. The Radical Congress is the most faithless body which ever existed. A bill has passed the House, by a vote of 104 to 37, so modifying the re construction laws as that a majority of the registered votes shall not be required to be cast in favor ofthe Constitution, and that a majority ofthe votes cast, however small that number may be, shall be sufficient to make the ratification valid. And this is not all. Fearing that Virginia would still be able to defeat the ratification of the Constitution, by increasing the number of registered votes, under the law as it at present exists, Drake, of Missouri, has introduced a bill in the Senate, the object of which is to prevent the re-opening of the registration lists.

What becomes of all the talk we have heard about the reconstruction laws being a finality It is all bosh. It is a snare and a None but fools can be thus imposed upon. Rally to a man, and vote down the Constitution. The Lynchburg News says Only one course is left open for us to pursue, and that is to defeat the constitution which is to be submitted to us. We do not, however, desire to be misunderstood with regard to this matter.

We do not mean to assert, that we will vote down any constitution which may be adopted by the Mongrel Convention now in session. Should such a miracle occur as the adoption by that body of a constitution which would afford ample protection to life, liberty and property in the State, and which could be accepted without dishonor and disgrace, we are not so infatuated by passion as to avow our purpose to oppose it. But no sane man can reasonably anticipate such a result. No one who knows anything of the spirit which actuates, and the temper which controls the deliberations of that august assemblage, can for a moment imagine that any good thing can emanate from so, corrupt a source. "Men do not gather grapes of thorns, nor figs of neither can a wise, honorable or acceptable constitution be framed by men who are destitute in the main of education, intelligence and integrity.

Fitz Greene Halleck'slast words were "Hand me my pantaloons, Mary," addressed to his sister. She turned to the other side of the room to get them, and as she did so ho expired. That last unpoetical request of the distinguished poet, will, we predict, be the theme of many poetical effusions. The subject is not as unpoetical as it would at first seem to be. If we were a poet, we would show that this is the case.

Cannot our poetic friend of the Norfolk Virginian, do so We hope so. The circulation of the Spectator is about as great as the combined circulation of both the other papers published in this place, and has as many subscribers in thib county alone as are contained in the whole subscription list of either of the other papers. It appears now, according to the correspondent of the New York Herald, that Senator Drake, of Missouri, not only was once in favor of selling free negroes, but that at the commencement of tho late war, he declared, in a public address, that "the time had come for driving Lincoln's hirelings from the soil of Virginia!" And yet this man is now the most "red mouthed" of Badicals, advocating all the extreme measures ofthe extreme leaders The colored Conservatives in Montgomery, Alabama, have organized a Conservative club. The whole affair was managed by blacks. The colored speakers denounced the so-called carpetbag members ofthe Beconstruction Convention, and declared that the colored people were enemies to themselves if they any longer refused to heed the advice and counsel of their true and tried friends, tho old inhabitants of the South.

Lewis Lindsey, the colored man wdio recently made the speech ia the Virginia "Beconstruction" Convention, belonged to Bobert Hudgin, Clerk of the several Courts in Caroline, aud was hired by him to Col. Thornton, during the war. He was the bugler for Thornton's Battalion, and used to sound the tocsin for the fray. The question arises, Lewis a perfectly "loii" man during all that time? The Fredericksburg News says that Hunni cutt, the leader ofthe ultra Badicals in Virginia, was before the war, and, we believe, after it commenced, a violent' 'secessionist." It would seem that about half of the "Union leaders were original "secessionists." The "fear of punishment and the hope of reward" made them what they are. Do you want Letter-heads or Bill-heads? If so, apply at the Spectator Office, where they are printed in the best style.

In the Editorial correspondence of the Fredericksburg News, the witty and facetious Editor, A. A. Little, in speaking of the Editorial Convention held in Bichmond says "There was as much brains and patriotism in this Convention as in all tho others combined Modesty forbids me to say more From the Lexington Gazette we learn that the barn of Mrs. Hugh Braford, who resides in the Southern part of Bockbridge county, together with a large quantity of provender and grain, and several valuable horses, was destroyed by fire some nights since. It is feared that it was the work of an incendiary.

The sooner Virginia becomes independent of the outside world, in so far as manufactories are concerned the better. The State has water power, has transportation, competent mechanics, everything that is needed, if men of wealth will lend their aid in this sort of reconstruction. Serious dissensions are said to prevail in the Badical ranks in Alabama. The Union League of Montgomery has protested against the proposed Constitution adopted by the late in other places the expresssions against it are said to be numerous. It is said that every effort of the "leaders" ofthe Badical party is now directed to "saving the party!" There is, it is added, a perfect panic on the subject! To such as are contemplating entrance into the matrimonial union, we would state that we are prepared to furnish cards of admission of the best and most approved style.

We have the most fashionable cards and envelopes. We can furnish cards printed in as good style as can be had in any ofthe cities, and at as cheap rates. The Second Auditor mailed on Saturday week to Baring Brothers London, sterling bills for the full amount of interest payable in London in January on the Virginia State debt. The great trouble of the present day is, that too many people are trying to do what God never designed should be a living without work. Baker, the Detective, whose name was once "a terror" in the country, is now said to be even by those who formerly employed him to do their dirty work.

The Albemarle "ghost" has not made it 3 appearance for three weeks, and strong hopes are entertained that the nuisance has been permanently abated. Three hundred thousand people are in a state of starvation in Sweden. CONGRESSIONAL PROCEEDINGS. Monday. Dec.

the Senate, Mr. Davis, of Kentucky, introduced a resolution amending the constitution so as to create a tribunal of jurisdiction to decide questions of constitutional power between the State and federal governments. It was laid over and or- i dered to be printed. Mr. Wilson introduced bills to reorganize the State Department and to fix the compensation and define the duties of diplomatic officers.

The bill to exempt raw cot- ton grown after 1867 from taxation was then taken up, and, pending discussion upon it, the 1 Senate adjourned. In the House, under the Monday call for bills and resolutions for reference, one to abolish the bonded ware-house system, another of inquiring into the expediency of relocating the capital, and several relative to the finance and currency ques- tions were referred. A resolution declaring that the House will never retrograde from its position relative to reconstruction was adopted by a strict party vote. A bill changing the time for the election of directors of the Pacific Railroad was passed under a suspension of the ruled. The Deficiency Appropriation bill was then passed.

A resolution of inquiry into the expediency of reducing the pay of members of Congress was offered, but objection was made, and the House adjourned. Tuesday, Dec. 17. the Senate, the Finance Committee reported the bill for funding the national debt, and was laid over. The pending bill for the repeal of the cotton tax was then taken up, and a general debate ensued, in the midst of which the Senate adjourned.

In the House the Reconstruction Committee asked permission to report a bill fixing the number of representatives for each ofthe Southern States; but objection being made it was not introduced. A resolution authorizing a continuance of the inquiry into the public affairs of Maryland was adopted. The bill to prevent cashiered officers from being restored unless confirmed by the Senate was passed. A communication from General Grant relative to the removal of Stanton and Sheridan was received. Among other documents inclosed was the "private" letter of General Grant to the President protesting against his right to make the removals.

The papers were referred to the Committee on Military Affairs, and the House adjourned. Wednesday, Dec. 18. the Senate the resolution calling for information in regard to the occupation of the island of San Juan by Great Britain, after some debate, was adopted. A bill supplemental to the reconstruction acts was referred to the Judiciary Committee.

It repeals the provision requiring that one-half of the registered votes shall be cast before the constitutions of the Southern States are carried, and allows a mere majority to decide the election. The Judiciary Committee reported in favor of allowing P. F. Thomas, of Maryland, to take his seat as Senator from that State. The bill exempting cotton from tax was again discussed, but no action was taken upon it.

The President's message in regard to Gen. Hancock was received, and pending discussion upon it, the Senate adjourned. In the House a call for information relative to the rights of American vessels in the Oeiiotsk sea or other Bussian waters was adopted. A bill to amend the Bankruptcy act was introduced and referred. A bill to furnish honorable discharges to certain deserters was reported by the Committee on Military Affairs and was generally discussed, the remarks between Messrs.

Logan and Garfield being somewhat belligerent. The bill went over on the expiration of the morning hour. A bill was reported from the Appropriation Committee making an appropriation to supply deficiencies in the execution of the Beconstruction and for Quartermasters' supplies of $12,667,000. In Committee of the Whole Mr. Spalding addressed the House on the treatymaking power.

The President's message relative to General Hancock was laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Mr. Stevens' bill amending the Beconstruction acts so that a majority only shall be necessary to carry the election ratifying the constitution proposed in the Southern States was adopted after considerable debate. The House then adjourned. Thursday, Dec.

19. the Senate a petition from various citizens praying for protection to natuiulizcd and Dative born Americans in foreign countries elicited remarks from Messrs. Connes, Sherman, Johnson, Conklingand Sumner, all of whom agreed that some action should be taken to maintain the dignity of the government. The petition was referred to the Committee on Foreign Belations. The House bill to supply deficiencies came up, and an amendment that no member of either house shall be allowed stationery or newspapers was adopted, and the bill passed.

In the House leave was asked to introducce a concurrent resolution of thanks to General Hancock, but objection was made. The consideration of the bill in reference to deserters reported ou Wednesday was again resumed, and the bill was recommitted. A call for the correspondence relative to the session of Bussian America was agreed to. The Deficiency Appropriation bill, after some debate, was passed. It appropriates $12,667,000 to supply deficencies in reconstruction expenses and the Quartermaster's supplies.

After some other unimportant business the House adjourned. Friday, Dec. 20. the Senate, a petition from citizens of Ohio asking an increase of the currency was referred. A memorial signed by forty presidents and professors in colleges asking the abolition ofthe tax on philosophical instruments was referred.

The cotton tax bill was resumed, and wide and wild views were expressed. Pending this, and without reaching the House amendment to the reconstruction acts, the Senate adjourned. In the House, Trimble, of Kentucky, was admitted to his seat, and John Young Brown and Major Young sent back to their constituents. The Committee on Elections determined, much to the chagrin of the extremists, not to seat the minority contestants. The bill forfeiting the lands granted to southern railroads came nn.

Mr. Julian maintained that none save the New Orleans and Opelousas railroad had complied with the terms of the grant. The matter was finally postponed to the second Thursday in January. The Beconstruction Committee was allowed a clerk. There being barely a quorum, the House adjourned.

i. If you are suffering from torpid liver, use Baker's Premium Bitters. In reference to the great Conservative Convention, the Shenandoah Woodstock) Herald asks: "Why this grand convocation, this solemn council of Virginia's greatest and best and wisest men, at this time? The response has already gone up from thousands of earnest, patriotic hearts, from the Potomac to her most Southern boundary, from the Chesapeake to her Western lino, To save Virginia from a fate more to be dreaded than War, Pestilence and Famine," more degrading than military rule, and more cruel than death domination OF THE IGNORANT NEGROES AND THEIR TREACHEROUS white abettors So momentous a crisis demands the highest degree of talent, the most energetic effort, and the most exalted patriotism. Do you want a good paper Subscribe for the Spectator. In speaking of the plan of organization adopted by the great State Conservative Convention, the Lexington Gazette says "The plan which was perfected for marshalling the white men ofthe State into a grand organization for the overthrow of negro suffrage in Virginia will, if properly carried into execution, ensure our freedom from African domination.

It remains for the people to carry on the great movement which their representatives have thus inaugurated, and the evils which now threaten to destroy their happiness and to sap the foundations of their prosperity will be averted." If you wish to have fine color-printing executed in the best style, go to the Spectator Office. At a meeting on the opening of the Barrow Docks, in England, Mr. Gladstone made a speech, in which he said "The more the use of iron advances, the more the power of England advances." Ought not Virginia, with the best iron in the world i and enough to supply the world, to be in a condition to apply this remark to herself? Auction Sales. T)UBLIC SALE OF Houses A Lots. I will offer for sale to the highest bidder, at public auction, upon the premises, on FRIDAY, JANUARY 1868, my property in and adjoining the town of Staun- ton, consisting: Ist.

Of the house and lot on which I reside, 0 containing 3 acres. The house has 10 rooms, a with gas and a good cellar, all in good I There are also a good kitchen, wash-house, meat A house, granary, stable, ice house and servants' house, a nydrant in the yard, and an abundance of fruit, such as apples, peaches, pears, cherries, grapes, 2d. A lot adjoining containing one-half acre with a dwelling-house containing three rooms. 3rd. Thirty beautiful building lots adjoining, containing from one-fourth of an acre to one and a half acre each.

1 The whole premises contain about thirty acres 1 and will be sold as a whole privately before the I day of sale. A plat of the premises can be seen at the office 1 of Echols, Bell, Catlett to whom or to myself, application can be persons wish- to purchase, Terms will be reasonable and made known on day of sale. I dec 24-tds R. M. AYRES.

PERSONAL PROPERTY for sale, Having sold my farm, I will offer at public sale, on WEDNESDA 15 TH OF JANUARY I next, the following property, to wit: 8 head of horses, 20 head of cattle, including 6 i milk cows, 25 hogs, 20 quantity of hay and i corn, 1 four horse wagon, farming utensils, house- hold and kitchen furniture, including sofas, bu- i reaus, feather beds, mattrasses, and many other 1 articles, unnecessary to mention. i Terms. all sums of fen dollars and over, a credit of nine months will be given, with bond and approved security, under that sum the cash will be required. WALTER DAVIS. ARM FOR We will sell, at She- rando, on tho 18 DAY OF DEC EM- BER NEXT, 300 Acres of good mountain land, lying on the head waters of Back Crack, in Augusta county, known as the Hughes Tract; about 86 acres cleared and under fence, the balance well good locust; adjoins Messrs.

Phillips, Demasters and Coffey. It will make a good stock farm. Mr. Fitzgerald, who resides on the place, will show it to any one wish- 3 ing to purchase. I Terms liberal and made known on day of sale.

I JAMES M. ROBERTSON, I SALLIE B. ROBERTSON. The above sale has been postponed until the Bth day of January, 1868. dec 27 1 A FARM FOR the request of Judge H.

W. Shelley, we will sell, on the premises, on FRIDAY, JANUARY 3RD, 1868, I that nice little farm, situated on Middle River, adjoining I. J. Parkins, Hawkins and containing 102 acres. The improvements are good and in excellent repair.

The land will be shown to persons desiring to see it, by Joshua Stover, who resides on the farm. Sale to commence at 11 o'clock. TERMS equal annual payments, with interest payable annually, and the title retained. PECK CUSHING, dec i-ueioneers. VALUARLE IS pursuance of a decretal order ofthe Cir- euit Court of Augusta county, entered in cause of Towberman's heirs Towbermanas heirs, I will proceed on the premises, about 9 miles from Staunton, near New Hope, on THURSDAY, TIIE 2ND OF JANUARY next, to sell, at public sale, to the highest bidder, a tract of Long Meadow run land, of superior quality, containing 143 acres.

The improvements are a commodious brick house, good barn, with stables, cow-house, sheds, Meadow run passes through premises, and there are well and springs for house use, orchard, fifteen acres of meadow, and all the comforts of a good home; also 72 acres of Woodland, one-half mile distant, adjoining Hermitage, well set in pine trees for lumber, and other timber. The character of the land in that section is of first quality. Mr. George Tuwberman or Mr. Jacob Armentrout, (on premises) will show the property.

of sale and suit in hand; balance in tour equal annual payments, with'interest, purchaser to give bonds and good security, and title to be retained as further security. tVill also be sold at same time 130 bushels of wheat, 100 bushels of corn, and several tons of bay, on usual terms. NICIIO. K. TROUT, Commissioner.

Peck Cushing, Auctioneers. due SAEE Personal Property. As executor of Peter Livick, deed. I will sell ON THURSDAY, DECEMBER VYTH, 18(37, all the real and personal property, belonging to tho said estate. The property consists of: Ist.

The Home Place, containing 33 acres of good improved land, with a comfortable dwelling and all necessary out buildings. 2nd, The Garber Place, containing 41 acres. At the same time and place, I will sell all the personal estate, consisting of 1 horse, 1 cow, 7 hogs, 1 two-horse wagon, household and kitchen furniture, farming utensils, The property will bo shown to any one wishing to purchase, by Alex, or Andrew J. Livick, who reside on the premises. Terms made known on day of sale.

JOHN TUMBLE, Ex'or of Peter Livick, dec'd. Peck Cushing, Auctioneers. If you wish to be posted in all the interesting news, subscribe for the Spectator. Legal Notices. rules held in the Clerk's office of tho Circuit Court of Alleghany county, on Monday, the 2nd day of December, 1867, Mary Cassady Plaintiff against IN CHANCERY, William Cassady Defendant.

This is a suit instituted by the plaintiff against the defendant for a Divorce from the bond of matrimony and it appearing that the said defendant, William Cassady, is not an inhabitant of this State it is ordered that he do appear here in one month after due publication of this order and do what is necessary to protect his interest. A dec JOSEPH T. FUDGE, Clerk. The undersigned, one of the administrators of Gabriel Hite, dec'd, hereby gives notice that the sale-bonds of the estate of the said decedent are in his hands, and that those indebted must pay up immediately, or the bonds will be placed in the hands of officers for collection. J.

J. CUPP, one ofthe admr's of Gabriel Hite, dec'd. VIRGINIA, to wit rules held in the Clerk's Office of Augusta County Court, for said county, on Monday, the 2nd day of December, James F. Hite, Executor of Robert McChcs- ncy, deceased, Plaintiffs, AGAINST John D. Imboden, and George W.

Imboden, Defendants, IN DEBT. The object of this suit is to recover against the defendant, Geo. W. Imboden, the sum of $847.59 cents, with legal interest thereon, from the Bth day of June, 1860, till paid subject, however, to six credits endorsed on note amounting in the aggregate to $346. Affidavit having been made that said defendant, George W.

Imboden, is not a resident ofthe State of irginia, he is hereby required to appear in the said Clerk's Office, within one month after due publication hereof, and do what may be necessary to protect his interests. WILLIAM A. BURNETT, Clerk. A. H.

H. Stuart, p. q. All who are indebted to me or my clients, will save costs by paving ONE YEAR'S INTEREST promptly on 'the Ist of January. DAVID FULTZ.

Great Excitement. rpHE OIPEACHERS IMPEACHED CONGRESSIONAL RECONSTRUCTION has overleaped itself AND OLD TIMES HAVE COME AGAIN to find G. C. Yeakle still at his old stand, on Main Street, with the largest stock of JEWELBY, SILVEB WARE, WATCHES, I CLOCKS, ever offered in this market and at remarkably low prices. 1 Among his stock can be found the most valuable Christmets and New Year's presents, not in- tended to amuse for a moment and then be thrown aside, but to last and be serviceable for ajlife-time.

He begs leave to call especial attention to his large assortment of Rings, Breastpins, Earrings, Pearl, Jet, Enameled and Coral Sets, -Ladies' Chatelaines, Gentleman's Vest Chains. Chronometer, Lepine and Lever Watches, Clocks of and Pitchers, Cake Baskets, Castors, Goblets, Egg Boilers. Cream Pitchers, and Ware in Sets, and many other articles too numerous to mention. He invites his friends and the public to give him a call. Particular attention paid to repairing fine Watches and Jewelry.

i Private Sales. FOR SALE valuable buihlingj Lot of Four Acres, adjoining my own residence, beautiful site for a line residence, easy of access, water and gas close at hand, and no monevj required in hand. Parties desiring to avail themselves ofthe certain rise in real estate within the next few years, in and around Staunton, now have aa opportunity seldom offered. 1 will sell on Ten Years, or longer, if desired. Call on me at my residence.

Dec ItUf ROBERT G. BICKLE. THRESH MILK COW FOR The subscriber has a very fine fresh milk Cow for sale. D. W.

COINER, dec Fishersville. LAND FOR The subscriber offers at private sale the land he is now living upon, containing 100 acres, To cleared, and the balance in excellent timber. There are upon the place a dwelling house, kitchen, smoke-house, spring-house and other out-buildings. The land is well watered, a stream running through it, and having sor 6 never-failing springs. It "contains, also, an excellent orchard.

WM. STICKLEY. FAMILY CARRIAGE for rate workmanship, of light draught for two horses, and will seat six persons including driver. Terms accommodating. Enquire of tf PRICE.

A GOOD FARM FOR The sub 7 scriber offers for sale privately, his FARM containing about 165 Acres, about 90 cleared, the balance well timbered. This farm is situated in Augusta county, on Middle river, and runs to the public road leading from Spring Hill, to Staunton, about 7 miles from Staunton. There is a very comfortable dwelling, with good outhouses, and a tolerable barn on the place; a good meadow, an orchard, and a well of excellent water in the yard. The land is of tho very best quality, producing good crops of all kinds of grain and grass. There a good lime-kiln and an inexhaustible quarry of superior lime stone on it.

Any one wishing to buy a good small farm should call and examine for Address ROBERT VANLEAR, Long Glade, Augusta county, Va. oct Hagcrswwn Mail and Lancaster Intelligencer copy tfani send accounts to thia office lor collection. DESIRARLE FARM FOR The undersigned wishes to sell, privately his farm containing 417 acres, situate two ana a half miles from Waynesboro and Fishersville, two depots on Va. Central Rail Roart, with good road to each. Land is under fine state of culti vation, comfortable dwelling, well watered and plenty of excellent timber.

If preferred, a part will be sold, as it has two dwellings and other ou houses. For further information address SAMUEL H. STEELE, Waynesboro, Augusta county, Va. THE Undersigned offers at private sale his house and lot on Market street, in tho Eastern part of Staunton, nearly opposite the residence of Samuel M. Woodward.

D. R. BLACKBURN. Wants I WANTED good Blacksmith on Wagon work, can get good wages and constant employment by applying to ST. F.

C. ROBERTS, Valley -Mills. WAS TED-HIDES of all descriptions, tot which the highest market price will bo paid on delivery. Parties may deliver either to us at our Tanyard at Jenning's Gap, or at the Warehouse of McClure Bumgardner, in Staunton. J.

W. KUNKLE. ACiRADI'ATE of one ofthe first Institutes in the State desires a situation either in a private family or public school. She has had experience, and is qualified to teach ENGLISH, FRENCH MUSIC. The best testimonials can be furnished.

References exchanged. Stating terms, number of pupils, address C. Point Eastern P. 0., Caroline county, Va. dec all.kinda Dressed Fowls, in any quantity.

Also 1000 lbs. Fresh Roll BUTTER, dec HOGE. OATS OATS 1000 Bushels OATS immediately, for which I will pay the market price in cash, dec JOHN C. HOGE. SHOEMAKER'S number of good SHOEMAKERS can find constant employment, at good wages, by applying to the undersigned.

JAMES FAGAN, nov Main street, Staunton. 1500 bushels of Apples, 1000 bushels of Oats, 2000 pounds of Butter, 5000 pounds of Bacon, and all kinds of Country Produce. Cash paid. R. L.

CLEVELAND, Antone's Building, Main street, 3 doors East of Augusta. A Young Han, of some experience in teach ing, desires a School or situation as Teacher in a private family Latin, Greek, Higher Mathematics, References given and required. Address, Care Hunter Nowlin, Staunton, Va. tf FARM WANTED Any little farm of 150 or 200 acres within eight miles or less of Staunton, and wishing to RENT the same to a first rate tenant can be accommodated by calling on PECK ie CUSHING, July Auctioneers. con, Butter, Lard, Fowls, Eggs, for the highest cash price, at the Wesleyan Feinalo Institute.

W. A. HARRIS. sept Town papers copy 2t or two young men can get board in a private family. For farther information inquire at THIS OFFICE.

Baltimore Advertisements. DITLANY A EICIIXER, Merchant Tailors, NO. 52, NORTH HOWARD STREET, BALTIMORE. FORMULA FOR MEASUREMENT. WJ Length from 1 to 2 to 3.

Sleeve 4t05 "6. I breast and Waist under the Coat I i From 1 to length required. WI Breast and Waist under the Coat 11 3 From 7or hip to Bto 9. Around the largest part of hip. If j-sj ivround the waist at 7.

In seam from Crotch to 0. gjlrrzzaa OVERCOAT. Breast and Waist over the Coat, Other measures as above. We guarantee a Good Fit when the measuro is taken according to the above Formula. Keep constantly on hand a large stock of Cloths, Cassimeres and Ycstings.

which will be made up in tne latest style and very best manner. Orders promptly attended to. REFER TO R. Mauzy Staunton. Selby Dulany, Baltimore.

dec 24 RicJimond Advertisements. J. J. waggoner, wm. g.

itarvey, late of Sumner, Waggoner Co. Richmond. 1 LX A HARVEY, WHOLESALE GROCERS AND Commission corner Cary and 15th streets, RICHMOND, VA. Strict personal attention given to tho sale of Cotton, Tobacco, Grain, and Country Produce dec Virginia Central Railroad. RAILROAD The Freight i Trains on the Va.

C. R. Road will be suspended from Wednesday the 24th, to Monday the 30th of December, except one train whicn will leave Staunton for Covington, on Saturday, the 28th. Articles requiring despatch will be taken on mail train. W.

J. HUNTER, dec Tobacco. nperior Louisa Tobacco, Pride of Louisa brand, Champion Twists Maiden's Blush, Apricot Five Pound The attention of Dealers and Country Merchants'' is specially called to these fine Tobaccos for sale at Manufacturer's Prices. H. KER Burwell Building..