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NAVY DEPARTMENT, JUNE 23, 1838. The of North America, I have only, sir, to repeat the board of captains in the navy, convened in Balti- assurance of my distinguished consideration. more, on the 28th ultimo, for the examination of midshipinen, adjourned on the 22d instant.

The following is the list of the midshipmen who passed in the order of rank assigned them by the board, after a careful consideration of their several qualifications, and all other circumstances which it became the duty of the board to weigh:

1 Geo. W. Chapman, 2 W. P. McArthur, 3 Hunn Gansevoort, 4 William Drayton, 5 George Wickham,

6 Simon F. Blunt,

7 Frederick A. Bacon, 8 William T. Sanith,

24 Win. Ronckendorff,
25 Wm. B. Beverley,
26 John Hall,

27 Francis Lowry,
28 Win. E. LeRoy,
29 Maxwell Woodhull,
30 Henry Waddell,

31 Strong B. Thompson,

9 Thos. W. Cumming, 32 Lafayette Maynard, 10 William May,

11 Henry H. Lewis,
12 Joseph P. Sanford,
13 Geo. W. Harrison,
14 James F. Armstrong,
15 Ferdinand Pepin,
16 Montgomery Hunt,

17 Henry Eld,
18 John Contee,

19 Joseph H. Adams, 20 William A. Parker, 21 James D Johnston, 22 John N. Maffit,

23 Wash'n Gwathmey,

33 Roger N. Siembel, 34 Geo. Colvocoressis, 35 Washington Reid, 36 William Craney,

37 Edward S. Hutter, 38 Francis S. Haggerty, 39 Theodore B. Barrett, 40 J. R. M. Mullany, 41 James A. Doyle, 42 James J. Forbes, 43 Matthias Marine, 44 Chas. Robinson, 45 Wm. M. E. Adams.

NAVAL GENERAL ORDER. The armament of the exploring expedition being adapted merely for its necessary defence while engaged in the examination and survey of the islands of the Southern ocean, against any attempts to disturb its operations by the savage and warlike inhabitants of those islands; and that the objects which it is destined to promote being altogether scientific and useful, intended for the benefit, equally, of the United States and of all the commercial nations of the world, it is considered to be entirely divested of all military character, that, even in the event of the country being involved in a war before the return of the squadron, its path upon the ocean will be peaceful and its pursuits respected by all belligerents.

The president has, therefore, thought proper, in assigning officers to the command of this squadron, to depart from the usual custom of selecting them from the senior ranks of the navy, and according to their respective grades in the service, and has appointed lientenant Charles Wilkes first officer to command the exploring squadron, and lieutenant Win. L. Hudson to command the ship Peacock, and the second officer of said squadron; and to take command thereof in the event of the death of the first officer, or his disability from accident or sickness to conduct the operations of the expedition, MAHLON DICKERSON.

Navy department, June 22, 1838.

OFFICIAL. The following paper has been officially communicated to the department of state. Vienna, May 30, 1838.

SIR: In my official note of the 8th of April last, I reserved to myself the power of communicating to you, at a proper time, the result of the steps which I had hastened to take in the proper departments of the interior, for the purpose of modifying essentially, if not of abolishing entirely, the ineasures with regard to health, and the precautions hitherto employed in the ports of his imperial and royal catholic majesty, with regard to vessels coming from the United States of North America.

My efforts have not been fruitless; and I have this day the pleasure to announce to you, sir, that the said departinents have just inade, the following dispositions:

Vessels coming from the United States of Ameica provided with clean bills of health, shall be immediately adınitted to free entry, (pratique libre.) On the other hand, those which do not bring a clean bill of health shall be subjected to a quarantine of ten or five days respectively, according as the merchandise with which they are laden may be found to belong to the class of objects susceptible of being tainted by the contagious miasma or not.

As to vessels arriving in summer with clean bills of health, they shall be freed from all precautionary quarantine.

I should add that the orders necessary for carrying these measures into execution, have already been despatched to the imperial government of

Trieste.

In the hope that I have thus satisfied, so far as depended upon myself, the desire expressed by you on the part of the government of the United States

(Signed)

To Mr. Nathaniel Niles,

METTERNICH.

Diplomatic agent of the United States.
[Globe.

MOVEMENT OF TROOPS. A detachment of between 60 and 70 U. S. troops, under command of lieutenant W. G. Freeman, 4th artillery, destined for the northern frontier, left Fort Monroe on Saturday last, in the packet-schooner Thaddeus, for New York,

All remaining disposable recruits in New York (190) left that station on Thursday last, for Sackett's Harbor, under command of captain T. P. Gwynne, of the 1st, and capt. G. A. McCall, of the 4th infantry.

A company of 60 recruits, under command of capt. J. Dimick, Jst artillery, arrived at Troy, N. Y., on Tuesday morning, 12th inst. and took passage on one of the canal packets for Whitehall, on their way to Plattsburg.

Lieuts. Carpender and Lynch have returned in the steam ship Great Western, arrived at New York, and the former reached this city or Monday evening.

We understand that col. Sylvanus Thayer will resume his former station as superintendent of the military academy, at the close of the present exami

nation.

Capt. Charles W. Skinner has been appointed to the command of the steam ship Fulton, now at the navy yard in this city, during the absence of capt. M. C. Perry. [Army and Navy Chron.

[OFFICIAL-GENERAL ORDERS, NO. 18.] Adjutant General's Office, Washington, June 27, 1838.

1. Promotions and appointments in the army since the 1st January, 1838.

First regiment of dragoons.

Second lieutenant William N. Grier, to be first lieutenant, 14th April, 1838, vice Ury, deceased. 36. Cadet A. J. Smith, to be second lieutenant,

1st July, 1838.

44. Cadet C. F. Ruff, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

Second regiment of dragoons.

First lieutenant Erasmus D. Bullock, to be captain, 29th January, 1838, vice Graham, resigned. Second lieutenant N. W. Hunter, to he first lieu tenant, 31st December, 1337, vice Forsyth, resigned. Second lieutenant Robert B. Lawton, to be first lieutenant, 29th January, 1838, vice Bullock, promoted.

Second lieutenant Nathan Darling, to be first lieutenant, 1st March, 1838, vice Maury, resigned. 25. Cadet William A. Brown, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

26. Cadet William J. Hardee, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

27. Cadet Hamilton W. Merrill, to be second lientenant, 1st July, 1838.

29. Cadet Owen L. Ransom, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

31. Cadet Henry H. Sibley, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

19. Cadet Wm. A. Nichols, to be bvt. second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

21. Cadet Leslie Chase, to be brevet second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

Third regiment of artillery.

Second lieutenant Thonias W. Sherman, to be 1st lieutenant, 14th March, 1838, vice Church resigned. 7. Cadet John T. Metcalf, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

8. Cadet Thomas Casey, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

10. Cadet Buckner Board, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

13. Cadet James M. Ketchum, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

16. Cadet William H. Shover, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

18. Cadet Milton A. Haynes, to be brevet second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

24. Rowley S. Jennings; to be brevet second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

Fourth regiment of artille

12. Cadet Thomas S. Ringgold, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

14. Cadet Henry C. Wayne, to be second lieutenant, Ist July. 1838.

17. Cadet William F. Barry, to be brevet second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

First regiment of infantry.

Second lieutenant George H. Pegrain, (adjutant,) to be 1st lieutenant, 1st July, 1337, vice Beach, resigned.

28. Cadet Robert S. Granger, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

30. Cadet John H. Mathews, to be second lieutenant, Ist July, 1838.

35. Cadet Alexander W. Reynolds, to be second lieutenant, 1st Juty, 1838.

41. Cadet Ferninand S. Mumford, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

Second regiment of infantry.

First lieutenant Joseph R. Smith, to be captain, 26th April, 1838, vice Cobbs, promoted.

Second lieutenant John M. Clendenin, to be first lieutenant, 26th April, 1838, vice Sinith, promoted. 40. Cadet Justus McKinstry, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838..

Fourth regiment of infantry.

Second lieutenant Henry L. Scott, to be first lieutenant, 1st March, 1838, vice Howe, resigned. 34. Cadet Constant Freeman, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

39. Cadet Robert M. Cochran, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1839.

Fifth regiment of infantry.

Brevet major W. V. Cobbs, captain of the second regiment of infantry, to be major, 26th April, 1838, vice Green, promoted.

42. Cadet Carter L. Stevenson, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

Sixth regiment of infantry.

Major John Green, of the 5th regiment of infantry, to be lieutenant colonel, 26th April, 1838, vice Fowle, deceased.

First lieutenant William Hoffinan, to be captain, 1st February, 1838, vice Nute, resigned.

Second lieutenant W. H. T. Walker, to be first lieutenant, 1st February, 1838, vice Hoffman, pro

33. Cadet Ripley A. Arnold, to be second lieu-moted. tenant, 1st July, 1838.

5. Cadet Jeremiah M. Scarritt, to be second lieu

43. Cadet Richard H. Graham, to be second lieu-tenant, 1st July, 1838. tenant, 1st July, 1838.

20. Cadet John C. Fletcher, to be second lieute.

45. Cadet Zebulon M. P. Inge, to be second lieu-nant, Ist July, 1838. tenant, 1st July, 1838.

First regiment of artillery.

Second lieutenant George G. Waggaman, to be first lieutenant, 15th February, 1838, vice Chalmers, dropped.

1. Cadet William H. Wright, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

2. Cadet P. G. T. Beauregard, to be second lientenant, 1st July, 1838.

Cadet James H. Tapier, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

9. Cadet Isaac S. K. Reeves, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

23. Cadet Irvin McDowell, to be brevet second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

Second regiment of artillery.

First lieutenant W. C. DeHart, to be captain, 3d April, 1838, vice Mountfort, resigned.

Second lieutenant Roland A. Luther, to be first lientenant, 3d April, 1938, vice DeHart, promoted. 4. Cadet Stephen H. Campbell, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

6. Cadet Alexander H. Dearborn, to be second lieutenant, Ist July, 1838.

11. Cadet William P. Blair, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838. 15. Cadet Lucius Pitkin, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

22. Callet Langdon C. Easton, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

32. Cadet Edward Johnson, to be second lieute. nant, Ist July. 1838.

37. Cadet Charles J. Hughes, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

38. Cadet William Hulbert, to be second lieutenant, 1st July, 1838.

Seventh regiment of infantry.

James S. Sanderson, late sergeant major, to be second lieutenant, Ist March, 1838. Promotions by brevet.

Colonel Zachariah Taylor, of the first regiment of infantry, to be brigadier general by brevet, to rank from 25th December, 1837, for distinguished services in the battle of the Kissimmee, in Florida, with the Seminole Indians.

Lieutenaut colonel William S. Foster, of the 4th regiment of infantry, to be colonel by brevet, to rank from 25th December, 1837, for distinguished services in Florida, and particularly in the battle of the Kissimmee.

III-CASUALTIES, (23.)
Resignations, (15.)
Captains, (3.)

John Graham, second dragroons, 28th January,

1838.

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FROM THE NORTHERN FRONTIER. We have been favored with the following extract from a letter, dated

Niagara frontier, Chippewa, U. C., June 21. I arrived here to-day, and find this place in a great excitement owing to a battle which took place last night at "Short Hills," about twelve miles hence, between a mounted troop of 100 British lancers and about 2,000 patriots.

It resulted in the loss of four lancers, and the capture of nearly all the rest. The patriots are

armed men. A body of United States troops are
quartered in Buffalo, and general Brady and several
other officers left this morning for Detroit.

[New York Jour. of Com.

ment, near the Delaware, on the boat, the object of which is to ascend the rivers against the current. The inventor was Mr. Fitch, who had found a company to support the expense. One of the most zealous associates is Mr. Thornton, of whom I have spoken. This invention was disputed between

THE MURDER AT BALTIMORE-SUPPOSED PARRICIDE. It has been stated that a most diabolical Mr. Fitch, and Mr. Rumsey, of Virginia. Howmurder was committed on Thursday night, near ever, it be, the machine which I saw, appears well Fairmount, on the person of Benjamin Stewart, of executed, and well adapted to the design. The Cambridge, Dorchester county, and that the deceas- steam engine gives motion to three large oars of ed, besides being shot and stabbed, was so savagely considerable force, which were to give sixty strokes hacked by repeated blows inflicted with a large hatchet, that his face was destroyed. It has been also stated that two men and a women were arrested early on Friday morning, on suspicion of being concerned in the murder.

We have now to add the revolting information that, in consequence of suspicions circumstancesthe grounds of which we have not heard-police officers Dimmitt and Lambert were despatched to the wharf on Saturday afternoon to await the arrival of the steamboat Maryland from Cambridge and that, on her arrival, they arrested William Stewart, the son of the deceased, on suspicion of being con cerned in the murder of his farther!

It appears that Benjamin Stewart, the father, William Stewart, the son, and his wife, had been in the city for some days, boarding at the house of

per minute.

"I doubt not but, physically speaking, this machine may produce part of the effects which are expected from it; but I doubt its utility in commerce; for, notwithstanding the assurances of the undertakers, it must require many men to manage it, and much expense in repairing the damages occasioned by the violence and multiplicity of the friction. Yet I will allow, that if the movements can be simplified, and the expense lessened, the invention may be useful in a country where labor is dear, and where the borders of rivers are not accessible, like those in France, by borses to draw the boats. This idea was consoling to Dr. Thornton, whom I saw assailed by railleries on account of the steam boat. These railleries appear to be very ill-placed. The obstacles to be conquered by genius are every

Thomas Stewart, the brother of the deceased. It where so considered, the encouragement so feeble,

was understood that the farther and son were to
have left for Cambridge in the Friday's steamboat,
for the purpose of closing their affairs there, and
then to return and depart for the west, where they
intended to settle. On Thursday evening the father
and son walked out about 8 o'clock, and between
11 and 12 o'clock at night the son came in alone.
On the following (Friday) morning the son left in
the steamboat, and Mr. Thomas Stewart, not see-
ing the father, was under the impression that he
had also gone in the steamboat, according to the
arrangement referred to. It was not until he saw
the corpse in the afternoon, and identified it to be
the body of his brother by the clothes, that he
was aware that he had not left the city.

and the necessity of supplying the want of handlabor, in America so evident, that I cannot without indignation, see the Americans discouraging, by their sarcasms, the generous efforts of one of their fellow-citizens."

"Since writing this letter, I have seen Mr. Rumsey in England. He is a man of great ingenuity; and, by the explanation which he has given me, it appears that his discovery, though founded on a similar principle with that of Mr. Fitch, is very different from it and far more simple in its execution. Mr. Rumsey proposed then (Feb. 1789) to build a vessel which should go to America by the help only of the steam engine, and without sails. It was to make the passage in fifteen days. I perceive with pain that he has not yet executed his project, which, when executed, will introduce into commerce as great a change as the discovery of the Cape of Good Hope." AUTHOR.

William Stewart,* the son, was arrested as stated above, on the return of the steamboat on Saturday afternoon from Cambridge, and was carried before police magistrate, W. A. Schaeffer, esq. On examining his person, spots were found on his pantaloons, to which spirits of turpentine had been applied. A vial half full of the same was found in his pocket, and he alleged that, having spotted his pantaloons on the steamboat, he had obtained the turpentine to cleanse them. Several bullets were As the hour approached which was fixed upon also found in his pocket, and in his pocket-book

DEPARTURE OF THE GREAT WESTERN. The Courier and Enquirer says, that the departure of this vessel on Monday seemed to excite public curiosity almost as much as on her first departure. for her to leave the wharf, the Battery, Cas

was a paper containing an ounce and a half of tle Garden, the docks, the rigging of vessels in
arsenic. In the lining of his hat was found the
will of his father, dated only on the 14th inst.,
bequeathing to his son a tract of fifty-eight acres of
land.

A pair of pistols was produced by the uncle, which William, the son, had left in his room, one of which was loaded to the muzzle, and the other as if discharged, with pan open and hammer down. Mr. Drake, hardware dealer, testified that Wil liam Stewart was the man who purchased of him, on the afternoon of Thursday, the hatchet which had been found near the murdered body.

William Stewart admitted that he had bought a
hatchet of Drake, at the time specified, but that he
had pledged it with Mr. Whiteley, in Pratt street.
Drake testified that the hatchet sold on Thursday
was the only one sold by him for some days, and
that he alone sells that kind.

The examination was closed by sending William
Stewart to prison.

We hear that the woman under arrest has made
disclosures, implicating one or two others in the
murder.
[American.

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Travels in the United States of America, performed
by J. P. Brissot de Warville," is the following im-
mediately interesting passage on steam navigation.
Mr. Rumsey, whom he mentioned, was a remarka-
ble genius, and a prophet of undoubted sagacity.
Sept. 1, 1688, [Philadelphia.]

"I breakfasted with Samuel Ameland, [Emlen]
one of the richest and most benificent of the society
of friends. He is a pupil of Anthony Benezet; he
speaks of him with enthusiasm, and treads in his
steps. He takes an active part in every useful in-

fast gaining ground, and will not recede until they stitution, and rejoices in the occasion of doing succeed or are exterminated. This place is garri- good; he loves the French nation, and speaks their soned with 500 infantry, the 24th regiment, and language. He treats me with the greatest friendthe lancers, besides volunteers. Every person is ship; offers me his house, his horses, and his carthoroughly searched before he can leave the place. riage. On leaving him, I went to see an experiThe steamboat which lands the passengers from

Buffalo is searched. They fear very much an *A true bill was found against William Stewart, eruption in this place, and for that reason every on Tuesday last, by the grand jury now in session hotel is under guard, and every passage secured by in Baltimore.

the harbor were crowded with people. Shortly after 4 o'clock, she was loosed from her moorings, and proceeded majestically down the East river, made a slight curve up the North river and then proceeded to sea. A few minutes more and she had passed the narrows, and then, nothing was visible of her from the city but the dense cloud of smoke which proceeded from her chimney, passing over the distant highlands. Several steamboats accompanied her to the Narrows, amongst them the Passaic frow Newark, loaded with passengers almost down to the water's edge, the New Haven, Cornelius Vanderbilt, Fairfield and Belle, and several small craft.

She takes cut no less than ninety-one passengers, and has, we are informed, about one hundred tons of merchandize on freight.

BUENOS AYRES. We have received papers from Buenos Ayres to the 14th April, eight days later than our last dates. The blockade of the port by the French squadron still continued, but the officer in command prolonged the period fixed for the departure thence of foreign vessels to the 15th June, and an official notice of this extension of time had been published by the United States and British consuls.

The correspondence between the government and French authorities on the subject of the existing differences, is published, and evinces on the part of the former, a strong determination to adhere to the ground it has taken.

[N. Y. Cour. & Enq.

SPECIE-MEXICO. United States frigate Constellation, commodore Dallas, from Tampico, sailed on the 9th instant, touched s. w. bar on the 19th, and put on board the Lion $151,546 in specie, for merchants in this city, under the charge of lieutenant Radford, and proceeded to Pensacola. We have learned verbally, and from letters, that the French fleet was about to concentrate at Vera Cruz, with the intention of bombarding the city, and attacking

the castle of San Juan de Ulloa, as the Mexicans

would not come to any terms; it was also rumoured at Tampico that general Santa Anna had been placed in coinmand of the Mexican troops, and was making preparations to resist the attack of the French.

The blockade at Tampico was continued by one brig, and by one at Matamoras; at Vera Cruz there were two French frigates and several brigs. The United States sloops of war Boston and Vandalia were at Vera Cruz, and the Ontario at Tampico. [New Orleans Transcript.

FAMOUS WINES. The late sale by Mr. Thomas and Son, of wines belonging to the late Mr. T. Butler, was very numerously attended, and the prices paid were enormous. Among other transactions, were the following. Fifteen demijohns sold at $155 each; one at $150; seven at $137; five at $117 50; ten at $110; seventeen at $105; thirteen at $102 50; four at $101;-and various other wines for lesser sums. One hundred and seventy demijohns were sold, the whole amount of which is upwards of fifteen thousand dollars

We have made a hurried estimate of the value of some of these wines, and find that the price, as paid at auction, is at least half a dollar per wine glass of the usual size, something as it were, like molten silver, and affording a plausible image of the aurum nostabile. These wines, above specified, were ctiefly purchased, we learn by the Butlers, of whon it may be said, that it is marvellous if they have improved thereby upon their previous and ancient stock. which we feel bound to decide is not an easy matter, howsoever strong the bouquet of the last bought wines may be, of gold and silver.

tendered. I had no fears as to consequences." | wrong and inflict injury in the article I have re-
Again: I said too, "that our resources and popula- marked upon.

tion would be drawn off to Texas at an rate, &c., I do not believe that the defamation of the Globe
and that unless our government should take such can excite the prejudice of many honest men at
position as to control the matter hereafter, Great this time of day. I trust indignant contempt of
Britain would do, and that in this view it was deep- such malignant perversions will alone be called
ly interesting to the whole union, and not to one
section only," &c. There are other points, not ma-
terial for correction or notice.

I have never asked a correction before, I believe, of reports, but be so kind as to notice the above. Yours, very respectfully,

F. W. PICKENS.

From the National Intelligencer of the 16th inst.
LETTER FROM MR. EWING, OF INDIANA.

House of Representatives, June 15, 1838.
Gentlemen: Notorious as the "Globe" newspa-
per now is for inisrepresenting the conduct, the

forth. Thus it is that a free and virtuous people will manifest respect for correct principles, and protect their faithful public servants from the influence of corrupt partisans. I thank God my constituents know me, and my public character can never rest upon the reports of the Giobe newspaper; indeed, its praise would be mortifying; for my energies, my actions, and my opinions instinctively desire to avoid the contamination of such.

I will only add that, in correcting a false imputation against an enlightened patriot, I neither feel nor manifest any "zeal." I am no less the "zeal. ous" friend of general Harrison, another enlightened patriot, but, in truth, my zeal for either is reserved for a different field of action. My whole zeal

language, and the motives of many pure and en- at present is to serve my constituents; and I trust lightened statesmen, I do not view the unfounded neither duty nor honor will hereafter require of me calumnies and partial reports of such a reckless to divert that zeal for a moment to counteract any vehicle worthy of notice or correction in my place. new libels or defamation in the Globe, or resting

Very respectfully,

Indeed, it would, on my part, be a useless waste of upon its authority.
time, as I am aware, by experience, that no expo-
sure will prevent a repetition of its malignant per-
versions; and having resolved that it shall not, at
my expense, hereafter, torture truth, or make das-
tardly thrusts with impunity, I am content to adopt
this mode, for the present, to rid myself of its base
drivelling, and to illustrate its well-known propen-

sities. [Philadelphia Gazette.

HON. WILLIAM B. ROCHESTER. We lament to learn that our worst apprehensions with regard to the loss of our respected and valuable citizen judge Rochester, who was a passenger on board the Pulaski, are now confirmed. The judge was on his

Your friend, &c.

Messrs. Gales & Seaton.

JNO. EWING.

LETTER FROM THE HON. WADDY
THOMPSON, JR.

Washington, May 25, 1838.

Sir: A writer in a late number of your paper propounds certain question to me which I have neither the right nor the inclination to refuse to

On the 7th instant, as I have already explained in your columns, I offered an amendment to the pre-emption bill, to secure to my state the exclusive right to enter all the land recently purchased answer. The respectful character of the article, as of the Miami Indians, except a few quarter sec- well as the obviously respectable source from which tions occupied and improved by bona fide citizens it comes, forbid me to do so. I therefore send you return home from Pensacola, where he had spent of the state at the date of the treaty purchase; and a speech which I delivered in congress before I the winter, to his residence at Buffalo, and probably with this substance of my amendment, set forth in saw the article in your paper. I believe all the took the Baltimore route, with a view to visit his the remarks which I made upon the occasion of questions are answered in the speech. Lest they family connexions in Maryland. The melancholy presenting it, duly sent in, two hours after presen. may not be with sufficient distinctness, I now add event, which has plunged so many families into tation, to the office of that vehicle, and promised that I am opposed to entrusting the keeping of the a grief too profound for consolation, has not inflict

insertion by its accredited reporter, my remarks public money to agents appointed by the president,

ed a heavier blow on any of them, than that which were suppressed, after being marked for publica- and removed at his pleasure. I am opposed to Mr. will be felt by the surviving relations and friends of tion, and the substance of the amendment was

judge Rochester. No man, in all the public and private relations of life, could be more esteemed, respected and beloved. As amiable and unpretending as he was able and upright, his death is a real calamity to the large circle of connections and friends to which he was endeared by so many ties. [Courier and Enquirer.

RETORT UPON MISS MARTINEAU. In her last
work upon this country, Miss Martineau abuses, in
rather a petulant and acidulated style, a certain vil-
lage doctor in Vermont, who was called upon to at-
tend her travelling companion, but from whom she
could derive no satisfactory information as to the
nature of her friend's complaint. "I fancy," says
the female politician, "I hear now the sharp, con-
ceited tones of the doctor, doggedly using his power
of exasperating my anxiety." The doctor in ques-
tion, who is a highly respectable physician at Battle-
boro, has published a reply to this unfeminine at-
tack, in the papers, in which he fairly turns the tables
upon his traducer. He says that he equivocated
and evaded, in relation to the complaint of Miss
Martineau's friend, "from motives of delicacy, and
to spare the feelings of the lady. If she has been
very much concerned to know, and is yet in the
dark, I will enlighten her darkness. Her friend was
in the first stages of delerium tremens!" And this
is the tourist who, in commenting on the foibles of
American ladies, regretted that they were so much
addicted to intemperance! Miss Martinean should
be inore cautious in the choice of her travelling as-
sociates.
[New York Mirror.

From the National Intelligencer of the 16th inst.
LETTER FROM MR. PICKENS.
Washington, House of Representatives,

June 14, IS38.

changed to grant pre-emption to all who have al-
ready settled upon the tract in question. This one
instance of the truth and fairness of the Official,
with evidence indisputable of its perversion in pos-
session, may satisfy. The ainendiment alluded to
was cut off in the house last evening, by the arbi-
trary action of the speaker of the house, and will
not appear upon the journal; but I corrected the
false statement of the Globe before it was so cut off,
and therefore that circumstance will afford no shield,
even were it so intended. I do not take the Globe.
I could never read that paper without a feeling of
abhorrence and disgust. But a friend has placed in
my hands that issued on the 13th instant, in which
I see, under the caption "Mr. Ewing's zeal for Mr.
Clay," the garbled tenor it thought proper to give
dupes of my remarks on presenting my amend-
ment is republished, and an arraignment preferred,

its

declaring that
"What Mr. Ewing-a witness not present-pro-
nounced false,' is established by the written notes
taken down during the debate by governor Clay,
of Alabama; Judge Young, of Illinois; Mr. Lyon,
of Michigan; Mr. Norvell, of Michigan; all corro
borating the reports of the Globe."

Rives' substitute, as being but a revival of the exploded pet bank system. I am also opposed to the charter of a United States Bank. Iain in favor of special deposites with banks properly selected, preferring, in all cases where they exist, banks owned in whole or in part by states; in such manner that the money is not to be used by the banks in which it is deposited. I believe this plan, in every particular, the best. The money will be kept at less expense, will be more safe, more easily transferred, and it will cut down, if not entirely destroy, this great source of government patronage.

I am unalterably opposed to the rejection of bank notes, and the demand of gold and silver for all public dues. No possible combination of circumstances can induce me to vote for a measure which I believe will cause so much ruin and misery.

That

Whatever may be iny opinion on the general question of the right of the constituent to instruct his representative, I do not hesitate to say that such is my peculiar relation to my constituents, that I would not throw myself in the way of their deliberately formed opinions on any subject. "kindness and liberality" on their part to which your correspondent alludes, I am fully conscious of, and have endeavored to repay it in a manner more substantial than professions-by a stern and constant devotion to their interest of such poor powers as God has given me. I am ready in their ser

Now be it known, that not one of the whole array of honorable senators whose names are thus thrust forward by the Globe has, or can establish, the truth of what I know to be false, and so declared vice to sacrifice that which I value far, very far upon the occasion alluded to. Nor can the Globe's beyond all other honors-their confidence and supreport of their speeches, as given, be tortured into port. I have calmly and deliberately re-examined a contradiction of any thing I said. I said that it my opinion ons on the great questions now agitated, was utterly false that the distinguished senator and I am only the more confirmed in their correct(whose glorious fame and honest name are worm- ness. Until convinced that I am in error, no human wood to the Globe man) had, as was reported, de- power can force me to change my course. If such signated settlers on the public lands as land pirates; shall not be (as I do not doubt that in time they that it was a calumny, sent abroad for party pur- will be) the opinions of my constituents, it will poses-worthy of its fabricators-unworthy of be- give me much pain-nothing so much, however, lief. The settlers know that they settled down as would the consciousness that any combination

Messrs. Gales & Seaton: Gentlemen: In your contrary to law; they do not deny or disguise this of circumstances should have forced me to sacribrief report of what I said in the house yesterday fact; and this was the sense and true meaning and fice my own settled convictions of duty. I believe on the Texss question, your reporter has this sen- intent of all that was charged against them. In the system proposed will be injurious to the whole tence: "A distinguished member (Mr. Adams) of substance and in fact, the president, (whose delu- country, and more so to the south than any other the Massachusetts delegation had said, on a former sive echo the Globe is,) in his deliberate message section. If these opinions, honestly entertained occasion, it was a question of union or disunion." to this congress, said as much, and made as many and fearlessly expressed, shall forfeit me the confiThis is incorrect. I said "that, as the most deli- allegations to operate against the wishes and inter- dence of valued friends, it will not be the first time cate domestie questions had been dragged into this ests of those seeking pre-emption, as the much- that I have sacrificed popularity and office to a measure day after day, for the last six months, and traduced senator alluded to in the heat of debate. sense of public duty. I am aware of the powerful as the gentleman from Massachusetts, (Mr. Adams) Have not the people read that message, and could influences which have operated in my district to at the extra session, had declared, in his place, that they not mark the double aspect of its bearing upon produce different opinions, of the small hope there a large portion of the northern people would prefer the present state of things? But it suits the Globe is of my being able successfully to resist these ina dissolution of the union to the annexation of man to overlook this; and in his despicable manner, fluences. This in no wise diminishes the obligaTexas, I was for meeting the issue he had thus and with his usual malign spirit, to labor to do tion to attempt it. I shall most assuredly, by all means in my power, vindicate my course as your York to Buffalo, upon my return home, after the to hold a great family consultation in December, representative, relying on the intelligence, firmness, termination of the present session of congress. 1839. Other gentlemen, of eminent abilities, of and justice of those who sent me here. I therefore I have perused the proceedings of the meeting distinguished services, and of acknowledged patriask the favor of you to publish the speech which I with the liveliest feelings of gratitude; and 1 re- otism, are justly and properly and prominently in send you, and I rely upon the "liberality and kind- quest you, gentlemen, to convey to those who com- their view, and under their consideration. Whilst ness" of each and all my constituents to read it dis- posed it any cordial thanks, and respectful acknow- this preliminary question is in progress of an amipassionately, and form their own conclusions; and ledgments, for their friendly consideration of me. cable adjustment, I feel that it would not be right I leave it to them to decide whether the systematic and fierce denunciation of which I have been the subject results more from a regard to the public good than from feelings of private and personal hostility. Respectfully, your obedient servant, W. THOMPSON, jr.

To the Editor of the Pendleton Messenger.

INVITATION TO MR. CLAY.

Whilst I feel highly gratified by the sentiments of for me to make any personal exertions, or even to attachment, confidence, and preference, with an be voluntarily placed in situations in which it expression of which the meeting has honored me, might be supposed that I was making personal exI think that it has wisely referred the designation ertions, to withdraw from them the confidence, so of a suitable candidate for the office of president of justly due to them, of our common friends, and fix the United States to the consideration and impartial it exclusively upon myself. In announcing this decision of a national convention. Such an assem- rule of conduct for myself, it is foreign from my blage, representing all parts of the United States, intention to mark out any course for others, or to and fairly constituted, will embody the opinions intimate any dissatisfaction with whatever line they and best express the sense of the whole opposition may consider it proper to pursue.

Invitation of the late meeting at Masonic Hall, New to the present administration of the general govern

York, to Mr. Clay, and his answer.

LETTER OF THE COMMITTEE.

New York, May 31, 1838.

To the hon. Henry Clay:

Sir: A meeting of our citizens was held at Masonic Hall on the evening of the 29th instant, when the address and resolutions, of which copies are enclosed, were unanimously adopted. By one of those resolutions that vast and animated assemblage committed to us the duty of inviting you to pass through the state of New York, by way of this city, Albany, and Buffalo, on your return to Lexington, after your labors at the present session of congress, shall have terminated.

The meeting lamented that the gratifying spectacle is not now presented by this state, which, but for recent events, it would have exhibited on your first journey through its widest extent. The deso

with which I am, faithfully,

I pray you, gentlemen, individually, to accept ment. It will reconcile differences, promote har- assurances of the high personal regard and esteem mony, and secure hearty co-operation among those who are engaged in the patriotic cause of struggling to bring back the government to its former purity to heal the wounds in the constitution, and to restore the prosperity of the country.

Your friend and obedient servant,
Н. СЬАУ.

OFFICIAL PAPERS.

The following message from the president of the United States, was communicaied to the house of representatives on Wednesday, the 27th inst. To the house of representatives of the United States: I transmit in compliance witha resolution of the house of representatives of the 11th inst., reports from the secretaries of state, treasury, and war, with the documents referred to by them respectively. It will be seen that the outrages committed on the

I should be most happy to find myself under circumstances which would admit of my acceptance of the friendly invitation to visit your state. I am sure that every where, on a tour so agreeable, I should meet with the greatest kindness and hospitality, and behold in the virtue, intelligence, and enterprise of the people of New York, in the noble works of internal improvement which adorn its territory, and in the fruitful soil with which Providence has blessed it, abundant elements for repair- steamboat Sir Robert Peel, under the British flag, ing the temporary injuries inflicted by the errors within the waters of the United States, and on the and experiments of the federal executive. But I steamboat Telegraph, under the American flag at feel constrained to deny myself the satisfaction of Brockville, in Upper Canada, have not been follow

lation brought upon our beloved country, by a bad contemplating these pleasing scenes. After an ab- ed by any demand, by either government on the administration of government, although not con-sence from my home, which has already extended other, for redress. These acts have been, so far, fined to any particular interest, nor limited by state to nigh eight months, I am naturally most anxious treated on each side as criminal offences committed boundaries, has, in its fullest force, been visited to rejoin my family without any unavoidable delay. within the jurisdiction of tribunals competent to upon us; and the infliction was, perhaps, the more I might content myself with the assignment of this enquire into the facts, and to punish the persons dejecting, because it was dealt by those from whom simple reason, but I have other and higher motives, concerned in them. Investigations have been made, a inajority of our citizens had looked for benefits which candor requires I should communicate, for some of the individuals inculpated have been arrestand gratitude. The indignation of a great people declining to accept your obliging invitation. Al- ed, and prosecutions are in progress, the result of has at length checked the audacity, and foresha- though I am not, in fact, a candidate for any office, which cannot be doubled. The excited state of dowed the doom of the destroyers. Buoyant, there. I am aware that my name is freely used in connex- public feeling on the borders of Canada, on both fore, with expectation, we can at least have the ion with the highest in the gift of the American pleasure of showing you the monuments of former people. Whilst it is thus a subject of considerasuccess and wiser counsels, and of pointing out to tion, I have thought that it best becomes me to reyou the sources of our future hopes: our common main in an attitude perfectly passive, doing nothing schools, our canals and railroads, our spacious har- with the intention of attracting the current of pubbors, our noble rivers, our fertile fields, our ship- lic feeling to me, nothing to disturb or affect the ping, workshops and warehouses, and our nume- exercise of the free and unbiassed judgment of the rous and intelligent population, gifted with ingenui- people. I have accordingly acted in strict confor ty, industry and enterprise, and not yet deprived of all their energies by the incubus that sits incumbent upon them. Amid the ruins which surround us, it is consolatory to see that something has been snatched from destruction by the intripidity of yourself and your compatriots; that there is much that was indestructible; and that materials remain, with which, under the guidance of patriotic skill, we may hereafter be able to repair the fabric of our prosperity.

Governed by these feelings, the meeting directed us to urge your acceptance of the invitation which we have above communicated. It will afford us the highest satisfaction to be enabled to state to

mity with this conviction of my duty. I have vi-
sited no place, and shall visit no place, with the
view of promoting my own personal advancement.
Considerations both of principle and convenience
have induced me to adopt this resolution. I know
that sentiments of personal esteem and regard for
me, and for which I am very thankful, apart from

sides of the line, has occasioned the most painful
anxiety to this government. Every effort has been,
and will be, made to prevent the success of the de-
sign apparently formed, and in the course of exe-
execution, by Canadians who have found a refuge
within our territory, aided by a few reckless persons
of our own country, to involve the nation in a war
with a neighboring and friendly power. Such de-
sign cannot succeed while the two governinents ap-
preciate and confidently rely upon the good faith of
each other in the performance of their respective
duties. With a fixed determination to use all the
means in my power to put a speedy and satisfactory
termination to these border troubles, I have the most
confident assurances of the cordial co-operation of

American possessions, in the accomplishment of a
purpose so sincerely and earnestly desired by the
governments and people both of the United States
and Great Britain.
M. VAN BUREN.

political motives, have prompted the invitation with the British authorities, at home and in the North
which you have favored me; but if I were to accept
it, no matter under what protestations or profes-
sions, it would be believed, whether justly or not,
that it had other objects besides social intercourse,
and an examination of the inexhaustible resources
of your great state. The same or similar reasons

them that their request will be complied with.- with which I might be induced to visit New York,

Washington, June 20, 1838.

A number of documents accompanied this meswould be urged to prevail on me to go to other por- sage, the contents of which may be generally infertions of the union. How could I discriminate? red from the message itself. The following report What limit should I prescribe? There would be a from the secretary of war, however, is of sufficient consequence to be separated from the rest for publication.

point of the union, which I might be pressed, or

And you will, we trust, permit us to add, that the
pleasure of our citizens in seeing you will be heigh-
tened by the opportunity of thanking you in per-
son for the many and eminent services of the past; physical impracticability to go to every important
of rejoicing with you in the promises of the pre-
sent; and of confirming their hopes of the future prompted by the impulse of my own feelings, to
by a communion with one, who, undismayed by the
perils that have from time to time threatened our
country, still pursued the onward path, and taught
us, by his precept and example, never to despair of
the republic.

We are, sir, with the highest esteem and consideration, your faithful friends and obedient ser

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Gentlemen: I have to acknowledge the receipt of a letter which, as a committee appointed at a meet ing of my political friends, recently convened in the city of New York, you addressed to me, transmitting a copy of their proceedings, and, in pursu ance of one of their resolutions, inviting me to visit that city, and to pass through the state of New

visit.

The office of president of the United States is of a nature so exalted, and its functions so momen tous, that it ought not to be, and, happily, never can be, reached by individual efforts to acquire it.

Department of War, June 19, 1838.

Sir: In relation to so much of the resolution of the house of representatives of the 11th instant, as has, by your direction, been referred to this department, I have the honor to state that, on the receipt of intelligence of the destruction of the British It should only be bestowed by the free, spontane- steamer Sir Robert Peel, orders were immediately mediately ous, and deliberate judgment of the people. When issued to the commanding officer at Fort Niagara, so conferred, it is more honorable to them and to to detach a portion of his force to Sackett's Harbor; the distinguished object of their choice. Thus re- and shortly after, the disposable recruits at New ceiving it, he will enter upon the career of its ardu-York and Fort Monroe were ordered, part to

ous duties, conscious that he has attained the ele-
vated station by no low or unworthy arts, and over-
flowing with gratitude, will dedicate all his abilities,
and his undivided energies, to the honor and the
prosperity and the glory of his country.

strengthen that post, part to Plattsburg, and part to Swanton, on the Vermont frontier, at the same time, measures were taken to employ a steamer, to be manned with a competent military force, for police purposes, on each of the lakes, Erie and Ontario.

The department, having subsequently received information, communicated by the governor of the state of New York, that the disturbers of public order had taken refuge on a portion of the Thousand Islands, situated within the jurisdiction of the UnitStates, where they were collecting arins and muni

Such, gentlemen, are the views which I should entertain if I were a formal candidate, and the sole candidate of the cause to which I am attached.Far from being weakened, they appear to me to possess additional strength when we survey the actual state of the question to which they relate. The whigs have not yet determined on their candi- tions of war, and engaged in fitting out hostile exdate. They are now deliberating about it, consult- peditions against Canada, major gen. Macomb was ing among themselves in their primary and other despatched to Sackett's Harbor, to take the comassemblies, as they have a right to do, and resolved mand of the forces on the northern fronuer, with instructions to take prompt and vigorous measures had broken a wheel shaft on the passage down the ject to the prevailing diseases of the country, and

river, some fifty miles above the head of the raft, the annoyance from the immense swarms of mus

to maintain our treaty stipulations, and to execute
the laws of the United States, and especially to lose
no time in directing operations against the lawless
men who, for the avowed purpose of committing
depredations upon the territory of a friendly power,
have stationed themselves on the islands in the river
St. Lawrence. The general has been since advis
ed to station a guard of regulars at each of the fer-
ries on the river, and at each port of entry on the
lakes, in order to protect the persons and property
of subjects of her Britannic Majesty from any fur-
ther outrage; and there is reason to believe, from
the character and well-earned reputation of that
officer, that he will carry these instructions into
effect to the extent the limited force under his com-
mand will permit, with promptness and energy.
With regard to the "concentration and movements
of foreign troops on the northern and northeastern provements on the main river and its tributaries
frontiers of the United States," the department is

quitoes that abound in the valley of that river. Four years will, in my opinion, be as long as it will be necessary to keep up the improvement.

In that time the channel of the river will proba

and was stove by running on shore, in consequence
of her unmanageable condition, having but ore
wheel at work. However, there is now no ob-
struction of a dangerous character in the raft, that
is known. I consider the navigation as safe through bly have returned to its foriner width, by the ope-
that part of the river, where the raft was formerly ration of the current on its bottom and shores,
located, as at any other part of it, from forty-five which are both wearing away continually; and by
miles above its mouth to the head of the steamboat the assistance of the snag-boat to remove the logs
navigation, a distance estimated at 1150 miles.- and trees that accumulate in its bed, and clearing
The former location of the raft occupied 165 miles away the narrowest points, the navigation will be
of that distance. Its renoval has extended the kept open without interruption. There is also some
navigation by steamboats, about 750 miles on the work necessary to be done on several of the bayous
Red river proper. Its tributaries, from the best in the upper section of the raft, to secure the water
information I am in possession of, will afford about in its original channel and prevent the enlargement
six hundred miles, with but partial improvements
in their channels, and may be extended by im
some nine hundred miles further, extending the

to such an extent as to endanger the navigation of the river, by drawing more water from it, than could be spared from its volume in a low stage. I beg leave respectfully to recommend that provision

not informed that the regular troops of her Britan- whole line of navigation by the improvements be also made for removing the snags from the bed nic Majesty have, as yet, been stationed along the 3,250 miles, passing through as fertile a soil of the river above the raft, as high up as Fort Towfrontier, as it is believed to be the intention; that as any on this continent, with a less proportion son. That work is of great importance to the naviservice appearing still to be performed by the voof land which is unfit for cultivation than any gation of the river, and can be done at a small exlunteers and militia of Upper and Lower Canada- tract of the same extent in our country. The cli pense by the snag-boat "Eradicator." The masa force estimated, by competent judges, at about inate is well adapted for the cultivation of cotton; ter of that boat can run up from the raft, when the

twenty-five thousand men. The regulars now in the Canadas are ten regiments of the line of six hundred and fifty men each, to be carried up to fifteen regiments; two battalions of guards, eight hundred and fifty men each; two regiments of cavalry, each of three hundred men. In New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, the regular force consists of five regiments of the line of six hundred and fifty men each. It is presumed that the usual proportion of artillery will be attached to the regular forces in. these colonies, and in the Canadas, inaking an aggregate regular force of between fifteen and sixteen thousand men.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

To the President ident of th the U. S.

J. R. POINSETT.

P. S. The accompanying extracts of letters received from his excellency the governor of New York contain such information as has been receiv. ed by this department on the subject of the recent disturbances on the northern frontier.

From the Army and Navy Chronicle. RAFT OF RED RIVER-OFFICIAL. Louisville, June 4, 1838.

Gen. C. GRATIOT,

Chief engineer, Washington:

the lat. raging from 32° to 35° N., between the water is at the most favorable stages, and execute

the necessary work, with a small additional expense, to the operations in the raft region. There are, however, some parts of that river that flow through banks that cave in to some extent, and keep up the supply of snags in that river, and large drifting trees in its current. The latter are liable to lodge at the narrow points in the raft, and give much inore labor to remove them than would be required for felling the timber on the banks, and cutting it into pieces that would float down without interrupting the navigation, at the same time prevent the accumulation of snags at those points. For the execution of that work, it will require the labor of 50 men six months, at an expense of $10,000. For both of these objects I would recom

original foot of the raft and the head of navigation.
The lands on the river bottom, from the foot of the
raft to one hundred miles above its head, have been
nearly all redeemed from inundation by the removal
of the timber from its bed, all of which is now set-
tling with unprecedented rapidity. In that part of
the river where the raft was located, there was not
the trace of a man to be seen from its foot up to
Rush island, near the Caddo agency, when the
work was commenced in 1833, and which is now a
continued line of cotton plantations, extending to
the town of Shreveport, a distance of 115 miles.
From that place to the head of the raft, there are
many large improvements, and preparations now in
progress to put in cultivation a large portion of the
land on that part of the river. The land lying be- mend an appropriation of $15,000, in addition to
tween the Red and the Sabine rivers, has also been the sum necessary to work the snag boat in the
thickly settled. There is, perhaps, a settler on raft.
every section of land in that whole district of coun-
try, covering a tract of ninety miles north and vant,
south, and forty east and west, lying within the
state of Louisiana, which includes the Caddo pur-
chase of the 1st July, 1835. The land lying be-
tween the Red river and Washita, also of about
equal extent, and equal in quality, is settling with
almost as great rapidity.

The state of Arkansas has its southern boundary at 33 degrees north latitude, which crosses the Red river about 15 miles due north, above the head of the great raft, and by the meanders of the river about 45 miles; and has a boundary on the river, on the southwest bank, of about 200 miles, on the northeast bank to its northern boundary some 600 miles; all of which is settling with a population that must in a few years produce some two hundred thousand bales of cotton per annum, and an immense amount of surplus provisions, being a good grain growing country, and equal to any in the United States for raising stock of any kind. Texas has a boundary on the southeast bank of the river of about 400 miles, which is also as valuable a tract of country as any within the limits of that government, a great portion of which is settled by an industrious and enterprising population.

I am sir, very respectfully, your obedient ser-
HENRY M. SHREEVE, Superintendent.

THE STEAMBOAT PULASKI.

From the Wilmington (N. C.) Advertiser-extra.
Wednesday, June 30-1 o'clock P. M.
Further particulars of the loss of the steamboat Pu-
laski, on the night of the 14th June.

We think it highly important to state, in the first place that a gentleman of unquestionable character and judgment concur in saying the fatal explosion was caused by gross negligence on the part of those who had the direction of the machinery. Solomon, a black waiter on board, who had once been a fireman, states, that a little after 11 o'clock, as he turned from the fire-room, he heard the second engineer (who was on duty) turn the water-cock, and, from the loud shrill whistle which ensued, he knew that the water had gotten too low, and that there was imminent danger. Mr. Couper, Mr. Lovejoy, and others, give it as their opinion that the blow-cock had been negligently left open-that the boilers had been emptied, which alarmed the engineer, and caused hun in his fright, to fill them suddenly with fresh water. The boiler being heated to redness, this body of water was instantly con.

SIR: I have the honor to state to the department,
that on the 9th of December last, the steam snag
boat "Eradicator," with a keel boat in tow, left
this place for the great raft in Red river, for the
purpose of completing its removal. The steamer
"Pearl," with a keel boat in tow, left on the 27th
of January last, destined to the same service. The
"Eradicator" arrived at the raft on the 23d of De-
cember, the "Pearl" on the 1st of January, and the
"Laurel" on the Sth of February. The work of
removing the raft was resumed by the respective
boats on their arrival, and was continued by the
"Laurel to the 21st of April, by the "Eradicator"
and "Pearl" to the first of May, the period for
which the laborers were engaged. On the 7th of
March last the first steamboat was enabled to force
her way through the upper section of the raft, and
up to the 29th five merchant boats had passed up,
quite through the raft. On that day the entire re
mainder of the raft was cut, so as to leave a clear
passage for boats. Still there remained in the chan-
nel a great number of snags, logs, &c., which have judge, than 15,000,000 of dollars. The settlers sage, within twenty minutes of the catastrophe, the
since been taken out by the "Eradicator." On the will reap inestimable advantages from the same steam gauge-cock indicated from 27 to 29 inches of
the 1st of May the navigation through the whole work. The expenditure for its removal under my steam. The facts which immediately followed are
extent of the raft was considered safe, and was superintendence, including the building of the
navigated by the largest class of boats, trading in steam snag boat "Eradicator," designed to keep
that river, with full cargoes, at the rate of seven clear new accumulations of obstructions in that

The advantages to be derived from the removal
of the great raft, cannot now be calculated. The verted into steam with an expansive force which
government land on that river has been enhanced the sides of the boilers were too feeble to resist. It
in value to an immense amount, not less, I should is further positively stated that during the whole pas-

part of the river, called the raft, has been $311,
129 50. It will be necessary to expend some
$15,000 a year in that river, to work the snag boat
"Eradicator" a part of each year, for which ser
vise she is constructed and is admirably well adapt-
ed, to remove such snags and logs as will from time
to time rise from the bed of the river, and cave in
from its banks; and to widen the stream at those
points where it has been contracted to so narrow a
channel as not to afford sufficient room for the

miles an hour up stream, and twelve down, without
damage to the boats. There were two boats lost
near the head of the raft by striking snags: The
"Black Hawk" on the 2d, and the "Revenue" on
the 7th April. These accidents happened before
the "Eradicator" had worked her way through that
part of the river, and earlier than it was safe to
risk a heavy laden steamer down the stream, by
navigators that could not by any means know the
river in so short a time after its channel had been
opened, consequently were exposed to great dan- drifting trees that float down during the high fresh-
ger.

ets in that river. For that service I hope congress
will make provision from time to time, and in time

The snag on which the "Black Hawk" struck was removed two days after the loss of that boat; to admit of the work being prosecuted at the most

it was found to be firmly fixed in a perpendicular position, with its roots twenty-three feet below the bottom of the river. The tree was about tour feet in diameter, broken off about three feet below the sur face of the water, and situated in a current of about five miles an hour. The steamer "Revenue"

advantageous season of the year, which is from the
1st of December to the 31st of May. During the
summer and fall months the water is frequently too
low to operate a boat to advantage, and the work of
too unhealthy a character to labor in that climate

given correctly by Mr. Hibberd, as published in our extra of the 18th, until it reaches the statement of the sinking. This was not the case, but she parted into three pieces.

In the breaking up, the whole boat went under water; but, upon the separation of the keel from the upper part of the boat, the bow and stern emerged again. Very shortly after, the forward portion of the stern was depressed beneath the water, and the hinder portion elevated into the air, upon the highest portion of which were from 50 to 60 persons, more than two-thirds of whom were ladies and children. This continued within view of those passengers upon the bow of the boat (from whom this statement is made) about one hour, when it entirely disappeared. The keel, after its separation, came to the surface bottom upwards, when it floated in immediate contact with the bow for a half hour, when it was seen no more. There was no one upon this fragment.

We will now proceed to speak of the bow, and the fate of those whom it contained. Upon this

during that part of the year, when men will be sub-portion of the wreck there was originally 18. Al

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