Preserving the rich history of Middletown, Connecticut and surrounding communities
The Constitution was a weekly newspaper in Middletown, Connecticut, published by Abner Newton. The paper was solidly Republican, although the city was largely Democratic.
In honor of the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War, we have created this blog with excerpts fromThe Constitution to give a taste of the concerns and preoccupations of Middletown residents during this critical period in history. Square brackets indicate additions that we have made. ‘This city’ refers to Middletown.
From The Constitution, Wednesday, February 19, 1862 (volume 25, number 1260)
Fort Donelson taken
And 15,000 Prisoners !
Gens. Johnston and Buckner Captured.
Chicago, Feb. 15.
The following is a special dispatch to the Chicago Journal:
Two Miles from Fort Donelson,
February 14.
The attack on Fort Donelson commenced at 7 1/2 o’clock on yesterday morning by the land forces under Generals Grant, Smith and McClernand.
The fort is surrounded by high steep hills, heavily wooded and protected by two redoubts, trenches and rifle pits.
The rebels gave battle from their intrenchments outside the fort, but they were driven in after a severe battle and considerable loss on both sides.
Our loss is probably about forty-five killed and from one hundred and fifty to two hundred wounded.
Eight thousand troops and four gunboats arrived last night.
The battle will be resumed to-day.
Chicago, Feb. 17th.
Fort Donelson surrendered yesterday morning. Gen. Johnston and Buckner, with 15,000 rebels, are prisoners. Floyd, by his great experience, stole away with 5,000 men Saturday night.
St. Louis, Feb. 17th.
Dispatches from Gen. Grant to Gen. Halleck announce the surrender of Fort Donelson, with 15,000 prisoners, including Gens. Pillow, Buckner and Johnston.
St. Louis, Feb. 17th.
Further official advices from Donelson says that Gen. Floyd escaped during the night. The rebels in the Fort, denounce him as a black hearted traitor and coward.
The rebels are known to have had 30,000 troops, 15,000 of whom are prisoners, 5,000 escaped, the balance are reported killed or wounded or otherwise disabled. Our loss is not stated, but the slaughter in our ranks is mentioned as terribly severe.
St. Louis, Feb. 17th.
The casualties on the gunboats are as follows : “St. Louis,” 3 killed 2 wounded, including Lieut. Kendall. “Louisville,” 5 sailors killed, 4 slightly and 2 severely wounded, the latter having both arms shot off.
“Carondolet,” 4 killed, 6 badly and two severely wounded, including the pilot.
“Pittsburg,” 2 wounded.
The force en route to Fort Donelson had mostly arrived and located in the left. Gen. Lewis Wallace with the 8th Missouri and 11th Indiana, arrived Friday.
Washington, Feb. 17.
The following is received :
Cairo, Feb. 17.
To Hon. Gideon Welles :–The “Carondolet,” just arrived from Donelson, brings information of the capture of that fort by the land forces yesterday morning, with 15,000 prisoners, including Gens. Buckner and Johnston.
The loss is heavy on both sides. Floyd escaped with 5,000 men during the night. I go up with the gunboats as soon as possible. I will proceed up to Clarkesville. Eight mortar boats are on the way with which I hope to attack Clarkesville.
My foot is painful but not dangerous. The army has behaved gloriously. I shall be able to take but two iron clad gunboats with me, as the others are disabled. The trophies are immense. Particulars will soon be given. (Signed)
A. H. Foote, Flag Officer.
Over 2000 Prisoners Taken !
Fortress Monroe, Feb. 13.
The gunboat “Stars and Stripes” arrived at noon, from Burnside, with the bearer of dispatches for the government. He reports the rout of the rebels as complete. Three thousand prisoners were captured. All their gunboats were burnt or captured, except two, which escaped to the canal. The federal loss was, killed, 42 ; wounded, about 140 ; the rebels lost, killed about 30, and their wounded less than 100.
The advance from Hatteras took place Wednesday morning, the expedition consisting of about 60 vessels. The fleet anchored off Stumpy Point that night. Next day it proceeded to the entrance of Croaton Sound. After a reconnoissance the attack commenced on Friday, the “Underwriter” leading the column. The rebel fleet was attacked and dispersed in half an hour by a portion of our navy, while the remainder attacked the land batteries.
The fight continued until dark. During the night ten thousand men were landed.
Saturday morning seven thousand were advanced. A masked battery of three guns was soon discovered by skirmishers in front and on both flanks. The 21st, 25th, 27th, Mass., 9th and 51st New York, and 10th Conn., were particularly engaged. The 25th Mass. and 10th Conn. suffered most severely.
The fight lasted only two or three hours, when the battery was abandoned, and our troops pursued and surrounded the rebel camp, and took nearly the whole command prisoners. O. Jennings Wise was wounded and was shot twice while endeavoring to escape in a boat.
Col. Russell of the Tenth Connecticut was killed at the head of his regiment. Lieut. Col. Vizier De Monteil of D’Epeneuil Zouaves, who volunteered, was also killed. No other officers killed above the rank of lieutenant. Our total loss killed and wounded is less than two hundred. The killed are less than fifty.
We took between 2,000 and 3,000 prisoners. They were about being sent to New York by the “S. R. Spaulding” and other steamers. Among them are about 12 or 15 Colonels, Lieut. Colonels and Majors.
On Sunday afternoon a fleet of 15 gunboats started for Elizabeth city, which was shelled, and having been evacuated and partially burnt by the rebels, was occupied. All the rebel fleet was sunk or burnt except two, the “Roanoke” and “Beaufort,” which escaped by the canal. The “Seabird,” which was the flag ship of Commodore Lynch, was run down and boarded, and the gallant Commodore escaped to the shore by swimming.
News from Elizabeth City was received at Roanoke Island on Monday evening, and the “Stars and Stripes” left on Tuesday morning. She struck on the bar at Hatteras on Tuesday night, but started again Wednesday morning, and arrived here about noon to-day.
She brings a bearer of dispatches from Gen. Burnside and Com. Goldsborough. She will take a cargo of ammunition and return immediately.
Gen. Wise was at Nag’s Head, and succeeded in escaping to Norfolk.
The rebels would not fight after being driven from their intrenchments, which was done by Hawkin’s Zouaves and the 21st Massachusetts. Young Wise resisted the storming parties until he was wounded, when he was carried off, and his command retired with others to the upper end of the Island, where they laid down their arms.
Elizabeth Ciry was about half burned by the rebel soldiers. The people sent off a deputation to Com. Goldsborough, asking him to send a force to assist in extinguishing the flames.
Edenton was taken possession of on Wednesday, by Com. Goldsborough, without opposition.
Norfolk and Richmond papers attribute the loss of Roanoke Island to the blundering inefficiency of their navy. They persist in asserting nearly a thousand federals were killed. They charge a Roanoke Island farmer with deserting and piloting the Yankees to the only point where they could effect a landing, the Island being flanked on all sides by an extensive marsh.
Release of Prisoners
Hamilton Fish and Bishop Ames returned to Washington on Friday. Although not permitted to pass the confederate lines, their mission was completely successful. An equal exchange of prisoners was agreed upon. As the confederates had three hundred more than we, (before the battle of Roanoke,) a general jail delivery was agreed upon, and these three hundred were to go on parole. So that all our brave fellows in southern prisons will be liberated.
Of the Tenth Connecticut, was killed at the head of his regiment while gallantly leading on the assault upon the rebel works at Roanoke Island. Col. Russell was Adjutant in the Second regiment, and was of course well known to many in this neighborhood, by whom he was regarded as a brave and gallant soldier. Gen. Burnside has made honorable mention of him in his official report. He was born in Northfield, and was but 33 years of age. His home was in Derby.
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Among the deaths reported in the Sixth and Seventh regiments, is that of Corporal Wm. H. Barrow, of this city, who belonged to company I, of the Seventh. He died of fever, on the 18th ult.
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22d of February !!
Celebration in Middletown
It is proposed to celebrate the 22d of February, Washington’s Birthday, which occurs on Saturday next. The grand success of the national arms within the last two weeks will make the day memorable in the country. Let there be a fitting celebration in Middletown. At a meeting of the City Government this morning, the subjoined votes were passed.
Whereas, The recent brilliant successes of our Army and Navy in North Carolina and Tennessee, deserve the hearty recognition of every true Union man,
Voted, That His Honor the Mayor, be and is hereby requested to issue his proclamation, asking all loyal citizens of the city to join in celebration of the 22d February, as a fitting time for acknowledgment and congratulation to the noble spirits who have upheld our flag and whose successes are a sure indication of the speedy triumph of the cause of the Union and the Constitution.
Voted, That His Honor the Mayor, Aldermen Hubbard, Hall and Griffin, and Councilmen Bent, Camp and Russell, be a committee to aid in carrying out the spirit and intent of these resolutions.
Washington’s Birthday
In accordance with the usual custom, the Sophomore Class of the Wesleyan University will celebrate the Birthday of Washington. There will be a National salute at sunrise, a Federal salute at noon, and a Class salute at sunset.
In the evening there will be an Oration, reading of Washington’s Farewell Address, Music, &c., in the University Chapel. It is said by those who know, that an unusually fine entertainment is promised. Let all who can, be present.
Coasting
For several evenings past the boys have made the most of the fine sliding and the bright moonlight. College street hill seemed to be the favorite spot. The sliding was splendid there, and no mistake.
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At the ball at the McDonough Hall last Friday night, a Hartford gentleman was present with a couple of “fashionable” women, who were enjoying the occasion mightily when it happened that the Chief of Police of Hartford dropped in, and identified the gentleman as one of the supernumeraries of the Hartford police force, and his companions as two noted women of that place. Information was given to the managers of the ball, and the “supernumeraries” were all three turned out. The man’s name is Estes.
From The Constitution, Wednesday, February 12, 1862 (volume 25, number 1259)
Latest News
It is believed that the Senate will pass the treasury note bill with the legal tender clause.
No doubt is entertained that there has been fighting before this at Roanoake [sic] Island. Intelligence reached Fortress Monroe on Friday that Gen. Burnside’s expedition moved from Hatteras Inlet on Wednesday morning for the Island. The weather has been favorable and we are expecting good news from there soon.
News from the West continues to be cheering. Troops are in motion towards Knoxville, and the railroad through Eastern Tennessee will be taken possession of immediately.
Three vessels of the Butler Expedition left Boston on Saturday for Ship Island.
Gen. Lander with seven or eight thousand troops marched against the enemy at Romney on Thursday. The forces were about equal on both sides, but the rebels retreated across the river, burning the bridge in their rear.
Nothing of importance from the army of the Potomac.
Bishop Ames and Gov. Fish will not be allowed by Jeff. Davis to go south on their mission to our prisoners.
Gen. Stone has been placed under arrest and sent to Fort Lafayette.
The news to this morning from Burnside’s expedition is that the fight at Roanoke Island is going on. The Federals had sunk one or two rebel gunboats.
The latest from the west is from St. Louis, Feb. 10th. The enemy is still encamped near Fort Henry, and preparations for further movements are going vigorously forward. The panic is so extensive in Tennessee that the river is considered open for Union fleets to its headwaters.
By the Jura, just arrived, we learn that Mason and Slidell have arrived in England. The Times thinks they will keep quiet.
Mexico
Highly important news from Mexico is that a great battle has been fought between the Spaniards and Mexicans at the National Bridge near Vera Cruz, in which the Spaniards were defeated. The conflict lasted five hours. The Mexican people are represented as being completely united in their efforts to resist foreign invasion.
Dreadful Colliery Accident – Two Hundred Men and Boys Buried in a Pit
Shields, Friday night.—I have just returned from Hartley New Pit, where 200 men and boys are buried. The shaft has been closed up through the huge beam of the pumping engine falling down the pit yesterday. It carried the timber and the wood work down, and thus blocked the up and down cast shafts. The falling timber filled five out of eight men who were being drawn up in a cage at the time. The men and lads working below at the time of the accident have been buried forty-eight hours, notwithstanding the greatest exertions to relieve them on the part of the ablest men in the coal trade.
The working seam is filling with water, and no doubt the horses, which are worth £500, are already drowned. The men and lads, however, could escape by means of a ladder to the Yard Seam, which is 49 fathoms higher, and out of reach of water. Men have been heard trying to clear the obstruction in the shaft from below, to-night, and no doubt is entertained that they are all out of danger of water at least. Means have been employed for securing good ventilation, and I was assured by the best authorities, before I left to-night, that the strongest hopes may be entertained that the yard seam would be reached and the men and lads rescued before morning.
Great excitement prevails and numerous pitmen’s wives have been at the pit mouth, watching since last night.
The three men who were saved hung to the cage in the shaft eight hours before they were rescued.
The Victory in Tennessee
We had glorious news from the west last week of the capture of Fort Henry on the Tennessee River, which was effected on Thursday. This is not only a glorious but an important victory, opening the way, as it does, for a general movement of our land and naval forces southward. It will also, it is thought, permit a flank movement to be made, cutting off Beauregard’s and Johnson’s forces at Bowling Green. The victory was achieved entirely by the brave seamen of Com. Foote’s squadron of gunboats, and nobly did they maintain the honor of the stars and stripes in the hard fought battle. This is the first victory in Tennessee. It will not be the last.
The Proposal to Make Treasury Notes a Legal Tender
The principal feature of the treasury note bill now before Congress is that it proposes to make the United States treasury notes a legal tender, that is, to place them on an equality with coin in the payment of all debts. This is an entirely new step in legislation, and one which must strike every reflecting mind as a very bold movement, and which can only be justified by the most extraordinary emergencies.
The first difficulty which presented itself was that Congress had no constitutional power to convert promissory notes into a circulating medium and place them on a par with coin. But the weight of authority appears to be on the side of the constitutionality of the measure. By the constitution the whole power of regulating the currency is placed in the hands of Congress. Such is the opinion of the Attorney General, Mr. Bates, and such was clearly the opinion of Daniel Webster. Mr. Webster was decidedly opposed to making any thing but coin a legal tender, and for that reason he was a firm friend of a national bank, which, while it gave every needed accommodation to the government and met all the demands of the business community, rested on a firm specie basis. Such an exigency as now exists did not exist during his career, and no one can say that he would not under present circumstances have favored the legal tender clause in the present bill. But it is remarkable that while in his day he opposed on grounds of expediency making anything a legal tender but coin, he admitted the constitutional right of Congress to do so. He says Congress “has authority” to regulate, and must regulate and control any and all paper which either states or individuals might desire to put into circulation purporting to represent coin and to take its place in the uses of trade and commerce.”
Allowing then that such legislation may be constitutional, it is still a question whether it should be resorted to under present circumstances. It is claimed that unless these notes are made a legal tender, they will be depreciated in value, and will entirely fail to answer the purpose for which they are issued. It is well known that Mr. Chase, the Secretary of the Treasury, did not at first favor the plan of making the notes a legal tender. But now he affirms his belief that no other course will satisfy the demands of the treasury. If it is so, if those who are best acquainted with the real situation of our national finances declare that this extraordinary measure is necessary, then the bill ought to pass, and government notes should become a part of the legalized currency of the country. But such a measure as this should not be adopted unless an absolute necessity for it is seen to exist. It indicates any thing but a flattering condition of our national credit, for it says as clearly as can be said that U. States treasury notes require to be bolstered up by all the authority of Congress in order to give them a fair position in business circles. The credit of the government ought to be such that its notes will circulate without such aid. They should represent an actual value, like any other notes, and pass for what they are worth. And what is more, we doubt whether Congress can by legislation give a value to notes which they do not represent. According to all principles of political economy it is as impossible by a single act of legislation to convert a piece of paper which represents no value into money as it is by the same process to convert a piece of copper into a diamond. There are some things that Congresses and Parliaments cannot do, and this is one of them. The only possible way of making government paper equivalent in value to coin, and so of making it answer all the purposes of a legal tender, is by making it convertible into coin.
But the question with Congress is one of expediency. Something must be done to meet a present exigency. However improper this project may appear in ordinary times, it is possible that it may be necessary now. Mr. Chase says it should be adopted, and we have more faith in the foresight and good judgment of the accomplished Secretary than we have in this plan which he has sanctioned. If the legal tender clause becomes a law, the public will know that the treasury is in great straits for money.
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Com. Foote, who commanded in the late battle at Fort Henry, is a native of Cheshire in this State. His father was Samuel A. Foote, Governor of the State, and U.S. Senator.
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The earthquake of which we made mention last week, was perceived in many of the towns in this county. It was felt in Deep River, and also in East Haddam. The vibrations, it is stated, were so sharp as to cause a violent rattling of windows, stoves, crockery, &c., and they apparently proceeded from the northwest to the southeast. About 9 o’clock the same evening (Sunday before last) another lighter shock occurred, and in the morning about 4 o’clock, still another took place. It would seem that the shock in Colchester was felt more severely than anywhere else. The New London Chronicle says :
“On Sunday evening, about 8 o’clock, the shock of an earthquake was noticed at several localities in this county. In East Lyme and Old Lyme it was perceived, lasting three or four seconds in the latter place. At Colchester it was quite severe, and excited no little alarm in the village. A congregation in one of the churches cut short the service and cut stick for the door—accomplishing the complete evacuation of the building in the quickest time ever made there in going out of meeting. People fled from their dwellings in terror, and sought the streets. Such a scene was never before witnessed in Colchester.”
Portland
It is stated that Smith Williams, teacher in District School, No. 3, in Portland, was arraigned before Justice Campbell for cruel punishment of Mary Cox, a scholar, and fined seven dollars and costs.
Ranaway
On Saturday afternoon a horse attached to a sleigh with a man in it became frightened at the boys’ sleds when on the corner of Broad and Court streets. The steed plunged down Court street with the fell purpose of getting out of the way and leaving town in the quickest possible time. He dashed across Main street, and then put for the river, the man all the while holding on to the lines determined to go the whole figure with the horse. At the foot of the street a schooner is laid up and hauled off two or three feet from the dock. The horse took a bee line for the schooner, and without waiting for anybody to throw out a gang-plank, jumped on board. He brought up square against the mast, which knocked him down and put an end to any further operations on his part. The sleigh was carried partly on board the schooner, was not injured, and the driver still retained his seat and his hold on the lines. That race almost beats John Gilpin.
The Continentals
The entertainment last Tuesday and Wednesday evening, by Messrs. Smith and Franklin of the old Continental company, was a very pleasing one. They had a panorama illustrating war scenes, but the great attraction was the singing of patriotic and other songs, which fairly “took down” the house. Although but slight notice of the entertainment was given, they had a good house.
What is the Matter ?
The mail bag from Hartford to Middletown has been several times detained, and once or twice has not reached here till the next day. The public can excuse accidents, but the same kind of accident don’t [sic] generally occur in the same spot more than twice a week. Will the post master in Hartford see if there is not a screw loose somewhere ?
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The Calathumpians were around town a few nights ago, and serenaded several very respectable individuals. Their music was thought to be a bad imitation of a chorus of tom cats, screech owls, and hyenas. It did not sound like anything earthly, and it could not be celestial—so it must have been—
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There was a ball at the White House on Wednesday evening. It was a splendid affair—five hundred guests present—the supper room “exhibited one of the finest displays of gastronomic art ever seen in this country.” The same night hundreds of Unionists were hunted from their homes in the mountains of Tennessee. The same night our brave sailors in the West were preparing for a deadly conflict at Fort Henry. The same night many a poor mother sat by her lonely fireside thinking of her boy who had gone to defend the flag of his country.
From The Constitution, Wednesday, February 5, 1862 (volume 25, number 1258)
General Burnside’s Expedition
Statement of Rev. Mr. Flanders, Chaplain of the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment
We find, in the Providence Journal, several interesting facts concerning the expedition of Gen. Burnside, furnished by Rev. Mr. Flanders, Chaplain of the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment. According to his statement, the disasters to the fleet were far less serious than it would appear from special correspondents. The Journal says :
“Mr. Flanders was on board the “Eastern Queen,” the vessel which carried the Rhode Island Fourth, and was an eye-witness of the furious storm and of the disasters which the expedition experienced. His statements therefore will be received with great interest, and may be implicitly relied on.
“Most of the vessels of lighter draft were successfully carried over the bar, The “City of New York,” however, in attempting to get over, unfortunately struck. She was loaded with an exceedingly valuable cargo, which proved a total loss. Everything on board of her went to the bottom. The sailors were unable to save even their clothes. After she struck it was seen at once to be impossible to get her off, and there she remained for two days, no boat daring, or at least attempting, to go to her assistance. Finally, however, her crew were safely landed, and the vessel abandoned.
Among other heroic acts to which the hazardous condition of the fleet gave rise, one in connection with the loss of the “City of New York” especially deserves mention. The second engineer, Mr. Showerman, was the last to leave the vessel. Lashing himself to the rigging, he remained there until all had left. Then mounting the mast, he cut down the flag, wrapped it around his body, and returning to the deck and thence on shore, bore it as a triumphant trophy of his daring heroism. Said he, ‘I meant either to die in its folds or bring it safely to land.’”
“It was the prevailing opinion at Hatteras that the “City of New York” was lost through the treachery of the pilot. Commodore Goldsborough declared to Mr. Flanders ‘that with the permission of the government, he would hang him that very day.’ The crew of the “City of New York” were also of the opinion that the pilot played the part of a traitor.
“The “Ciry of New York,” together with the “Pocahontas” and a small schooner loaded with oats, were the only vessels which proved total wrecks. The “Pocahontas” was comparatively a worthless craft. Her cargo consisted chiefly of baggage horses, to the number of 130, most of which were drowned. Their loss can be easily supplied. The statement that 90 horses attached to the Rhode Island battery were drowned, Mr. Flanders pronounces a mistake. When he left they had been safely landed. His own horse, however, and that of another staff officer, which happened to be on board the ‘Pocahontas,” were lost.
“Several vessels were driven on shore, experiencing, however, but trifling damage, and will undoubtedly be successfully got off. Among those driven ashore was the “Eastern Queen,” which carried the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment. But the troops were landed without the occurrence of a single casualty.
“In the opinion of Mr. Flanders, the expedition could not be much delayed on account of the storm and the losses which it had encountered, but would soon commence active operations. Gen. Burnside was full of hope, anticipating the most complete success. In conversation he remarked ‘that he had seen darker days than this,’ and that no disaster which the fleet had yet experienced disheartened him in the least. The soldiers place the utmost confidence in his judgment and abilities as a General, and wherever he will lead they are ready and eager to follow.”
Latest News
The House Committee of Ways and Means have very nearly completed the tax bill, and it will soon be reported in Congress. It is expected that by means of the taxes and the ordinary sources of revenue, an income will be secured to government of $150,000,000 annually.
Bishop Ames and Hon. Hamilton Fish, commissioners appointed by Secretary Stanton to go South and look after the welfare of our prisoners, are still in Washington.
The latest from the Burnside expedition is that it was preparing to move to its destination which was believed to be Roanoke Island.
It is rumored that Gen. Banks is to take the place of Mr. Welles in the Navy Department.
Snow has fallen heavily in Virginia. On Saturday, the troops on the Potomac were busy clearing their camps of snow to prevent the water coming into the tents.
In Missouri, Gen. Prentiss is advancing on Lebanon to unite with Davis’ forces, and there is prospect of a battle with Price.
Heavy firing was heard on Thursday in the direction of Roanoke Island, and it was believed Com. Goldsborough was hard at work.
Prof. Larned, of Yale College, died yesterday very suddenly.
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Fortress Monroe, Jan. 29, via Baltimore, Jan. 30.—Some negroes arrived here at seven o’clock this morning, having deserted in small boats from the opposite shore. They were cooks in the Third Alabama regiment, which is encamped in the vicinity.
The negroes report that the last of the iron plates for the Merrimac was put on yesterday, and that she was to be launched to-day.
A large steamer, reported to be the Merrimac, but probably erroneously so, made its appearance at Craney Island yesterday afternoon.
The troops at Newport News slept on their arms last night.
A flag of truce, to-day, brought from Norfolk, Lieutenant E. Connolly, of the Sixty-ninth New York, from Columbia.
The tug-boats James Murray and E. H. Herbert of Baltimore, and Joseph P. Levy, Alert, Alida and Campion, of Philadelphia, sailed this afternoon for Hatteras, to join Gen. Burnside’s expedition.
The Eastern State sailed for Hatteras this forenoon.
The Hartford arrived from Philadelphia the afternoon.
John McMahon, a recruit in Company F, of the Union Coast Guard, shot Michael Dolan, in the same company, this morning. The act was done deliberately. The motive is said to have been an old family grudge.
The Liberated Negroes
It is probably impossible to settle upon any permanent policy with regard to the treatment of liberated slaves. The most that can be done now is to adopt such plans as will answer temporary purposes. It is certain that they should be well treated and their wants should be supplied, and if they can be employed in any kind of labor either in connection with army operations or in cultivating the soil, they should be so employed. It is now time to begin preparations for the cotton crop for the present year, and the thousands of blacks within the national lines on the coast of South Carolina might be set to work in making the necessary preparations. It is far better to keep these people busy than to maintain them in idleness, and their labor might be made exceedingly profitable, for it is well known that the region where Gen. Sherman’s forces are entrenched produces the best cotton in the world. Nothing is more useless than to speculate upon what is ultimately to be done with these people. So long as the war lasts nobody can venture to predict. The only thing that can be done now is to provide for them, and use them to the best advantage.
Rebel Commanders
The commanders of the rebel forces have not been fortunate nor happy in their position. Davis and Beauregard have repeatedly quarreled, and the latter has once or twice come very near resigning his commission. To say nothing of Zollicoffer and Garnett who fell on the battle field, there is a General Cocke who blew out his brains, and Grayson who died a natural death. Then we have on the list of resignations Major General Twiggs, Brigadier General Walker, Pillow and Fauntelroy [sic]. It is now stated that the redoubtable Beauregard has been sent to Bowling Green, where he is to take a command subordinate to Gen. A. S. Johnson.
When this rebellion commenced it was believed that Beauregard was the commander of the rebel forces, and no doubt Beauregard thought he was himself. But for some reason or other, his star has of late shone with a diminished luster. His counsels have been overruled by Davis. He has been superseded on the Potomac. He now goes to Kentucky where he takes an inferior command. Beauregard, in common with other rebel commanders, appears to have had a hard time of it.
Drafting Suspended
By order of Gov. Buckingham the Adjutant General will notify the selectmen of the several towns throughout the state that the late order for drafting is suspended. The reason of this is that it has become apparent that further legislation will be required to make the law effective, and also that volunteer companies have so increased as to give encouragement that the number required by law may be secured without the service of men who have been drafted. Thus there is no need of any further apprehension on the part of those who have been drafted and those who have not. The present law appears to be in effect a dead letter.
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The same disease, lameness in the joints, which appeared in this town last week, has since appeared in Hartford. There it has almost become epidemic. It is remarkable that it appeared there as it did here immediately after the drafting for the active militia.
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Samuel Tudor, the oldest man in Hartford, died last week, aged 92. He was one of the original founders and for a long time a director in the Phœnix Bank, and also a director in the Ætna Insurance Company. He was a man of wealth, kindhearted, gentlemanly, and ever pleasant and cheerful.
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Messrs. Editors :–The following from an Ohio paper will no doubt be of interest to many of your readers, as Capt. Wetmore is a grandson of Josiah, and great-grandson of Capt. Seth Wetmore, one of the original proprietors of this town. Young Capt. Wetmore was a classmate of Samuel M. Mansfield, son of Gen. Mansfield.
Wetmore Battery.—Editor Journal.—I perceive the several dispatches from Somerset detailing accounts of the recent great battle at Mill Spring notice Capt. Whetmore’s or Whitmore’s Battery doing signal service.
The battery of flying artillery alluded to was raised by Capt. Henry Shepard Wetmore (not Whitmore) in Cuyahoga and Summit counties in this state. Capt. Wetmore resigned a Cadetship at West Point (where he was distinguished as a mathematical scholar and tactician) the past summer, in order to serve his country in the field, and that too when he could have been at the end of six months entitled to his diploma, and in line of promotion in the regular army.
Col. Hazen of the 41st O. S. V. knowing Mr. W.’s ability, invited him to raise a battery and join his regiment. The gallant part that Capt. W. and his brave men took in gaining that signal victory over Zollicoffer and his confederate allies, shows that Col. Hazen knew his man, when he selected Mr. W. to command the battery then to be attached to the “41st.”
Capt. W. is the son of Nathaniel D. Wetmore Esqr., of Cuyahoga Falls, and was born in Rochester, N. H., Nov. 23d, 1841. He is probably the youngest Captain in years in the service.
On Sunday evening about eight o’clock a shock which appeared to be that of an earthquake was very sensibly felt in this city. It was a tremulous motion of the earth, felt but a few seconds, very similar to what would be produced by a heavy explosion, but without any noise attending it. The shock was much more perceptible on the other side of the river than here. A gentleman from East Hampton said it was very distinctly perceived there, and fairly shook the walls of the buildings. It was at first thought that it might have some connection with the “Moodus noises” which used to be heard in Moodus, but we learn that it was as quiet as usual in that neighborhood.
A Chance for a Sleigh Ride
A sleighing party to Wethersfield will start from the Douglas House on Thursday, wind and weather permitting. What is going to happen in Wethersfield we are not informed, but on their return a supper will be served up by “mine host” at the Douglas House. After the supper there will be a dance. All who wish to enjoy a good supper and what comes after the supper, are invited to be present.
Icy Steps
Several tubsfull of boiling water poured in quick succession on the steps of our dwellings, in sleety weather, beginning at the top, and coming down, as each step is cleared, followed with a broom, and then wiped with a cloth, will clear a dozen steps in ten minutes ; the warmth imparted to the steps by the boiling water, dries up the dampness left by the cloth. Salt scales off the stone, while ashes, sawdust and the like are insufferably dirty.—[Hall’s Journal of Health.
A Useful Dog
Mr. Schenck, at [the Farms, has a dog which goes out near the railroad track every night, a few moments before it is time for the cars, and waits until they pass, then picks up the paper which is thrown off by the expressman, and carries it to his master. He is always on hand at the regular time and never fails to bring the paper when it is there. Monday night he came back without it, and so confident was Mr. Schenck that it had not been thrown off that he walked to Rockport, and there learned that another person had been on the rout [sic] that day, instead of the regular expressmen [sic], and had forgotten to throw it off. This same dog used to get the paper by the stage-coach, ere the cars commenced running, and never missed being at his post when the stage came along.—[Cape Ann Advertiser.
From The Constitution, Wednesday, January 29, 1862 (volume 25, number 1257)
Latest News
No intelligence yet from Burnside’s expedition.
The accounts of the battle on the Cumberland fully confirm the first statements. There were eight regiments of the enemy under Gen. Crittenden. They began the attack on our forces on Saturday night. In the early part of the battle Zollicoffer fell. Three times the enemy formed their line, which was as often broken by the onset of our troops. Gen. Thomas had ten regiments under his command and four batteries. But five regiments and two batteries were engaged in the battle. The battle ground was at a place known as Old Fields in Pulaski County.
The news from Europe by the Europa, which brings dates to the 12th, is quite satisfactory. The answer of Secretary Seward to the demand with regard to the Trent affair is all that was desired by the English government, and the Times intimates that an answer will be returned expressing gratification at the disavowal of Capt. Wilkes’ act and assuming that the precedent will rule in other cases.
The oath of office was yesterday administered to associate justice Swayne who took his seat on the bench of the U. S. Supreme Court.
A fire broke out in Quincy market, Boston, on Monday morning, which proved very disastrous to the occupants of the market. Total loss is estimated at $50,000.
David S. Robinson, Esq., a prominent citizen of Hartford, is dead.
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Cincinnati, Jan. 24.
The morning papers contain full accounts of the battle of Mill Springs. It was a fair, open battle. The rebels fought well, and were overcome only by superior fighting on our side. According to the rebel accounts, their force consisted of ten infantry regiments, three batteries and some cavalry,–altogether about 10,000. They fought in the bushwhacker style, from ravines and behind trees and rocks.
The brunt of the battle devolved on the 4th Kentucky, 2d Minnesota, 9th Ohio and 10th Indiana. For nearly three hours the roar of musketry was kept up. Shortly after 11 o’clock, Col. Hoskins succeeded in flanking the enemy on the extreme right, when the 9th Ohio and 2d Minnesota charged bayonet, with triumphant yells, and broke the rebel ranks and the route [sic] began. They fled pell mell to their camp, strewing the road with muskets, blankets, overcoats and knapsacks, and abandoned two guns and caissons.
Zollicoffer was shot through the heart, at the head of his staff, by Col. Frye of the 4th Kentucky. It appears that he lost his way in the bushes and suddenly emerged before Frye who was accompanied by some staff officers.
The two parties mistook each other for friends, and approached each other within a few yards, when, finding their mistake, both parties prepared for a hand to hand fight. One of Zollicoffer’s aids shot at Col. Frye, but only brought his horse down. The Colonel at once drew his six-shooter and brought Zollicoffer from his saddle at the first fire. The rebel staff deserted their chief’s body, which was taken to Somerset the day after the battle.
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The new Secretary of War has commenced his administration with a set of stringent rules and regulations which must have an excellent influence on the business of this department and on the efficiency of the army. One of his rules is that no appointment shall be made to any rank in the army, unless of men in the field, until the first of March. Another is that the names of such officers as frequent the city except on military duty, or by command of their superior officers, will be dropped from the list. General McClellan has removed his head quarters to the War Department, a fact which shows that the utmost harmony in regard to plans of future operations prevails between the Secretary and the General-in-Chief.
The French and English forces have joined the Spaniards at Vera Cruz. According to the arrangements, the next step[s] in the programme are the invasion of the country, the seizure of the government, and then to obtain such indemnity for the past and security for the future as shall satisfy the invaders. Whether all this will take place according to the programme is exceedingly uncertain. It is discovered that the Mexico of to day is different from the Mexico, as she was described to be, of six months ago. Spain, which is the foremost and most interested party in this invasion, represented that intestine feuds and wars had worn out the life of Mexico, that no resistance of importance could be made, and that, immediately upon landing, the allies would find a strong party in the country in their favor. But now that the allies have reached Vera Cruz, and have had an opportunity to take a survey of things as they are, they discover a very different state of things from what they expected. Instead of finding Mexico reduced to the verge of dissolution, she is discovered to be remarkably vigorous and strong. Instead of the promised welcome from a large and powerful party, they have not yet seen any signs of existence of such a party. On the other hand, they find that Mexico is united in resisting the invaders, and that a well appointed army of one hundred and fifty thousand men is ready to take the field against them. Under these new aspects of the case the allies will probably feel disposed to reconsider the matter. Vera Cruz may be found a convenient stopping place for the present, or until some arrangements could be entered into with the Mexican government, which will enable the French and English to get out of the scrape they have evidently got into.
On Thursday afternoon, the second colony of colored emigrants dispatched this month, sailed for Port-au-Prince and Miragoane, Hayti. The first colony consisted of 35 ; yesterday, 42 sailed. The colony of yesterday was composed exclusively of farmers from Michigan, Canada, and Pennsylvania. The next colony will sail from this port on the 20th inst., for Cape Hayti, in the north of the island, and on the 25th another will sail for Aguin, in the south of the island—both to found new settlements.
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John Tyler, ex-President of the United States, died at Richmond on Friday night, after a brief illness. He was elected Vice President of the United States, and became President on the death of Gen. Harrison. His term of office was an inglorious one, having betrayed the party which elected him, and the political principles he had professed to hold. In his last days he has been an active promoter of rebellion in Virginia.
Over one thousand miles of telegraph wire connects the various divisions of McClellan’s army at Washington. He can communicate instantly with all his Generals, and the lines are to be extended as the divisions move.
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Dr. Russell, of the London Times, is actually “packing up to go.” He has engaged passage in the next Cunard steamer from this port—the Arabia—to leave tomorrow week. He says he has written all about this miserable country and this miserable war that can be written, and besides, he is tired of staying among a people who cannot appreciate his transcendent genius for drawing on his imagination for his facts. It is said he will employ the few remaining days of his sojourn here, in hunting up that terrible mob which was to perform such shocking things if Mr. Lincoln decided to give up Slidell and Mason. When found he will please make a note of it.—N. Y. Cor. Phil. Inq.
Drafting in Middletown
In compliance with the requirements of the new militia law, a draft was made in this town last week. The quota of Middletown is one hundred and eight. We understand that many of the victims, when informed of their fate, showed considerable emotion. Most of them exhibited a becoming patriotism, others manifested no little trepidation, while one or two, we are sorry to hear, became unaccountably lame.
Bogus
We understand that some bogus notices, purporting to come from the selectmen, have been sent around to individuals in town to the effect that they have been drafted into the active militia.
From Mayor’s Report
Washington Park
In my last annual report, I called the attention of the city to the subject of constructing a public park on Washington street, between High and Vine streets, as well for the use of our citizens as a promenade, as for an improvement and ornament to the city.
I recommended the appropriation of a sum not to exceed six hundred dollars therefor [sic], conditioned that a like sum be raised from other sources, or be paid in equal moieties with such sums as shall be so raised of a less amount.
The proposed plan met the approval of the meeting, and the appropriation was accordingly granted. Owing to the great and peculiar calamities which had subsequently fallen upon our country, affecting injuriously its general interests and prosperity, I had determined not to move in the matter this year, but leave it to my successor in office to be governed by future circumstances in relation to it.
It was those very calamities, however, that afterwards induced me to change my purpose and make an effort to carry out the plan originally proposed. The sudden suspension of manufacturing, mechanical and other industrial pursuits, threw out of employ a large number of able bodied worthy men, in the fall of the year, who, with their families, were likely to be subjected to great distress for means of support.
If some plan could be devised, to give them employment, even at low wages, it would in fact be a matter of public economy, and save the expense of a greater expenditure for their support in idleness, through no fault of theirs.
I therefore made an appeal to our citizens for aid, more on the ground of a charitable measure, than of a public improvement, tho’ both objects would be gained by it, and succeeded in getting a subscription of $450, towards which the town, through their selectmen, subscribed $150. With these means and an equal amount received from the city treasurer, the work was commenced, and prosecuted so near to completion, in grading, culverts, and drains, as will leave but little more to do in the spring to complete it, than to fence it and plant the trees, which the lateness of the season prevented being done this fall. …
E. A. RUSSELL, Mayor.
Middletown, Jan. 20th, 1862.
The Weather
We have just been through what they call a “spell of weather.” For more than a week the sun did not show his face in Connecticut. It has snowed, and hailed, and rained, and sleeted. The wind has been through all the variations of the gamut, and blown from all the stormy points of the compass. Saturday was sloshy, that is, snow and water up to the ankles. On Sunday the weather cleared, and there is now a thick bed of snow and ice on the ground, which promises good sleighing for some time to come.
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The heavy weight of snow and water on Saturday caused some damage. The roof of the west barn of the livery stable of S. Hall & Son, in Court street, gave way under the pressure. One horse was badly injured.
A chimney on the dwelling of Wm. H. Atkins, in College street, was taken off by the snow as it slid down the roof.
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The town clock has indicated the same time of day for about two weeks. Judging from the sounds, the internal arrangements keep moving, but the public is not much benefitted thereby.
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NOTICE is hereby given to all whom it may concern, that I have from this date given my son CHARLES EDWARD LEWIS his time and the avails of his labor and that I will not pay any bills of his contracting.
ABEL LEWIS.
Middletown, January 27, 1862.
From The Constitution, Wednesday, January 22, 1862 (volume 25, number 1256)
Latest News
The startling fact is announced by the Investigating Committee appointed by Congress to inquire into the fidelity of Government employees that there are in the Departments at least five hundred persons who are disloyal to the government !
Gen. Lane and his staff have left Washington for Kansas.
Some one sees indications that a forward movement of the grand army of the Potomac may be looked for soon.
It was asserted at Fortress Monroe on Friday that Gen. Wool had sent notice to Gen. Huger, the rebel commander at Norfolk, to remove the women and children from that city, indicating that an attack was to be made upon the place immediately.
One hundred and fifty exchanged national prisoners reached Baltimore on their way home on Sunday. They are all convalescents from the hospitals.
By a peremptory order of Gen. McClellan every officer and soldier is required to be at his post, and nothing but the most urgent reasons can entitle any officer to leave of absence.
Accounts from New Orleans are that the blockade of that port is perfect, that large rebel reinforcements have been sent there, defences [sic] are being constructed, and that the citizens have been devising various methods to open their city to the commerce of the world.
Gen. McClellan’s firm and dignified position taken before the joint committee on the conduct of the war has produced a most wonderful change in his favor. The tone of public sentiment towards him has undergone a complete revolution.
Ex-President Tyler is very ill at Richmond.
Information has been received that the enemy has evacuated Manassas, and taken a position further south.
A great flood prevails in California, and many millions of dollars worth of property has been destroyed.
Great Battle in Kentucky,
Gen. Zollicoffer Killed
A great battle took place at Somerset, Ky on Sunday, between Gen. Schoepff’s and Gen. Zollicoffer’s forces. It lasted from early in the morning till dark. Gen. Zollicoffer was killed and his army entirely defeated. The loss is heavy on both sides. The victory was decisive. The camp equipage of the enemy, and a large number of prisoners fell into the hands of the national troops. The government this morning received official intelligence of the victory in Kentucky.
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Concerning the new Secretary of War, Mr. Stanton, the special of the Tribune says :
He is a man of vigorous character, with resolution to prosecute the war with the utmost energy, and to strive to strike the rebellion in its most vulnerable points. Slavery he believes to be the most vulnerable of all. During his administration of the war department, no General or other officer of the army will more than once return a fugitive slave. Those who flatter themselves that in his appointment the cause of slavery, of the rebels, or of the border states, or of the “hands-off” type, has gained an ally, will be charmingly disappointed.
He is not a man of rosewater-doubts as to the expediency or propriety of doing this or that thing, of arming this or that class of men ready to fight for the Union. His only question will be, how most rapidly and thoroughly to crush the rebellion.
Uneasiness Among the People
There are unmistakeable [sic] signs of public discontent at the immovability of the army of the Potomac. It was confidently supposed that an advance would be made before the cold of winter set in. Washington letter writers assured us there were sure indications of an important movement about to be made. After the grand review of the soldiers by the President and General McClellan, the assurance was made doubly sure, for nobody could understand what such a magnificent parade could be for, unless it was meant as a prelude to the long expected order to march. But the review passed by, and days and weeks passed by after it, and the two hundred thousand men who compose the army of the Potomac received no order to march. We are now in the middle of winter, a season of the year when prudent generals rarely move large armies out of quarters. The Virginia roads are reported impassable, Gen. McClellan is too unwell to undertake much hard work, and no indications can be discerned of a movement about to be made.
On the other hand the people are beginning to realize the costliness of the war, that it is involving them in an enormous debt, to pay the interest of which will require a heavy taxation.
Under these circumstances, the inquiry is beginning to be urged—why is not more done ? It is natural enough that uneasiness should be felt. The people know nothing about McClellan’s plans. They know very little about McClellan himself. For aught that they know the General does not mean to fight at all. But the fact is they are wholly in the dark as to what the “powers that be” intend to do, and the experience of the past few months has not given them much encouragement in regard to the future. We do not wonder therefore, at the uneasiness that is felt, for it is perfectly natural under the circumstances. But we believe it ought to be checked, and that all discontent should be promptly subdued. The war now is not in the hands of the people. It is in the hands of the government and of the military chiefs, and to them it must be exclusively committed. If we attempt to turn them aside from their chosen course, or throw obstacles in their way, we do it at our peril. The people interfered once, and the disaster of Bull Run was the result. The experiment should not be repeated. Let there be implicit confidence or at least a perfect acquiescence, in the course which those in authority shall adopt. If the nation is to be saved out of its perils, it must be done by President Lincoln and by General McClellan. They are the men to whom we look, and on whom every thing depends. If they fail in ability or in faithfulness, we are lost. The last, therefore, that a good citizen can do under the circumstances is to acquiesce in all the plans which the only men who have the right to lay any plans have laid for subduing this rebellion.
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Washington, Jan. 16.
The Government contract investigating committee are now engaged upon the subject of alleged frauds in this vicinity. They discover that the same horses have been twice sold to the Government, superintendents and inspectors have been bribed to certify to horses, sometimes selling them to private individuals ; that the enormous amounts paid by the war department for transportation, have induced strong competition among railroad companies, so that many colonels in the West, in moving their regiments East, have received, each, from $1500 to $2000 bonus ; that some sutlers are making $3000 profits per month ; that nearly all the sutlers south of the Potomac sell liquor with the knowledge of the officers ; that it is smuggled in boxes marked “Government,” and “Hospital stores,” or packed in barrels marked “Beef.” Maj. Jourdan of the Brooklyn 14th, having been appointed Lieut. Col., of the 10th legion, enables representative Van Wyck, who is its colonel, to give much of his time to the business of the investigating committee, which will soon proceed to the examination of the contracts for wintering disabled or sick horses, as proposed by the representative McPherson’s recent resolution.
Retrenchment
If heavy taxes are to be laid, a demand will be made upon our public officers for retrenchment in many of our public expenditures. There has been a great waste in times past, and vast expenditures which were totally unnecessary have been made. A reform in this matter must be undertaken and carried out. All necessary taxes will be willingly paid, provided there is an assurance that the money is not wasted. This subject has already engaged the attention of Congress, and there is a prospect that reforms in the right direction will be made. Let the franking system be abolished. Let the salaries of many of our public officers, including Congressmen, be reduced. No appropriations of the public funds for objects not absolutely necessary should be made. And particularly a careful watch should be kept on those men who are getting rich by a system of public plundering.
Secretary Welles
Some apprehensions were felt a few days ago lest Senator Welles should resign his seat in the Cabinet, on account of charges made against him in consequence of a contract he made with Mr. Morgan of New York for the purchase of vessels for the navy. Where vessels are to be purchased by the government it is usual to give the matter in charge to a commission of naval officers. Mr. Welles departed from this usage, and employed a civilian, who was also related to him by marriage to make the purchases. No salary was allayed Mr. Morgan out of the public treasury, but he rewarded himself by charging a commission on his purchases. In the course of five months his gains have amounted to more than $90,000. The Secretary, in the defence [sic] which he has presented, contends that on the whole money has been saved to the U. States treasury, that under the old system serious losses have been suffered, and that though Mr. Morgan’s profits are large, the country is the gainer by employing him. The Secretary says, too, that in no case has the agent paid an excessive price, and his purchases have been judicious. Those who know Mr. Welles will have confidence in his good intentions in this business. He may have erred in judgment in appointing a near relative to a most lucrative service, for the public is always suspicious of favoritism in such cases. But that he had any idea that the public interests would suffer thereby, no one who knows him can believe for a moment.
Intemperance in the Army
The National Sanitary Commission express the opinion, based upon the returns of two hundred regiments and from personal observations, that our armies of volunteers are believed to be more temperate than any European army. Intoxication was acknowledge[d] to be common in only six regiments. In thirty-one it was said to occasionally occur, though not deemed a serious evil ; and in one hundred and sixty-three the inspectors were assured, and had no reason to doubt, that it was very rare. In the majority of regiments there is very little dram drinking, except shortly after pay day. Most of the liquor drank by the volunteers is probably obtained from the pie peddlers. When other means fail, it is conveyed in the pies.
In certain regiments, containing a large per centage of Germans, lager beer has been freely used. There is evidence before the commission tending to show than [that?] its use (at least during the summer) was beneficial, and that disorders of the bowels were less frequent in companies regularly supplied with it in moderation than in other companies of the regiment.
Union State Ticket
For Governor,
WM. A. BUCKINGHAM, of Norwich.
For Lieut. Governor,
ROGER AVERILL, of Danbury.
For Secretary,
J. HAMMOND TRUMBULL, of Hartford.
For Treasurer,
GABRIEL W. COITE, of Middletown.
For Comptroller,
LEMAN W. CUTLER, of Watertown.
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The Nomination For State Officers
The Convention which assembled in Hartford on Thursday last at the call of the Republican State Central Committee, accepted the ticket which had been nominated by the Union Convention. This course was believed to be the most acceptable to the voters of Connecticut, and the only safe course to be pursued at this juncture of our public affairs. Now is a time to lay aside all party differences and even party names, and unite in the common cause of the Union. Such was the prevailing feeling in the convention, and the members were willing to make such concessions and sacrifices as were necessary to ensure united action at the polls next spring. The name of Roger Averill was substituted for the honored name of Lieut. Governor Douglas. No man has shown a heartier devotion to the cause of his country than the present Lieut. Governor during his term of office. A gentleman of the strictest integrity, of rare business qualities, and of proved patriotism, his retirement from office will be a loss to the state and a cause of regret to all who know him. The name of Gabriel W. Coite, of this city, is substituted for that of Ezra Dean the present Treasurer. Mr. Coite is believed to be a thorough going Union man, and as such will receive the support of the loyal citizens of Connecticut.
It is satisfactory to know that there will be but one Union ticket presented to the voters of this State next spring. One other ticket will be presented, that to be nominated by the Breckenridge democratic convention, which meets next February. The issue, therefore, will be a plain one. It needs no prophet to foretell what verdict the loyal people of this old commonwealth will render.
CITY ELECTION
The election on Monday for the choice of Mayor and other city officers called out a larger vote than at any similar election. Over 100 more were polled than last year. Samuel L. Warner, the Union candidate, was elected over Edward A. Russell, the democratic candidate, by a majority of 166. There was a good deal of interest during the election, and some excitement, for the democracy strained every nerve to carry the day, and the Unionists kept a sharp look out on all proceedings. …
The polls were closed at two o’clock, after which it was voted that a tax of two mills be laid, and three per cent. be allowed the collector. The Mayor’s report was read and ordered to be printed in the city papers.
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Notice.—On or Before the 1st day of February, a report must be made out and sent to the State Comptroller for the benefit of Wives and Families of Volunteers now in service. To enable a complete report to be made, and to avoid errors in the same, it is hereby required that each wife or representative of such family shall appear personally at the office of the First Selectman, for the above named purpose.
A failure to do so, on the part of those interested may involve a loss of the appropriation, designed for their benefit.
SAMUEL C. HUBBARD, Selectman.
Middletown, Jan. 13, 1862.
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Notice.—The Annual Meeting of the Stockholders of the “East Haddam Duck Co.” will be held at their Office, (Goodspeed’s Landing) on Friday, Jan. 31st, at 2 o’clock, P. M., for the choice of Directors, and the transaction of any other business proper to come before said meeting.
Per the order of the Directors,
THOS. GROSS, Jr., Secretary.
East Haddam, Jan. 7, 1862.
From The Constitution, Wednesday, January 15, 1862 (volume 25, number 1255)
Latest News
Gen. Burnside’s expedition is on the move, and a portion has reached Hampton Roads in safety.
In Eastern Kentucky the national forces are becoming masters of the situation. The news is confirmed of the rout of Humphrey Marshall’s army.
That portion of Gen. Butler’s division in Boston have again embarked on board the Constitution and yesterday sailed for Fortress Monroe.
Gen. McClellan’s health is so much improved that he is able to ride out.
It was reported yesterday in Washington that Secretary Cameron had resigned, and that Edward M. Stanton would take his place while Cameron would be appointed minister to Russia.
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Cincinnati, Jan. 11.
The Gazette learns from one of the proprietors of the Louisville Democrat, who arrived here from Sandy Valley yesterday, that the second rebel invasion of Eastern Kentucky ended in a disgraceful rout. Monday last Colonel Garfield’s forces, including the 42d Ohio, 10th Kentucky, and 1800 cavalry, were ordered up the Big Sandy to Painsville, within 7 miles of the rebel camp, when they were met by a flag of truce, bearing a message from Humphrey Marshall, asking if matters could not be arranged without a fight. Col. Garfield immediately replied that he could offer no arrangement except either to fight or immediately surrender.
Marshall then addressed his men, informing them that they had the alternative to surrender or disband and giving them the choice. They decided to disband and immediately collected and set fire to all their wagons, tents, camp equipage, supplies, &c. Then each man was permitted to take care of himself, the whole force scattering in confusion. No attempt was made to save anything except their cannon, which they hauled off.
Col. Garfield sent his cavalry in pursuit and expects to capture the guns, and perhaps pick up many flying rebels.
The rebels in northeastern Kentucky, from the high estimate in which Marshall’s military abilities were held, had strong hopes of success under his leadership. A sufficient federal force will be left in that region to secure its future safety.
The Impending Trial
It is now perfectly evident that the country is about the pass through a period of financial trial such as it has never experienced before. The expenses of the government have reached the enormous sum of nearly three millions a day. In a few days the national treasury will be depleted, and unless some new measures are speedily adopted for raising money the nation will become bankrupt. General anxiety is felt under this threatening aspect of our public affairs, and the impression is strong in many minds that a greater danger is now impending over us than has yet assailed the country.
The danger is no doubt great and threatening, but we apprehend that its perfect novelty clothes it with unnecessary terrors in the minds of our people. We are totally unaccustomed to such enormous expenses, and know nothing from experience how to meet them. England would think little of the expenses we are now incurring, and bears continually a vastly heavier burden than this war can possibly entail upon us. Are our resources so much less than those of England that we have reason to fear being crushed and ruined under a debt which will not amount to a twentieth part of her national debt ? We think not. We are able to pay every dollar, interest and principal, of the debt which will be incurred. But the question is, and it is really a very serious one, how is the money to be reached ?
The Secretary of the Treasury will probably issue Treasury notes, bearing perhaps a low rate of interest, and convertible at any time into the United States six per cent. stocks. But what will these notes be good for unless government adopts some other measures at the same time ? Taxation must accompany their issue, or they will finally be no better than continental shin plasters. A system of taxation must be devised, and at once put into operation. There is no other honest course. To go on borrowing and spending money without making any attempt to raise means to pay our indebtedness would be downright fraud. Such a course our government would never pursue.
We have the utmost confidence in the administration and believe that the financial crisis now impending will be safely passed. The treasury notes which may be issued will meet with a generous reception throughout the country. The American Exchange Bank of New York has agreed to take such notes in payment of paper held by the bank on condition that the dealers receive similar notes from the bank at their par value. Other banks will probably follow this example, and thus prevent any deprivation in these notes. At the same time a just and equitable system of taxation will be devised such as will fully sustain the credit of the government. And though the burdens may be onerous, we believe, nay, we know, that the people will not refuse them. Every demand thus far has been readily responded to, and this will be met in the same spirit with those which have preceded it.
Military
Gen. Butler was in Hartford on Wednesday, and inspected the 12th regiment. The regiment numbers 900 men, and the General spoke in high terms of their appearance and condition. On the same day, in the afternoon, he went to Meriden to inspect the soldiers in Camp Tyler, at Hanover. The First Conn. Artillery Battery is ordered direct to Fort Columbus, New York, there to wait further orders.
Cromwell
The ladies of Cromwell have sent three barrels of articles to the Fourth Regiment, valued at $110. The articles consisted of quilts, comfortables, socks, &c. A fair and festival was held for the benefit of the soldiers about a fortnight ago which realized not far from $60. In addition to this, three gentlemen of Cromwell have given about $75 to soldiers of the Fourth. The ladies of that town have not yet finished their patriotic labors, but are still at work, and intend to send on further supplies.
Worthy of the Olden Time
The wife of Rev. Hervey Talcott of Portland has sent to G. T. Hubbard, Esq. of this city to be forwarded to the soldiers nineteen pairs of woolen stockings, most of which she knit with her own hands. This gift is worthy of the times of 1776 when Gov. Trumbull’s wife set the example to the women of Connecticut of furnishing, at great personal self-sacrifice, warm clothing to the American soldiers.
Death of Col. Colt
Colonel Samuel Colt died at his residence in Hartford on Friday morning, of an acute attack upon the brain. He was out and attending to business on the Friday previous. His age was 47. Col. Colt had contributed more than any other man to the pecuniary prosperity of Hartford, which was his native place. His vast works there will be carried on by the present incorporation which is known as the Colt Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company. The widow of Col. Colt is the daughter of Rev. Wm. Jarvis, formerly of this city.
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A new cemetery has just been opened in East Hampton (Chatham.) The first interment was made a few days ago when the body of W. A. Skinner was buried there. It is in the south part of the village, and is a very fine location.
A Hard Time in the Gale
The gale of New Year’s night came very near wrecking the schooner Elijah H. Hubbard, Capt. Stockton, of this city. Capt. Stockton left New London on Wednesday, in ballast, bound for New Haven. He was at anchor near Faulkner’s island when the gale came on at night, but finding himself in an unsafe place he got under weigh and stood for the Connecticut coast, hoping to make a harbor. He thought once he had got into safe quarters, and cast his anchor, but the gale compelled him to start out again, and he drove along to the eastward under bare poles and finally brought up at Newport on Thursday. He says that night was the most fearful time he ever experienced on Long Island Sound.
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The Public Schools, after a delay of one week on account of the prevailing sickness, commenced their winter term on Monday. The scarlet fever has very much abated in the city, and parents need feel no fear now in sending their children to school.
The War in Middletown
The other day a couple of young farmers who had come into the city with wood were waiting for customers in Main street, where they got into a confab about politics, wood, cattle or some other exciting subject. Words became altogether too tame. Fists flew about with great activity. Farmer No. 1 fell down, and thought he saw stars. Got up again, and hit out right and left. The by-standers had the absurd notion that they might get hurt unless they parted, so they interfered and prevented any further discussion of the question.
Sliding
It is capital sliding now on Court hill, and last evening the boys improved it.
Clear the Sidewalks
Every one in the city should see that the sidewalks in front of his premises are clear of snow. A city ordinance requires that this should be done. In clearing the walk, the whole breadth of the pavement should be cleared. We observe that some persons make merely a footpath. This is not complying with the law, for the public is entitled to the use of the whole of the sidewalk.
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The following letter from the Postmaster Calef would explain itself without a word from us ; but we take this occasion to congratulate our advertisers and readers that for the first time since it was established The Constitution is officially recognized as the leading newspaper in Middletown. Within the past year it has rapidly gained in its subscription list and the number of yearly advertisers has also considerably increased. We do not speak of this boastingly or from any desire to triumph over our cotemporary “in Elliott’s building,” but the public wants to know where advertisements can circulate to the best advantage and our readers are entitled to know something of the status of the journal they patronize. Here is the Postmaster’s letter :
Middletown, Jan. 6, 1862.
A. Newton & Son :
Proprietors of “ The Constitution :”
Gents :-
The evidence presented to me to day shows the circulation of the Constitution within the delivery of this Post Office to be larger than that of the Sentinel & Witness. I am therefore obliged by law to award the advertising of the uncalled for letters in this office to the Constitution. Yours, &c. A. B. Calef.
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Loud Call for a Husband
The following loud call appears in the ‘Herald of Progress.’ Miss Marie is evidently a girl of real grit, and it is to be hoped that her fastidious taste and elevated standard in making a selection, will not wholly prevent her from finding a “sympathetic mate.” It would be too bad if her “highest idea of a husband should be found to be too high, and thus keep the poor girl “waiting in maidenhood” for a reply that will never come. “Where is he ?” Don’t all speak at once :
[From the Herald of Progress.]
“A true marriage demands congenialty !” And as I have not yet found a sympathetic mate, I am forced to remain a maid. I love not your members of tobacco-consuming clubs, nor your so-called gentlemen jockeys. I shrink in disgust from those low-minded, sensuous natures who turn their unholy gaze upon me at every step. I recoil from your unclean “owners” of “slaves,” even though they are white ! And hence, as I have not been so fortunate as to meet with any of the remaining few, I am compelled to live alone, when I would so gladly make a loving home for a companion who would claim no rights, either marital or other, who would recognize in me his equal in those free gifts of God alike bestowed on all his creatures.
Where is he who will join me in an endeavor to live up to my highest idea of right—who will aid in the struggle to transform some of the many “wrongs” into “rights,” without affecting an utter disregard for all of the real beauties, refinements and graces of life—who will join me in forming a home of beauty, peace, and affection—who will kindly criticise and aid in those inharmonies of character which I exhibit with the rest of the world—who will bear and forbear—who in himself is just, refined, and truth-loving ? Who is he, and where is he to be found ? I request, waiting in maidenhood, a reply.
December 13, 1861. Marie.
From The Constitution, Wednesday, January 8, 1862 (volume 25, number 1254)
Latest News
A dispatch from Pensacola says that Fort Pickens opened fire on the last day of the year 1861. The rebel batteries were silent, and the fire from the fort was not renewed the next day.
It is reported that a large number of federal troops landed on North Edisto and seized the railroad station number four on the Charleston and Savannah railroad.
Sixteen national war steamers were at Ship Island.
A destructive fire had occurred at Richmond.
Col. Corcoran and other prisoners from Charleston have been taken to Columbia, S. C.
The Fifth Connecticut were attacked near Hancock on the 4th inst. by 6000 rebels, while protecting the railroad. After a skirmish they retired to this side of the Potomac, and the rebels destroyed the railroad and the telegraph wires. The loss on either side is unknown, but believed to be trifling.
Great quantities of cotton are going to England from Peru.
Gen. Fremont has arrived in Washington.
The Vanderbilt from Port Royal arrived at New York yesterday afternoon, and brought 3,697 bales of sea island cotton. Gen. Stevens had advanced inland to within six miles of the Charleston railroad, and took possession of the rebel batteries after a short resistance, assisted by the gunboat in shelling them. The enemy fell back on their fortifications, which are said to be defended by from eleven to twelve thousand men under Gen. Pope. Our force was 4,500, and had eight wounded including Major Watson, of the 8th Michigan, mortally.
At Huntersville, Western Virginia, Gen. Milroy with 740 men attacked about 750 rebels, and after a fight of an hour the enemy retired with a loss of eight killed and wounded. Eighty thousand dollars worth of army stores were taken or destroyed.
The steamship Bohemian from Liverpool, Dec. 26, has arrived at Halifax. The English papers were discussing the Trent affair, and expressed the hope of a satisfactory settlement. Hon. Anson Burlingame, minster to China, had arrived at Canton.
Release of Union Prisoners
At seven o’clock on Friday morning, 240 Union prisoners were placed on board a rebel steamer, which steamed down James river, and met the Federal steamer George Washington, to which they were transferred. As they stepped aboard under the protection of the national flag, a happier set of men was seldom seen. They arrived at Fortress Monroe about half past five o’clock in the evening, and immediately went on board the Baltimore boat. Almost all of them were taken at Bull Run.
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Frederick, Dec. 31.—Contrabands are arriving daily, and are sent to Gen. McClellan’s headquarters. It is stated that at least one-third of the slaves of Loudon county have made their escape, and some from Fairfax, Fanquir and Culpepper occasionally turn up.
Some white refugees were sent to Washington to-day. They represent that if our forces were to enter Loudon the white population would gladly renew allegiance to the Union. The rebels at Leesburg number 6,000, including the militia, who show great disinclination to fight.
Execution of Two Rebel Soldiers
The Centreville correspondent of the Richmond Dispatch, writing on the 11th, says :
“On Monday, at 11 o’clock, two soldiers, belonging to the ‘Tiger Rifles,’ were shot by order of Gen. Johnston, after having been tried by court-martial and convicted.
The two unfortunate men were found guilty of striking an officer while endeavoring to prevent them rescuing a prisoner then in their custody. Their names were Dennis Corcoran and Mike O’Brien, Irishmen by birth, but for some years residents of New Orleans. As the hour for execution arrived, some 10,000 or 15,000 soldiers arrived upon the ground, and were formed on three sides of the spot selected.
The men were brought up in a wagon, and accompanied by a Catholic priest. They were dressed in a full suit of Tiger uniform, and, being men of fine manly forms, presented a splendid appearance. They bore the ordeal bravely. Alighting from the wagon, each walked up to the stakes prepared for them, and kneeled while their hands were tied and the bandage adjusted over their eyes. Then came a moment of breathless suspense, and the next the bullets of their comrades sent their souls into eternity. Both were buried near the spot of their ignominious death, and according to the rights of the Catholic Church.
The most affecting part of the scene was immediately following the discharge of musketry. One of the men had a brother in the crowd, who, before the smoke of the volley cleared from the spot, ran to his side, and supported him as his life-blood ebbed away and felt the last quiver of mortality as the soldier’s body fell into his arms. It was heart-rending to see the poor brother’s agony. The life of dishonor and crime were both forgotten at one thought of that fire of brotherly love that had burned through years of sin. The death of the criminal was borne with stolidity, but the simple sight of such heartfelt, brotherly grief, moistened every eye.”
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Gen. McClellan has been quite sick. He is much better and sat up an hour or two on Sunday.
Almost the first use which Spain is making of her newly acquired power is to re-assert her authority in her ancient dominions in this part of the world. Already has she possessed herself of St. Domingo, and on the 16th of last month a Spanish squadron took possession of the castle of San Juan de Ulloa which commands the city of Vera Cruz. The Mexican troops retired from the city the next day without firing a gun.
In this invasion Spain is acting in accordance with the terms of a treaty entered into with France and England, by which these three powers agree to unite their military and naval forces against Mexico in order to obtain reprisals for past losses and protection to their interests in that country for the future. It is very naturally suspected that these three powers, if they succeed in their plans, will not leave the Mexican government in the same shape in which they found it. A republic is not the form of government which monarchies admire, and seeing that the United States cannot interfere at the present time, they may seize the occasion to establish something after the European model.
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Senator Andrew Johnson, of Tennessee, is expected to be in Hartford to-morrow (Wednesday) during the session of the Union Convention, when he will speak to the Union men of Connecticut.
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The Gale on New Year’s night was the hardest we have had for a long time. It is thought it had something to do with the departure of Mason and Slidell who put to sea [for Tarshish] just before it came on.
The steeple of the church in Bloomfield was blown down. In Southport the steeple of the Episcopal church was blown over on the roof, and the building was thoroughly demolished. St. John’s spire in Hartford started, so they thought, but did’nt [sic] come down.
A good many houses were unroofed in every direction, chimneys blown down, &c., &c., but we have not heard of any casualties resulting from the blow.
In this city, the wind threatened to do a great deal of damage, but it did nothing serious. Some slight inconveniences were suffered and that was all. The fact is, Middletown is built in so substantial a manner, that it is almost immovable, and it would take a heavier gale than that of Wednesday night to make much of an impression here.
East Berlin
The gale on New Year’s night blew down the blacksmith shop of Royce & Wilcox near the railroad track in East Berlin. It was a brick building. It must have “blown big guns” over there in East Berlin.
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The New London Banks have suspended specie payment.
Patents
Among the patents issued bearing date Jan. 1st, 1862, are the following :
A. K. Johnston, of Middletown, and L. Dow of Topeka, Kansas, for improvement in envelopes of cartridges for firearms.
William J. Pitt of this town for improvement in revolving firearms.
Gas
Owing to a greater demand than usual for gas this winter the gas works have been taxed somewhat beyond their capacity, and those who use the article have been recommended to be as economical as possible. The company will speedily make arrangements to supply all demands.
Schools
The winter term of the several schools in this city was to have commenced on Monday. But owing to the sickness which prevails extensively among the children, the opening of the public schools is deferred for the present. Scarlet fever is prevailing to an alarming extent, and quite a number of deaths have occurred.
A Sad Bereavement
An extraordinary calamity has fallen upon the family of Mr. Patrick Dorsey of this city. On Saturday last he buried his oldest daughter. On Monday his wife died ; and on the same day, another of his children, a little boy, expired.
Snow Storm
A northeast snow storm commenced on Sunday night, and continued through the next day, giving about five inches of snow, and pretty good sleighing. We have had some cold weather this week. On Sunday morning the thermometer stood at 2 degrees, and on Monday morning at 4 degrees.
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Special Town Meeting.—NOTICE. The Inhabitants of the Town of Middletown, qualified to vote in Town Meeting, are hereby notified that a Special Town Meeting will be held at the Town Hall on Saturday next, January 11th inst., at one o’clock, P. M., for the purpose of hearing the report of the selectmen relative to the re-building of the Bridge across the Pameacha stream, at the south end of South Main street, and to take such action thereon as may be deemed expedient.
SAMUEL C. HUBBARD,
GEO. S. HUBBARD,
STEPHEN BROOKS, Selectmen.
ALVA B. COE,
JAMES G. SMITH,
Middletown, Jan. 6th, 1862.
From The Constitution, Wednesday, January 1, 1862 (volume 25, number 1253)
England
Nothing can exceed the madness and folly which England has manifested in her conduct towards the United States. It is now evident to the world that she as sought a pretext for a war with this country, and is animated by an extraordinary hatred towards us. No sooner had the rumor reached London of what had transpired than public meetings were held at which the strongest resentment was expressed towards the United States, and the leading journals took up the war cry and demanded that the most extreme and vigorous measures should be adopted. The English Government itself could not restrain its violent hostilities, but manifested a most indecorous haste in sending forth a challenge of war to America. It hastened to take the depositions of the officers of the Trent, depositions which are all on one side, and are highly colored by strong personal feelings and violent prejudices and making out its case from these depositions, has now demanded of our government a complete retraction in regard to the act of Captain Wilkes.
We can see in all this not a particle of generosity or even of common courtesy. At a moment when we are at a disadvantage, when a vast slave rebellion is seeking to overthrow our Government, and when all the energies of the nation are called forth to conquer its enemies at home, at such a moment what relation does England occupy to the United States. Does she show any of her pretended sympathy for the cause of human freedom? Not a syllable has she breathed of any such sympathy. Does she show any fraternal spirit towards a kindred nation in his time of danger? Not a particle. But all her sympathy has been for the south and the slave oligarchy in this unholy rebellion, and all her hatred has been reserved for the United States. At the beginning of the war, she acknowledged without delay the claims of Jefferson Davis as a belligerent. Her ships have repeatedly attempted to break the blockade. Her leading journals have demanded that the cotton ports should be opened by British guns. Repeated insults have been heaped upon our Government and wilful misrepresentations have been made of the national cause. An act which England herself would have done under similar circumstances is now made a ground for war.
But if the United States are not free to enter upon a foreign war, England herself could not enter untrammeled into a war with us. Ireland would be to England what the rebel states are to the Union. Public meetings have been held in Dublin expressing sympathy for the United States, and declaring that Irishmen would never wage war with Americans. The anti English feeling of Dublin will go through the Emerald Isle like wildfire, and will inspire a new hope in the breasts of the down trodden sons of that unfortunate country. It will be felt in Canada, and will tend to repress the haughty expressions of ill-will which English dependents might feel bound to make. Irishmen at home, in Canada and in the United States would joyfully welcome the opportunity when they might strike a blow at their ancient enemy. There are now in arms in this country not far from two hundred thousand Irishmen—an army by no means inconsiderable—and every one of these men would lay down his life sooner than see Britain triumph over the insulted honor of their adopted country. We apprehend that England, violent and arrogant as she has shown herself to be, will be somewhat considerate before she plunges into a war with America. Strongly as the English aristocracy may hate us republicans, we believe they would even forego the pleasure of a war for the overthrow of our institutions, rather than wake the national resentment of Ireland.
A prisoner who escaped from the rebel camp at Hermansville last Saturday, reports at Otterville, that when the news that Gen. Pope’s cavalry had driven in Gen. Rains’ pickets at Johnstown, was received by Gen. Price’s army, the greatest consternation prevailed in the rebel camp. The cavalry, artillery, infantry, and raw, ragged, unarmed recruits were mixed up in inextricable confusion, and many hours elapsed before anything like order was restored. The retreat of the whole army commenced as soon afterwards as possible, and so fearful were they of pursuit that they burned bridges and placed every obstruction in the way of the fancied pursuit; even the celebrated bridge built by Gen. Fremont across the Osage at Warsaw was not spared by the flying rebels. It is reported that one regiment was left on the Osage as a rear guard, and that several small bodies are scattered through the counties about Warrensburg, collecting supplies. A cavalry force has been out in pursuit of them, but our horses are so worn and weary by other long forced marches, that there is little prospect of capturing these rebel bands. The last report from Price is that he passed through Springfield, en route to Arkansas, and it is pretty certain that he will not attempt to return this winter.
The following resume of the recent military operations in Missouri is obtained from a reliable source : Within the last two weeks the Union army has captured 2500 rebels, including about 70 commissioned officers, 1200 horses and mules, 1100 stand of arms, two tons of powder, 100 wagons, and an immense amount of commissary stores and camp equipage, with a large foundry at Lexington, used by the rebels for casting cannon, shot and shells. Most of the rebel craft on the Missouri, including ferry boats, have been destroyed or captured. A pretty clean sweep has been made of the whole country between the Missouri and Osage rivers, and Gen. Price cut off from all supplies and recruits from north Missouri and is in full retreat for Arkansas with his army, having passed through Springfield on Monday last. Our loss in accomplishing these important results did not exceed 100 killed and wounded.
The damage done to the North Missouri and Hannibal and St. Joseph railroad, has been greatly exaggerated. Ten bridge burners have already been shot, and 50 are in close confinement to be summarily dealt with under Gen. Halleck’s stringent orders to shoot down every one making the attempt.
The rebel Jackson left Winchester on Tuesday with 5,700 men, and 100 boats, each calculated to carry twelve men, and marched to Martinsburg, where he was re-enforced by 2,100 men. He was re-enforced by upwards of 2,000 men from Charlestown yesterday.
He advanced on Williamsport and commenced to shell the town from a position three miles below it. The fire was returned by Best’s battery, and both fires ceased in the evening, after lasting several hours.
At the last accounts all was quite up there.
CONCLUSION OF THE TRENT AFFAIR
Mason and Slidell Released
The President has decided to surrender Messrs. Mason and Slidell and their two Secretaries to Lord Lyons, to disavow the act of Capt. Wilkes, and thus comply with every demand of the British Government. This decision has the approval of every member of the Cabinet. The official correspondence has been published. Earl Russell, in his letter to Lord Lyons, says Her Majesty’s government are willing to believe that the act was without authority, as the government of the United States must be fully aware that the British government will not allow such an affront to its honor to pass without full reparation, and the British government is unwilling to believe that the United States deliberately intended unnecessarily to force a discussion of so grave a question between the two governments.
Mr. Seward, in reply, discusses the subject at great length, says the act of Capt. Wilkes was an inadvertency and a “departure from a rule uncertainly established.” He says that in taking the ground he does, he is defending “an old, honored, and cherished American cause. We are asked to do to the British nation just what we have always insisted all nations ought to do to us.” Mr. Seward concludes his communication with a formal delivery to Lord Lyons of the four persons in question.
The Banks in the city of New York suspended specie payment on Monday. It was immediately followed by a suspension of the banks in Boston, Albany, and Hartford, and the banks of other cities will probably do the same. This step was rendered necessary on account of the large amounts paid by the New York, Boston and Philadelphia banks to the government. It is simply a precautionary measure, and does not affect their soundness.
On Tuesday, a bill passed both Houses of Congress levying the following taxes on these articles. Teas 20 cents per pound. Coffee of all kinds 5 cents per pound. On raw or brown sugar two cents and a half. On sugars refined eight cents a pound. Molasses six cents a gallon.
The news reached this country very unexpectedly last week of the death of Price Albert, consort of the Queen of England. He died of gastric fever on Sunday, the 15th inst. It was not until the Friday preceding that he was thought to be in danger. Prince Albert was born at Rosenau, August 26, 1819 and was the second son of Earnest, Duke of Saxe Coburg Gotha. His marriage with the Queen took place on the 5th of February, 1840. He has never, since his residence in England, been allowed to take any part in political affairs, the English people looking with great jealousy upon anything which may look like German interference in their politics. He was suspected of favoring the German interest at one time during the Crimean war, and his popularity sunk down almost to zero in consequence. But it at once rose again on his speedy return to domestic matters, to agriculture, and to the usual pursuits of an accomplished gentleman of leisure. Prince Albert was a model husband and father, and the influence of his example all over England was most excellent. No prominent man in the kingdom has commanded greater respect for high personal character than he. His death must have cast a cloud over the Christmas festivities of “merrie England.”
The ladies of Middletown have already done much for the soldiers, and we are glad to see a disposition on their part to do still more in this patriotic cause. An appeal is now made to them for more help in the supply of articles necessary for the comfort of the noble men who have volunteered in their country’s service. It is utterly impossible for the Government to provide such things as are needed, and an appeal has gone forth to the benevolent women of America for their aid in this work. Many of the ladies of this city are anxious to respond to this appeal, and desire that some organized effort should be made. The cause is a good and a great one, and will we hope strongly enlist the sympathies of the ladies of this vicinity. We would suggest that a public meeting be called in one of the churches, that the subject be fairly presented, and an organization made which shall cover the whole town. We understand that mittens are very much needed. The articles most needed in the hospitals are : Canton flannel shirts ; Canton flannel and woolen drawers ; socks and slippers ; bed sacking, of ticking ; white or gray flannel hospital undershirts ; blankets for single beds ; quilts of cheap material ; knit woolen socks ; arrowroot ; farina ; sage ; whiskey ; brandy ; white wine, etc. …
The Late Jonathan Barnes, Esq.
Our readers are probably most of them aware of the death of Jonathan Barnes, Esq., which took place about noon on Tuesday of last week. We then stopped the press to insert the notice of his death, which appeared in a large part of our edition. The announcement did not take his friends by surprise. For several weeks past he had been in a very weak and failing condition, such that he might drop away at any time. Bur his native resolution and habits of unremitting industry seemed to sustain him and we believe he was in his office attending to business three days before he died.
Mr. Barnes was a native of Tolland, a graduate of Yale College of the class of 1810, studied law with his father, who was a prominent lawyer in Tolland county, afterwards studied with Chauncey Whittlesey, Esq., of this city, and in 1813 commenced here the practice of law. In certain departments of his profession, Mr. Barnes had no superior. He was a man of great legal acquirements, and of rare accuracy in everything which he did. Of unremitting industry, he was constantly attentive to business, and always to be found at his office during business hours through the day and evening. Few men have lived among us who have been so universally and highly respected. We are sure that he had not an enemy in the world, but that all who knew him regarded him as a remarkably conscientious and upright man. He always declined entering public life, and never would accept any public office. He was a man of remarkable literary attainments, and in former years furnished various articles on literary subjects for publication. A series of historical sketches were published in The Constitution some years ago from his pen. In social life he was genial and pleasant, of great kindness of heart which drew around him many warm friends. In losing Mr. Barnes the public have sustained a great and irreparable loss.
His funeral was attended from the North Church on Friday afternoon, when the pastor, Mr. Taylor, preached a sermon from the words, (Acts 5, 34)”A doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people.” President Cummings assisted in the exercises. The Superior Court adjourned for the occasion, and the members of the court and of the bar were present. The members of the city government, the faculty and students of Wes. University, besides a large concourse of citizens attended the funeral. The remains were buried in the old cemetery at the head of Washington street.
New Year’s Calls
We presume the good old custom of making New Year’s calls will be observed this year. In fact, we have had intimations that such would be the case, and we advise the ladies to be prepared for visitors.
Skating
Good skating now on Pameacha pond—ice strong—grand chance for all who know how to use the steel—some good lady skaters—no charge for entering on the pond.
Pay Up!
Now has the time come when men are bestowing their annual favors upon their fellow men, and asking them to pay up. It is a reasonable request ; and if every man will pay his bills when presented, his neighbor will do the same. If you set up a hundred bricks, you know you have to knock over one only in order to upset the whole. Let each man pay as bills come in, the money will be circulating and all will be accommodated.
We cut the above from the Hartford Daily Courant, and would remark that it is applicable to this latitude also. If all pay promptly much trouble will be saved, and all will be better off and easier in money matters.
From The Constitution, Wednesday, December 25, 1861 (volume 24, number 1252)
Latest News
The New York Times of yesterday says that Lord Lyons requested to know of Secretary Seward whether our Government was ready to receive and consider the dispatches forwarded by Her Majesty’s Government. Mr. Seward replied, that he was not prepared to give the subject immediate attention, but would by prepared without undue delay. Thus the matter will stand for the present. It is said the British Government will demand the restoration of Mason and Slidell.
The Kentucky Legislature have thanked the President for his modification of Gen. Fremont’s proclamation.
A correspondent from Port Royal to the N. Y. Times writes, Dec. 17, that the rebels had attacked our forces at Tybee, and the Seventh Conn., Col. Terry, would go down there that afternoon.
It is thought Gen. Caleb Cushing has been designated a Brigadier General in Gen. Butler’s expedition.
The Eleventh Conn., arrived in Washington on Tuesday afternoon.
The Act of Capt. Wilkes
In the controversy with England with regard to the affair of the Trent nothing should be assumed by the people of the United States but what is right, and what is strictly according to international law. There has been a disposition among our people to defend any course which may have been taken against a foreign power, without any particular regard to the merits of the case. Having been obliged from the beginning of our national existence to fight our way to an honorable position among the nations of the earth, we have acquired a habit of resisting anything which looks like opposition from abroad. But now having reached a position of equality with the greatest powers of Europe, we can well afford to act with magnanimity in our intercourse with then, and in all matters of controversy to consider their rights as well as our own. If in this case it is found that Capt. Wilkes’ conduct is not justified by a strict construction of international law, it would be far more becoming in us as a great nation to make acknowledgment and reparation than to defend the act out of mere bravado.
What the opinion of the United States government will be with regard to the legality of the act, there are no means yet of knowing. The President did not say a word on the subject in his message, and the letter of the Secretary of the navy thanking Capt. Wilkes for his gallant conduct affords no ground on which to form an opinion. But it is believed by those acquainted with the laws which regulate the intercourse of nations, that the act of Capt. Wilkes can be fully justified, and that on a calm review of the matter the law officers of the British government will so decide. It is remarkable that the best authorities on this subject are English, and English decisions recorded in English law books must make the law which governs this case. In referring to those, American jurists maintain that they can make out a clear case, and that Captain Wilkes is fully justified. And such is the character and standing of the legal gentlemen who have given their opinion, that the public has reason to feel confident that our Government must also take that view of the subject. At any rate the government will undoubtedly decide the case according to its merits, and without any desire to defend a course which they are not fully persuaded is right. If it shall be found that Captain Wilkes exceeded his duty, then let proper acknowledgement be made. But if in the opinion of the American government no wrong has been committed, then not an iota will be yielded to the menaces and bluster of England.
The most important legal opinion which has yet been given on this question is by Caleb Cushing. While he allows that there is no precedent which exactly meets this case, he reasons that from well-established principles, and from the decisions of Lord Stowell, a venerable name among English lawyers, “the act of Captain Wilkes was one which any and every self-respecting nation must and would have done, by its own sovereign right and power, regardless of consequences. It was an act which, it cannot be doubted, Great Britain would have done under the same circumstances. At the same time, it was an act amply justified by the principles and doctrines of international jurisprudence.”
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Washington, Dec. 20.—This morning at six o’clock, a portion of Gen. McCall’s division proceeded in the direction of Drainsville on a foraging expedition for the purpose of making a reconnoisance [sic] in the locality of Drainsville, midway between McCall’s headquarters and Leesburg. On arrival in that vicinity, they encountered four regiments of the enemy, Alabamians, Kentuckians and South Carolinians with one regiment of artillery and a battery of six pieces. The only troops on our side were Gen. Ord’s brigade, the 1st Rifles and Easton’s battery of four guns.
After an action of 1 1/2 hours, the rebels were completely routed and fled, leaving on the field 60 killed, and 19 wounded. They also left two caissons, small arms, great coats and blankets, more than our troops could bring away. Our loss was about 10 killed and 15 wounded. Gen. McCall assigns much credit to Gen. Ord for gallantry and skill, and the battery was admirably served.
In Missouri
Gen. Pope has been quite successful in Missouri. By a forced march he got between two large bodies of rebels in Johnson and Clinton counties, whereupon they beat a hasty retreat towards the south, leaving behind them all their baggage, arms munitions, &c. Gen. Pope sent a strong body of cavalry after them, and succeeded in capturing three hundred of the rebels. All this appears to have been done without bloodshed on either side. It is ascertained that Price has only about eight thousand troops at Osceola.
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St. Louis, Dec. 20.
Further information is received from the west this forenoon, to the effect that in addition to the expedition of Gen. Pope against the enemy at and near Clinton, another part of his forces, under Col. Davis and Maj. Marshall surprised another camp of rebels on the afternoon of the 18th near Milford, a little north of Warrensburg.
A brisk skirmish ensued, when the rebels, finding themselves surrounded, surrendered. Col. Davis took thirteen hundred prisoners, including three colonels, 17 captains, 100 stand of arms, 65 wagons, 1000 horses, a large quantity of tents and baggage and supplies. Our loss was 2 killed and 8 wounded.
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Rev. T. F. Mines, chaplain of the 2d Maine regiment, who was captured at Bull Run, with Captain Rickets, are on their parole for forty days, and pledged themselves to secure the exchange of prisoners in their place, or return at the end of that time. Mr. Mines Thursday made application for the release of Dr. North, who was captured on the upper Potomac, and is now in Fort Warren. Secretary Seward promptly issued an order for the Doctor’s release. The reverend gentleman gives some very interesting incidents of his captivity, and also a very sad picture of the treatment of our poor soldiers. He says their suffering is terrible. Many of the Bull Run prisoners have not clothing enough to cover their bodies. He says the hopes of the rebels are not as buoyant, nor their hope of ultimate success as bright as it was two or three months ago.
State Convention.
The Republican State Central Committee of Connecticut, believing that the time has come for the united action of all the people of the State who are in favor of sustaining the present National Administration in a vigorous and effective prosecution of the existing war against treason and rebellion, and of maintaining at all hazards, the Constitution and the Union of the United States, do hereby invite all who concur in this belief to appoint delegates, equal to double the number of Representatives from their respective towns, to the General Assembly, to a Convention to be holden at TOURO HALL, IN HARTFORD, on THURSDAY, the 16th day of January, 1862, at 10 o’clock, A. M., for the purpose of nominating candidates for State officers, appointing a State Committee for the ensuing year, and transacting such other business as may be necessary.
N. D. SPERRY, New Haven, Co., Chairman. }
W. W. HOUSE, Hartford Co. }
EDWARD PRENTIS, New London Co. }
CYRUS NORTHROP, Fairfield Co. } Republican State
G.W. PHILLIPS, Windham Co. } Central Committee
WILLIAM K. PECK, Litchfield Co. }
JOSEPH SILLIMAN, Middlesex Co. }
MARCUS LILLIE, Tolland Co. }
New Haven, Dec. 9, 1861.
Union Convention
Some of the leaders of the Douglas, or Union democrats in this State have shown an unwillingness to go into a State convention called by the Republican State Central Committee. They appear to think there is too much Republicanism in it for their taste ; and so they propose to call a convention distinct from the one already called, and make it a Union gathering. Now we believe in having a Union convention—we would have no other during the present crisis—but what else, we would like to know, is that which has been called by the Republican committee? The call is not to Republicans, but to “all who are in favor of sustaining the national Administration.” A call breathing a more complete and earnest Union spirit could not have been given. What need then of another convention? Let men of all parties, who love their country and will sustain the Government in this giant rebellion, rally in the convention which is called for the 16th of January.
Middletown and the State Loan
Of the new state loan, the amount taken in Middletown is fifty thousand dollars—of this sum the Middletown Bank took $20,000. There was taken in Hartford $469,900 ; New Haven, $264,806 ; Norwich, $82,000 ; Waterbury, $76,000 ; New London, $70,000 ; Bridgeport, $10,500. Amount taken out of the state $76,300.
A list of the towns which have taken the loan has been circulated, originating, we believe, with the Hartford Press, and leaving out Middletown entirely. The amount taken in this city, almost four times larger than that taken in Bridgeport, proves that “little Middletown” can do something in the money line, whatever opinions on that subject may prevail at the head of sloop navigation.
Christmas
This ancient festival is evidently receiving more attention from the different religious denominations than hitherto. We observe that this year Sabbath school festivals are held by the North (Congregational) and the Methodist churches in this city, when good things are served out to the children.
Religious services will be held in the Episcopal and Universalist churches, on Christmas eve. These churches are handsomely decorated. On Christmas day services will be held in the Episcopal church as usual, and in the Catholic at 7 and half past ten in the morning.
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A new drug store is opened to day at the McDonough House by Messrs. Foster & Vinal. It is a very fine stand, and the new firm, who are perfectly at home in this business, deserve and will no doubt obtain a share of public patronage.
A Course of Lectures
Pacific Fire Company, No. 2, are making arrangements to present the citizens of Middletown with a course of lectures this winter. The lectures will be some of the best in the country. It is not often that a fire company dips into literary matters, but the members of No. 2 are going to show that the thing can be done. They have also a benevolent object in view in procuring this course of lectures.
The River
Navigation for the season has at last closed in the river. On Saturday the surface of the water was covered with ice. The City of Hartford came up on Sunday morning as far as this city, where she unloaded her freight at the new railroad dock on cars whence it was taken to Hartford. The City left for New York as soon as she unloaded.
Sleighing
Yesterday there was a cold northeast storm of rain and sleet, but last night it turned to snow, and this morning there is a small attempt at sleighing. Thermometer this morning at sunrise 20 deg. Saturday was the coldest day last week—mercury at 12 deg. at sunrise.
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An English jury has lately been terribly troubled in its mind by the question, ‘Is a velocipede a pedestrian?’ Pedestrians have a right to the side-walk ; a lady rolled her baby on the sidewalk in a velocipede ; an obstructed citizen prosecuted her ; the lady pleaded that the velocipede was a pedestrian, the jury stayed out eight hours, and came back with the verdict, ‘really can’t say.’
From The Constitution, Wednesday, December 18, 1861 (volume 24, number 1251)
Startling News from England !
The Affair of the Trent regarded as a Ground of War
The steamship Europa reached Halifax on Sunday forenoon and brings the startling intelligence that the English Government have decided to demand reparation for the seizure of the rebel commissioners.
The London Observer, a Ministerial organ, says in its issue of Saturday Evening, Nov. 30: A special Messenger of the Foreign Office has been ordered to carry our demands to Lord Lyons and will proceed by the packet from Queenstown to-day. The public will be satisfied to know that these demands are for an apology, and to insist on the restitution to the protection of the British flag of those who were violently and illegally torn from that sacred asylum.
The Times, of the 30th ult., makes the important announcement that the Cabinet has come to the conclusion that the act of the Captain of the San Jacinto in seizing passengers on a British vessel and carrying them forcibly away, is a clear violation of the law of nations, and one for which reparation must be at once demanded. In all probability the first steamer will carry out instructions to Lord Lyons to demand reparation for the ill-advised act of seizing Mason and Slidell while under the protection of the British flag. Should this just demand not be complied with, we cannot doubt that Lord Lyons will, under the instructions of his Government, withdraw with the British delegation from Washington. The Times expresses the belief that the Cabinet has taken a view of the matter which will be satisfactory alike to the patriotism and reason of the country. The Times says the principle on which the Government rests its demand is that a British ship must, until her violation of neutral rights is fully proved, held to be British ground as much as if she were an actual piece of British soil, and the right of protection to all persons on board is as valid as on British territory.
There appears to be some discrepancy in the accounts, for—
The Morning Star declares the statement of instruction having been sent to Lord Lyons to obtain the restitution of the Confederate Commissioners or to take his leave of Washington was premature, and so exaggerated as to be virtually untrue.
Fort Pickens, Monday, Nov. 25, 1861
The long agony is, I hope, over, and well over. We have had as much success as I could reasonably hope for, and with much less loss and damage than I could have expected. We were under a continuous and heavy fire from the forts and batteries of the enemy, fourteen or fifteen in number, for two days, with a loss of only one private killed, and one sergeant, one corporal and four privates wounded, and which is singular but one man was hurt on the ramparts, the most exposed place.
You can have some idea of the amount of fire we have and received when I tell you that we consumed fifty thousand pounds of powder, and that three guns were fired every minute for two days. The avalanche of shot and shell was terrible, but our soldiers did their duty, as Union soldiers fighting for their country should, and most ably did officers and men perform their whole duty.
The Navy, unfortunately, could not give us the assistance we expected, in consequence of drawing too much water, and we therefore failed in the great object of our hopes; the capture of Fort McRae.
About two-thirds of Warrentown is burned, and although we cannot see it, I think as much of Woolsey, a village north of the Navy-yard ; and a good many buildings in the yard are burned, and the remainder must be shattered by the heavy shot and shell so unceasingly poured upon them.
Two steamers, the Time and Bradford, had become particularly obnoxious to our soldiers, who ardently desired to destroy them, but Bragg, afraid of losing them, always kept them at night at Pensacola, and only sent them down when loaded. At nine o’clock they accordingly came steaming down, little dreaming of the salutation that awaited them. The Time is one of those three-story Mississippi steamers, pictures of which you see in children’s books, and the Bradford is a small low gunboat. We waited quietly until they had both fastened to the wharf and let off their steam, when the word was given to fire, and fire did belch forth simultaneously upon them from twenty guns. We were immediately enveloped in smoke, and so continued for an hour ; when at length we could see, we found the Time still there, but the Bradford had gone.
The former continued exposed to our fire all day, and was probably ruined, but her hull being only a scow, we could not sink her, and at night she was towed off.
We think we have done a most important service to the country. In the first place, we have fully avenged the gross insult offered to our flag by the rebels attacking Billy Wilson’s camp, and then trying to attack our batteries ; and no one with truth can say that a spot or blemish has been received by the glorious old Star-Spangled Banner, while in our keeping, that has not been fully wiped out.
In the second place, by attacking Bragg at this time, we think we have made an important diversion in favor of Gen. Sherman at Beaufort, not only by preventing Bragg from sending more troops there, (he has sent some,) but by compelling him to bring others here ; he was also daily strengthening his batteries. We have very effectually weakened him for some time to come, and have compelled him to expend a vast amount of ammunition which he can ill afford to lose.
We have, therefore, with eight hundred men, with one fort nearly surrounded by forts and batteries, (two forts, and at least fifteen batteries,) successfully attacked him, with his eight or nine thousand troops.
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St. Louis, Dec. 13.—The Mississippi and Missouri rivers have been placed under military control and surveillance, and no boat will be permitted to take freight or passengers, or allowed a clearance, except those authorized and commissioned by the proper military authority. All owners and all others interested will be required to take the oath of allegiance, the violation of which subject the boat and cargo to forfeiture, and the owners to penalties prescribed to those giving aid to the enemy.
Late news from Gen. Price places him still at Osceola with ten or fifteen thousand men, intending to move north soon. He has 53 cannon, and lately received 2,500 new tents. The men are well clothed and armed.
Gen. Slack’s division has crossed the Osage river, and another division was crossing last Friday.
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At the November State election in Kansas, 14,461 votes were cast, and Topeka was selected as the capital by about 2000 majority. The Anti-Robinson State ticket, for Governor and other officers, received 7,427 votes, or a majority of the whole number cast, and the Supreme Court will be called upon to decide whether or not Gov. Robinson, elected in 1859, has completed his two years’ term under the Constitution. He and his friends claim that he has yet another year to serve, and they consequently repudiated the idea of an election for his successor. Indeed, in Lawrence, Leavenworth and some other counties, the canvassers refused to consider the vote at all. Geo. A. Crawford (Douglas Democrat) nominated upon a Union Anti-Robinson ticket, is the Governor elect.
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A great many cunning expedients are resorted to down at Fortress Monroe, to get letters back and forth. A few days since, the provost-marshal discovered a package of letters in the unmentionables of an infant which he was holding, while the mother was getting her band-boxes on board the truce-boat. A new style of mailbag that. “It takes the women,” after all.
The Fourth Conn. Regiment
This regiment is undoubtedly one of the best in the army of the United States. Every one who has visited their camp and made his report has spoken in terms of the highest praise of the officers and men. A gentleman from this city Rev. Samuel Hurlbert, visited Washington and the camp of the Fourth a few days since, with gifts of clothing to the members of the two companies from Middletown, from their friends here, and reports that every man in the regiment has now two blankets, and that they are furnished with every thing necessary for their comfort. They are quite contented except that they would like a chance of burning some powder in the face and eyes of “secesh.” Connecticut may well feel proud of the Fourth. The following from the New York Times shows what is thought of the regiment by the highest authority in the army :
Lieut. Col. Hudson, of Maj. Gen. McClellan’s Staff, has reported, as the result of his late inspection of the Fourth Connecticut Volunteers, Col. Tyler, that they more nearly approach the condition of efficient regulars than any other regiment he has so far had occasion to inspect.
Death of a Centenarian
Mr. Jacob Hurd, of Middle Haddam, died on Sunday last, at the remarkable age of ninety-nine years and nine months. If he had lived until about the middle of March, he would have seen his one hundredth birth-day. Mr. Hurd, in the early part of his life, followed the sea, and in the revolutionary war engaged in privateering. He was in several sea-fights, and was once taken prisoner by the British. He was at one time drafted into the army, and served under Gen. Putnam. To the last he retained his bodily and mental facilities to a remarkable degree. A few years ago, a sister of Mr. Hurd died in the same town whose age was one hundred years and eight months.
Runaways
Some things happened on High street yesterday afternoon which came pretty near proving serious—as it was no one got hurt. A lady was driving in a carriage, when the horse became unruly, and Mr. Timothy Boardman, who was riding by on horseback, went to her assistance. While engaged in this good work some one else passing by in a carriage hit his horse’s heels, which made the heels aforesaid fly up in the air, and Mr. B. was turned over into the street. The establishment with the lady started off at a 2.40 speed. It was stopped after going a short distance without damage. Our friend, Mr. B. escaped without injury, but he would rather not go through another such piece of gymnastics.
College Term
The vacation in Wesleyan University ends this week, and the winter term commences on Thursday.
A Rainbow
On Wednesday morning about eight o’clock, a rainbow of remarkable beauty and brilliancy appeared in the northwest. It attracted a good deal of attention, as well it might, for such a visitor doesn’t come very often. It was seen in Hartford.
Christmas Rooms
It is a curiosity at this season to visit the rooms which J. C. Ferre and C. E. Putnam have appropriated to Christmas and New Year’s presents. Each of them is a regular “curiosity shop,” and contains almost every thing in that line you can think of. These rooms are open to public inspection. Give them a visit.
Christmas
The Universalists are decorating their Church for the celebration of the Savior’s natal day. There will be appropriate religious exercises there on Christmas Eve, the 24th, at 7 1/2 o’clock.
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Bundy & Williams offer some holiday presents which will keep till next year, and be worth more then than they are now. A good picture is like money on interest. An investment may be made at Bundy’s.
