Indiana State Sentinel, Volume 7, Number 32, Indianapolis, Marion County, 27 January 1848 — Page 2

ffnfttatm State gtntincl. ETEB3AL VIGILANCE II THE MICE OT LIB LETT. 1MI A.MroHS, JAM AICY 27, !S4s7

Our Terms. The following will hereafter be the permanent terms of the Weekly Indiana State Sentinel: fjPaymcnta to be made always in advance. Une copy, one year, Three copies, one year, .r'ive copies, one year, Ten copies, one year, Twenty copies, one year, 5.00 8.00 15.00 20.00 Semi-Weekly. (Published three times a week during the session.) One copy, 4.00 Three copies, 8 10.00 One copy during the session, 1-00 (gj-See first page Semi-Weekly. To Correspondents. G. V. C, Chancery. Will pay attention to your suggestions, and endeavor to make all right, especially to the new subscriber. Thank you .'or your suggestions. . D., JJoblesville. Will write to you aoon. You can frank letters containing money fur papers; but on no other than your official buaineaa. J. M. C, Richmond, Va. Will attend to your request, and write you on the subject. J. N. Lt., Boston. Never mind the "ice." Don't put yourself to any more trouble. The eitra "cat" will more tban make a "shoulder atrap" of "Sunday eve," leaving out the "moon-light. O ! poor "Pinks !" OT" Among the distinguished men now in the city are the following .officers of the Array. Captain Cochilan, a veteran of the last war, and now on recruiting service for the 4th regiment Indiana volunteers; Captain Ford, of the U.S. Dragoons (mounted men) who is also a veteran of the last war, and who recently did such good service at theeiege of Puebla, under Col. Childs. Copt. F. wants a few stout riders for the Dragoon service, and we have no doubt he will get them, especially if there is a chance of serving under his immediate command. The Captain has seen his share of hard service, and knows how to take care of his men. Last but not least. Captain Van Burzx, of the Mounted Riflemen. This gallant gentlemen is still suffering from the wound which he received at the Battle of Cohtreras, on the 15th of August last, which obliges him to continue the use of crutches; but we are glad to see that otherwise firs health is very good, and hope he may soon recover from his painful and tedious injury. Three braver and better soldiers than these cannot easily be found any where. Concert. Mr. Dyes, a Blind vocalist, educated at the Pennsylvania Institute at Philadelphia, proposes to give a Concert, at the Court House, on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, at 7 o'clock. Mr. D. has numerous recommendations in his possession, from persons of the best taste and skill; among others from F. Easche, prof, i-f music at the Blind Institute; B. C. Cross, Pianist and organist; A. Emerick, Pianist; L. Brown vocalist; and J. B. Martindale, prof, of music; of Philadelphia. Some think Mr. Dyer Superior in ability to the celebrated vocalist, Russell. We are assured by those who knew him at Philadelphia, that he is in all respects worthy of public patronage. We hope he will have full house, and full pockets. Small Pox. We learn that there are now twenty cases of small pox in Indianapolis, in which recovery is doubtful. The Falmcr House is entirely closed. Greenfield Invsligator. 0-There has been at most but four cases of small pox in this city since Mr. Kennedy's death, two of which w ere reported by the Board of Health (all phy sicians,) as varioloid, of a mild type, and all, we believe are either now convalescent or nearly or quite recovered. The Palmer House is not closed as stated, though we suppose it Is not very full of boarders. 0r The Whigs in Congress are fooling away the time over the ten regiment bill in the most infamous manner. Why don't the traitors pass or defeat it at once! This is a question they will have to answer to the people. One half the whigs in Congress are not one whit better than Santa Anna himself, no not half as good. 07 The British Courier arrived at Vera Cruz on the 1st inst., with dispatches from Mr. Boyle, Britis.'i Minister at the Capital. The dispatches were forwarded immediately to New Orleans by the Brig of war Daring, which induced the opinion that they contained peace negotiations through Britlish mediation. 03" The senior editor of this paper has nearly recovered from his late attack of varioloid, contracted by visiting Mr. Kennedy a few days before his death. He was out of doors on Saturday last, though contrary to the advice of his physician; but he is still on the mend. Sword to Gen. Lane. Our people throughout the State will be highly gratified at the fact that the Legislature has voted a sword to Gen. Joseph Lane. A braver man does not exist; and we hope the sword will be worthy of the General and the man, for he is as generous as he is brave. State Librarian. The Legislature paid a just and well merited tribute to DUlmr by giving him an unanimous vote for re-election as Slate Librarian. This is indeed a rare compliment, and as well deserved as rare. 07"The democratic State convention at Columbus, Ohio, passed the following resolution : Resolved, that the democracy of Ohio do, and at the same time fully, recognize the doctrine held by tlio early fathers Zf the republic, and still maintained by the democratic party in all the States, that to each State belongs the right to adopt and modify its own municipial laws; to regulate its own internal affairs; to hold and maintain an equal and independent sovereignty with each and every other State ; and hat upon these rights the national legislature can neither legislate nor encroach. The same body pawed the following, which will ave confusion and greatly facilitate business in future conventions: Resolved, that the president of this convention shall appoint & committee of three, whose duty it shall be tu prepare rulea suitable to govern the action of our future regular State conventions, which rules shall be published at least two montha before the meeting of the next regular democratic otate conventiou, and shall be submitted to said convention, at the meeting thereof for il consideration. Q-Many of the Federal papers down east, are out against Gen. Taylor. One of them, published at Springfield, (Mass..) has the fallowing: We do not doubt that Gen. Taylor is an excellent man, as well as a great soldier. We do not doubt, moreover, that he is a man of remarkably good judg ment, and perhaps he would as willingly risk the in terests of the country on his judgment as on that of any other man. But wo would not trust tue interests of the country to any one man's judgment, unless we knew what were the political sentinents by which his judgment is to be influenced and guided." Canada. Montreal papers of the 4th are filled with matters appertaining to the elections. The Courier gives the return of twenty-nine members to the new parliament, 19 conservatives, 10 opposition, and 1 doubtful. The Pilot, the leading opposition journal, publishes the return of thirty-two members, 13 ministerial or coaservatives, if opposition, and 2 doubtful.

Coreetpondence of tht Indiana Statt Sentinel. Washington. Jan. 12, 1949. Some three weeks ago, or thereabouts, I happened, by mere accident, to meet with, in an obscure corner of the National Intelligencer, a notice of about four lines, headed in small caps, "Taylor Meeting:" from the perusal of which, I learned that a meeting of the friends of General Taylor for the presidency, was to be held that evening, at 8 o'clock, at Coleman's Hotel. The idea struck me, as perhaps it did all the

"Pry family," that the place, the time, and the call, were all in most harmonious concord ; for, in the first place, the house is one where the vulgar herd is not apt to be found : none but the upper ten therefore, would, with very few exceptions, be there to annoy or thwart the movements of the wire-workers: next, it was an admission that, thb political friends of General Taylor here, whether residents or visiters, were very few; fur the hotel, except the bar room and dining room, docs not contain an apartment in which more than 50 men can be seated. . I had so often seen, in whig newspapers, such meetings as I felt confident this would be, blazoned forth to the world as immense gatherings of the people avalanches of the toiling millions, &c, etc., that I made up my mind to see it for myself. I accordingly repaired to the bar room of the hotel, about the time indicated in theotice, and in a few minutes observed some winking and head-nodding, in a squad of politicians about the size of a corporal's guard, which satisfied me they knew where the room was in which the meeting was to be held ; and that, if I would keep an eye skinned, and when they left the bar room, follow them, I would find it ; in all of which notions, the sequel proved that I was not in error. I fuund the room in the third story, some 18 by 20 in size, and so obscurely situated that a knight of the sable hue was posted at the head of the last flight of stairs, to lead us where spirits were assembled, fit to disturb the peace of Rome. Just as I entered the room I heard the voice of Duff Green exclaim all you who are in favor of the Hon. George M. Bibb, of Kentucky, being president of this meeting, will say aye :" to which request, some 4 or 5 responded. " All you,' continued the acting president, -'who are of the contrary opinion, will say no :" to which latter request, some 35 or 40 responded; upon which it was announced that the noet had it. I have often heard of the gentleman in small clothes striking, what the hewers of timber call a bee-line; but I will lay a ducat that, on this occasion, he struck the straightest line of his life : it was for an opening that the carpenter had left in one wall of the room, and intended, as I subsequently learned, to answer the uses and purposes of a door. The persons nor the voices, of the learned mover and the distinguished object of his motion, were neither seen or heard again, in that ro.m. during the evening. A motion was now made and seconded, that a Mr. Hcnshaw, an ex-secretary to a whig committee of vigilance, be appointed president of the meeting: but he declined, and another motion was in like manner made, and being seconded, put, and carried, a Mr. Halliday was finally placed in the chair : who, upon taking the post of honor assigned him, carried out, in the strictest sense, the principles of his party, by not making an inaugural address: for fear, I 6uppo?e, that his party might, through him, make some declarations for the public eye. A motion was then made, seconded, put, and carried, that Mr. Hcnshaw, who had so modestly declined the presidency, be appointed secretary. Organization being at last accomplished, a hiatus supervened that allowed me a moment for observation. I cast my eye around to see who were there. I recognized some four or five democrats ; who, like myself, were "lookers on in Vienna :" the rest were whigs. Operations began with the offering of a preamble and resolution by Richard W.. Wallach, of this city, setting forth that, as the proceedings of this meeting might look like dictation to the friends of General Taylor in other parts of the Union, it was most expedient not to take any action, for the present, in the premises: to this resolution, a Mr. Sherman, . also of this city, offered a substitute, in favor of immediate organization ; providing for the appointment of a rommittee to prepare and report to an adjourned meeting, a series of resolutions, an address to the friends of General Taylor at large, etc., &c. : he made a speech in favor of his substitute; after which, Mr. Gale, a member of Congress from Alabama, addressed the meeting ; and the latter gentleman was followed by Mr. Gentry, a member from Tennessee; who, brfjrc he yielded the floor, moved that the meeting adjourn sine die, which motion being duly seconded, put, and carried, the adjournment took place without putting the question on Mr. Sherman's motion to amend Mr. Wallach's resolution, or upon the resolution itself: neither was there an order made that the proceedings be signed by the officers and published; yet they were so signed and published, and by their reading; it would appear that Mr. Wallach's resolution was adopted, when in fact, no vote was taken upon it pro or con. These proceedings took place, these Bet speeches and all. in less than an hour. They made up, without doubt, the mo8t perfect farce I ever behold. I could not give you a correct idea of the impressions made upon my mind by witnessing them, without being thus historical in my exact synopsis of them. Who, perhapn some of your readers will ask, were the lions ? whigs : office-hunting whigs : and in the most strict construction of the expression, broken down politicians. Plebeians took no part, were not, in fact, there: none but the rich and well-born flourished in that crowd. In one of the speeches that of Mr. Gentry we had a problem solved: why du so many whig and neutral letter writers, editors, &.c. make the bold assertion that all the people democrats and whigs are for General Taylor .' The remark of Mr. G. to which I allude was this: "It is an established fact, Mr. President, that the best way to elect a man to office, is to make the voters believe that he is going to be elected, any how ; for then, all those who are hunting for the strong side, fall inio his ranks, and that will elect him of itself; and, as I presume there are, as usuil, many of that class of men in the country, my honest advice to them is, to go for Taylor the hero of Bucna Vista : for evejy one is going to vote for him, nominated or not and therefore he must be elected. The question is no longer asked 'who is for Taylor V but where, throughout this broad land, is there a man that will vote against him 1" I sincerely hope that the yeomanry of the country will bear this remark of Mr. Gentry's in mind it will enable them to understand why the unequivocal, broad assertion is so boldly made, that every person, democrat or whig, is going to vote for General Taylor : And further, if they will listen to one who would not tell a falsehood, knowingly, for all the offices in their gift, I will here tell them who, and who only, are, in truth, the especial friends of General Taylor for the presidency. I will arrange them into three classes: and I will give a faithful, honest, correct picture of each. 1. All the whigs, with very few exceptions indeed, .in the slave-holding states. They are for him. first, because they fear that a Whig National Convention, if held, will not again nominate Mr. Clay; or, even if it should, that he could not be elected; and secondly, because, if the Convention should not nominate Mr. Clay, they fear that it might nominate some man from the free states such an one, for instance, as Judge McLean, of Ohio, Gov. Seward, of New York, or Mr. Webster, of Massachusetts and they (the southern whi;e) would rather, ten to one, aee General Taylor President, with his two cotton plantations and his live hundred negroes, with all his non-committalism, than to see a whig elected from the non-slave-holding states; and the apprehension that some such man might beat General T. in Convention, is the reason why they manifest such a new born zeal against a caucus candidate, and use so many efforts to convince their northern brethren that every person is going to irote for Gen. Taylor nominated or not nominated. 2. All the whig politicians and editors in states that they think hopelessly democratic; or, to uso their own decent epithet, locofoco. 3. All such original friends of Jackson, as desered him the day that he quit giving them ofiices, lucrative jobs of printing, mail contracts, contracts for supplying Indians with goods, or emigrating Indians. Show me the ' man that belongs to either of the above classes, and I will show you a man who has been the most vociferous in cursing this war with Mexico; calling it unjust, unholy, wicked, and cruel on our part, brought on by bungling diplomacy, by a thirst on the part of the American people for rapine, conquest, aggression, and military glory; and yet, in the same breath, wishing to see a man elected to the Presidency, who never wore a laurel that he did not win in this very Mexican war. Having told who art for General Taylor, it will take

but a few additional lines to tell who ere not fur him. Every man who, le he democrat, whig, abolitionist, anti-mason, native American, or what not, wliu he goes to the polls, votes for the man whoso political principles he conscientiously btlievfs are for the good of his country. Such men are for General Tav lor. G. W. K.

Washington, Jan. 17, 1349. The discussions of the war question continue in the Senate, and the indications among the whigs, leads now to the conjecture that, though mom men and money will be given for the war, the men will be furnished only to keep up the rank und file without new officers the old ollicers, who have stood the burden and heat of the day, (if they desire it) being retained n command. Prominent among the proceedings of the past week stands the refusal of the President to communicate in full, the Executive instructions connected with the Slidell mission to Mexico. He withholds it under the right of secresy and resere pertaining to the magis terial prerogative, under the plea which commends itself to every man's judgment, that it will be incompatible with the public interest to disclose to all the world, the secret instruction of the Government to its minister charged with the adjustment of matters involving the question of peace or war, so long as they remain sub judice. The President cites the act of Washington for his justification, when he with held the Jay treaty papers, which were demanded by the House of Representatives. And though it would seem that this alone would be a sufficient justification: yet there are not wanting other precedents establishnz this rieht under the administrations or JUonroe, Jackson and jTyler, and which have been all duly cited in debate. The riahl indeed, though it may be denied, as it has been already in discussions by Mr. Adams and others; yet it can hardly be successfully mpugned; but the expediency of tnis demand by the House, will be contended for loud and iOnrr. Weeks of discussion are likely now to ensue on the origin of the war, and a fresh effort will be made to fix it on the President, and then to attack his consistency in calling for more men and money, while he, "the conqueror," refuses to let Congress know either the purpose for which he began the "hateful quarrel," or the purpose and object for which he now seems dis posed to extend into a war without end. lhus it win be argued by those forgetting that the war is a war of necessity, and must go to through its legitimate issues to its termination. D. I'ces and Salaries. Mr. Stewart, of Marion, tiear the commencement of the present session of the Le gislature, introduced a bill to regulate the fees and emoluments of county officers. The bill was referred to the committee on the judiciary, who are opposed to a general law of this kind, in consequence of its interfering onerously with the emolument? of officers in the smaller counties, and reported the bill back with an amendment, limiting its provisions to Marion county. During the canvass, which resulted in the election of Mr. Stew art, the question was agitated amongst tne people, and all the candidates for the Legislature agreed that the foes of officers in this county were too high and oueht to be reduced. Mr. Stewart, in accordance with what he conceives to be his duty, and in pursu ance of instructions then given, as he understood, has presented this question for the action of the Legislature. An effort is now bein made, on the part of the county officers to defeat this measure of retrenchment and reform by the cry of "local legislation, and much abuse is heaped upon Mr. Stewart for his efforts to benefit the common school fund, as 6ome think, to the amount of some three or four thousand dollars per annum over and above a fair compensation, which now goes into the pockets of officers, who have, in some instances, become rich and saucy at the expense of the people. The question now presents itself. whether the cry of local legislation shall prevent this valuable reform, which, if adopted in Marion county, will at once be held up as a beacon light tor other counties occupying a similar position, from go ing into effect. The bill allows the clerk ofAiarion county eight hundred dollars per annum and four hundred for clerk hire ; the auditor and treasurer seven hundred each ; the sheriff one thousand, and the re corder six hundred the fees to remain as at present; but the overplus over and above said amounts to go into the county treasury for common school purposes. By these provisions it will be perceived, that the cry of local legislation is a false cry. No difference, not the slightest, is made in tne laws ot the Mate, so far as the people generally are concerned. The re form solely relates to the officers themselves ; and with regard to all the officers concerned, the clerk only excepted, have given it as their opinions, when approached on the subject, that their offices with the best management, will not produce as much per an num, as the amounts allowed in the bill. Their efforts to defeat the bill, however, seem to indicate that the emoluments of their offices are worth more, and this the people generally believe. The question now is, 6hall the clerk receive more than twelve hundred dol lars, the auditor and treasurer more than seven hun dred each, the sheriff more than one thousand, or the recorder more tiian six hundred dollars per annum. Mr. Stewart thinks this a fair compensation a com pensation which many of his constituents think more than enough ; but lest he might be charged with deinagoguism or illiberally he has placed the compensa tion as above stated. Should the bill become a law, one good object will be attained. The precise amount received as a compensation ny mese omcers win oe ascertained. If they are too low, they can be increas ed. If thev are too high, the bill regulates them properly. The bill has passed the Senate, and has been sent to the House ot representatives lor concur rence, and will be published hereafter. Congress. Washington, Jan. 20. Senate. Agreeably to notice, Mr. Atherton asked and obtained leave to bring in a joint resolution to modify and amend the S .b-Treasuiy law, which' was read the first and second time by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committe on Finance. Mr. Davis, from the Committee on Military Affairs, reported a bill to establish a list of retired soldiers. Mr. Mangum s resolution, enquiring whether ueneral Scott's recent orders to occupy the Mexican ter ritory was taken up. Mr. Cass opposed the resolution in a lew remarks. Mr. Mangum spoke in support of the resolution, contending that it was unusual to oppose such enquiries. He thought gentlemen on the other side seemed very tender-fooled in disclosing the President's designs. Mr. Cass disclaimed being "tender-footed," and asserted the President's intention to conquer Mexico he did not say keep all, but conquer and bold till Mexico agreed to terms of peace. Mr. Mangum modified his resolution leaving it discretionary with the President, after which it was adopted. On motion the Senate laid aside the morning business and took up the Ten Regiment bill. Mr. Foote resumed his speech. He opposed Mr. Calhoun's plan and advocated the conquest of the whole of Mexico. Mr. Crittenden followed in an eloquent speech in defence of Mr. Clay against the charges made by Mr. Foote. House. Mr. Broadhend announced the death of Mr. Hornbeck, and after pronouncing a brief eulogy, the House passed the accustomed resolutions, and adjourned without further business. The Leonidas Letter. Gen. Fillow has denied any tesponsibility for the letter signed ,Leonidas,M which created such a hubbub throughout the country some time ago. Here is his certificate, taken from the Star, of Nov. 23, a paper published in the city of Mexico : 'Having seen a letter in the Picayune, of the 29th 1 ult., signed Leotudas,' 1 feel it to be my duty to say 1 know nothing rf this letter or of it author. 'If there are any disposed to attribute it to me or who suppose I have given it my sanction, they are as illiberal as they are unjust. "All candid men, who know me, must be satisfied that I would not myself, nor would I allow any friend to commit such an act of folly. "I am willing to be judged by my written reports. but I utterly protest acainst the injustice of being held responsible for the anonymous letters of friends or enemies." (7-An editor summing up the virtues of a soap boiler, lately deceased, concluded his eulogy with the usual ohrase of 'peace, to his ashes ! The remark gave grgat offence to the family, one of whom threat eiied the editor with personal violence.

3nMana legislature.

REPORTED FOR THE t.NDIANA STATE SESTINEL. SENATE. Saturoav, January 22, 19-19. The Senate assembled, and the journal of the precedin day was rend. Mr. Orlli called up tire resolution in relation to changing the rulea of the Senate, making a motion to lay on tha table an undebalabla question; the resolution was adopted. Reports from Select Committees. By Mr. Robinson a report from the committee on claims, with a bill for tha relief of Joseph E. Moore, paying him for provisions furnished to volunteers for the At ex ican service before their enrollment into the aar vice of the U. S. ' I ' ft A r.nnrt m nnm n.n.in. (K. It'll .m.m 'ma! n. n T ..v avf".. ..imiiuiij B"g IIIQ Will V"linillCU 0WIIIO upill j iona in relation to the conduct of the General Govern- i ment in the Mexican war the prospect of re-payment to ! the Slate, by the United States, when the General Government shall have concluded the wir, received full indemnity, conquered a peace, and extended our alave market. To these opinions and reasons in the report, a portion of tha committee objected, and declared that it was not a part of the report ordered lo be tnale by the committee. After some considerable discussion, Mr. Robinson moved to lay the report accompanying the bill on the table. Mr. Miller moved to withdraw the report as one of the dissenting portion of 1 lie committee. A point of order was raised, which elicited considerable dispute, in which Mr. Robinson, Miller, McCarty. Stewart, Davis, Morrison, Orth, Murray, Winchcll, and Berry participated. The Chair decided that the motion of Mr. Miller wai out of order. Mr. Stewart appealed from the decision of the President; and the decision was sustained ayes 2J, noes 14. The question recurring on laying the report on the table, it was lost ayes 21, noes t?2. Mr. Miller moved to re-commit the report. Mr. Robinson moved to instruct the committee to inquire into and report what part of the report the dissentients did not agree to. Mr. Stewart moved to lay the instructions on the table; ayes 22, noes 22. The President decided the question in the affirmative. Mr. Robinson ottered further instructions, which the Chair decided out of order they embodying the same in sunmance as inose jusi passed upon oy tne senate. Mr. Ellis moved to adjourn ; lost ayea 12, noes 31. The question was then put on the re-commitmeutof the report, and carried. Senate adjourned. AFTERNOON EESSION. Mr. Stewart moved to reconsider the vote recommitting; the report of Mr. Robinson ; carried. Mr. Ellis moved to lay the report cn the table; carried. On motion of Mr. Osbnrn, the previous order of business was suspended, and Mr. Milligan introduced a joint resolution relative to the sale of swamps and wet lands, in the counties ol Jay and Adams, and provisions for draining the same by the purchasers thereof. Hills Introduced and Read a First Time. By Mr. Cerry a bill amending a certain provision of the revised statutes. By Mr. Chenowith a bill to amend an act entitled nn set incorporating the Perryaville and Danville Railroad Company. l5y Mr. Coates a bill to amend an act in relation to the superintendent of the Wabash and Erie canal. By Mr. Cornelt a bill prescribing the duties of petitioners for the incorporation of towns and villages. By Mr. Davis a bill incorporating the Lapoite and .Michigan City Railroad Company. By .Vr. Hullowny a bill incorporating the Union Literary Institute, of Randolph county. Also, a bill fur securing an effective supervisor of tbeMale Prison. By Mr. HufTsteiter a bill for the relief of purchaser of Saline lands in Orange county. By .Vr. Jlfartin a bill authorizing the commissioners of Lagrange county to increase the salary of probate judge in said county. By Mr. .VJCarty a bill to regulate the proceedings irk action of waste. By .Vr. Afilligan a joint resolution relative to the price of public lands. By .Vr. .Villikin a bill providing for the vacation of towns, streets and alleys. By .Vr. .Morrison a bill to revive an act locating a. State rond from Salem to Bedford. By Mr. .Vurphy a bill incorporating the New Castle, and Richmond Railroad Company. Also, a bill incorporating the New Castle and Knightstown Railroad Company. By .Vr. Orth a bill to amend the act to provide for the continuation of the .Vadison and Indianapolis Railroad, from Indiamtpolis lo Lafayette. Also, a bill fixing the corporate limits of the town of Lafayette. Also, a bill to authorize the commissioners of Tippecanoe county to pay for building a canal bridge. Also, a bill to amend an art entitled an act incorporating the Lafayette Insurance Company. Also, a hill giving additional power to the president and trustees of the town of Lafayette. Also, a bill to amend the law in certain cases. Also, a bill for the relief of certain persons therein named. By -Vr. Osborn a bill authorizing guardians, executor and administrators to make deeds in certain cases. Also, an act confirming the marriage between Thoma Berry and Elizabeth Berry. Also, a bill to dispose of the Georgia lumber lands. By .Vr. Randall a bill legalizing a survey of Fort Wayne. Br Mr. Simpson a bill amending an act to incorporate the 'White Water Valley Canal Company. By .Vr. Verbrike a bill exempting certain property from execution. Also, a bill to amend the charter of the Richmond and Terra Haute Railroad Company. By .Vr. Winchell a bill to regulate the assignment of bills of exceptions in the circuit courts. Also, a bill for the benefit of the auditor of the county of Grant. By .Vr. Ilamrick a bill to repeal an act confining voters in giving their voles to the township in which tbey reside, so far as the county of Putnam is concerned. Reports from Standing Committees. Mr. Henry reported back a bill incorporating the French Lock Steam .Vill Company, with two amendments the first containing the Individual liability clause, which wa laid on the table the second, relative to the time at ' which the act should be in force; which was concurred in. Tho question was then put on the engrossment of the bill, and carried. Mr. Ilamrick reported back the bill entitled an act to amend an act to revive an act incorporating the town of Logansport; which was engrossed lor a third reading. lhe senate adjourned. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. Saturday, Jan. 22d, 1849. Bills Introduced. By Mr. Coffin, a bill reeulatin? the fees and emoluments of county officers in Henry county. ORDERS OF TUE DAT. Bills Passed. A bill enabling supervisors to make returns to county board of Scott county. An act explanatory of an act therein named. A bill auihoriziog Deatboru county Piobite Court to make ceilain orders. A bill creatine the office of Attorney General. A bill incorporating the Browustown a ad Scipio Railroad Company. A bill incorporating tbe Madison and Browns town Turn pike Company. A bill fixing tbe time of holding Probate Court of Midison county. A Dill incorporating tbe Attica and Warrentown bridge Company. A bill regulating agencies of Foreign Insuiance Companies. A bill regulating tbe action of ejectment. A bill legalizing tbe act of Peter Navarr, jr. A bill incorporating the town of Madison. A bill incorporating tbe South Bend cotton and wollen manufactory. A bill concerning the Slate Library. A bill fixing juror, fees ju justices court in Delaware county. A bill incoiperatiug tha Liberty and Brownville Turnpike Company. A bill relative to fees of officers in Owen county. A bill lopping off all extra allowance for cleik and I he riff of Delaware county. A bill fur the better securing of titles in Spencer aud Dubois countica. A bill amending an act therein named. A bill legutaiiug lhe aalary of auditor of Putnam county. A bill itgulating tbe fees of Probate clerk iu Jackioa county. A bill lelalive to the charter of Indianapolis. A bill incoipoiating the Taylor cotton mill. A bill incorporating the Perry cotton mill. A bill incorporating the Keunelion Glass manufacturing Company. - . A bill incorporating the Kenneltoo paper milL A bill incorporating the Ward cotton mill. A bill incoipoiating the Indiana eolton mill. A bill incorporating the Kcnnelton cotton mill. A bill incorporating the Kenneltoo foundry. Mr. Neal proposed to ameud by making the atockholders liable in proportion to the amount of thtir stock laid on the tablet aeveral proportion relating to the liability clauae made all votetf down, and the queition terms to be tattled against any clugt to manufactui!g. A bill incorporating the Piinceton Female Academy. A bill grauting a cut chatter to tbe town of Aamia. A bill repealiug a certain act their in named. A bill legalizing act of liasttes cf Ruing San, Indiana.

A bill changing the name of EUenczer Baiker Twitchel. A bill for the relief of Maty M. G kxImcIc. A bill extending the juiidiciiou of justice of the peace in Fulton and Mmhall counties. A bill authoiizing a certain deed to be made io Afiami county. A bill vacating ccrtaiu ttreett and alleys therein named in iiitaiiapolis. A bill repealing a ceilain act therein named. A bill lelative to the tax duplicate for the year '47 of the county of Jefferson. A bill incorporating the Abington and Centreville Turnpike company. A bill incorporating the Indiana Canal Company. A bill incorporating the Ltrxiogtou Aftdison aud Brownitown Turnpike Company. A bill authorizing the construction of a mill dam in Owen county. Mr. Dougbeity said this bill would affect tbe counties on White rivei. Tbis dam would affect tne Navigation of that river; it was the only outlet to the countiea above Spencer. The navigation of the river, was bazardout. tili it could be done duiing high lUes. The liver wat the only chance for the people of Afoigan county to catry off their turplut

pioduce. There baa been mill dam erected by lawt passed. Bot those acts had been declared by the supreme couit unconstitutional. Here Afr. D. read from 3id volume of Blackford page 200. It was theiefote useless and inexpedient. The people on White river bad lights, and they bould be respected by lhe legialatuie. By the means of dams over the liver many boats bad been wrecked, aud insurance companies were so fearful of lose ou the liver, that they would not grant policies. Any dam would be an obstruction, bow low soever it may be. He believed theie wer no petitions for this dam, it wa only the desire of but one man. He hoped the bill would not pass. Mr. Cookeily moved the indefinite postponement of tbe tame. Mr. Dnbson said that Railsoads were being made enabling the pioduce of Afoigan county to be cariied off. Navigation by lhe liver was a perfect gambling opera tic n. This dam would Dot any moie be an oustiuction tbau others now in the liver. - The petition fur this dam was signed not only by one man, but by about nfty others among whom weie as expeiienced pilots as ou the river. If the courts rhould declaie il uuconsliutional thee per sons interested would have I heir remedy. He hoped the bill would not be indefinitely postponed. Tbe quemioo being put, it was sd indefinitely postponed. Tbe Speaker then laid befoie the Houe a communication from Caot. L. Foid, olFeriug to the State of Indiana a few cuiiosities from the city of Afexico from Ca pt. Simonson j referred. Leave given Mr. Kcff to report a bill incoiporating lhe town of Winchester in Randolph county. And the House adjourned until Afotiday morniug. SENATE. Monday Morning, Jan. 24, 1849. The Senate assembled, and the journal of Saturday's proceedings was read. Mr. Miller presented, from a part of the committee on claims, a protest against the report made by Mr. Robinson, chairman of tliat committee, stating that the sentiments contained in the report in relation to the Mexican war, and the ability and intention of the General Government on the happening of certain contingencies to repay to the State of Indiana money advanced by her to hustain tho war were incorporated in the report without their knowledge and in express opposition to their opinions and asked to have their protest placed on the journal. Mr. Robinson raised to a point of order he thought that the constitutional right of Senators to enter protests did not give them tbe privilege of placing upon the journal a protest containing reflections of a personal character on any other Senator. The Chair decided that the placing on the journal of the protest wat in order under the constitutional rights given to Senators. Mr. Robinson gave notice that he would, on to-morrow, present a counter protest. Messrs. Miller, Malott, I luffs tetter and English asked to be excused from serving on the committee further; and their request was granted. A communication was read from the Slate printer, sta ting that be could not, before the adjournment of the legislature, print lhe Governor's message in the German and French languages. Petitions Presented. Bv Messrs. Milhkin, Orth, Randall, Robinson, Martin, Hubbard, Milligan and Zenor, which were referred to appropriate committees. On motion .f Mr. Read, the previous order of business wan suspended, and the orders of the day taken up. The following bills were read a third lime. A bill authorizing the qualified voters of the State to vote for or against the calling of a convention to revise the constitution ; lost ayes 21, noes 24. Mr. Orlli moved to reconsider the vote jutt given; which motion did not prevail. A bill regulating the fees and emoluments of county officers in the county of Marion ; passed. A bill lo incorporate tbe Eel river Manufacturing Company ; passed. A bill amending the law in respect to the granting of licenses for retailing ardent spirits in certain counties therein named; passed. A bill extending the time for the re-appraising of certain lands belonging to the Wabash and Erie canal. Mr. lierry moved to re-commit lhe bill to a select committee, with instructions to strike out all except tbe first section. Mr. Ellis moved to instruct the committee to include in ik. k;ii .k i..i. :.. it. t7".n.nn.. A,.r,i Mr. Cassatl moved to amend the motion or Mr. Berry by re-committing the bill to the judicial committe; which was adopted, and the bill re-committed to that committee. Tbe Senate adjourned. adjourned AFTERNOON SESSION. The Senate met. Several House bills were taken up, read c first lime, and passed to a second reading. A joint resolution from the House, relative to the claims of Col. Francis Vigo, late ot Knox county, was taken up and adopted. The bill incorporating the Monticello Hydraulic Company was, on motion of Mr. Montgomery, taken up and passed. Senate adjourned. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. Monday Morning, January 24, 1843. A considerable discussion wat elicited tbis morning upon the introduction of a resolution, relative to an inquiiy at to lhe amount of mileage allowed to members, sod ibe propriety of examining lhe number of miles calculated and claimed by Och member, and whether some members had not claimed too many the resolution after some amendments, was adopted. Leave given Mr. Kinney, to introduce a joint resolution relative 10 the claim of Col. Francis Vigo deceased, late of Knox couuty 5 tules were suspended and lhe joint resolution was passed. Leave given Mr. Frazier, to introduce a petition for a charter for a Railroad from Peru to Madison; laid on the table. Also a bill for incorporating the Kosciusko and Miami Railroad Company concurred in. . Mr. IVeal moved to amend by running the contemplated road through certain towua Ihereiu named withdrawn. Leave given Mr. Line, to intioduce a petition relative to grocery license. Also to Mr. Dobson, relative to some road in Owen and Clay counties t also lo Mr. Litile, relative lo the orgs zatioo of the militia laws. Leave giveu Mr. Gooding, 10 introduce a petition for the charge aud vacation of a road therein named. Orders of the Day Bills Passed. 1 A bill incorporating tbe Clay cotton mills t incorporating the Richmond and institute 1 piobibiting tbe tale of spirituous iiquors or wines io Henry township Henry county ; vacating ceilain streets in Kaytville j for tbe telief of Zacharias Collins; relative to the practice in tbe La porta circuit couit; for the relief of Elizabeth Jones; vacatiug a State road in St. Joseph county ; amending an act incorporating the Cincinnatijand Franklin Turnpixe Company ; authorizing tbe sate of certain real estate by tbe cleik of tbe Carrol circuit couit; for the benefit of the Union Literary Society; incoiporating a Cemetery in Tippecanoe county ; authorizing an arm lo the Sbelbyville and Koightstown Railroad by Ira Beaty; changing tbe name of Louis Myers; for tbe relief of the city of Lawreccebsigh, Dearboin county; relative to the organization of tbe two houses of the legislatuie; repealing an act therein named relative lo the Sbelbyville and Edinburgh Railroad was taken from tbe table, and pasted; lelative to the records of Lagtange county; creatiog the office of attorney general was taken fiom the table, refei red to committee with instructions ( a joint resolut 100, relative to buuuty land warrants; relative to the Mami Iuduns. And tbe House adjourned. A f-TER NOON SESSION. Leave giren Afr. Cookerly, to introduce a resolution instructing the jtldiciaiy comtiiitlee to lepoit a bill, forming piobate circuits. Mr. Lowe lemarked that a majority of intelligent beings collected tof-eihei here tie certainly io favor vt a change in the present probate system. Skillful men in the law, should administer iu the probate system. Many of tbe present judges of the pretent systm weie good men in bis county theie was an excellent judge but as a general thing he was feaiful it was not to. lie was also iu favor of throwing tbe business in tbe circuit courts, but he prefered a separate system of courts. By giving the clerks of tbe probaie couit io vacation aurrogate power, Iheie was an advantage iu the plan of giving the business to lhe circuit court. By tbis mode there wat no necessity vf additional expense, as there would be io electing a separate system. He was also in favor of giving to tbe clerks of tbe circuit couitt surrogate powrr also making issue days. Mr. Line was nnat'vised upon the subject, be had never beard a complaint in h-s county against tbe present tyttem to if there was a geueral tyttem at proposed, be should desire to have bis county exempted. Mr. Cookerly would not vote for any exemption, ifihould bs a gcneial law. He believed there should be a change in tht present tyttem how, or io what form it wat, he did not care. The people would favor a change aud willingly pay tbe taxes necessaiy to cany it out. He thought the piooate business should be in a court distinct of itself. . Mr. Brown said, taking it for granted ibat there must be a change the question was, in what way thould lhe probaie buiness be managed. Ha would lather attach Ibe piobate business le the auny iü Mexico than 10 the ciicuil courts. For although iheie may gtusially be good judges presiding

io the circuit couits yet at tbe clo-e of the teim, after hunyiug nver lhe important circuit couit busiue, they would retiie.and leave it to the aiiate judge. The con sequences weie it was ouly doubling the probate judgas having two at $3 per day instead of one jude at $4 per day as now. Tbe adding the new circuits to the piesent number or order to place lhe probate bumes i ibote courts, wa only adding the expense of the judges of those new courts. Where then, was the advantage 1 The circuit couit system, as pioposed, was the woist iu point of economy, and in policy t hi this coanty, alone, tbne would have to be courts nearly one-half the year giving no time to the other counties in the circuit. Would it not be better then to have thn business done by one man ? Il would be better done, and less exrese attend it. If a change be made, it should be far lhe belter, and not for the woise. He preferred lhe Probate system, at now existing, than lo thiow the business iu the Circuit Courts. He thought it better, if a change be made, to eiect a separate Probate system. Mr. Duuham proposed, as a substitute, that lhe word surrogate system be adopted. He said there would be no doubt as lo the propriety of a change. It was necessary. The most intricate points of law arose in Probate courts. The Judges should be skillful men in the law. Children, and ig

norant peisons weie concerned, wnose mosi important interests weie concerned. The Judges of the present system ate not skilled in points Ibat do fiequently aiise iu these courts. Inducements for talent must be thiowa out What is the inducement as now existing ? None at all. If we do not pay our Judges sufficient, we cannot have men capable. Men who have capability, will direct their atteotioo to other busings. Of course, then, men who are msie cyphers by the side of the clerks, are placed in that important post. Ho favored the surrogate system in preference to the probate circuit plan giving the clerk of the circuit court surrogate powers. One objection to this was, that it was making one roan clerk to Ins own decreet ; but the same objection arose in the others it was so in the magistrates. Besides, the records were public records ; parties had a right to look over them, and would be coutinually doing so. The clerks now, were generally the probate judges ; it would not thei. be making the plan worse, it would be bettering it : for whenever a rr.Jn desired it, he could go and transact business the clerk keeping office open all the time, business rould be transacted everr day ; while, if courts are established, there an be slated timna only I transact business. Mr. Orton agteed with the gentleman, that (his was the most important matter that had been before the House. The people looked upon this subject with earnestness. Where a present system it sought to be abolished, the question naturally ajises, what meih d shall be adopted in us piacer 11 lavorea me surrogate syMem. In point of expense the surrogate must be the clerk, and judge, must be kept open constantly in every county of the State ; then tbe surrogate should be a man well well qualified tbe salary could not be less than 500, each county that would make an aggregate expense of $45,000. But if the Probate circuit system is established there should be at least 18 circuits that would be at least $14.400 at 1500 inlaty to each judge, if the salary is $1000, then it would be doubling lhe aggregate amount. But by throwing the business in the circuit courts by making it obligatory that the Judges do the business, that they shall not shirk it, it could be done at less expense. By erecting the f new additional circuits, there would be an additional expense of (4.000 only. Mr. Keizer thought it a proper time to investigate the appropriateness of a change. There was a great part of the wealth of the State, had to past through the Probate courts. He wat in favor of wiping out all the present tyttem ss found in the revised code of 1843 and some plan adopted making it probable that the business in the Probate courts -i lit. .it .. suouiu oe seuieu some lime or otner. lie wuned every thing begun anew. He remarked that Judge Hanns, of Allen county, bad a system of Probate business, that was de only sytern in Allen county. He would conclude by stating be desired some system that would protect the widows and orphans. Mr. DeDruter said the present system was susceptible of improvement and might be improved. He thought the proposition of erecting new circuits, and throwing the business into the bands of the clerks of the severtl courts froaght with some danger. They generally were not legal men, and not more capable to do the business than the Probate judges. He thought it would be attended with more expense than the surrogate system. Surrogates could have feet in addition to a small salary, say 200, where tbe business in counties would not be sufficient inducement for skilful men ia tbe way of fees, Iben make the salary large. Mr. Terry was aorry that this resolution came before the House at this time it wat calculated to forestall the action of the judiciary committee. It would soon be ready to report a bill upon the subject. He preferred to transfer to the circuit court the probate business. The primary object of the judiciary committee would be lo place the clerk of the court in the executive situation, subject to the supervision of the circuit court. Also, that when the court makes an order or decree, the master in chancery performs it, and not the clerk. The committee would have also a provision in their bill, making il obligatory lo have certain days set apart at the beginning of the term to transact probate business. Mr.- T. then went on to state further provisions of the contemplated bill. Mr. Dole had the objection to the surrogate system that there were new counties that could not support the surrogate. He proposed that where the number of polls in tne county was less than JUOU, that the clerk ot tbe ,c,rcu,t .Id ex officio be surrogate This amendment "----"pwu vj " ' Mr Harvey said that many of Tt a P.e"-on "J fS-1 of the counties coulJ not fees were not sufficient. If the population of the State was much greater than it is now, it might probably do. lie waa not certain, however, that it would do to make any change. Mr. Wolfe did not like the surrogate system. The clerk was his own judge. The adoption of this system would, he thought, effectually destroy probate business. Mr. Thompson of G. was decidedly opposed to any change in the present system. If any change was made, it should be for the better. The present system he preferred to any other that had yet been proposed. Of evils, let us choose the least. Mr. Frazier said the present system was a great evil, for the reason that it was done by judges who were incompetent to solve one question that presents itself. Men competent were wanted how were they to be obtained i It would not do to lay heavy taxation, or men would be sent with instructions to repeal the laying the same. He had calculated the expense, and thought il would be bet ter to transfer the business to the circuit courts; and from what he had heard of it, he thought the plan to be proposed by tha judiciary committee the best one. He thought the surrogate system, in tho present stale of our population, would not da. Il would be but partial in its operations, and local legislation would be necessary. Mr. Cookerly said so far as he was concerned, the Surrogat system would be the best. He thought it would be a better and a cheaper plan than the circuit court syttern. The President judges would shirk it could not be done. Their salaries would have to be increased, the terms would have to be increased, even if five new circuits were roide. If the turrogate tyttem could not be had, he would prefer the probate court system ; but rather than not have a change, he would go for the circuit court system. The discussion was continued by Messrs Dunham and Lowe. The House adjourned. The DefeSces about Mexico. The Savannah Republican is indebted to a friend, just from Mexico, for the following statement of the defences whioh our army found before that city. This statement, prepared by Capt. Robert E. Lee of the Corps of Eugineers, has not before been made public, and it will aid in showing how many and how serious obstacles our gallant army has had to struggle against. It should always be borne in mind, that the works indicated are generally of the most permanent character, and constructed after the most approved rules of the science of fortification. The line of defences contained: Catteries. At the Penon Meiicalaineo San Antonio , Cburubutco. Coutrerat Chapuitepeo Guns. . . 20, prepared for 61, and IS lot br'sti . . 8 art t . . 7 " ä4 8 " rkt 94 15 2.' 1 . . 3 .. 1 " . 7 7 45 109 Around the city vf Mexico independent of the t urrouriding ditches, generally iJö feet wido and 5 feet deep, filled with water, whose banks form natural parapets, there were 47 batteries, prepared for 177 guns, and 17 infantry breastworks making on all thanes defeuding the approaches to the city; Ü2 batteri s, prepared for 346 guns, and 42 infantry breastworks, independent of the natural defences of mud, water, the numerous other ditches, broken bridges, &c. QrDr. Wilson, in his travels through the lands of the üible last year, discovered on the route from the Red Sea to JMount Sinai, the immense mountains alluded to by the author of tho Book of Job, as the source of tho gold and silver of the early ages. From huge seams in the sides of the mountains was the ore dug out and all the evidences wf this mode of mining present themselves to the eye. How the grooves or channels were cut out from such lofty heights to the base of the mountain, does not appear. Immense must have been the waste of life in prosecuting the work. Tax os Literatübe. The English excise laws operate severely upon literature iu thai country. Messrs. Chambers, in the Edinburgh Quarterly, says, the cheapest of their publications has just bveu completed, and they affirm that of j25,7Gö spent in paper, 5,431 was paid to Government for duty. This sum exceeds, they 6ay, their own profit.