Indianapolis Journal, Indianapolis, Marion County, 6 January 1883 — Page 4

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ever, relinquish regular occupations to obtain Ihese places,, under an expectation that the of fees prevailing when they were elected will be substantially maintained. It might bo just, therefore, to pool pom* the operation of the regulating act for a reasonable tnue alter its passage. A hill properly regulating fees and salaries will require much thoughtful consideration, and Should engage your attention at a very early period of the session. CONSTITUTION AL A M ENISMKNTS. The tirsr section of the sixteenth article of the State constitution is in tlio following language: “Any amendment or amendments to this constitution may lie proposed in cither branch of the General Assembly: and if the same shall be agreed to by a majority of the members elected to each of the two houses, such proposed amendments shall, with the yeas and nays thereon, be entered on their journals and referred to the Qeneral Assembly to be chosen at the next general election; and if, in the General Assembly so next chosen, such proposed amendment or amendments shall bo agreed to by a majority of , ail the members elected to each house, tlieu it shall be the duty of the General Assembly to submit such amendment or amendments to the electors of the State; and if a majority of said electors shall ratify the same, such amendment or amendments shall become a part of tills constitution. ” At the special session of the General Assembly in 1881 several joint resolutions were introduced, which were passed by a vote of the majority of the members elected to each of the two lioiises, proposing certain amendments to the constitution. The titles of the several resolutions and their numbers were entered on the journals of the two houses, together with the yeas and nays on the passage. An enrolled Copy of each resolution, containing the amendment set out at full length, was signed by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, transmitted to the Governor, and filed by him, in conformity to Jaw*, in the oilice of the Secretary of State. In the canvass for the election of senators and representatives to the present General Assembly, the point, it is believed, was not raised that proper steps had not he.en taken in the last General Assembly to enable the present one to consider the amendments. Since the election, however, the, point has been raised, through the public press, that the proposed amendments are not in a condition to be considered by the. present General Assembly, because, at Is said, they were not entered at length In the Journals of the iwo houses of the last General Assembly. Neither of the points raised has beeu settled in this State by any judicial decision. An executive construction was given, however, to one of them, in a message of Governor Raker, in the case of what is known as the Wabash & Erie canal amendment. That amendment was not entered at length upon the journals of either of the two houses. The resolut on by which the amendment was proposed was referred to m the Journals of each house by its title merely, and the enrolled copy thereof was signed by the presiding oUlcer of each house, and was duly filed In the office of the Secretary of State. Governor Baker maintained that this was a sufficient compliance with the terms of the constitution. The constitution requires, in tin* case of bills, that upon the passage thereof the vote shall be taken by yeas and nays and entered upon the Journals or the two housos. In a case where the point was urged that an act was not iu force because no entry of the yean and natson its passage appeared in the journals, the Supreme Court held that the signatures of the presiding officers were conclusive evidence of the passage. The constitution is silent respecting the manner in which a proposed amendment shall be referred from the first to the second General Assembly. The main object, no doubt, is to get it before the second Assembly. If the genuine resolution passed comes before the second Assembly and is acted upon, the object of a reference would seem to have been attained, and the purpose of the framers of that instrument to nave been carried out. Thero was, I believe, no formal reference of the amendments adopted in 1881 by the first to the second General Assembly. In the canvass last autumn it is said that some of the senators and representatives who wore chosen at the November election publicly pledged themselves that, if they were chosen, they would vote at the present session to submit the amendments to the electors at a special election. Without saying anything respecting the merits or the sevwral amendments, I can frankly express a belief that pledges, upon which electors were induced to vote for gentleiueu holding aeats in either of the two houses of this Assembly, will not be disregarded, except for overwhelming reasons. CONCLUSION. The importance of the subjects which will eufrage your attention during the session, and the limited time allowed to you l>y the constitution lor fheir consideration, will require you to enter early and vigorously upon your work. It will give me pleasure to supply you with such facilities for ilie performance of your duties as can be furnished by the Executive Department. And I trust that, under the guidance of Divine Providence, error may be. avoided, and the best interests of the people subserved. ALBERT G. PORTER. Executive Department, Jan. 5, 1883. CITY COUNCIL. Rep-ors of the City Attorney—Miscellaneous Rubines* of No Especial Importance. A called meeting of the Council was held last evening, with barely a quorum preset.t, and no business of special importance was transacted. A resolution was adopted expressing tlio pleasure of the members of the Council in meeting the Mayors of Indiana cities for the purpose of confjiltation on needed legislation, and a cordial invitation was extended them to again visit Indianapolis. The annual report of tlie city civil engineer wan submitted, giving a statement of the amount or work done m his department timing 1882. The city attorney reported that at the beginning of the year 1882, there were forty-two oases pending against the city in iho United States, Supreme and county courts, and of this number thirty-one had beeu disposed of, twentyseven being decided In favor of the city, throe compromised and one decided against tiic city. In addition, forty-five suits were brought against the city dining the year, twenty-five resulting favorably, throe adversely and one was compromised, leaving sixteen of the number yet pending. Os the three eases decided against the city, two have been appealed, and are now pending in the general term of the. Superior Court. The amount collected and naid into the city treasury during tlio year, was $1,321.51. In ids regular report the city attorney stated that tlie proprietor of tlie Zoo Theater bad paid the amount of license arrearages. s(>!> 40, duo from him. The proprietors of the Park Theater and Grand Opera house had not settled, claiming tliut the amount charged by the treasurer's statement as due was not correct, and that they bud offered $281.(59 in full payment of all arrearages. Toe attorney suggested the appointment of a joint commit tee from both bodies of the, city government to investigate the matter, anti it was referred to the finance committee. The annual report of the Eire Board was sobmitied. and without reading, was ordered printed in pamphlet form. The Board of Public Improvements reported the expcudltiiies of the street department for 1882, sis follows: Street repairs, $13,1(30.05; street cleaning, $9,002.77; bridges, $4,249.(39; sewers. $1,998 09; total. $28,710.00. The usual appropriation ordinances were adopted. Relative to the question of opening a street along the west bank of White river'Where the old roadway was washed a wav, the committee on streets and alleys recommended the purchase of a tract of ground sufficient in width to make a sixty-font roadway, the cost not to exceed SSOO. Tile Council concurred in the recommendations of tlio committee. Ati ordinance was introduced amending tlie clause of Depot ordin nice prohibiting the soliciting ctT custom from passengers on incoming trains, lint making it unlawful to approach anyone with propositions for custom after tiie arrival of trains in the Union Depot. A remonstrance from t );* business men on West Louisiana street was presented and referred. The finance roinmietce reported that they had accepted $49,100 from tin* Indiana Banking Company for the man of $50,000 lor three months dating irom Dec. 22, and the Council concurred in their action. A resolution was introduced by Mr. Morrison directing the committee on puniic light to oxumiue and rcpori at the next regular meeting upot', the advisability of placing two electric lights on Virginia avenue at the crossiug of tinUnion railroad tracks, two on Meridian street at the east end and two on Plinois street at the west end of tin* Union D. pot. Tlio resolution was referred to thecouimittce on public light. The proposition ol J. YV. Wharton to investigate tin* records and collect taxes on property which hail not been appraised at its real value for 20 per cent, of tlio amount was accepted, but later was reconsidered, and after a prolonged discussion was referred to the judiciary committee for further consideration. ••Fear brings disgrace, bravery brings honor, cowardice saves no man from his fate," says the Caliph Omar; hilt Dr. Bull's cough Syrup nas saved mill ions from an awful fate.

THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY. The Democratic Programme Regarding the Amendments, Talk About the State-House Appropriation and Medical Legislation—Personal Mention—Committee Chairmanships. The question of the legality of the passage of the constitutional amendments by the last Legislature was brought up in the Senate yesterday in a preliminary way, and occupied the attention of that body for some time. Another Democratic policy in this matter was outlined by the action taken. Senator Smith, of Delaware, offered a resolution instructing the Secretary of State to furnish the Senate a certified copy of the adoption of the pending amendments, and a like certificate of the Wabash & Erie canal amendment, and any other like measures. Senator Willard moved to refer this resolution to the Judiciary Committee, and after the defeat of several subsidiary motions, this reference was made with instructions to report next Wednesday. The standing committees will probably be appointed to-day, and the Judiciary will be made up with the rest. Its composition is altogether immaterial, however, as it is positively known that the report in regard to the amendments has already been made for the committee by a number of Democratic lawyers employed by the State Central Committee for that purpose, and this will be sent to the Senate as the report of the Judiciary Committee. It will take the position that the amendments are not legally before the Legislature, and will be concurred in by the Senate as a party measure. In speaking on one of the motions yesterday, Senator Beil said that he proposed to consider the amendment question as a lawyer and not as a politician, but it will probably be seen when the vote comes to be taken, his views in both capacities will exactly coincide. THE STATE-HOUSE APPROPRIATION. A Journal reporter yesterday asked a number of senators and representatives as to the probable action of the Legislature regarding the appropriation asked for by the Statehouse contractors, to reimburse them for losses alleged to have been incurred. There is a very decided opposition to the appropriation, Whether it will amount to enough to defeat the measure remains to be seen. Representative Huston said that he had talked with several of his colleagues about the matter, and he thought the best course to pursue would be to let Messrs. Howard & Denig throw up their contract, if they could not complete it for the original amount, and give it to somebody else. On the other hand, one or two senators expressed ttiemsel ves as favoring the appropriation, under certain restrictions, claiming that it would not add to the dignity ami reputation of a great State to have its capital built by private capital. There is no probability of the matter being made a political issue, as has been intimated.

MEDICAL LEGISLATION. Senator Yancey yesterday stated to a Journal reporter that lie would shortly introduce' a bill to legulate the practice of medicine, similar to that proposed by him two years ago, and he thought that he would be able to secure its passage. Regarding the State Board of Health, he thought that a bill would probably he passed making some important changes in its constitution and management. Its workings had not been altogether satisfactory, and much opposition had been developed ’to it, but probably not enough to insure its abolition. Senator Van Vorhis was interviewed on the same subject, and said he did not propose to introduce any medical bill or have anything, to do with medical legislation further than liis duties as a senator demanded. Senator Fletcher expressed substantially the same views. THE CAUCUS LAST NIGHT. The Democratic senators held a caucus in the Senate chamber last night, and made up the standing committees of the Senate, which will be reported to that body in a resolution this morning, and adqpted under party pressure. Those who attended the caucus were pledged to profound secrecy, and it was with the greatest difficulty that any thing could be obtained about it. It is known, however, that the list of Republican senators prepared by Lieutenantgovernor Hanna as members of the committees, three to each, was adopted by the caucus, without any changes. All the Democratic members who were interviewed after the meeting professed to be profoundly satisfied with the assignments made, but refused to give even their individual appointments. The following, however, is the list of chairmanships of the leading committees: Judiciary—Senator Bell, of Allen. Finance—Senator Kali in, of Vanderburg. Temperance—Senator Fletcher, of Marion, Corporations—Senator McGee.jof Cass. Prisons—Senator Benz, of Crawford. Fees and Salaries—Senator Voyles, of Washington. New State-house—Senator Willard, of Lawrence. Benevolent Institutions—Senator Marvin, of Boone. Elections—Senator McCulloch, of of Gibson. Medical Legislation—Seuator MoClure, of Clark. Education— Senator Johnson, of Tippecanoe. The prohibitory 7 * auiepdrucnt matter was Informally discussed and a very decided disposition was manifested to kill the amendment in the Senate. LEGISLATIVE NOTES. The late Senator Chapman’s desk is appropriately draped in mourning. Speaker Bynum has appointed Willie Moriaritv, George Mitchell and Daniel McCrosMand as pages. Next Thursday has been set apart by the Senate for appropriate services in memory of the late senator from this county, Hon., George 11. Chapman. The House adjourned yesterday afternoon until Monday morning at 10 o’clock. The Senate took similar action, but reconsidered and adjourned until this morning. Doorkeeper Kirke’s appointments are the following: B. D. Crawford and N\ B. Traynor of Marshall, Fred W. Daniels of Fulton, ('. 11. Marvin of Boone, and Mrs. Bundy, city. House Clerk Edwins has made the following appointments: John Lee, of Bartholomew county; Emmett L. Rose, of Marion; Edward Fry, of Grant; Edward Fitzpatrick, of Scott: John < 'arleton, of Vigo, and F, W. W. Sunrnan, of Ripley. Assistant Secretary Huffstetter has made the following appointments: J. J. Lingle of Orange county, Joseph Freedman of Dubois, John West of Warrick, C. A. Galbraith of Bartholomew, Robert Newland of Lawrence, and John M. Goar of Henry. Mr. Kelly secretary of the Senate, has appointed the following gentlemen to positions: John Patterson, of Vigo county; D, W. Bridges, of Clay; H. C. Smith, of Madison; George Wo!pert, of Crawford; A. J. Thurston, of Jackson: Peter H. Pernot, of Allen, and Edward Davis, of Vermillion. George Hippie, “the New Albany blacksmith.” was rewarded for his distinguished political services by being given charge of

THE INDIAN A POTjTS JOURNAL, SATURDAY, JANUARY G, 18Sa.

the House cloak-room He resigned yesterday, because he was asked to sweep out, and says lie is going back to Floyd county and run as an independent candidate for the Legislature as . Ir. Perrette’s successor. Atr ember of the House yesterday stated that Ji i • T. Bryer, of Logansport, who was a journal clerk last session, remembered very positively that the constitutional amendments were spread upon the journal, and that Captain Miles, who was chairman of the Committee on the House Journal, had a similar recollection. The member referred to thought that the amendments had been purposely omitted from the printed journal. THE RECORD. IN THE SENATE. The L.egilative Expense Rill Passed—Debate on the Status of the Constitutional Amendments. Friday, Jan. s—lo a. m. Rev. Dr. Arthur S. Pierson, of the Second Presbyterian Church of Indianapolis, opened the session with prayer. Mr. Bell called up the resolution offered by the seuator from Elkhart (Mi. White) yesterday, for a committee to wait upon the Governor, and It was adopted, Messrs. Bell and White being appointed on the part of the Senate. Mr. Voyles introduced a hill [B. 3] requiring county and township officers to have and keep a cash-book, which was read the first time and re ferred to the Committee on County aud Township Business. Mr. Van Vorhis offered a resolution requesting the secretary of the Young Men’s Christian Association to provide a minister of the gospel to open each day’s session with prayer. Also, a resolution making 2 o’clock Wednesday, Jan. 11, aii hour for appropriate tributes to the memory of Hon. George H. Chapman, late a senator from Marion county. They were severally adopted. Mr. Yancey offered a resolution for a special committee on woman suffrage. Mr. Bell moved to lay the resolution on the table. The motion was agreed to—yeas 27, nays2l. Mr. Brown offered a resolution for the appointment of a select committee of five, of which the State Governor shall boa member, to report rules for the government of the proceedings of the Semite. Mr. Spann made an ineffectual motion—yeas 4. uavH 45—to lay it on the table. Thu resolution was adopted, and Messrs. Brown, Spann, Graham and Bell were appointed as said committee. THE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS. Mr. Smith offered a resolution requesting the Secretary of State to furnish a copy of official records in his office concerning proceedings of the General Assembly concerning the constitutional amendments lu 1881, and, also, in relation to the Wabash A Erie canal, and certify whether the records in the adoption of other amendments show that the constitution was compiled with In this provision: "Such proposed amendments shall, with the yeas and nays thereon, be entered on their Journals and referred to the next General Assembly. Mr. Willard made an ineffectual motion—yeas 23, nays 2(3 to lay the resolution on the table, as, iu lii?s opinion. It proposes to interfere with the rights of the Judiciary Committee. lie moved to refer it to the Judiciary Committee. Mr. Smith—l hope, the resolution will not be referred to the Judiciary Committee. I apprehend the Senate is as well qualified now to pass upon the resolution as it will be after the Judiciary Committee shall have considered it. This resolution was intended to be, and is nothing else but a demand or request of the Secretary of Slate to furnish certain facts, upon which we can act intelligently aud understa'ndingly when this question shall be sprung upon the Senate, as it undoubtedly will be. There is nothing else Intended except to procure this information from tiie Secretary of state. I apprehend that I occupy tiie same position that other senators do upon this floor—l am wholly ignorant of the acts of tiie Legislature ou this question, and we can oulv procure the Information from the Secretary of State’s office, either by passing this resolution or going to that office and personally examining tiie records for ourselves. I cannot see why senators oppose this proposition, especially as the information sought for is necessary iu order to act intelligently on a proposition that will, in all probability, come before us in some form, concerning the proposed amendments acted upon last session, and it is rumored that upon a clerical error that matter is to be defeated. Mr. Brown—l am opposed to that resolution, and will state one or two reasons why * uni opposed to it. I have no objection to ltsgoingto the Judiciary Committee if the Seuate so please, bur to iuy miud the resolution is useless All th it the Secretary of State can possibly do will bo to hunt up the journals of (he two houses oil the days when the proceedings referred to in the resolution took place, and send to the Senate a certified copy of the matter printed iu the journals. Those journals are open to tlio inspection of every man, woman and child in the State. If the Senator is ignorant about the niatteritis his own fault aud nobody else’s. Shall we then put a dutv upon the Secretary of State to send out that which is a public record of the State uud lodged in the archives of every county in the State! But, as tlio Senator from Delaware (Mr. Smith) has said, it has gone out in tiie land that tins amendment is to be defeated upon some technical ground, I will say that I agree with the Senator from Marion (Mr. Van Vorhis) on this subject. The constitution requires tiie proposed amendments to that instrument to be spread at large upon the 'Journals. Is any man so blind that he cannot see whether that has or has not been done by taking up those journals and examining them? [A message from the House by Chief Clerk Edwins informed the Senate tiiat the House was ready to receive the Senate in joint convention to hear the Governor’s message to the General Assembly.] Mr. Brown (resuming)—Now, on the question as to whether the amendments are legally on the journals or not, the Legislature is tiie exclusive judge—its decision is final. No court can review *ii. If tiie Legislature decides tiiat these amendments have not been entered at large upon the journals, that is the end of it. If tiie Legislature decides ihev have, that is the end of it. So we should not attempt to run away from meeting the main prop osition as suggested by this resolution. Audit would be charging ink Judiciary Committee with an unnecessary burden. [Senators then left their chamber iu a body and proceeded to the linil of the House of Representatives to hear the Goverdor’a biennial uiossaga. j When the senators returned to their chamber tbeSeu£cb took a recess till 2 l*. m.

Afternoon Session. A message from the House of Representatives announced tiie passage by t iiat body of tiie bill (H. B. 1] appropriating $125,000 for the expense of the present session of the General Assembly, ami, on inotiou by Mr. Bell, the bill wus passed under a suspension of the rules. THE AMENDMENTS. The Senate resumed tiie consideration of tlio resolution pending at the noon recess. Mr. Bell objected to the, resolution because it proposes to call for an opinion from the Secretary of State as to tho legality of tho action of the last Senate on the proposed constitutional amendment. Ido not think this is tiie time to discuss that question. So lar as I am concerned, personally, whenever that question cniucs before the Senate 1 propose to act as a man and as a lawyer, especially as a lawyer, and if convinced that the acMnn of the last General Assembly was regular and legal, uo one will say mo more promptly than ‘ invaelf, not witnstai dlug m}'opinion on Nome, of these amendments. And even if they had nor been so fixed I would un easily take tiiat position. If tlio resolution be amended sous to call for no opinion, for one, I should have no onjccrion to it. I think it premature to discuss tiie other question now. I think if one of tin*, highest Importance, entitled to our best consideration, and I have no doubt it will receive it. I think there is o.null hi rhlH hill that oiitflit not to be there. I hope tiiat tin* Senator w ill leave out all that refers to the Wabash and Erie canal, ami for one I would like to have tiie question of the pending amendments to tiie constitution and the regular ity of their passage by tiie last General Assembly come up unincumbered by any other question whatever. Let us meet it like men, I pledge myself to fairness lu its consideration atm I have ni> doubt other senators will meet the question in t iie same spirit. Mr. Brow’ii moved to amend bv striking out all after tiie words Or figures “1881.” Mr. Foulke—l aiu opposed to llie amendment off** red l>y the senator from Jackson (Mr. Brown). This matter of the certification of These papers is a natter of paramount importance, if w*e may judge by the intensity of feeling shown ou both sides and by tho entire people of this State. It is of more importance than any matter which has heeii before the General Assembly of Indiana for many years. It, is true this is a mere parliamentary question, hut, to a proper determination of how we shall act in this matter, it is necessary to have documents and papers both as to tin* law and to the facts. As to the foots, we must get everything necessary to the

certification of the proceedings had at the last General Assembly, and as to whether or not those proceedings were fatal. It is necessary to know what the law is, and it is proper to know what has been the former practice as to vmeudments proposed to the constitution of this State. It is true the c uetom does not make law, but legislative interpretation as to the passage of such amendments is certainly a good argument in the consideration of this question. It seems to uie we should have everything before us I am not willing that the judiciary committee shall determine whether or not this matter is properly before us. Let each senator determine that for hi nisei r. We should judge of these things bv the highest evidence we can get. Mr. Willard —It seems to me we will have a judiciary committee which will examine carefully all legal questions which may be presented to tiie Senate during the session That committee will have an opportunity to look into this entire matter, and when it makes a report the information that the senator from Wayne (Mr. Foulke) desires will he|made a part of that report. If that committee shall desire any information from the Secretary ot State, or from any other officer, they have it iu their power to ask for the passage of a resolution requiring it to be furnished, and we should not now in advance of the formation of that committee usurp to a certain extent the powers of tiiat committee. When it comes to investigate this question their report will bring to the Senate every particle of information, I trust, that can he obtained from the records of ttie State. Mr. Voyles—Tlio design of the Senator from Delaware (Mr. Smith) as I read his resolution, is to obtain not only a certified copy of the proceeding in relation to tiie constitutional amendments, but also an opinion from the Secretary of State ou that subject. I do not know why we should seek his opinion unless It he to give him an opportunity to curry out some of his former pledges. lam reliably informed that he was invited to give liia opinion on those amendments duriug the last canvass, and he said lie was formulating bis opinion, ami in due time would promulgate that opinion. It may be that the Senator form Delaware desires to give him an opportunity to promulgate his opinion. But aside from lliat I think tuat we can get at the facts without reference to any one’s opinion on the legality or standing of tiie amendments. I think tne proper way will be to refer the resolution to the Judiciary Committee. Mr. Spann—lt seeius to iue that there is but one object with the senators on the other side of tills chamber ill urging that this resolution be referred to the Judiciary Committee. If referred to the Judiciary Committee it means simply that it shall never reach the Secretary of State’s office. The Judiciary Committee will be made up ! of a majority of members from th# other side, who will simply say we do not desire any certitt- 1 cate from the Secretary of State to settle any question. We will simply report that It Is inadvisable or inexpedient to hear from the geutletnan known as the Secretary of State, and consequently if this resolution goes to tiiat committee it will sleep the sleep of death lam glad to know that the senator from Jackson (Mr. Brown), in his eloquent remarks this morning, in slopping over led ns to believe that they expect to carry out the platform made in the last campaign to iguore the temperance movement at the first stage, and this is the first step, to refer this resolution to the Judiciary Committee, aud there kill it. Mr, Bell—l regret that this question is being forced upon us as a political question; neither do I know by what authority the Senator from Rush (.Mr. Spann) states what tiie action of the Judiciary Committee will be. My object in having this resolution go to the Judiciary Committee is. they being lawyers, will know what information is necessary in order to pass intelligently upon this {question, and 1 hope they will not find it necessary to Involve it with others, but present the bold, bare question, and present it fairly and squarely. I have no opinion upon it, because I am not conversant with the facts. Mr. Campbell—l am unable to comprehend why the simple resolution that the Senator has offered should he regarded in any sense partisan; neither can Icoiupreuend why it should have any reference, directly or indirectly, to the sentiments of any member of the Senate on the temperance question; neither do I understand that the resolution asks directly or indirectly tiie opinion of anybody. It asks documents to be placed on our desks: that, we may know exactly the wording of the records, as we Have a right to know. I do not see that this vote should have any partisan bearing whatever. I understand the object of sending any paper to a committee is for the purpose of having the opinion of that committee in regard to the validity of such paper or proposed action. The resolution asks for no action, except the transmission to us, for perusal, of a simple public record. I apprehend no senator questions the validity of such transmission, and that nobody doubts but that we have a legal right to ask that a copy of such records may be spread before us. Then, why should tiie resolution be sent to the Judiciary Committee? lam opposed to the submission of this question to a committee, because I believe it is so plain that we don't need any light from such a source. Mr. Foulke—l am opposed to leaving it to the discretion of any committee as to whether the Senate shall have sufficient data for its investigations, and that is what this proposition is. Are we to have full and complete data for our investigation as to whether these amendments are before us or not? I see no reason for submitting it to the Judiciary Committee, unless it be to stifle this matter. Mr. Smith—lu the introduction of tins resolution I had no idea of causing this debate. There is nothing in it hut to request tiie. Secretary of State to furnish certain information. Ir asks no opinion. I would not be willing to respect his opinion, because it is no better tliau tiiat of any senator ou this floor. Senators nave gone into a discussion of tiie constitution and other tilings not connected with this matter. The question before the Senate is upon tiie reference of tiie resolution to the Judiciary Committee. I am opposed to that reference for two reasons: First, there is nothing in It for the Judiciary Committee to consider; there Is not a legal or constitutional question in it; aud, in the second place, we would not get a return of It, I fear, in the form of a report from that committee, in time for the information asked to benefit us. Now, I move to lay the motion to refer to the Judiciary Committee on the table. This motion was rejected—yeas 21, nays 27. Mr. Bundy moved to amend the motion to commit by adding instructions to report not later than Wednesday. The amendment was agreed to, aud the motion as amended was agreed to The Secretary of State was instructed to provide members with the Revised Statutes. Mr. Utlligaas otlered a resolution requiring the HuperiuteTulent of Public Instruction to furnish a fet&Teiueui ot the total amount of motley unloaned school fund in the several counties of tills State, which was referred to the Judiciary Committee. Rending tiie consideration of a resolution to furnish members with stationery, tiie Seuate adjourned. IN THE HOUSE.

A Resolution of Sympathy with the French Republic Upon the Death of Gambetta. Friday, Jan. s—lo a. m. Mr. Speaker Bynum called tiie House to order, and announced prayer by Representative Frazee, of Rush county. A message from the Senate bv Principal Secretary Kelly announced tiie passage of a resolution by the Senate for the appointment of a joint committee to wait upon the Governor. This resolution was concurred!n by the House, and me P)>eaker made the committee ou tiie part of the House to consist of Kepresuii tali ves Slioekney and YVilsou, of Marion. On motion of Mr. Heffren the Secretary of State was instructed to tarnish a copy o! the Revised Statutes to each member of the House. SYMPATHY WITH THE FRENCH RBPUIILIC. Mr. Copeland offered the following: “Resolved, By tlie House (the Senate concurItig therein), that we, the representatives of the State of Inuiuua. in Legislature assembled, must sincerely tender the French Republic our heartfelt sympathy in tho loss of her distinguished and fearless statesman, und we join with ull liberty-loving States in expressing our high appreciation of the renowned service and eminent ability ol the great statesman, M. Leon Michel Gambetta." It was adopted. Tiie Speaker announced the Committee oil Rulesto-wit: Messrs. HcftYon, YY'ilson of Marion, Wright, Moody and Frazier. The House then took a recess till after the joint convention. After the Governor had read his message a recess was taken uiitll I o’clock i\ m. Afternoon Session. A resolution by Mr. Wiley, for the Board of Publio Printing, to furnish tho House with ail needed stationery, was lost. Mr. Gibson moved that 1,000 copies of the Governor’s message be printed and distributed among the members of tiie House. Mr. Heffren offered an amendment “That the part, of the said message delivered by tlio Governor orally shall be inserted in its proper place.” The amendment was agreed to, the number reduced to 500, and then passed. On motion by Mr. McMullen, the Governor's message was referred to a select committee of live, to lx- appointed by the Speaker, who named Messrs. McMullen, Gibson, Kuster,Shockuey aud Copeland. l lie House then adjourned till Monday at 10 o’clock A. 31.

STATE EDITORS IN COUNCIL. An Interesting Address by President George I. Heed. Report of the Committee on Revision of the Laws Governing Newspaper Advertising—Who Were Present. The State Editorial Association met in the Federal Court room yesterday morning in annual convention. Very few were in attendance in the forenoon, and the time was devoted chiefly to an exchange of greetings and social intercourse. At 2 o'clock an important business session was held, with the following gentlemen of the State press present: J. G. Bain, Martinsville Republican; YV. M. Moss, Bloomfield Democrat; Aleck Chomel, Shoals Herald; W. D. Pratt, Logansport Journal; YV. C. Ball, Terre Haute Gazette; C. E. Wagner, Vernon Banner; George I. Reed, Peru Republican; W. A. Bell, Indiana School Journal; James T. Applegate, New Albany Ledger: J. G. Kingsbury, Indiana Farmer; W. D. H. Hunter, Lawrenceburg Register; YV. R. Holloway, Indianapolis Times; George J. Langsdale, Greencastle Banner; W. 8. Llngle, Lafayette Courier; Luther Short, Franklin Democrat; E. W. Halford, Indianapolis Journal; S. J. Thompson, Shelbyvillo Republican; |John A. Forsythe, Seymour Democrat, and W. H. Elliott, New Castle Courier. The association began business with Mr. George I. Reed In the chair, and Mr. Luther Short at the secretary’s table. The time was chiefly devoted to the discussion of the statutes pertaiuing to newspaper advertising. The secretary read a digest of the laws of tho State bearing upon the matter, accompanied by explanatory' aud suggestive comments. The object of the associutiru is to have needed amenndments uiado. Many of the laws are vague and indefinite regarding tho number of publications, aud different statutes appear to conflict. The association authorized the printing of the digest in pamphlet form for the convenience of newspaper publishers, and to have them in convenient form for the consideration |by the Leglsture. Mr. E. YV. Halford, previously appointed to draft a bill ou tho subject ol libel, reported progress. A committee consisting of Messrs. Reed, Ball, Short and Elliott, was appointed to suggest needed amendments in law's governing legal publications. The annuul address was delivered by President Reed and contains many valuable suggestions. Mr. Reed*#address Is given in full.

PRESIDENT REED'S ADDRESS. Gentlemen—To be elected president of an association of gentlemen as Intelligent and influential as thoso comprising the Editorial Association of Indiana is an honor of which I am not insensible. It will be tny chief ambition to discharge the duties which an acceptance of the position imposes, in such a manner as to reward your confidence and meet your approval. Tho purpose of this paper is not to laud the press with fulsome eulogy, but ratherin general terms to refer to the position of the newspaper press to-day*, and offer some suggestions regarding the editorial conduct and management of tho partisau county newspaper. The editor does not rank with the lawyer or the preacher as a member of one of the learned professions; but. if he has the intelligence, the comprehensive knowledge which qualifies him for his work, he may not shrink from a comparison with the representatives of the professions named, in the soope, character and results of his labor. Tho sanctum Is not hedged about with a divinity; but there is a certaiu well defined, characteristic dignity in the best emanations from it. The productions of tlio sanctum are more eagerly sought and more generally appropriated than the productions of the pulpit. This is not ou account of the depravity' aud wickedness in the world, because it is true of Christians as well us sinners. The public generally recognize the fact tiiat the newspaper press is an influential ugent in molding aud forming publio opinion, aud directing it in certain channels; not arlntratorilv or dtclatorially, but logically; by the presentation of argument in attractive form, in direct, pure and simple language that is readily comprehended. Tho newspaper is the pioneer. It paves the way like tho surveyor iu the woods, and leads while it teaches. It presents editorial comments simultaneously' with the news, and the average reader adopts the sentiments ready' made, because they are usually' as correct and us well phrased as he coaid make for himself after mature deliberation. It is true that, in a certain sense, the editorial opinion of a newspaper is a reflex of the public sentiment, just as its news is the reflex or the day’s doings; but it is something more. The ordinary vane on top of a barn allows the present direction of the wind; whereas the more complicated apparatus in the hands of the educated observer at the signal station foretells the direction and force of the wind several days in advance. The intelligent, well-conducted newspaper, with relation to public opinion, is both vane and signal station. For several years the party platforms adopted by conventions have been simply a digest of the preceding newspaper discussions and opinions U the several questions treated. While tho most popular newspaper may bo the one which ttfo&t accurately voices popular sentiment, t would not recommend for the motto of a self-respecting journal tiie philosophic suggestion of Mr. Pickwick on tiie eve of a hotly-con-tested election: “Always do what the mob does, and if there are two mobs shout with the largest;” but rather so conduct, the p iper as to reach and satiety and thus Influence the members of that greatest of all classes—the middleclass—which conducts affairs, makes up society, support the schools, the churcii aud the state. There was a time in this country when tho average newspaper was controlled by’ the ward or county politician; but there is happily greater self-reliance, and hence more self-respect aud less servility, in the press of to-day. Not every man who owns or edits a newspaper Is a truly* great man, by any means. Some would hardly come up to the, portruit of Mr. Pott, of the Eatonswiil Gazette, who “was bald-headed and bad a face in which solemn importance was blended with a look of unfathomable profundity.” Some editors manifest this solemn importance, but tiie‘look of profundity” is wanting; atm what is more deplorable, the profundity is even more sensibly wanting. So long, however, as a printing office can be equipped for the publication of a five-column folio, weekly, with press aud materials valued at $(>00 aud pur-, ebased on credit, there will be, naturally, some very small newspapers with very small editors hanging no the verge of Journalism. And yet this statement should be modified by the explanation that the low price aiid the purchase on credit must not. be accepted as evidence of tiie bad character of a newspaper. If tiie editor is houesi and the publication well intentioued, it is possible for a great and lnfluent ial journal to grow from a small beginning, provided it is lu a favorable field. My conviction is, and it may as well be said iu this connection, there are to-day in Indiana too many publications called newspapers. Comparatively* few'towns in the State besides the county seats offer a field tor tiie publication of a weekly paper, and yet scores of such Helds are sought and worked, frequently in a manner that is not creditable to tiie particular enterprise or to the profession at large. Some of them are so independent as to engage in a guerrilla style of warfare during a political campaign, and think it no dishonor to levy blackmail upon candidates. A higher sense of honor and a better standard of morality should actuate the editor. He should have the courage to reject a bribe, aud refuse to sell ids editorial influence at any price. A good business man would recognize the fact that au editor who can be bought has a very precarious value, and the purchase Is extra hazardous. The time lias come when high-minded men only' are wanted In the profession; men who have convictions aud the courage of them. It is possible, by an interchange of tlio best thoughts und ideas of the different members of this association, to elevate the standard of journalism in tho Slate by increasing the self-respect and the independence of the individuals who control and write for tiie editoriul columns of the newspapers. The cultivation of a fraternal spirit by fraternizing and discussing methods of innnagemenr, mutual protection against tiie public enemies—dead beats in the advertising field ami dead heads on tiie subscription list—must promote a friendlier and a kindlier intercourse. Ami Mils suggests a brief allusion to the amenities of journalism in this address. There is no more occasion for two neighboring newspapers to engage in a hitter personal controvery than there is for two neighboring merchants. In a large degree their Interests arc identical; in a less degree they are antagonistic. Rut newspapers are interested equally in the rise and fail of tiie price of paper, type, ink and all other materials that make up tiie stock in their office; both are equally interested iu tlio solvency of advertisers, the. condition of the crops, the security afforded by good lauds, uud

their proper enforcement—in precisely tho same measure that the interests of the merchants are identical. They are rivals in working for business and the success of their respective political parties. And yet, because of tiiat rivalry, the Sun is pot warranted in calling the editor of the Herald an unmitigated scoundrel and a liar, festering in villainy—a stanoh in the nostrils of decent men. These are mild epithets In comparison to some that are used. As Fred Douglass wrote to his master, ‘‘the vocabulary of tlio damned affords no words sufficiently infernal” to express an excited editor’s opinion of his rival. Possibly ho may have some infirmity or deformity, and allusion is made to that as a mark which the Creator has placed upon him by which all mon may know him. This sort of controversy, to say notning of its morality, is undignified and ungentlemaniy. It is not enjoyed or approved by the class of readers who may be relied upon to support a newspaper; it dishonors the profession am) degrades the manhood of editors who engage in it. Discussion is proper and necessary. The controversial discussion of political and other questions on which men may differ, in the editorial columns of newspapers, is both right and beneficial, when conducted in a proper spirit and for the purpose of establishing the truth. Such discussion should always be candid and dignified. Candor is impelled by a convlotiou that the. position taken, or view entertained, is correct, and dignity of inaunergoes naturally with the presentation of souud argument. The average reader is able to discover the difference between a quibble and an argument, and very soon entertains a contempt for th# quibbler. Ridicule may be employed effectively when there is nothing in the proposition worthy of candid argument, or it may be th# only weapon possible to employ against an argument. that is unanswerable.' Invective and personal abuse are both undignified and ineffectual. A Chicago policeman who was a quiet spectator of a fight between two trier., being asked why he did not interfere, replied that be did not desire to he pragmatical. Some editors are rather inclined to be too much that way; they are hunting a quarrel or improving every . opportunity to interfere in somebody else’s flvhr. It would bo well for them to cultivate abstinence and appropriate the moral contained in the policemau’s answer. While ir is entirely possible and reasonable for rival newspapers to live on amicable terms with each other, it Is only possible when each attends strictly to its own business. It is not wise for them to play the old game of mutual tickle, or to devote space each week to advertising each other’s business, or to quote largely from each other’s columns to display their good will. It is better that, their relations be iriondly in a quiet way, without frequent demonstrations, and when differences come up. as they will naturally. let them be discussed with moderation and decorum. Tho establishment and cultivation of more intimate relations between members of the press throughout the State will discover wants and the means of supplying them. Personalities iu the editorial oolumns of a partisan newspaper arc one of the evidences of individuality, and their use is to be commended rather than condemned. They lend a charm and vivacity to the oolumus which nothing e.-e can supply. And yet, personal abuse should bo avoided. It is not profitable iu a political campaign to attack the private life and character of a candidate of the opposite party, whether for county, State or national office. Attacks of this kind call out, counter attacks; elimination and recrimination follow. The sanctity of the home is invaded, and whatever can be discovered or invented that is prejudicial to the candidate is published for the purpose of injuring him. Such attacks usually help rather than injure the person at whom they are aimed. The general intelligence and sense of fair ploy lu the American people cannot readily bo imposed upon by the printing or anything that is malicious or unjust. It is gratifying to believe that the publication of scandals and petty slanders Is no longer regarded a potent factor in changing votes, and is no longer practised by honorable, self-respecting newspapers. It is time editors should understand that most persons who read and pay for papers at e disgusted with vituperation aud scurrility, and it is hoped that from henceforth the “nailing of campaign lies,” as a distinct branch of carpentry, will not be practiced. Insinuation is the meanest and most cowardly style of attack in tiie public press. It if not. often employed by editors of character, who pretend to conduct an honorable business. The direct, unequivocal charge is more manly and effective. Asa full discussion of this topic would involve tho. freedom of the press and the law of libel, which will l>o exhaustively treated by a competent gentleman who has made thorough preparation, I will not pursue it further. Tiie question of public patronage In the form of legal advertising will also be treated attlit# meeting by a capable member, who lias spent much time in ascertaining just what laws are now in force ou the subject, and whether amendment is needed. In conclusion, it may not lie improper to say that comparatively a small per cent, of th# newspapers that are started ever become established. In conformity to the scientific law of nature, discovered but recently, oujj tTio fittest survive. In other words, a newspaper whose field of public action is Wisely chosen will survive, if it Is conducted in such a manner as to deserve recognition ayo popular support; it will fall if it has no field er no guiding principle in its management. Tiie least valusble of all chattels recognised as property is a newspaper located in iho w’rong place, or one which has neither popular respect nor official patronage. The most valuable property, considered in connection with the amount of cash capital invested, is a good newspaper, well located and properly conducted. Such a newspaper is worth four times as much as the machinery and materials used in its publication. Let each editor and proprietor make t lie estmiato and computation for himself. His $2,000 outfit, in tiie form or press, type, etc., shoubi give him a newspaper worth sß,ooo. The increment represents satisfactory situation, editorial ability, business management and hard work. All these constitute what is comprehended in th term, “good will.” Thoy make th■ paper so vuluablo that ita patrons entertain mr it only good will, which consists very largely of cash payments. Every Indiana editor h presumed to have a thorough knowledge of domestic and foreign politics, in addition to a classical education. Ho lias, of course, the most comprehensive, information on all scientific questions, including the latest discoveries and demonstrations. His is an encyclopedia in ten volumes on ancient and modern political history. He knows all about the school system and the practical management of public, private and parochial schools. Ho must be ou intimate terms with ecoieatastio history, the drama, the opera and the circus, and be able to run a Sunday-school. Being ablo to write fluently on all subjects, and having under his vest a conscience void ot offense, ha lias a perfect right to boa serene individual.

AMUSEMENT MATTERS. At the Grand, last night, Mmo. Janausohek appeared as Lady Dedlook lu “Bleak Louse,” her performance of the part being one or artistic excellence. The support appeared to unnsuai advantage, tile Poor Joo of Miss Anna Locke, a former resident of this city, being received with much favor by her friends here. This afternoon the beautiful play, “Mother and Son,” will be given, and the engagement will conclude this evening with the historical drama, “Mary Stuart.” At English's. Mr. Gardiner’s Company gave another performance of “Only a Farmer’s Daughter.'* and it will be repeated this afternoon and evening. Those who desire awful originality in dramatic composition and noting, should attend. NEXT WEEK’S ATTRACTIONS. For the first three nights of next week Manager English promises a decided novelty in the performance of the Ravel “Humpty Dumpty” Company, who introduce a miniature circus, and other original features. The last three nights of the week Maggie Mitchell, *he most popular actress who visits Indianapolis, will appear in her wellknown repertoire, aurt a highly successful engagement is assured. At tiie Grand the first two nights of next week Mr. Frank Mordaunt, the well-known comedian, will appear in his entertaining play, “Old Shipmates.” Mrs. Mattie Ferguson, of this city, assuming the leading soubrette part The last three nights of the week iiarrigau & Bart’s “Squatter Sovereignty,” ono of the funniest tilings ever put upon a stage, will bo the attraction, Suit Against a Defunct ltank. Thomas Woodmitt, of Philadelphia, yesterday filed a writ of injunction in the Federal Court against James E. Reeves, of the (First National Bank of Crown Point. The plaintiff claims that he holds 250 shares of the stock of the bank, which are worth $23,000. An assignment was made by the trustees on May 4, 1882, and it is ulleged that there wero assets remaining in tha defendant’s bands amounting to $(>,333,33 in cash, and other available assets, worth over SO,OOO, applicable to the payment of his oiuitn. Woodnutt onjoins the appointment of a receiver for the bank, and asks judgment for the recovery of one-eighth of the amount of the assets. General Oriun L. Mann, sheriff of Chicago, 111., gives this as his experience with St. Jacobs OH: “Some time ago l was troubled with rheumatism. I tried 3t. Jacobs Oil, and was not long a sufferer.