Crawfordsville Review, Crawfordsville, Montgomery County, 22 March 1856 — Page 1

VOLUME vn.

(From the IcdiaDtgolii State Sentinel.1

ANOTHER SECRET SOCIETY!!

ABOLITIOTOATH-BOUNB LEAGUE!!

THE LFBERTOS OF TIE

PEOPLE IN DANGER!!

We tbis day lay before the readers of the iStale Sentinel the platform, ceremonies, constitution, ritual, oaths, etc., of a secret

political society, which exists in Indians, and which has been organized for the purpose of controlling the political power and destinies of the State.

We hare been put in possession of the authentic rccords of this organization from such a source, and under such circumstances, as to leate no doubt of the correctness And truth of the exposure, which we herewith place before the public. Every fact and every statement is copied from their own printed book of forms and ritual, which has been printed by their confidential publishers, and secretly delivered to none but those who wero sworn to fidelity, and to keep their secrets.

The "League" is a most abominable conspiracy, entered into by a faction of restless and corrupt men, to control and direct the people in such manner as will conduce to the advancement and propagation of Abolition, disunion, and intolerant doctrines and interests. We look apon this movement as being worse in its tendencies, and more pernicious in its sentiments than original Know Nothingism, because it hypocritically assumes to be the advocato and supporter of human liberty and human rights, while it practically enslaves the citizen, disfranchises a portion of community, and drives from political connection a large number of American citizens for their religious opinions:

Wo giro the following condensed exposure of this miserable concern, that every reader may judge of it himself.*

Here is the title page of the book: PLATFORM, LIST OF OFFICERS, CONSTITUTION AND RITUAL, or THE Indiana State League of Freedom.

Iiidiniin Journal Company—Print. OFFICERS:—1855-\»0.

President -W. G. GEORGE, South Bend. Vice Prcs't 011V1LLE THOMPSON, Grccnsburg.

Secretary—SAMUEL G. DAILY, Indinnnpolis. Treasurer-Vr. R. T. BROWN, Crawfoidsville.

PLATFORM.

As servility to the Slave Tower charactr1i7.es the Nationnl organizations of the existing polivieul parties, and as this servility it perilous both to the manhood of the North and the liberty of the public,

WE DECLARE.

1st. That the issue before the American People is whether Freedom shall he limited to the Free Sli.tes, or whether slavery shall be limited to the Slave Stales.

lJd.

That this issue has been forced upon the Country bv the Slave Power through repeated aggressions, nnd by nets which have violated National faith, solemn compacts nnd sacred covenants. 3d. That these a£rrressions, c«peciallv

OS

tho Nebraska outrage, with the brutal assault upon the elective franchise in Kansas, have aroused the freemen of the Republic to a juit .«ensc of their duty and their danger, and though they will invade no right of any State, they will maintain every right of Freedom and resist the admission of another slave State, or the addition of another foot of slave soil. 4th. That we shall meet this issue, thus forced upon us iu the spirit which our fathers met the issues of their day, and believing, as they believed, that rightfully man can hold no property in man. we will maintain the NATIONALITY of Freedom.

S h. That Freedom being one in aim and end, the World over, the friends of Freedom in this Republic should make principles character, not birthplace, the test of admission to citizenship, and its Constitutional rights.

AND WE FURTHER DECLARE, ife 6th. That the right to worship GOD according to the dictates of individual conscience being inviolable, we will labor to strengthen this great community through wiso State laws but we will repel every politico-ccclesiastical interference in political affairs, by potentate, pontiff, or priest, or their abettors, as destructive alike to this

BIGHT of our common Liberty. 7th. That we are in favor of a law that shall effectually prohibit the traffic in liquors as a beverage 8th. That Free Schools, Free Labor, the improvement of Rivers and Harbors, an Honest Republican, Official, Representation abroad, all measures that tend to elevate IAK, establish the material prosperity of the Country, and give stability to the Union, shall receive our hearty support. 9th. Persona of foreign birth, not to be admitted to the right of suffrage till they become citizens according to the Constitation and the laws of the United States. 10th. That the people are the rightful source of political power, and all officers, .both State and National, should, as far as practicable, be choscn by a direct VOL# of the people. 1th. That to insure practical success, ws will strive to fill all offices with men of undoubted integrity and sobriety, of ability, and of nerve to resist aggression upon Right, come when, where, or in what shape it may. CONSTITUTION" of the STATE LEAGUE.

ARTICLE I.

SKC. 1. This Association shall be styled •'The Indiana State League of Free Men," and shall taibe head of the organization in Indiana, ft shall have exclusive power to establish Subordinate Leagues within the

State, aud such work and laws for thereg- --, ulation as may be deemed proper, to secure lawful and honorable means to pro

itsr

the anceess of the Organization and the tri amph of its principles: Provided, thai nothing shall be done contravening the Constitution of the National League and our Plntfom of Principles.

Ant. 2. Provides for the election of

offi­

cers. See. 2. Provides for tke selection of one representative" fronseneii CooncU to form the State League. v* v-':" '-5

SKC. 3. State League shttll hold its annual meetings on the third Tuesday of April of each year.

ARTICIXIII.'

SRC 1. Provides for the

compensation of

the President, and fixes his duties, one of which is to appoint a Deputy in etch epunty.

1

Sxc. 2. Fixes the duties of the Vice President. SEC. 3. Fixes duties of Secretary.

SKC. 4. Fixes duties of Treasurer SEC. 5. Fixes duties of Sentinel. SKC. 6. Provides for general duwea of officers.

SEC. 7. Makes it the duty of the President to appoint traveling deputies in each county.

SEC. 8. Provides for the election, by the State League, of Delegates to the National League. 'ABTICLK IV.

SEC. 1. Provides for the appointment of nine committees. SKC. 2. Defines the duties of said committees.

ARTICLX V.

SEC. 1. The revenue of the State League shall consist of such fees as may be derived from the Charters, and sueh per capita tax as may be levied upon the Subordinate by the State League.

ARTICLE VI.

SKC. I. The State League shall be called to order at their stated meetings, at ten o'clock, A. M., and special meetings at the time specified in the notice convsning^ the same, and thirty delegates shall constitute a quorum for business.

ARTICLE VII.

SEC. 1. This Constitution shall take effect from and after its adoption. SUBORDINATE CONSTITUTION.

The President and Secretary shall have power to issue charters for Subordinate Leagues upon the application of ten citizens of the requisite qualifications, and after such application to the President or Secretary or Deputy President, either of said officers are empowered to institute and instruct such Subordinate League.

CONSTITUTION.

(The following Constitution, By Laws and Utile* of Order are recommended for adoption for Subordinate Leagues.)

SKC. 1. A person to become a member of a League must be a legal voter of the United States, of good moral character, and not addicted to intemperance. He must believe in the existence of a Supreme Being as the Creator and Preserver of the Universe, and, be sufficiently educated and intelligent to understand the general principles of our Government. He must be morally and politically opposed to the extension of slavery, and be free from any allianco with the Roman Catholic church.

SEC. 2. Provides for the election of officers. SEC. 3. Provides for the time of nominations, and tenure of office.

SKC. 4. Ditto. SEC. 5. Gives each League the power to institute its own By-Laws.

SEC. ". Provides thai the vote of fourfifths of the members present shall be required for the election of a member.

SEC. 7. Provides that the rejection of a candidate shall disqualify him for membership in any other League in the State for six months, fcc., fec.

SKC. 8- Provides for the qualification of members. SEC. 9. Provides for withdrawal.

BY-LAWS,

Similar to those of most Western Debating Societies, in ten sections—(written by Hon. SCCVI.ER COLFAX, editor of the South Bend Register.)

RULES OF ORDER,

In twenty-three sections similar to the ByLaws. RITUAL.

Questions asked by the Marshals outside.] [When the candidates have assembled in the ante-room, the Platform shall be read, and the following questions asked by the proper officer, using plural words in place of singular, whenever necessary.] 1. Whether you become a member or oot, do you pledge yourself to an honorable secresy with regard to what you shall see and hear within our Organization?" [Each answers, "I do." 2. Are you twenty-one years of age, and a citizen of the United States? [Each answers, "I am."] 3. (printed 2). Are you a Roman Catholic? [Each answers, "I am not." 4. Do you pledge yourself, on your honor as a man, that you will support the Platform of Principles just read to you, and not reveal the secrets, pass-words, or signs of recognition of this Organization? [Each answers, "I do."] [Marshal introduces Candidate.]

In the centre of the room stands a table covcred with an American flag, and on it lies a Bible, open, *s egibUms of civil and religious liberty.

Candidates arrange themselves in semicircle, faciag the table. President advances to the opposite side of the table, and says:

PRXSZOSVT.—W^ll you place your right hand on the Bible? Candidates do so.

PRESIDENT.—You and eaeh of you, with your right hand resting on the Word of Truth, and the Flag of your Country, of your own free will and accord, do solemnly pledge your saered honor as a man that you will never make known the seerets of this Order to any person exeept within the bjpay of a legally constituted League of the Order and not even then, unless you ate well assured that he is in goqtj standing and legally entitled to your confidence.

You furthermore promise, that you will

mote the interests of this Order, and secure the triumph of the principles of our National Platform that you will conform to the laws and ediets of the National League of "FEB MN or TH* TTwirxn STATU," to the Constitution Rules sad maces of the State League of Indiana, and of this, or any other local League of which you may become member, that you will not divulge the name of any member of the Order, your own excepted, unless permitted so to do by the person himself, of compelled by due process of law. (Candidate repeats.)— Faithfully to perform I solemnly pledge my honor as a man.

PRKSIDKNT.—You will now be conducted to the Secretary's table, where you wiil enroll your name together with your birthplace, age, and present residence. [Enrolls his name.]

Marshal conducts the candidate to the instructor and says: Mr. A. B. (and associates if more than one) having been duly obligated and enrolled, as "Freemen" come to you for instruction.

INSTRUCTOR.—Gentlemen, we congratulate you on your entrance into our Order. It is no common or trifling political occurrence that has given rise to this organization. The.alarming aggressions of Slavery, Political Popery, and Intemperance have aroused the wise and good all over the land, and have banded them in the League of "Freemen" to resist these sessions. The private matters which yo?..... to keep secret, are not only the obligation *nd ceremonies of the Order, but include everything said or done in the League, unless secresy be removed by special act of the League itself.

The PasB Word is (No. 1) "Freedom for all men." Our 6ign of recognition for the street is the placing of the (No. 2) (forefinger) of the (No. 3.) (Right hand) upon the (No. 4) (Right side) of the (No. 5) (Nose.) S

The response to the sign is made with the (No. 6) (Left hand corresponding position.) The brother who gave the sign will then say (No .7) "Have you any news?" The other will reply (No., 8) "All right."

Make any noise you chooss at the outer door to attract the attention of the O. S.— Give to him the (No. 9 (first part of the P. W.—"Freedom then advance to the inner door, and give (No. 10) three raps.

The I. S. will present hiirs.'lf, and to him you will give (No. 11) (the remainder of the P. W. also your name, with the name and location of the League to which you belong, thus: (For all men.)

The T. P. W. (Meaning the traveling pass word, is (No. 12) ("Back Bone,") to be used, you will remember, only when traveling out of the State but the signals at the door are uniformly the same.— (Marshal conduct? candidate to President.)r

PRESIDENT.—Gentleman: you have heard and approved our platform of principles— you have sought admission into our Order— you have answered our questions satisfactorily, and have taken an obligation of secresy and fidelity you have been ma^e acquainted with the Signs and Pass ^Tords ofthe Order, and itnowonlyremain^explain to you more fully the aims and objects ofthe league of "Free Men." It is the duty and interest of every "Son of Freedom" to battle for the emancipation of men from the tyranny of Ignorance, Intemperance, and Slavery. No country can be happy or free where the civil authority is controlled by the ecclesiastic, or where one class owns another, and unrequited toil.

Religion is the allegiance which man owes to his Maker Patriotism, that which he owes to his country.

A union of Church and State corrupts the purity of the one, and destroys the liberties of "the other. The purity and integrity of both require a mutual, though harmonious independence.

You have observed that this Order plants itself upon the principles ofthe immortal Declaration of Independence, which pro claims these truths to be self-evident: that "all men are created equal, and endowed with certain inalienable rights, among which are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." But while we sacredly cherish the recognitions of the right of man, we counsel no interference with the institutions of other States beyond the authority granted bv the Federal Constitution. But we steadfastly believe that the Fathers of the Revolution who founded this Republic who bought our liberties with their lives, andsealed their purchase with their blood, never intended that our Government should either recognize orsanction human slavery that it should ever become a party to its extension, or be responsible even for its existance.

To restore the General Government to its original character, by rendering Freedom national, and Slavery sectional, is our duty, and, we trust our mission. Second ia magnitude as an American political evil, but more insidious, if possible, is Popery.— For fourteen centuries it has been the scourge of the human race, the incarnation of Despotism. Under the garb of religion and plea of infallibility, it is the sworn foe of civil and religious liberty.

It wields the very freedom which our Fathers conferred upon it, as a dagger to destrov our own. Landing upon our shores millions of its superstitious, segregated and clannish instruments, and acting as a unit in popular elections, it used them with fearful power, first to weigh down one side then another, ever bartering its votes to the highest bidder, until it has secured control of the most important places ia the Government. "The tree is known by its fruits." Those ofthe Papal tree have been ignorance, pcrerty, misery *°d crime.— lU votaries fill our foils, alms-houses and penitentiaries. Intolerance is its princip ignorance its cement, inqusition and duplicity its means. Its open hostility to the Bible in Free Schools is known to every American. It is the same system of despotism in all climes, in all ages, and under all Governments. Where it has the power, it boldly dictates to the civil authority, and wakes it subservient to the Qhurch.— Where it is numerically weak, it assume* devote and meak aspect but it knows no gratitude, no compromise. Why then should Americans longer clothe their ipstruments with the elective franchise or entrust them with the administration Government?

Tpu observe that our Order makes prin­

CEAWFOEDSYIUiE, MONTGOMERY COUNTY, INDIANA, MARCH 22, 1856.

but on the more enduringpijnciples of human brotherhood, and ItA's republican equality. We exclude Wily the vicious, the unprincipled, the despot, and the instruments of despotism.

The theory of our Government is, that all power emanates from the people. But such is not, and has not been its practice.-

Ti 1_ Ifiil IkatM AA«*tnnl«f*_

It has became little better than a centralized despotism, with a Republican name.— The people have, comparativly, no choiec in the selection of their public servants— The single branch of the General Government which they are premittcd to chose, is oversdadowed by the Senate, and the Executive with his vetoes, and his great and increasingly dangerous patronage. A restoration of power to the hands of the people will be our most sacred duty. Finally the grand aim of this organization is to establish a League of Freedom for the inalienable Rights of Man, and for the protection of civil and religious liberty to restore the political institutions of our country to their original purity, and execute the grand will and testament of its founders to make this Republic the dwelling-place of Freedom, the polar star of the oppressed of all nations, to exhibit the glorious spectacle of a government without a King, religion without a Pope, a Continent without a Slave.

NOTE.—The explanation of thfl numbers uaed in tbia Section, are printed upon a card accompanying tlie manual, as follows: (No. 10 means "Freedom for all men." (No. 2,) mean3 "Fore Finger." (No. 3.) meant*. ".Right Hand." (No. 4.) moans "Right Side." (No. 5,) means "Nose." (No. 6.) means "Left Land in Corresponding position." (No. 7,) means "Hava you any nows?" (No. S,) means "All Kight." (No. 9.) means "First part of Pass Word," [Freedom.] (No. 10,) means "Three Raps." [A alight panso taking place between tho first and second, but tho

TWO I.AST

close together.]

(No. 11.) means "The remainder of tho Pass Word, [which is "For all men,"] also your name, with tho name ofthe League to which you be­

(No. 12.) means "Back Bone. [This is tbetravclinpPass Word,] to bo usod only when travling out of the S'ate."

This is the Platform, and these are the Principles, of this League of Fanatics, whose doctrines, if carried i&to practical operation, must inevitably produce revolution, civil war and disunion.

We have given the whole of the address of the "President," that the League may have the benefit of his hypocritical speech to the silly novitiates, which blends, now and then, a proper sentiment with a large amount of sophistry. We permit them to tell their own story in their own way.— Every sensible reader will easily discover which is the grain and which is the chaff.

In the language of patriotism and assumed loVe of the Union, they pretend to sustain the works of our Revolutionary ancestors in behalf of the rights of conscience and of civil and religious liberty. They speak in ardent terms of their opposition to the union of Church and State, and in the same breaih denounce all Catholics a3 beyond the pale of favor or of citizenship, and plainly assert that their religion should be

regulated

by

law,

to every

Government,

ciples, not nativity, the standard of qualifications for citizenship. Hie place of a man's birth is an accident beyond his eonf^^ieli he is tempt to do? They wish by secret and But his moral character, and his political principles etc intrusted to his own keeping, clandestine means to eontrol the governOurs aland of refuge for die oppressed of ment and rule the country. all climes, assigned by Protidence as the .Many of their officers are known to our theater where he may g?Bt Pro" citizens. Are they any more moral, reli ra™ "hal

hTre?

nounced all allegience of er^y kinde of all they stigmatize and condemn? They are fereign powers?" "Is he devoted to our generally hopeful politicians, who have hoinstitutions, temperate nnd*. industrious in p6(j against hope for political preferment, his habits, and of good mortf character?"—

bnt wh0

We cast out from us no true man, wherever he may have happened to be born.— appointed spite of their secret Leagues Our Order is not founded in selfishness

w*

profession of liberal an on-

them in upturning the foundations of our Pq

After the reader calmly reflects upon the tendencies of such an association or Secret League, he will certainly perceive its deleterious features. They proscribe a large portion of the people of this Lnion for their religion, and for no other cause. They would disfranchise and de-nationalize more white people who are actual citizens and free-holders in the country than the whple number of slaves in all the States of the Republic. What charity, what holy piety, what moral feeling, what political tolerance is there in sueh men and in such an effort?

The seeret character of the League classes it with Know Nothingism, and shows that a great wrong is intended to be practiced upon the people. If its purposes were manly, honorable, and laudable, why require solemn oaths of secresy, and the signs of bwdits and robbers to conceal its

A'*:

existence? Such msn talk of Inquisitions and the subtle power of Popery. When did the Pope do more than they here at-

philanthropic tho»« whom

we think, are destined to be dis

wnrtli

We are informed that the most worthy President of the "Indiana State League of Freemen" who was recently from Pennsylvania, was, on revisiting his former place of residence, arrested on a charge of seduction, so that he has found it inconvenient to return to the further discharge of his important duties in Indiana.

In conclusion, we invite most seriously, every German and Irish citizen, every Catholic, be he of foreign or native birth, and every honest, patriotic freeman, to contemplate this diabolical league study their platform, their ritual, their constitution, and their secret oaths, and then to determine, upon his conscience, whether or not he desires to join such a league, to become a member of such a party, or to stand by the Constitution and institutions of our glorious Union.

From the Chicago Times.

NAVAL WAR OF 1812. ENGAGEMENT BETWEEN THE SIIANNON AND CHESAPEAKE.

Having been an actor in that terrible battle, nearly forty-three years ago and having carefully read the officialTtccount.? of Great Britain and the United States, James* Naval History of Great Britain, and Cooper's Naval History of tho United States and knowing that all and each of these authorities abound in errors respecting the engagement and especially wishing to pay his meed of tribute to illustrious worth, the writer of this is induced to throw some light on that scene in the following disjointed reminiscences.

On or about the 1st of March, 1813, the British frigates Shannon and Tenedos were ordered to cruise off Boston. Each of these ships rated thirty-eight guns. The Shannon mounted fifty guns and two twelvepounder stern chasers—in all fifty-two guns. Among the fifty guns were two nine-poun-ders and two twelve-pounders the remainder were long eightcen-pounders and thirtytwo pounder carronades. The Tenedos mounted forty-nine guns. The U. S. ships President and Congress were laying to their anchors in Boston harbor at the same time. The cruising ground of the British frigates was between Montauk Poiut, Long Island, and, Cape Cod, Massachusetts Bay.

On the 2nd day of May, in a dense fog and heavy gale of wind, the frigates President, Com. Rodgers, and Congress put to sea and sailed for the Banks of Newfoundland, and from thence to Greenland, and made several prizes of British whalers— but left the two British frigates blockading the Port. At the same period, the frigate Chesapeake, Capt. Evans, arrived in the harbor of Boston, with the loss of a topmast in the same gale. Capt. Evans was disabled from command by a severe disease of the eyes, and Capt. James Lawrence was appointed in his place to the command of the Chesapeake.

Shortly after the arrival of the Chesapeake in Boston harbor, the captain of the Shannon, P. B. V. Broke, ordered the Tenedos off the station, and wrote by fishinof boats to Capt Lawrence, that as there

at least so far as to dis- was only his frigate blockading the port

franchise them. Is not this inroking th. he Mpjcted C,pt. Lawrcnee would comc out and try the ordeal of battle in honor of power of the State to regulate lure a ^ejr

refpectiVe

fairs? Every species of ignorance and gshjng boats brought word that he would crime is charged against them as a general come out as soon as he was ready. class of people, and they arc consigned to The month of May had nearly psrd -n„ when Capt. Broke, apprehensive that the infamy morally, socia

Chesapeake

These inconsistencies are so numerous, na- other British vessels of war might be grant and glaring, that it would be a waste lurking in the neighborhood, wrote anothof time and space to specify them. To ev- er challenge and sent it by a fishing boat. err ounce of honey, they .dd a pound of proffering to sail with the Ches.peake Ave ery ounoc ui jt hundred miles under a flag of truce and gall

commence

est political feeling, the most tangible evi- be mutually agreed upon by both comdence of Abolition bigetry and intolerance, tnanders. This last letter was sent about Thev desire all fusion factions to unite with the 30th of May, and it is believed that

and denounce it as a central- gj]annon being close to the Boston light ized despotism." They attack the provis- bouse—at 0 o'clock A. M., the Chesapeake ions of the Constitution, and assail its checks got under weigh, and came out ofthe harand safeguards, especially the equalizing bor wind light in breezes, making small .t,* ripple on the water. Meanwhile the Shanand regulating power of the Senate and the JV Executive veto. They cherish a deadly hostility to tho white foreign born citizen, but lament over the fate of the negro, and profess a brotherly love for him. They would wantonly incite internal strife and contention between the States of the Confederacy, regardless of the consequences to our national existence.

countries. Some of the

would not venture out, for fear

engagement at a given signal

Capt. Lawrence never received it.

morning ofthe

,gtof june_the

Meanwhile the Shan

non, under easy sail, made an offing from the coast thinking that privateers or gun boats might come'out and assist the chesapeake.

At 4 o'clock P. M., the Chesapeake hove to and fired a gun, being then about 4 miles distant from the Shannon. The Shannon immediately fired another and hove to upon which the Chesapeake made sail, and began to shorten the distance between the rival vessels.

The Chesapeake approached with five large splendid ensigns flying, one of which was an immense white silk flag, with, "FREE TRADE AND BAILORS* BIUHTS" inscribed thereen in large letters, which could be read by the naked eye at a considerable distance.

The Chesapeake came within about two miles and was swiftly nearing the Shannon. Captain Broke now turned the hands up, and made a short oration to the men, nearly as follows: "Recollect and bear in mind, that the Americans are a proud nation-— that they have sank or taken several of our vessels of war and they say that Englishmen have forgotten how to fightl Remember that they have Anglo-Saxon blood in theii veins and you have not French, or Spaniards, or Dutch to fight to day You must either take her or go to the bottom!" Upon which the crew gave three cheers, and simultaneously the crew of the Chesapeake cheered.

The Chesapeake came on beautifully underher royals, top-gallant sails, topsails and courses and when within half a mile, gradually shortened sail, standing in the wake of the Shannon until she approached so close that Capt. Broke supposed that she was going to lay athwart the Shannon's stern, and rake her fore and aft. Deem ing this to be the object of Cnpt. Lawrence, he ordered the men to lie down. During the whole of these proceedings, the perfection of naval discipline was so complete that you might almost have heard a pin drop

The Chesapeake came so clo?e that ner flying jibboom nearly touched the taffrail of the Shannon, when Capt. Lawrence imme diately luffed up on the weather-quarter of the Shannon, and at the name moment Capt. Broke whispered to the quarter-mas-ter at the wheel to put the helm down when the Shannon shot suddenly round— the awful command by Capt. Broke was given, "Fire tchen your guns bear/" and the whole broadside of the Shannon at half pistol-shot distance, was poured into th® Chesapeake more destructively than if it was exactly raking: the Chesapeake being unable to return a single gun. This broadside was very destructive. One hundred men were killed and wounded most of the officers belonging to the Chesapeake were struck down, either killed, or wounded, and five guns on the side of the Chesapeake engaged, were dismounted and rendered hors de combat.

Under these serious disadvantages the Chesapeake ranged alongside and delivered her broadside, one-half of which was pointed at the water line, and the other half at the rigging and masts of the Shannon.— Several shot penetrated below the water line and every shroud of the fore, main, and mizzen rigging of the Shannon was cut to pieces. The Chesapeake was then verging ahead, when the best bower anchor of the Shannon caught in the lanyards of her main rigging grapplings from both vessels were thrown aboard, when the vessels were both lashed and made fast in that position muzzle to muzzle!

The quarter-dcck guns and part of the main-deck guns of the Chesapeake played upon the bow Of the Shannon, and the forecastle guns and part of the bow guns of the main-deck of the Shannon played upon the after part of the Chesapeake. The second, third, and fourth broadsides of the Chesapeake were very destructive. Numbers fell on board of the Shannon, and the guns in the bow had to be manned several times from the aftermost guns—caused by the number killed and wounded. The fourth gun on the bow of the Shannon, where the writer was stationed, was left, in a moment of time, with only one man standing out of twelve tho remainder were killed and wounded.

The engagement had lasted now about eight minutes, and four rounds were the most that had been fired by either vessel when the order of Cap&in Broke called the boarders awav, and about twenty or thirty followed him and First Lieut. Watt on board the Chesapeake. A few seamen and mariners fought gallantly on the forecastle of the Chesapeake, until they were overpowered some were supposed to have been lost overboard, and some gained the main deck through the bow ports. Capt. Bruke was severely wounded on board the Chesapeake.

Then a number of the Shannon's crew huddled around in the stern of the Chesapeake and in undertaking to hoist the British flag over the American, they made a mistake, and hoisted the American flag over the British. In the meantime, Second Lieut. Wallis, who commanded the Shannon in the absence* of bis Captain and First Lieutenant, ordered the firing of three thir-ty-two pounder carronades, loaded with grape—which killed his own First Lieutenant and ten or eleven of his own crew A short lime previous to this the vessels had separated.

Ac the expiration of eleven minutes from the commencement cf the engagement, the Chesapeake was taken complete possession of. At the same time, the Shannon had about six feet water in her hold, and in five minutes more would hare sunk, had the battle lasted so long.

At about the second or third broadside, First Lieut. Ludlow, of the Chesapeake had called boarders away, and boarded the Chesapeake, expecting to have thirty or forty men at least under his command, when a Portuguese boatswain's mate ran down below like a coward, and the men following his example, only one or two accompanied Lieutenant Ludlow, who was wounded on the deck of the Shannon by a bayonet stab in the breat, which afterwards proved fatal at Halifax. It is confidently believed that at the time Lieut. Ludlow boarded the Shannon, had he been supported by his boarders he would have taken the Shannon in the confusion which prevailed on board of her in consequence of the number of men killed and wounded.

Lieut. Wallis was promoted for his gallantry to be a master and commander.— lie commanded the Le Epervier subsequently, which was taken, after a short engagement, by a United States brig-of-war of inferior force. So much for the brave Second Lieut. Wallis, who was promoted for killing his own First Lieutenant and his own men.

Master's Mate Eatough, a Dane, commanded the first division of guns in the bow, upon the main deck and when they began to fall, killed and wounded, he dodged under the lee of the foremast. Being recommended for his bravery, in the official account, he was also promoted.

Capt. Lawrence was slightly wounded by the first broadside, and mortally wounded about the third broadside. The last words he spoke will be a rallying cry of seamen while time lasts—"DON'T GIVB

The American navy suffered no disgrace on account of the loss of the Chesapeake, especially taking into consideration the awful destruction caused by tbc first broadside of the Shannon. The latter's thirty-two pounder carronades were loaded as follows: a round shot, a stand of grape, and a keg of musket balls, eight hundred and sevectyfive in number—thus trebly shotted and similarly loaded were the long eighteen pounders, only the keg of musket balls contained but six hundred and fifty- There

NUMBER

were four of these kegs, fitted to the guns, for every gnn in the ship. I have already given the armament of the Shannon. Her crew, previous to the, engagement, numbered three hundred and thirty-five men and boys. Thirty or forty of these were boys or old men.

The Chesapeake, according to the muster rolls found on board, had three hundred and ninety men, of which only one or two were boys, and the remainder in the prime of life. She mounted long twenty-four pounders thirty-two pounder* carronades, and had twenty-five guns on the side she engaged the Shannon. Every shroud in the fore main and mizzen rigging was stoppered, diamon fashion from the chain-plates to the catharpings. The bulwark, on the quarter-deck and forecastle, were .secured by strong spun yarn nailed in small squares and beautifully painted—to save the officers and crew from

flying

splinters, which

are very destructive in battle. There were far more rejoicings in Hali*. fax when the prize was brought in. than if ten sail-of-the line of the French fleet hadi been captured and England herself could hardly contain herself for joy. A Yankee frigate, of equal force, was taken—at last.

The destruction of human life was awful considering the short time tho engagement lasted, and the unmber of men engaged on both sides. The battles of the Nile, Trafalgar, Waterloo, Sevastopol or Mexico are no comparison. The only modern battle, by sea or land, which approximates nearest on the scale, is the battle of Bridge water where about one-fourth of those engaged on both sides were killed and wounded.— It is said and believed that eighty-four of the Chesapeake's crew were hove overboard dead and four British deserters, who wer# in the maintop when the ship was taken possession of, ran out on the mainyard, and drowned themselves, sooner than be taken prisoners and one hundred aud ten were received into Halifax, wounded. Total, one hundred and ninety-eight, out of a crew of the hundred and ninety—more than or.s half of the crew. The Shannon had thirty five killed, or died of their wounds, and seventy-six wounded. Total, one hundred and eleven, or about one-third of of her..

The wounded of both crews were mingled indiscriminately in the hospital, and wore actually like brothers. Were any nice delicacies received by one class, they were shared by the others. Speaking the same language—worshipping the same God— the wounded seaitoan were endeared to each other. The attention of the surgeons— civil, military and naval—and the hospitali ty of the citizens of Halifax were beyond all pTaise.

The writer of this had been impressed into the British navy, andcertaniy has no affection for her government. A leading object of his, in giving these disjointed reminiscences, is to place beyond the vile reach of reproach and insinuation, the name of Capt. James Lawrence. A more chivalric and gallant officer never lived. Ife was accused of coming out before his ship was ready—of mustering a heterogenous crew of being drunk. No ship was ever better prepared for action no crew excelled them in youth, manhood and bravery (always excepting the cowardly Portuguese boatswain's mate and the us about drunkenness ought to have blistered the tonguo that uttered it, and if it was ever penned withered the hand that wrote it. Ho was buried, with honors of war, at Halifax.

Capt. Broke, was almost adored by his crew, for his humanily and kindness to bin men.

Very few of the actors in that scene survive. From the public prin!s, I ferceiv© a spCc'k of war in the horizon, between both nations, which, may the Almighty avert! Should war commence, I would recommend that Palmerston, Clarendon, and the nobles of England in faror of it, lead the van on their side and that our legislators, kc.,in favor of it, lead the van on our side. In that case we should have no war, or a mighty small one. "SnANwos."

P. S.—Many more reminiscences of tho battle might be given but this account ia already too lengthy for instruction or inle rest.

miXCE PA SK IK WITCH.

g-SCount Paskiewitch-Eriwanski, Prince of Warsaw and Governor of Poland, who^a death is mentioned in our foreign files, waa I one of the intimate friends of the old Emperor Nicholas. He was born in 1782, in Sultusk, a small town in the northeastern part of Poland, and came in his early youth to St. Petersburgh, where ho received his first introduction in the corps of the Imperial Pages. From 180G to 1809 ho fought in the campaign against Turkey, and participated subsequently in the Turkish wars of 1812-1815. In \'u2G he was name 1 chief of the general ataff of the array iu Georgia, and two years later commanded in the war against PeriMii, for the succeisful termination of whrh the Empcrer called him Count Eriwanski. During the Russian war from 1998 to 1829, he stood at tho jhead of the army in Turkey and Asia, and [after the death of General Diebitsh he was I ordered to the command of the army in

Poland. His successful occupation of its capital brought him the imperial title of I Priace of Warsaw. Paskiewitch conducted the Russian interrention in Hungary ia 1848, where, however, he developed mor« 1 diplomatic skill than military talent. H» was finally sent to the army of the Danube, in March, 1854, when he became sick, and was obliged to return to Warsaw, which place

Post.

I~V

THE

SHIP Tho writer of this was severely wounded about the fourth broadside from the Cbes-' apeake.

he never left alive.—X. Y. Eveninc/

There is a lady in Boston who is

habitually so sleepy that her curiosity caanot be awakened.

SZS~ In the Lake Superior country, the price of flour ranges from SO to 922 per barrel. ,•

tST The wool clip of Michigan last year was 2,943,821 pound1', worth 1,035,398.59.

KI.VG OF ALGIERS.— Louis Napoleon's expected child, if a boy, will bvar the title of King of Algiers.

S3T DuriBjj the year 181-5. th-r» wors shipped from Eagle Haibor, Lako .Superior, 3,811,623 tons gross of copper.