The Sun. — London, England, 1866-01-04 00:00:00

LONDON, THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 1866. +- Mr. BRIGHT has a great contempt for all that appertains to antiquity, and therefore we have a good right to suppose that he includes proverbs and sayings among his dislikes. Certainly, he totally ignores the meaning of the adage which implies that you can have too much of a good thing. It is difficult to understand for what pur pose he is continually addressing large meetings, and repeating himself over and over again. It cannot be to prejudice the people against any at tempt on the part of the Government to bring in a measure of Reform, which was unquestionably his motive at the period of the DERBY Go vernment contemplating the introduction of such a measure. It cannot be that Mr. e BRIGH T cons iders any educated person in the Country t o b e ignorant of his extreme views on all public questions. Perhaps we shall be nearer a solution of the enigma if we come to the conclusion that the hon. member wishes to impress upon Ministers his own vast importance ; he is speaking to his opponents, but at his friends. we have be fore this met with some significant allusions made by his friends and supporters as to the neglect with which he has been treated, and Mr. BRIGHT went so far as to say that, had lie manifested a desire for office, he could have obtained it. This may or may not be interpreted into a declaration that he would not assume the responsibility. We know that CESAR refused the crown at first, and thus has furnished an illustrious example to. all who deem it advisable to hesitate be fore proceeding to extremities. Mr. POTTER, M.P., however, thinks it quite time that plain speaking should be adopted in this important ra and therefore he boldly expressed his opinicru that "he should have had more confidence in the Re form movement if the great leader of the Reform party in England, Mr. BRIGHT, now held & seat in the Cabinet. If proof were wanting of the total unfitness of the hon. member for Birmingham for occupying such an important position he certainly afforded it during his discourse last night. Truth and justice were totally cast to the winds when Mr. BRIGHT touched upon the dangerous topic of Jamaica. If possible he spoke out still more vehemently than before, and displayed his bigotry and intolerance to no ordinary degree. He began by saying that the Government displayed their weakness in two points : the first was their conduct respecting Jamaica. As far as we can make out, Mr. BRIGHT seems to think that Mr. CARDWELL did very wrong in having nothing to tell the great deputation when they waited upon him. Mr. BRIGHT told us before that he considered the execution of GORDON to have been murder, and he now drags in all the judges of the country to keep him in countenance. He declares that there is not a judge in the kingdom, not a law officer in the three kingdoms, nor a lawyer in practice, who will differ from him, when he says that the execution of GORDON in all its acts " was a mass of illegality," and no judge in the United Kingdom but would say in his private capacity that GORDON was murdered. We ask emphatically is a man who addresses a public meet ing in this strain fit to lecture then upon the im portant subject of a change in the representation of the country. He shows himself in his true colours when he gets upon a topic like that of Jamaica. He contradicts facts, makes unfounded statements, charges honourable men with the commission of deadly crimes, and, to crown, all he becomes abso lutely profane in his frantic attempts to give vent to his excited feelings. Those who considered Mr. BRIGHT, if mistaken in some points, was at any rate sincere and consistent, will be shocked to peruse that passage in his speech in which he refers to the last letter written by GORDON. He declares that his first thought on reading it was—" Why this re minds me of the temper and language of the martyr STEPHEN. Men who go to such extreme lengths as this are the most dangerous - witnesses against themselves, and in point of fact need no further condemnation in the sight of intelligent and inde pendent persons. But it is because a large class of ignorant and infatuated persons listen to Mr. BRIGHT, and applaud his remarks to the echo, that we take every opportunity, and trust that others will take every opportunity, of denouncing his mis chievous tours'. In the first place, GORDON was not hurried to death, but had two days for pre paration. Mr. BRIGHT'S indignation is aroused by the re port that when Parliament meets there will be a " desperate onslaught" made on the Go vernment respecting the course they have pursued in this Jamaica affair. " One of those Tory gentlemen said, " Ay, if So and So had been Prime Minister, he would not have given way to the cla mour of a hundred Dissenting parsons." Such re marks Mr. BRIGHT considers most absurd, and he drew a melodramatic picture of Mrs. GORDON appearing at the bar of the House, and demanding justice, and still further of her going as a suppliant to the steps of the Throne as the widow of the " murdered" GORDON, to seek redress from Eng land's widowed Queen. Such a claptrap style of oratory is contemptible, and alike derogatory to the dignity of him who indulges in it, and insulting to the common sense of those who listen to it. The course pursued by Mr. BRIGHT, and some others of the leading Radical members about this Jamaica business, has covered them with disgrace, and proves how totally unfit they are to be trusted with the conduct of affairs, or even to influence, in any especial degree, the policy of the country. Fair play is quite out of their line, and after proof has been afforded they reiterate their former charges, with a sublime contempt and a total indifference for all that has been adduced since the subject was first broached. Earl RUSSELL has made a complete mistake, and one of an irretrievable character. It has cast a blight upon the opening of his new career of Premier, and may yet bring his tenure of office to a premature and precipitate termination. It appears, from Mr. BRIGHT'S speech, that he has given offence by not going far enough in vindicating the claims of the ill-used blacks, so that the noble lord will reap the due reward of his vacillation by pleasing neither side. Mr. BRIGHT trusts that Mr. DISRAELI will have too much sense to permit the " shocking atrocities" committed in Jamaica, or a defence of them, to be in any way associated with his public character or career ! Perhaps he speaks his wishes in thus expressing himself, and endeavours to pro pitiate the Tory party by informing them that he ' can't believe they will make the question of Jamaica a battle-ground during the eni: suing session," as if the faction of Exeter Hall had not been making it a battle- ground with a vengeance for some weeks past, and were not ready to hurl defiance at all who presume to treat their comments with the scorn which they deserve, or compare their extra- vagant assertions with correct details aad authentic reports. The second proof of feebleness which Mr. BRIGIIT has discovered in the present Government is, that Earl RUSSELL has asked Lord STANLEY to join his Administration. This is a confession of weakness, it seems, as if Earl RUSSELL " acknowledged to the world that the Whig party, as far as States manship was concerned, was worn out. If so, he considers it to be their own fault, because they have never been c4reful to fill up their vacancies by the able men of their own party. The hopeful spirit of the member for Birmingham will not quail, however, if all the old `Whigs are deposited in Westminster Abbey. He thinks that a very good Government might be formed out of the three hundred and sixty Liberals who now appear in Parliament, and that it is quite inconsistent to go over to the Opposition to seek recruits. We have no doubt that Mr. BRIGHT thinks Earl RUSSELL might have looked in his direction, instead of seeking the ser vices of Lord STANLEY. The chief impression which A ir.BRIGIIT'S speeches carry to us is that he is more like a barrister hold ing a brief than a public man representing the in terests of a great country. The other day it was the Tory party that had to sustain his sledge hammer attacks; now the Government come under the lire of his denunciations for their hesitating policy about Jamaica. He talks glibly enough about new Reform Bills and the importance of enfranchising the people, but we look in vain for principles, for steady purposes, and for a consistent character in his orations. He accuses his opponents o; mono- poly and prejudice, but we see how prejudiced he can be himself when he takes up an idea. To con- vince him of the injustice of his language concern ing Governor EYRE and those who assisted him would be a hopeless task ; but he will find out, when it is too late, that ho has squandered his repu tation and throwti•n away his induenc by preferring to advance the cause of a faction instead of taking his stand on the broad basis of principle, which knows no divisions of party, and is fettered by no ties of bigotry. The exorbitant price of butchers' meat has long been a standing grievance to all classes of the com munity, and, thanks to the steady and unrelenting progress of the cattle disease, there appears little chance of any speedy reduction. Setting aside the vexed question of the butchers' profits, there has been for the last several years an increasing demand for meat, and consequently an increase in the price. Housekeepers nowadays would rejoice over the prices of some ten or twelve years ago as a wonder ful boon, but even without the cattle plague there was no prospect of a return to them. The demand is, in fact, increasing very much among the working classes, who, naturally enough, when they earn good wages, like to obtain the best and most nourishing food. Neither are they wrong in trying to obtain the best kind of food to sustain them under the exhausting influences of hard work, and too often of bad air and bad water. But the consequence of the growing de mand on the butcher from classes who in the last generation hardly ever thought of touch ing meat naturally induces him to raise his prices, especially since, thanks to our English fashion, everybody wants the same parts of the animal. A Frenchwoman would make an excellent dinner out of what an English mechanic's wife would scorn to buy. The inevitable frying and roasting are very ill-adapted to economising the material, and consequently many very useful parts of the animal are almost put out of the category of regular butchers'.; . meat, and only sold, if sold at all, in scraps to the very poorest. It is very much to be regretted that more efforts are not made to teach our young women the art of cooking, since, how ever homely an accomplishment, it closely affects the health and wellbeing of those working classes which form the sinews of our population. Simple as the question of household management may ap pear at first sight, the intemperance and improvi dence which throw thousands on the public charge owe a great part of their origin to the lack of it. We should like to see this homely lesson included in our national schemes of education, since, if pro perly learned, it would tend very much to diminish the struggles and sufferings of the respectable poor. There is another department of purveying in which almost all English people, high and low, are very neglectful. With the continued high price of most kinds of nourishing food, and with dairy pro duce liable, as we have seen, to be at any time affected by an epidemic, pleasant, wholesome food may be obtained almost for the trouble of getting it, and yet this trouble is not taken. The natural advantages which we possess we do not avail our selves of, and, thanks partly to old fashioned prejudice, partly to mismanagement, and partly to indifference, our magnificent supply of fish is turned to very little account. With railways running in every direction at all hours of the day and night the question of transit is not to be considered ; and with a very little con trivance, far less than is necessary to bring up the thousands of gallons of milk now daily coming to London, our hard-working poor might get a com fortable and nourishing meal for about half the price they would have to give for an indifferent meat dinner. With improved legislation, or rather the removal of legislative interference with the fisheries, there would probably be still more difference, while a considerable increase in the consumption of fish would of course diminish the excessive demand on the butcher, and thus reduce the price of meat. The consumption of fish in London is by no means insignificant ; but, thanks to the price, it is chiefly used by the upper classes, and not by those within whose means it ought to come more readily than any other kind of food. The Report of the Deep Sea Fisheries Commis sion which is now before us is full of interesting information. This Commission was appointed some two years ago to inquire into the condition of the deep sea fisheries, and more especially to ascertain how far they had been affected by the modern system of fishing. In pursuance of these objects the Commissioners have visited most of the fishing stations of the three kingdoms, taking the evidence of the fishermen and others [acquainted with the subject. The value of the British fisheries proves to have been hitherto underrated rather than exag gerated. " The produce of the sea around our coasts bears a far higher proportion to that of the land than is generally imagined. The most fre quented grounds are much more prolific of food than the same extent of the richest land. Once in the year an acre of good land carefully tilled pro duces a ton of corn, or two or three cwt. of meat or cheese. The same area at the bottom of the sea on the best fishing grounds yields a greater weight of food to the persevering fisherman every week in the year." Weare further told that five vessels in one night's fishing brought in 17 tons of fish, or an amount of wholesome food equal to that of 50 cattle or 300 sheep, and yet the ground which they covered during the night's fishing was not more than 50 acres in extent. On a rough calculation, the Commissioners have estimated that London con sumes an average of 90,000 tons of beef annually, and 80,000 tons of trawled fish, irrespective of her rings, sprats, and shell-fish, supplied by other means. So that the weight of beef and fish annually con sumed in London is in no great disproportion, though when we come to consider the relative price the case is very different. " The fisherman receives on an average little over £7 a ton for his fish, prime and offal together—the farmer is readily paid for his beef not less than £6O a ton." This difference in price does not benefit the consumer but the retail dealer, who charges ls., is. 3d., and is. Cid. a pound for prime fish which he buys at Billingsgate for 3d. and 4d. per lb. The Commissionersivery seriously suggest that a check might be put on these exorbitant charges by the publication of a daily return, signed by the Clerk of the Market, giving the wholesale prices of the different kinds of fish sold at Bil lingsgate. If this were regtilarly published ' in the newspapers, the West-end fisherman would feel a little embarrassment in quietly asking fifteen pence a pound profit for his own share, or five-sixths of the amount charged to his customer. It is strange that competition has not brought down the prices, but this is probably due to the fact of fish being regarded more as a luxury than as a cheap and wholesome part of the regular household supply. Yet, even as it,is, the supply at Billingsgate is not equal to the de mand, while the old adage which tells us that there are more fish in the sea than ever came out is strictly and literally true. The North Sea fisheries are only partially fished. The Dogger Bank has an area of several hundred square miles yet unworked, and new grounds are constantly being discovered where fish are most abundant. The average depth of theGermanOcean between En gland and the Continent is ninety feet, and one-fifth of it is occupied by banks which are being con stantly increased by the muddy deposits of rivers. In extent these banks are equal to the superficial area of Ireland, and " this great and prolific area," LIFEBOAT SERVICES.—During the storms of the past year the National Lifeboat Institution, by its Lifeboats and other means, contributed to the savin ; of 70i persons from olifferent wrecks on our coasts. T he Insti tution also expended .1,374 In the same perit,d on its life boat establishments, in addition to grantiug £4,950 for re wards for saving life and exercising the lifeboats. The Committee of the Institution earnestly A i'I'EAL to the public for ASSISTANCE to enable them to meet the Continued heavy demands on the Institution's 150 lifeboat stations. Contributions are received by the London and country bankers J 'on, 14, ohn-stre b the Secretaret, Adel lphi, London. Richard Lewis, Esq., at the Instituti ItOYAL ENGLISH OPERA, COVENT GAUDEN. (Opera Company, Limited.) THIS EVENING (Thursday), Mr. Charles new opera, in one act, CI EVE. Madame F. Lancia, Madame E. Heywood ; Mr. A. Cook, and Mr. I), Miranda. Conductor, Mr. Alfre 1 Mellon. After which. ht 8, the grand comic, st. e4tacular, and ope ratic Clara, mas Pan oinime, entitled ALM:1101N AD THE WONDERFUL I,ANIr ; or, Harlequin and th N e Flying Palace. (See other advertisements). Commence at 7 o'clock. TII E ATRE ROYAL, DRURY-LANE._ Managers, :Messrs. E. Falconer and F. B. Chatterten. THIS EVENING, the Farce of HUSBANDS, BEWARE. Mr. G. Delmore, Miss Hazlewood, &c. Atter which, the Pantomime, LITTLE KING PIPPIN; or, Ilarlequin Fortunatus and the Magic Purse and Wishing Cap. Messrs. G. Belmore, H. Drayton, G. Weston. Master Fere) , l oselli; Misses El azlewood, A. Thomson, E. Falconer, &c. P a ntomimists, Messrs. H. Boleno , C. Lauri, Cormacx , Saville, Miss Morgan, and a Commence e Boleno. t 7. THEATRE ROYAL, HAYMARKET.- Sole Lessee and Mansga, Mr. Buckstone. THIS EVENING, BROTHER SAKI Messrs. Sothern Buckstone, Compton; Mesdames Nelly Moore. Snowden, To be followed by ORPHEUS IN THE HAYMARKET, Messrs. W. Farren, Fisher, Bai tleman, Weaihersby, ; Mesdames Keeley, Snowden, Moore, Lindley, Woolgar, Howard, Wright, Coleman, Lovell, Prevot, &c. To conclude with SHOCKING EVENTS. Mr. Com,ton. Commence at Seven. ROYAL LYCEUM THEATRE.- Under the sole Mat agement of Mr. Fechter. THIS EVENING, THE ILLUSTRIOUS STRANGER. Air. H. Widdicomb. After which, THE MASTER OF RAVENSWOOD, Mr. Pechter; Messrs. Jordan, Emery. Widdicomb, Vezin, J. H. Fitzpatrick, 1). Evans; Ilesdames Ternan, Elsworthy, Lavenu, and C. Leclercq. Box Office open daily from Eleven till Five. NEW THEATRE-ROYAL ADELPHL Sole Proprietor and Manager, Mr. B. Webster. THIS EVENING, at seven, a new farce called nEHIND TIMA , :. Messrs. J. L. Toole, IL roillips. Eburne, C. J. Smith; Miss A. seaman, &c. After which, at 8, RIP VAN WINKLE. Rip (his 105th appearance), Mr. Jefferson, supported by Messrs. liillington, P. Bedford, R Phillips, leelix Rogtrs, Ashley, hburne, C. J. Smith; Mrs. Biltingtor, &c. To conclude with THE STEEPLECHASE. Messrs. J. L. Toole, P. Bedford, Ashley; Miss K. Kelly, &o. OYAL PRINCESS'S THEATRE. Sole Lessee and Manager, Mr. Geo. Vining. THIS - EVENING, QUIET LODGINGS. After which, at a quarter to Eight, IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO 3114 ND Characters by Messrs. Vining, T. Mel ville, T. Mead, a Murray. S. Caihaern, F. Villiers, J. G. Shore, G. Murray, H. Mellon, C. Seyton, R. Cathcart; Miss L. Moore and Miss Katherine Rodgers. ROYAL STRAND THEATRE. Sole Lessee and Manageress, Airs. bwanborough. THIS EVENING, at Seven. NOTHING VENTURE NOTHING WIN. After which will be produced a new Opera Burlesque , L'AVRICAINE ; or, The Queen of the Cannib tl Islan s. Messrs. Stoyle, James, Thorne; Mesdames Swauborough, Ilaynham, Johnstone, .re. To conclude with TURN HIM OUT. GRATIS AND POST FREE. E. MOSES and SONS' FASHIONABLE ALMANAC for 1863, List of Prices, with Fashion-card for the present season. MOSES AND S 0 N .E• respectfully call attention to their large and well assorted stock of JUVENILE CLOTHING. The newest fabrics are combined with the latest and most fashionable designs, and the best workmanship. E. MOSES and SON give particular attention to this important branch of their business, and they can with confidence affirm that the prices Are such, as must satisfy the most economical. This depart ment is in a distinct part of the premises, which will be found a great convenience for ladies and children. MOSES AND SON • respectfully invite public attention to their large and well-assorted WINTER STOCK. MOSES AND SON'S • "SANDRINGHAM" and "DANISH " WRAPPER (Introduced Dy them) is the newest and most lashionsb:e style of Overcoats for the season. MOSES AND SON'S s..A• READY-MADE and BESPOKE CLOTHING !or all classes and all ages. MOSES AND SON'S • CELEBRATED "INDISPENSABLE" 6urr, 'rota 308. MOSES AND .1_2,4 • HOSIERY and DRAPERY, for all classes and alt ages. S 0 N'S E. MOSES AND SON'S RATS AND CAPS, fur all classes and all ages. MOSES AND SON'S BOOTS and SHOES, for all classes and all ages. MOSES AND SON'S • OUTFITS, for all classes, all ages, and all climates. E• MOSES AND SON'S Ku• LONDON HOUSES, 154, 155, 156, 157, Minories ; 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, Aldgate ; 506, 507, 508, New Oxford--street; 1,2, 3, Hart-street 137, 138, lottenham-court-road ; 288, Euston-road. Also, Bradford, Yorkshire. MOSES AND SON'S E• Establishments are closed every Friday evening at sunset until :, , aturday evening at sunset, wh en b usiness is re sumed until 11 o'clock. All articles are marked the lowest prices in plain figur es . Any article nut appr,ved of will be on.thaugtd, or the money returned. List of Prices with Rules for Self - measurement, Fashi on Card, and our new pamphlet, " lhe rbilosoplty of Dress," gratis and post free. THE LAST EDITION OF " THE stiN,,, Containing the Latest IN•rELLltiEi‘e Min be had Every Evening of G. It. CILANIE, NEWti AGENT, No. 4, Connaught-terrace, Hyde-park. FIE LATEST EDITION of " THE SUN" B ",PPlied, as soon R 8 published every f , :vetiinl . , .by W. Al , .1 , ,X A.Zst DLit (Ittte 111:.001i.6) Old l.avenuish-street, Oxlord-street. Newspaper Agent, 21, T HE LAST EDITION of " THE SUN " supplied as soon MS Published, containing all the LATEST NEWS and SPORTING- INTELLIGENCK by H. W. fIAItILIS, Newspaper Agent, 4, Blackiriars-road, Loudon, S. THE LATEST EDITION of "TAE SUN." J. lIVI,MES begs to inform his Iriends, and the pubde generally, jp;ashe B oon sup plies s r. .ut h irshiellaroirl69l"lp9sN' eat road, N. W. HIGH WATER AT LONDON BRIDGE. THIS DAY.—Monting, 3h. 57m.—Afternoon, 41 1 . 18 m. To-Monnow.-Morning, 4h. 40m.--Afternoon, 4h. 58m. Xt. ',, A. 14.1A :jr ;-4 4 f aS: int •••,. THE SUN, LOINEO,N, T.HURSDAY EVENING, JAMJARY 4, lE€6. adds the commissioner, "is free to the industry of all." The substance of their recommendations is simple and practical. They advise that all acts of Parliament which profess to regulate or restrict the modes of fishing in the open sea be repealed, and unrestricted freedom of fishing be henceforth per mitted. They encourage the adoption of free trade, recommending that foreign fishermen should be freely allowed to enter British ports for the sale of fish, and that the same liberty be secured to British fishermen in foreign ports. With the ex ception of a few police regulations in certain dis tricts, they are opposed to any interference with the public right, though they think of leases for a limited period might be granted to companies. They consider that the total supply of fish ob tained upon our coasts has not diminished during the last few years, and that the modern system of fishing is not wasteful or destructive. The supply they believe to be capable of augmentation "to an extent the limits of which are not indicated by any evidence" they have been able to obtain. There is no doibt that the publication of this Report will give a stimulus to enterprise and competition, and if any method can be adopted which shall guard against the profits of a plentiful supply, and an increased demand going into the pockets of the retail dealer to the detriment of all other classes of the community, great good will be done. We cln hardly believe it possible that so profitable an opening to enterprise and in dustry will be longer neglected, especially when the question of how to feel our ever-increasing millions becomes daily more and more urgent. CORRESPONDENCE FROM PARIS. (FRO)I OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.) PARIS, Monday Evening. There is nothing of political interest to-day, and if there were, even as important event w o u ld b e _ _ _ disregarded, for this thy—Slew Year's Day—is con sidered as the greatest of the year, and is devoted to friendly and cordial visits and kindly greetings. The weather has been magnificent. Seldom has such been remembered in January. The sun has been shining from morning till evening, not a cloud was seen; and it has been really lat. All Paris has been out of doors ; and the friendly visits paid. Every one has been to see the galdy and curious novelties in the shops. In additicn to the regular establishments for the sale of all sorts of " unconsi dered trifles," on the boulevards a:e erected not a few but miles of temporary wooden shops, at which you may buy any imaginable or unima ginable production under the sun. The array of attractive wares gives a flat contradiction to the assertion that there is nothing new under that lumi nary. Then as to the crowdsy In all they have to day formed a dense mass of human beings, reaching, if one abreast only, almost from " Indus to the Pole." As to the display of articles, each year more novelty, ingenuity, and industry seem to be exhibited. The toy shops are really marvellous. There is much in them to drive the rising generation half mad ; but " children of a larger growth" have to-day been spurred into the aline category. The prices of these glittering wonders must suit all purses, for you can buy things for a few sous or lay out hundreds of pounds even upon toys. You pay your money and you take your choice. At one of these establishments are figures of two ladies, the cost of whose dresses and ornaments is esti mated at more than two th)usand pounds. A story is current of the silly exploit of an Eng lishman at one of these toy-shops. Seeing the representation of a battle between the mutineers and the English troops, and conveying the idea that the latter were defeated, he purchased the toy, pay ing for it the modest price of 25 francs. He ex pressed a desire to buy more, and was accommo dated with a dozen—all in the shop. lie then went all over the shop, which is in the Rue de Rivoli, and purchased more toys of another kind. Having paid the " little bill," amounting to the respectable figure of 1,875 francs, he gave vent to his indignation at the exhibition of articles, which he said were " in- tended to turn England into ridicule." A parcel was made of them all, and our Englishman, beckon ing the shopman towards the fire, asked him to help him to burn them. The astonished shopman, after some hesitation, complied with the request, and the customer seemed to gloat with delight over the burning remnants of the articles made for the pur pose of " insulting England." Their destruction, however, did not sate his vengeance, for on leavinghe expressed his determination to go to all the other toy-shops and serve all articles intended to bring England into contempt in the same way. Upon the whole, there is more cordiality and good will in the New Year's Day greetings in France than in Eng land. In the villages and small towns the inhabi tants rise at daybreak, and go from house to house to wish each other la bonne anne - e. Then there is such kissing and cordial shaking of hands. Men all kiss each other as well as the women and children. It is not a Judas kiss, but a kiss of fraternity and hearty aspiration for a happy new year to each other. To-day, among the " upper ten thousand" costly presents are made, and mountains of visiting cards exchanged. At Court this has been a busy day of diplomatic ceremony and etiquette. The Emperor has received all the Foreign Alinisters, and lun - der stand that the complimentary answers of his Majesty to their addresses exhibit even more than the accustomed spirit of cordiality and hearty good-will. It may not bo generally known that Napoleon _ _ the Third is as religious at home as he is cou rageous in the field and wise at the council. He seldom omits to attend Mass at the Chapel in the Palace. On great fete days—Christmas-day for instance—the service is very impressive, and a select number of visitors are admitted by card or invitation. Gentlemen pay a certain attention to dress, and wear white cravats. The ladies are care ful in their toilette. On such occasions the hour for Mass is noon. The Emperor and Empress, with the young Prince and members of the Imperial family, are seated on a Tribune opposite the Altar. When the huissier announces the Emperor every one rises, the Priests come from the vestry-room, and after bowing to the Altar salute the Em peror before beginning Mass. It lasts about half an hour. The credo, and all the principal passages of the Mass, are executed by the most eminent artists of Paris, under the direction of Auber. Behind the Emperor aro the Grand Marshal of the Palace, having at his right M. Darboy, the Archbishop of Paris ; and at his left the Grand Chamberlain, the Duke of Bassano. Around them are the Marshal Commandant of the Imperial Guard, the great officers of the Crown, the aide-de-camp, groom, and State attendants. The latter attend Mass every morn ing at eight o'clock. Behind the Empress are the chief Lady in Waiting, the lady on service at the Palace, the Grand Chamberlain to her Majesty, and other attendants. When Mass is finished the priests who have celebrated it at the foot of the altar again bow beforo it, and again salute the Emperor and Empress. They then retire to the Sacristy, and their Majesties proceed to their apartments. The Emperor gave a private audience yesterday to Prince de Metternich Winneburg, Ambassador Extraordi nary for the Emperor of Austria, who presented to His Majesty the insignia of the Order of St. Etienne, just conferred upon the Imperial Prince. The Ambassador stated that the Emperor of Austria was desirous that the heir to the throne of France should at an early period be made acquainted with the sincere interest felt by his Majesty towards him, and which would never diminish. The Emperor, in his reply, said he was deeply tett:lied, and that ho should express his feeling by letter to the Emperor; and that the young prince would ever remem ber the high proof of solicitude exhibited on the part of a Sovereign for whom his father felt a sincere friendship. The Empress yesterday received M. Paul Feval and the Curateur of the Society of Mon of Letters, to present a work published by the care of the Committee to herself and the young Imperial Prince. Her Majesty, in grateful terms, expressed her thanks and those of the Prince. A man named Cheron, residing in the commune of Thi bouville, has just murdered his wife. The children, on re turning from their work, found the poor woman dead behind the door. The husband on being arrested con fessed that having quarrelled with his wife he struck her on the head with an iron bsr. . The working men of Pads, who seem to bo now sick of strikes, have just formed as important society called the Mutual Association of Bricklayers and Stonecutters. The affairs of the society are to be managed by three directors, and it seems likely to be attended with useful results to the artisans connected with it. There is now living at Chaillot, near Paris, a woman named Lahoche, who, though upwards of 100 years old, goes out daily to work as a sempstress. She is such a good needlewoman that her services are always in demand, and her eye-sight is as good as ever. She is tho widow of a sapeur of the Grand Army, and often relates anecdotes of interest relative to the first Napoleon. The death is announced of M. Thuillier, Councillor of State, after a long illness. M. Thuillier, who had just attained his 50th year, was not only distinguished as a' Government orator in the Chamber, but took an important share in matters con nected with religion and education. For the advantage of the very few English journalists who now attack the Emperor and his Government, it may be well to explain the tenour of the regulations which will in future be adopted towards foreign newspapers generally. The Independence, a Brussels paper, was re cently seized at the Post-office because it contained an article of an exceedingly bitter and injurious tendency relative to his Majesty and his Government. French newspapers are subjected to two warnings when they indulge in such mischievous diatribes, and if the offence bo repeated, the future publication of the journal is pro hibited. , Henceforward the seizure of a foreign newspaper is to operate as a warning, so that after a second seizure a newspaper so offending will not bo allowed to enter France again. lam in the habit of reading most of the newspapers daily, and I can assure you, with confidence, that much latitude is allowed to their political strictures. I am inclined to believe that a French newspaper may in dulge as freely in fair and legitimate comments upon pub lic men and measures as any respectable and fair-dealing English journals. Indeed there is one Opposition paper here which uses such violent, uncalled-for, and unmeasured language against the Government that if the Government were as arbitrary as it is sometimes represented to be the journal in question would have long ceased to be in exis tence. PARIS, Tuesday Evening. None of the Paris papers appeared this morning, and the evening journals, although seized upon with avidity, for the Parisians cannot bear to be without news, do not supply any matter of interest. At the Bourse to-day the feeling was that of confidence, and the 3 per Cents. and 4i per Cents. closed at an advance of 25c. The Belgain Government has appointed M. Von Praet, Minister of the Household of the late King Leopold, to make the official announcement of the death of the late Monarch to the Emperor Napoleon. It is stated that certain confidential instructions, sealed and addressed to M. Von Praet by the late King, contain some important political views which King Leopold has entrusted to his executor to communicate to the Emperor. This fact will explain the change of the personage now selected to confer with Napoleon the Third relative to some essential points arising out of the new posi tion in which Belgium is placed. The Prince de Ligne was at first designated as the individual ap pointed for this delicate, if not difficult, mission. I have reason to believe that the communication chiefly relates to eventualities which might arise from the change from a Protestant to a Catholic Monarch in Belgium.. A trial for murder is about to take place at Ver sailles, before the Court of Assize for the Department of Seine et Oise, the circumstances connected with which will give it a place among the causes celebres of modern times. The accused, a man named Poucet, is about thirty, and for about half of his life he has been in prison for various offences. He has been convicted of forgery, coining, and robberies of all kinds. His companions and friends have generally been convicted thieves. He has escaped from prison over and over again, and, having been transported to Cayenne, he contrived also to escape from that penal colony, and, embarking on board an American cruiser, he reached New York. There he made the acquaintance of a rich old gentleman, named Lavergne, who formerly held a high Government situation at the Mauritius, and came with him to Paris. The prisoner obtained possession of a large sum of money belonging to M. Lavergne. He was on very intimate terms with M. Lavergne. A few months ago he induced him to go to Argenteuil, a town not far from Versailles. Two days afterwardi the body of M. Lavergne was found in a wood frightfully mutilated. Various circumstances have been discovered which tend to connect the prisoner with the murder and robbery. In 1862 the prisoner was tried for robbery. He was defended by M. Leon de Bartholemy, who obtained his acquittal, although the circumstances were very suspicious. The prisoner has written a curious letter to that gentleman, requesting him to undertake his defence upon this more serious charge ; and his former advocate will again appear on his behalf. A Italian paper received in Paris to-day states, that the difficulties in the way of the recognition of the new king dom of Italy by the Government of Wurtemberg are now removed, and that the recognition will shortly take place. The Emperor, in his reply to the congratulatory ad dresses of the Diplomatic Body, said : "Every year at this period we look at the past and throw a glance at the future. It is fortunate when we can, as it is the case now, congratulate ourselves upon having avoided dangers, removed apprehensions, and drawn closer the bonds which t unite Kings and peoples. Fortu nate, above all, of the experience of accomplished events, allows us to augur for all the world long days of peace and prosperity. I thank the Diplomatic Body for the congratulations which they have just addressed to me upon the occasion of New Year's-day." You will see that this reply of the Emperor completely confirms the anticipations which I was enabled to give of it yesterday. PARIS, Wednesday Evening. The congratulatory tone of the answer of the Emperor to the usual addresses of the Diplomatic Body on New Year's-day, and the expression of his desire to draw closer the bonds which unite kings and peoples, has produced a satisfactory feel ing in Paris, and confidence at the Bourse has in creased to-day again, exciting a tendency to a rise. Some of the Paris papers speak of it in a highly laudatory tone ; but, strange to say, the leading Opposition journal, the Siccle, does noteven publish the document. A letter has been received in Paris from Rio Janeiro, stating that considerable sensation has been excited by the attempted assassination of three Frenchmen at that town on the 30th of Oc tober last, but no details are given. Indeed the circumstances do not seem to have transpired, as a - committee of their countrymen had been ap pointed to investigate the matter. The taste for Exhibitions seems to be on the in crease in France. There is to be an International Exhibition of articles connected with fishery at Boulogne-Sur-Mer, from the Ist of April to the 16th September of this year. It will embrace the fisheries of the ocean, rivers, lakes, canals, and ponds, and all matters connected both with sea and river fishing, comprising models of fishing boats, their equipment, and those of fishermen, nets, and machines for catching fish ; specimens of salt used in curing them, and modes of curing and packing them for transport. Also plans to improve the pro pagation of fish, and books and engravings illustra tive of facts connected with them. There will also be an aquarium to rear and feed fish. The event of the day in the musical world is the production of a new opera at the Theatre d'Lyrique. It is the composition of M. Adri4n Barthe, and is called "La Fiance d'Abydos," but were Byron alive he would be puzzled to re cognize it as his " Bride of Abydos." M. Jules Adenis, who is responsible for this ingre dient of the opera, has, however, produced some very dramatic effects. The heroine, Zuleika, has a very different fate from that assigned to her by By ron. Her name is preserved, but her destiny is changed. At the moment when her brutal father insists upon her union with Osman, and attempts to poison her for refusing, a faithful mute slave gives her a perfumed rose, which acts as an antidote. When her lover is about to put the fatal draught to his lips, the slave stops his arm, and points to the reviving Zuleika. All ends happily, and they are married. As to the music it is somewhat mediocre and wants originality. One is often reminded of Verdi, Rossini, and Auber. I must, however, say that some inorceaux were much admired, but this opera will never be a great success. For the most part it is too noisy. There is too much clashing of instru ments. Ismael did what he could as the father, and Madame Carvalho as Zuleika was at times encored. While I am speaking of music, let me tell you that Verdi has entered into a contract with the director of the Grand Opera to compose a new opera, and it is said that he has undertaken to compose in future only for the French stage. The new production is to be called " Don Carlos." " Don Juan" will first be produced with what is called a marvellous cast. The past year was not very remarkable for musi- cal progress. The great incident was the produc tion of Meyerbeer's " l'Africaine." Next to it in at- traction, or at all events in production, was Mozart's "Enchanted Flute," which still delights the Parisians. Auber's " Muette de Portici," and the debut of Mdlle.Lichtmay in the "Huguenots," that of Mdlle. Manduit in " Robert le Diable," and of Mdlle. Bloch in " The Trouvere," formed the succeeding attractions to the lovers of music, and then the production of " La Duchessa di San Guilians," and " Crispini e la Comare," at the Theatre Imperial. The Opera Comique had not a very tempting year. The great exception was the production of Felicien David's " Saphir." The chief revivals were " The Mousquetaires de la 'Leine," " The Deux Chas sours et la Laitiere," " The Toreador," " The Porcherons," and " The Ambassadrice." The debut of Madlle. Flory iu " The Chalet" was very successful. Rather a curious circumstance is mentioned in ono of the Paris papers : the death of a pony aged 37 years. A re markable fact is that the animal, though fed like the other horses belonging to his master, preserved his fatness and strength to the last, and drew easily a four-wheeled chaise containing four persons. It would jump over ditches, and never seem fatigued, for after a long course it would return to the stable quite fresh. By a strange coincidence this animal died a few daysago, after the death of an old servant of master, M. de Cardhaillac, residing at Vic-Bigome, in the Lower Pyrenees. This man paid particular attention to the pony, which recognised him as a dog does his master. Lately we had in Paris the freedom of theatres. The monopoly of coach masters is about to expire, and there will shortly be no monopoly of public vehicles. After the 15th of this month any one who wishes to have a coach for public hire may do so upon obtaining permission from the Prefect of the Seine and paying the required duty The privilege of the Imperial Small Carriage Company is withdrawn, upon payment of an indemnity. A strange document is translated by some of the Paris papers from the Europe, a Frankfort journal. It is an address from the Greeks of the Valley of• the Danube to Prince Couza. Stripped of its metaphor and laudation, the object of this address is to invite Prince Coup, to co-ope rate, with the aid of King George of Greece, Prince Michael of Servia, and Nicholas of Montenegro, in over throwing the dominion of Turkey, and to divide that por tion of the East between them. Prince Couza, is known to have written an answer to this address, but the tenour of it has not transpired at present. It is said, however, to be couched in gracious terms. It is said that the opening of the session of the French Chambers will take place on the 22d inst. The workmen have already commenced the requisite preparations for the reception of his Majesty at the Louvre in the Salle des Etats, where various changes are to be made. The herring fishery has concluded for the season. The French fishermen report that the take of herrings was most inferior to that of the previous year. Indeed, long resi dents at Paris state that within recollection the season was never so short as this year, and the fish never so scarce and so dear. National Choral Society. The members of this now celebrated society, un der the direction of Mr. G. W. Martin, last night performed the magnificent oratorio " The Messiah," at Exeter Hall, with the grandest effect. The soloists were Miss Louisa eyne,,Miss Lucy Frank lein, Mr. Leigh Wilson, and Mr. Thomas. The new tenor, Mr. Wilson, was in remarkably fine voice ; he sang with the greatest spirit and expression, and fully maintained the high position he has so suddenly taken in his profession. Miss Louisa Pyne sang with all her wonted brilliancy, and Miss Lucy Franklein, the contralto, created the most favourable impression on the very critical audience that invariably assembles in Exeter Hall. Mr. Martin was loudly cheered during the evening, and he may fairly congratulate himself on the suc cess of his well-trained band and chorus, which is now quite equal to any society formed for the per formance of sacred music. The next oratorio is fixed fer the 17th, when " Elijah" will be performed. We hear that " Acis and Galatea" is in active pre paration. FRENCH WlNES.—Their low price in. France is at present compulsory in consequence of the several abundant years which have followed each other, and the Customs' duties of these wines into England cannot fail to be quickly reduced to one penny the bottle, as Mr. W. Bay Smee has written for, as following him the congress of tke wino-growers of France have petitioned for, and as is re quired by the interest of the two nations. Immediately the English can drink good ordinary French wine, pure and unmixed, at 10d. the bottle, transit and duty included, the usage of these wines will become popular.—L'lnter national. SEIZURE OF ARMS IN DUBLIN._ LA box containing a number of rifles, cutlasses, and a flag of a peculiar de scription, which arrived from Liverpool per the steam ship Windsor, on Sunday night, was on Monday taken possession of by one of the Custom-house officers at the company's store, North W4ll, who had it taken to the Queen's stores, Custom-house, where it is at present re tained. The authorities, under the circumstances, have thought proper to keep the name of the person to whom the box had been consigned private.— Dublin Evening Mail. DEATH FROM STARVATION.—Yesterday an inquest was held by Mr. Richards, deputy-coroner for East Middlesex, at the Rose Tavern, West-street, Bethnal-green, relative to the death from want of Julia Susannah Bollinger, a married woman, 49 years of age. The deceased was the wife of George Bellinger, a weaver, who deserted her seven years ago and lived with another woman. She latterly lived with her mother, a person possessed of some property, and it was while in her house at No. 7, Havelock-place, Bethnal-green, that she was found starving. Mr. R. Mel dola, a surgeon, carrying on business inGreen-street, Beth nal-green, said that three weeks ago an old lady came into his surgery and said, " A woman is dying of consumption at 7, Havelock-place. If you are passing, call in ; for your opinion about her is wanted." As witness did not conduct his business in that manner, ho did not call, but on Christmas eve he was sent for in the usual way. He went to the house and found the deceased evidently dying of starva tion. Her emaciation was extreme ; sho was in fact a mere skeleton. She was kept alive by means of stimulants until Boxing-day. Her mother, Mrs. Olempson, said to witness, "Medicine is of no use to her: don't give her any," to which he replied that it was a duty to do whatever was possible for her. The post mortem examination showed that there was no food in the stomach or intestines, and that death had resulted from exhaustion from sheer want. Julia Bellinger, 46, Sebright-street, Bethnal-green, the wife of a weaver, said that she was the daughter of the deceased. The deceased Was the wife of George Bellinger, a weaver, and was the mother of 12 children, none of whom did anything for her. She was separated from her husband, through jealousy of a young woman. Seven years ago he ' left her, and he never allowed her any money since. He went to live with a woman at 2, Hare-court, Brick-lane, not the woman of whom the deceased wasisealous. Her eldest son was very well off, but he did nothing for her ; but her son Eugene allowed her Bs. a week for his board. She lived with witness until three years ago, when she went to reside with her mother, who was very well off, having £lOO a year and the interest on ..£5OO to live upon. The deceased was given a dinner every week, on Sunday, by her mother, and sometimes a little bit of meat on a week day. She was often starving in her mother's house. She often said to witness that she was starving, but that she would rather die than go into the workhouse. She loved her husband too well to sue him. On one occasion witness took her a little meat and a sausage roll to eat, but her mother, Mrs. Clempson, took it from witness and gave it to Eugene. Witness asked Mrs. Clempson to light a fire, as deceased was shivering with cold, but she replied, " This is my house, and I will do what I like in it. No person shall interfere with me in my own house." But she never struck the deceased. She was kind enough when the pocket was not touched. She grumbled at the waste when witness gave the deceased a little wine. Mrs. Clempson was then called. She said that she resided at Havelock-place, Bethnal-green, and that she was the widow of William Clempson, a tea merchant. He died, leaving her very poor, and she had to go to law to get back her estates and landed property which were settled on her. When she recovered her property there were a great many drawbacks upon it—insurance and law expenses. The coroner remarked that it was nevertheless apparent that the witness was in receipt of a very comfortable income. Witness said that last year she went down to Ramsgate, leaving the deceased in charge of her house. Being away 10 weeks she left the deceased 10s. Witness did everything she could for the deceased. A juror said that she had left her daughter just 2d. a day to live upon while she was enjoying herself • at the sea side, and that she ought to have left the deceased a little food. The wit ness, with great indignation, said that that was her busi ness, and that sho should not be insulted. She had not called in a doctor because the deceased's disease was a chronic one, and doctors were very expensive. The deceased could not eat food. She could have taken beer or wine, but witness did not think it right to give her such drinks. On one occasion latterly she was sixty hours insensible, but witness did not call in a medical man, for doctors' bills were no joke. A juror said that the wit ness had starved her daughter to death. Mr. Burrows, the coroner's officer, said that the husband of the deceased was in receipt of £1 a week. He acknowledged that he had deserted his wife. The Deputy-Coroner said that the in quiry was a most painful one. It was clear that the un fortunate deceased had lost her life through want of food, and he should adjourn the Court in order to ascertain whether any person was criminally responsible in the case. The proceedings were adjourned accordingly. THE MURDER OF A POLICEMAN. —Mary Kane was last night committed by the Willenhall magistrates for murdering the policeman Hooper, making three men and a woman, LA TEST INTEL LIGENCE. (REUTER'S TELEGRAMS.) FRANCE. PARIS, JAN. 4. The Emperor yesterday received the Moorish Ambassadors, and replied in gracious terms to their address expressing the cordial friendship of the Em peror of Morocco towards France. The Senate and Corps Legislatif will reassemble on the 22d January. BOURSE, Jan. 3, Two o'clock.—The " settle ment" engrosses the attention of speculators. The deport existing yesterday on Credit Mobilier Shares has to-day become a report, which was once quoted as high as 2f., and is now again at about par. Three per Cents. are at 68f. 45c., and Credit Mo bilier Shares 823 f. 75c. Italian Fives are doing at 65f. 85c., with an advance of 35c. In the Railway Department Lombards are quoted 433 f. 75c.; North of Spain, 190 f. ; Spanish, 418 f. Home Debt, 418 f. ; Passive, 28if. ; Austrian Fives, 77f. ; Russian Five Cents., 89f, ; Mexican, 48f. ; Credit Agricole, 63f. 50c. ; City of Paris (1865), 490 f. Three o'clock.— The market has closed on the following quota tions : 4i per Cents 9B Do. end month — 3 per Cents. 6B 50 Do. end month 6B 52i Credit Mobilier Do. end month Bank Shares 3685 Roman Ottoman Fives 42 50 Mexican Loan — Do. Bonds — Russian - Austrian Spanish Threes Home Debt — Deferred Credit Fonder 1320 Italian Loan 65 65 Do. end month 65 75 Acct. ... 845 - - ... 1147 50 - - ... 856 25 - - 573 75 - 550 - - - ... 513 75 - - ... 217 50 - - 433 75 - - ... 185 - - - ... 227 50 ... 158 75 RAILWAYS. Cash. Orleans Northern Lyons and Mediterranean Southern Western Eastern Sardinian Austrian Lombard North of Spain Saragossa Ditto to Barcelona Roman 1. 7 vto • Court , HER MAJESTY. OSBORNE, Wednesday. Her Majesty walked and drove in the morning and afternoon of yesterday. Dr. Norman M'Leod arrived at Osborne, and had the honour of dining with the Queen and royal family. ATTEMPT TO ASSASSINATE THE LORD LIEUTENANT. DUBLIN, Wednesday. This morning the railway train that conveyed Lord and Lady Wodehouse to Carrick-on-Shannon, on a visit to Mr. and Lady Louisa Tenison, was fired at on its return, when near to Mullingar, at a place where the rails had been feloniously removed last summer, and for which the railway company claim £2,000 from the county of Westmeath. The assassin happily missed his aim, but the engine driver had a narrow escape. Their Royal Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Wales will honour the Earl' and Countess of Leicester with their presence at Holkham Hall, Norfolk, on or about Tuesday next, when a select circle will meet their royal highnesses. It is expected that the Prince and Princess of Wales will leave Holkham Hall on Friday for Sandringham. The Duke and Duchess of Somerset have left his grace's official residence at the Admiralty for Stover Lodge Devonshire. The Marquis and Marchioness of Ailesbury are entertaining a succession of visitors at Savernake Lodge, Wilts. The Marquis of Hartington has joined the party visiting the Earl and Countess of Westmoreland at Ap thorpe Park, Northamptonshire. The Countess Cowper is still seriously ill at Penshanger, and, her friends will be sorry to learn, is not considered out of danger yet. The Earl and Countess of Westmoreland are entertaining a select circle at Apthorpe Park, Northamp tonshire. The Earl St. Maur is staying with Sir Frederick and Lady Hermione Graham, at Netherby Park, Cum berland. We have to announce the death of Major-General ancis Westenra, who died yesterday at his town resi dence in Savile-row. He was formerly in the sth Dragoon Guards, but went on half-pay in March, 1845. THE JAPANESE COM MISSIONER.—Yesterday after noon his Excellency Shibata Hiongano Cami and suite paid a complimentary visit to the Earl of Clarendon, with whom they had an interview at half-past two o'clock at the Foreign Office. After calling upon the Earl of Clarendon, his Excellency and suite paid their respects to Mr. E. Hammond, Under-Secretary of State for Foreign. Affairs. The Commissioner and suite leave the Langhata Hotel at an early hour this morning, escorted by major Brine, and will proceed to the Pimlico Station of the Lon don, Chatham, and Dover Railway, and leave by the 7.25 a.m. train for Dover, on their way to Paris, where a short stay will be made. On the 19th inst. the whole party is expected to embark at Marseilles for Japan, taking back with them an extensive collection of works of art, jewellery, specimens of all kinds of English manufacture, &c. The Japanese Commissioner and suite a day or two since honoured Messrs. Angelos School of Arms (nevi conducted by Mr. M'Turk) with a visit, and were enter tained with an exhibition of rapier and stick play, and boxing, at which they expressed much gratification. Great interest was apparently excited in their minds by the smart hitting and dexterous parrying of Mr. 311‘Turk's pupilo both with the sticks and gloves. The Japanese gentlemen, in return, exhibited their tremendous two-handed swords, with which, it is stated, they are able, at one stroke, to cut a human body in sunder, and promised to send a pair of these weapons to the master of the school of arms in re turn for his courtesy. WHO'S NY Ho for 1866 (published by Bally and Co., Cornhill), gives as comprehensive a catalogue as ever of those who may be presumed to be best qualified to judge as to what's what. THE PRINCE OF WALES LIFEBOAT.—On Monday we reported the noble services performed on the 29th ult., during a very strong gale, by the Albert Edward lifeboat, stationed at Padstow, in saving from an inevitable death 17 poor fellows from the wrecked barque Juliet, of Greenock. This lifeboat was presented to the National Lifeboat Institution by the citizens of Bristol, who readily consented to the new lifeboat bearing the same name as that which it replaced at Padstow. Th e late lamented Prince Consort always took considerable interest in the Padstow lifeboat station, and had consented when the old boat was first sent there that it should be named the Albert Edward, after his Royal Highness the Duke of Cornwall. On Monday the Lifeboat Institution telegraphed to General Knollys the gratifying intelligence that the new lifeboat had saved 17 persons. To that communica tion the General has just, returned the following answer:-- - " Sandringham, King's Lynn, Ist January, 1866.—Dear Sir,—Your telegram of to-day has been laid before the Prince of Wales, and I am desired to express the great satisfaction his Royal Highness experiences at a lifeboat bearing his name having been the means of saving the lives of 17 human creatures.—l am, &c., FRANCIS KNOLLYS." GREAT FIRE AND TOTAL DESTRUCTION OF LORD CREWE'S HALL, CHESHIRE.—Towards two o'clOCII : yesterday (Wednesday) morning, a special messenger mounted on horseback reached Crewe station with the alarming intelligence that Crewe Hall, situate about 0 ' mile and a half from Crewe, and one of the most splendid seats in England, was on fire. Our correspondent eached the scone of the disaster and found that shortly after Lora Crewe had retired to rest, his lordship rang for his valet , and intimated his suspicion of fire being in some part O f the premises. Such was found to be the fact. The railivai works engine reached at two o'clock, but as their hose was sadly too short they were of little service until extra, hose was procured. During all this delay the fire had s pread along the marble hall, picture gallery, drawing room, and the chapel on the north side. The great staircase, of which a representation appeared some time ago in Drury-lane Theatre, and a large quantity of statuary are gone. Ver s :, ma ny paintings that were at the G rea t E x hibiti on i n 186 0 have been destroyed. The hall was commenced in 1 616 ' and completed in 1636, and in 1837 it was restored, at s ' cost of £50,000, by the present lord. A. considersb i° amount of furniture and valuables have been saved, but the domestic servants have suffered very heavily. The e ntire hall, except a very small part, was destroyed by 12 at noon yesterday. The the originated with the heated air PiP efs. The ball is insured with the Exchange, Loudon. CRYSTAL PALACE.—ONE SHILLING DAY.—lres - the admissions on payment were 4,778; ditto 131 season tickets, 1,717 ; total visitors, 6,495. Th quell( estab . anion the th e e there highe bill s 1 redue creas ( datioi At land, of £5 G 8 1)er 1 Do. 3 per New Do; 41113.11 i DO: D o 1 Exehe &ustri l 3 razil ' Do. Do. B uena Chilia DO; Do. 1 144 1 Do. Do. 1) 0 1) 0 130. 1) 0 Do Monte MooriE Do ] + l O. 6 re tie' . 121 o P en day , t] an d tl bales. Th from Calci Tend recei, 28. 0, Tb coun. 5 per claw Ac Th re , Plat. Th by th geller for Three Ex e h Stod Sio Porei Bu dull ) rm s. ea c h each Th at at e (101 l COlO l Ottol 13 iSCC Criirti CO. i TONVi . D ''auk 3) - ( 7. Color.] Do, Daalai ISO' EqucV Do. E gvn i - 1)(1. Do' Do Greek Do Do: D o. txuate Co tt , Dc