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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.
