The Sun. — London, England, 1856-12-31 00:00:00

THEATRE ROYAL, DRURY Lessee, Mr. E. T. Smith. Acting M•lnager, Mr. C. Mathews. Stage Manager, Mr. R. Roxby. Scenic Artist, Mr. W. Beverley. GREAT ATTRACTION for the CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS. Fifth Night of the Grand Christmas Pantomime, the most magnificent ever produced on the English stage. THIS EVENING, her Majesty's Servants will perform A DAY AFTER THE WEDDING. After which will be produced an entirely new and original symbolical, hyperbolical, parabolical, and extra-physiog nomical grotesque, statuesque, and picturesque Grand Comic Christmas Pantomime, which for some time past has employed the unrivalled resources of this extensive establishment, and which will be called or entitled, as it is entitled to be called, SEE, SAW, MARGERY DAW ; Or Harlequin floliday, and the Island- of Ups and Downs. I The scenery entirely new, painted by and under the direc tion of Mr. William Beverley and numerous assistants. The machinery by J. Tucker and assistants. The properties, de corations, tricks, changes, and transformations by Messr s . Needham, Glindon, dtc. The masks, models, and physiog nomical devices designed and executed by the celebrated Dykwynkyn. The overture and music composed and arranged by Herr Anschuez. The choregraphic arrangements under the personal supervision of M. Petit. The comic scenes con structed by and under the direction of Harry Boleno. The peculiar grotesque opening invented and written by E. L. Blanchard " au thor of Harlequin and the Seven Ages o f Man," " J ack and Jill," " Humming Top," " Hudibras," Lee., and the whole arranged and produced under the direction of Mr. Robert Roxby. Ye ancients and truthful legend on ye which ye pantomime its story is founded : " See, saw, Margery Daw, " Sold her bed, and laid upon straw." MSS. of Nursery Rhymes in British Museum. Itsgion of Reverses, in the Island of Ups and Downs. " Yea, the Great Globe itself." " Here we go up, up, up, " Here we go down, down, down ; " Here we go backwards and forwards, " And here we go round and round." Juvenile Chorus of the earliest period, supposed to belong to the One. Up, Mr. Topham ; Down, Mr. Low ; Opera" box, Kid Glove, Tiger and Brougham, and Porte-mounaie (attendants upon Up), Signor Lorgnette. Herr Tightfitt, M a ster Saucebox, and Monsieu r Chin q ue ; Hard. Up, Dupli cate, Distraint, and Rags (a ttendants upon Down), Mr. Friz hard, Mr. Popall, Mr. Quodham, and Mr. Patchwell. An nual appearance of Holyday in her Emblematic Car. H o l y d a y (the Genius of the Season), Miss Marian Stanley ; Sport and Pastime (her attendants), Misses Ma is and Light heart ; Dame Necessity (who is on this occasion made a virtue of by particular desire), Mrs. Selby. How Invention, the Daughter of Necessity, is c alled upon to assist the development of the s t o ry while neen y d a y invites both Up and Down to enjoy , themselves. Holyday's Home in the Green tower of Mistletoe en d Winter Garden of the Fairies.—Mistletoe (the Fairy Q uee n), Miss E. Wadham; Fairy Spirits of the Kisses that have been given under the Mistletoe, by upwards of 100 Ladies of the Corps de Ballet. Grand Ballet —Miss Bosina Wright, Mdlles. J. and E. Osmont, and the Co ryphees. The Golden Gates leading to the Palace of Huggamugga.—Herald (with a Proclamation), Mr. Ilornogold ; Guards, Messrs. Stiffneck, Headsup, Eyesright, Shoulderarms, Stand-at-ease, and March well ; Tailor, Mr. Broadcloth ; Cobbler, Mr. Waxend; Black smith, Mr. Anvil ; the Princess Margery Daw (afterwards Columbine), Madame Boleno ; Shilly and Shelly (her Maids of Honour), Misses Dithery and Dothery. How Margery Daw has no notion of work herself, and the contempt she shows towards those who do work. Interior of the Palace of King Huggamugga. King Huggamugga (Sovereign of the Land of Sixes and Sevens), Mr. Dawking ; Hurly- Burly (Lord Chancellor), Mr. Bigw i g ; Niminy-Piminy (the Lord Cham terlain), Mr. Noodledom ; Higgledy-Piggledy (Goldstick in Waiting), Mr. Muddle ; other Members of the Court, Messrs. Bow, Scrape, Cringe, Crouch, Tageag, Merrywag, Perriwig, and Hatband; Court Milliner, Madame Crinoline ; Drawing Master, Professor Cray on ; Governess, Miss Frump ; Music Master, Signor Hurdigureli ; Maid in Waiting, Miss Sweet temper ; Chef de Cuisine, Mr. Cook ; Prince Popinjay (of the Land of Prettistory), Mr. Finefeather ; his Retinue, Messrs. Glare, Dazzle, Gleam, Glitter, and Cutashine. How the Princess is taught a wholesome lesson by Necessity, and of the change that takes place in consequence. Cottage of Necessit Enchy, with a Prospect of Hard Work in the Distance. The an ted Workbox—The Sampler and the Exemplar, and the pretty piece of work that Margery Daw makes of it. Inhabitants of the Workbox :—Row of Pius, Messrs. Sharp, Bent, Crooked, Pinaday, Groatayear, tee. ; Regiment of Needles (ready drilled), Messrs. Largeeye, Smalleye, Longsix, Splitup, Snapoff. drc. ; Thimble, Master Tom Thumb ; Worsted, Mr. Bawlaway ; Bodkin, Mr. Pierce ; Tape Mea sure, Mr. Inchbald; Hook and Eye, Messrs. How and Some bodyelse ; Shirt Buttons , M r. Earlypnrly ; Scissors, Mr. f4hearsteel. How Margery Daw makes an important discovery and the audience also, and how, led by Necessity, she is com pelled to alter her opinions and change her position. The Mine of Labour, leading to the Mine of Wealth.—Labour (the Parent of Health, Wealth, and Happiness), Mr. StrongTth'arm. What Margery Daw goes to see, what she saw, an the re ward that Holyday bestowe. Grind Scenic and Me d chanical :Effects, exhibiting (in process )f construction) the Fairy Fac tory of Fancy, completed with ti e assistance of Labour and Imagination. Brilliant Tableau. TLe Transformation :—Two Harlequins, Herr Denlin and Signor Veroni; two Sprites, the Brothers Elliott ; two Pantaloor s, Mr. Barnes and Mr. G. Tanner; two Clowns, Messrs. Harry Boleno and Flexmore ; the Gent, Mr. Raiford : two Columbines, Madame Boleno and Miss Honey. The Ups and Downs of the Harlequinade, showing the Ins and Outs and Turns About of the Pantomime Rally ; Toy Warehouse, Butcher's and Baker's Shop (Bolenos. Denlin, Tanner, and Halford).— A pink of polite ness--Clown very toyish—Getting a nutcracker, which turns ant a nobby toy—First and last toys for gambling—Marbles versus dice—Despatches, loaded, and off they go—Harlequin takes a private box—Clown takes Chatterton's situation as boxiceeper Kite-flying—A game of Cricket, by which some of the players get bowled out, and afterwards stumped, 'which turns out a long stop—The uses Ann abuses of the crin oline—A Jack in the box—A box of regula r British toys and a basket of French bread (bricks)—Altlershott a size smaller —Grand review of infantry —A military ball— Going in for a 'ouster —Coming out with a roll—Clown make a peel to baker's feelings—List, oh, List—Squaring a round of beef— Clown takes a steak and gets a chop in retnrn—Pantaloon tries his hand at a game and loses by it--C .Caul come again --Clown takes a butcher's shop which Harlequin makes too hot to hold him. Tailor's Shop and Perfumery Warehouse (Ve noni, Barnes, and Honey). A gentleman in search of a tailor— A suit that is quite the ticket—Tee Otale wrapper—Railway wrappers--Transfor depot—Washine mechinenextraordinary— Something that won't wash—Cleaned out—Scent in and sent out- Foreign versus English toothpowder Hungary water—A Frangipani bouquet—Wonderful effects of the Pistachio nut powder —A case of rea,' distress--Pantaloon in a fix—Fur edebed Apartments for Single Men (Bolenos, Denlin, and volution—lurng th e tables—To bed, to bed—A drop too onneh ' Clown nowhegins to reflect—The looking-glass follows his example—Two heads better than one—Clown takes a turn an the sofa, which also takes a turn on its own account — Multiplication altercation, which ends with ine a regular row.l•eneral in the house. Jaclkia's Gas-regulating Mach and Patent Office and Stationer's Shop (Veroni, Barnes, and Roney.)—Clown, being in Fleet-street, goes the pace rather fast—The language of the eyes (I-taliau of course) which everybody understands —Bath post versus London post—Re gulators Wanted ; ra il w ay regulators, arm y regulators, gas r egulators, smoke regulators —Sewing, cutting, washing, pressing, and ironing done by a turn—Clown makes a shift -which makes Pantaloon a little shirty—A box of come - on scents—A fresh supply of blacks from America —A Dred-ful scene ensues. Mechi's Model Farm (Bolenos, Dealn, and Tanner )—Harvest-home —A rakish dance by rustic lads and lasses —The milky way—Harlequin makes a pump of himself —A strong smell of game—A farm-yard visitor—Clown finds the pi g a very great bore—Pantaloon finds the dog gets greatly attached to him —Prize Poultry—Cochin China and couch in England —Novel hatching The old mail—Full in side--Clown off by the Express and Pantaloon by the Rocket—Mappin's Cutlery and Shilling Razor Warehouse, King William-street, City (the whole of the double company will appear in this scene.)—Pantaloon proposes to take a bus—Present and future —Weight of public opinion —A change for the better—The people's own bus—When fool meets fool then comes the tug of fan—Collision, crash, smash, and dash—Garotte preventive—Moustache move ment—A pair of sharp blades—Clowns prove themselves a ease for cutlery—Holloway stopped by Holloway's oint ment—The duel —A cut direct—Forewarned, forearmed — I nblic nuisances of 1856—0 h, my Crinoline—A high wind, 3regUlar blow up, and glorious termination to Ups and Downs in Holiday's Fairy Home. The reduced prices as follows, varying throughout the house to suit every one :—Galleries, 6d. and ls. • Second Circle of Boxes is. 6d. ; Pit, 2s. ; First Circle of Boxes, N. 6d. ' Dress , Boxes, 3s. ; Stalls, ss. ; Private Boxes, 10 a. is., if. lls. 6d., ind 21. 2s, ROYAL LYCEUM TIIEATRE. Lessee, Mr. C. Dillon. THIS EVENING. December 31, will be produced an entirely new and original combination of burlesque and pan tomime, entitled CONRAt. AND MEDORA; or, Harlequin Corsair and the Little Fairy at the Bottom of the Sea. The burlesque opening by W. Brough, Esq., founded upon the ballet of I_-__ Corsair, as produced at Her lfajesty's Theatre. The harhvainade upon things in gene scenery painted by Mr. F. ral. The new and magnificent Fenton. Characters in the openi ng : Conrad (the Corsair) ••. Miss Woolgar Birbarto (his lieutenant) ............Mr. J. L. Toole Seyde Pasha .......................... .Mr. Barrett Sing Smaul .................... . ...... 1 . 3 1 r. Holston YUSEIi ff ............................... • T• S. Comm Medora ................................. Mrs. Ch arles D ill on Gulnar .............................. —Mrs- B. White Zuliem Submarina...(her first appearnce) Miss Jess.e Ryder l Serena Miss- l aTie Wilton Clowns Mr. Tom Matthews and Mr. R. Marshall Pantaloon Mr. Stilt Harlequin Mr. J. Marshall Sprites The Brothers Nelson. Columb i nes Miss Clara Morgan and Miss Ladd. To be preceded by WILLIAM TELL. Mr. C. Dillon. The box-office open daily, from 11 to 5, under the super brtenetence of Mr. Chatterton, jun. Ca r riages conveying parties to the Private Boxes t o set d 31911 at the State entrance in Burleigh-street. A. Morning Performance every Saturday, at 2 o'clock. C 4 TRAND T HEAT RE.—Manager, Mr. T. Payne.—This Evening will be performed ROBERT MACAIRE. To conclude with the immensely successful novel Burlesque lantanaime of THE MAGIC MISTLETOE ; or, Harlequin mtimbug and the Shams of London. The Fairy Christmas, kiss E. Wiitlu ; Good Humour, Miss Norbury ; Mercury, rise Cameron ; Humbug, Mr. Herbert ; Cant, Mr. Bolton ; Baron, Mr J. Johnstone ; Sir Roland, Mr. Clarke ; Lord Lova., Miss Craven; Addelpete, Miss Cuthbert; Crambo, (aster W. Edouin ; Lady Ames, Miss E. Jacobs ; Baroness, 3fr. G. Lee ; Furbilosa, Mr. J. Howard. Novel Haile q uinad e Miss Cuthbert ; Little Clown, Mate W Edonin ; Pantaloon, Mr. J. Clarke ; Harlequin, Miss Craven ; Colnaibin es- 1 W las E. Jacobs and Mdle. Collison ; Premier Danserase, Mdie. Marie Charles. New and magmheent S cene ry, &c. New Curtain. New Act Drop. C omme nce at Seven. Stalls, 3s. ; Boxes, 2s. ; Pit, ls. ; Gallery, 6d. A morning performance of the Pantomime every Monday at two o'clock. • 111111 OYAL SURREY THEATRE. Lessees, Messrs. Shepherd and Creswick. -La) THIS EVENING, DOUGLAS. After which, HARLEQUIN AND THE SUMMER -QUEEN, Harlequin, Mr. F. Glover; Clown, Mr. Buck ; - Pantaloon, Mr. Bradbury ; the Four Sprites, the Fillis Fa. =Hy ; Columbines, Mesdames Marie and Agnes. xitE spN, LONDON, FINHEATRE ROYAL, HAYMARKET. THIS EVENING, WEDNESDAY, Dec. 31, to commence at Seven with the comedy of THE HONEYMOON. In consequence of Mr. Murdoch's success he is re-engaged for a few nights and will appear as the Duke AranZa. After which, a new comic Christm as Pantomime, entitled THE BABES IN THE WOOD, or Harle q uin and the Cruel Uncle. The scenery of the opening story painted by Mr. W. Calleott. The music composed and arranged oy Edward Fitz william. The pantomime produced under the direction of M. Milano. Harlequin, M. Milano • Columbine, Fanny Wright (her sth appearance in that character) ; Pantaloon, Mr. Mackay ; and C l o wn, Mr. Driver (nis sth appearanee in that character at this theatre). The first Morning perform. ance of the Pantomime will be given on Thursday, Jan. 1, and continue every Thursday throughout the holidays ; com mencing at 2, concluding at 4. ROYAL PRINCESSS THEATRE. THIS EVENING, Dee. 31, will be per- onned A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM. After which, a new grand Christmas Pantomime, called ALADDIN AND THE WONDERFUL LAMP; or, Harlequin and the Genii of the Ring. Harlequin, Mr. Cormack ; Clown, Mr. Huline ; Pantaloon, Mr. Paulo ; Co lumbine, Misa C. Adams. R OY AL OLYMPIC THEATRE. Lessee, Mr. Alfred Wigan. THIS EVENING, DELICATE GROUND. Messrs. G. Vining and Leslie; Mrs. Stirling. A new Fairy Extravaganza, by J. R. Planche, Esq., called YOUNG AND HANDSOME. Messrs. F. Robson, Rogers, Leslie, G. Cooke, Danvers. Misses Swanborongh, Thiriwall, St. Casse, Castleton, Bromley, Haskell, and Mrs. Melfort. After which, CRINOLINE. Commence at half-past Seven. THEATRE ROYAL, AD ELPHI. Great Attraction for the Holidays. THIS EVENING, (Wednesday, Dec. 31), will be performed PAUL PRY : By Mr. Wright. After which will be produced a new and original union of modern burlesque and old English pantomime (as originated at this theatre), by Professor Wordspiuner, Member of Every thing, with entirely new scenery, dresses, transformations, drc., called MOTHER SHIPTON ; or, Harlequin Knight of Love, and the Enchanted Whistle. Harlequin and Columbine Ca la Watteau), Madame Celeste and Miss Wyndham ; Clown, Mr. Garden ; Pantaloon, Mr. Moreland; Scaramouch, Mr. Le Barr. Characters in the bur lesque by Mr. Paul Bedford, Mr. J. Bland, Mr. R. Romer, Madame Celeste, Miss Wyndham, Miss Mary Keeley, Miss Kate Kelly, Miss Arden, ttc. ASTLEY'S - ROYAL AMPHITHEATRE. Lessee and Manager, Mr. W. Cooke. THIS EVENING, Shakspeare's Tragedy of MACBETH, with its Splendid Equestrian Illustrations by Mr. W. Cooke's Trained Horses. Macbeth, Mr. James Holloway. After which, the skilful SCENES in the CIRCLE. To conclude with a new grand equestrian comic pantomime, replete with fun, frolic, risibility, and extravagance, called PAUL PRY ON HORSEBACK ; or, Harlequin and the Magic Horseshoe. Doors open at half-past six ; commence at seven o'clock. fox.office open from Eleven till Four. Stage Manager, Mr. W. West. Equestrian Director, Mr. W. Cooke, jun. CANTERBURY HALL, Westminster-road. — OPEN EVERY EVENING.—The follow ing company of Vocalists are engaged for the performance of Selections from all the popular Operas, Madrigals, Choruses, Glees, Duets, &c., viz. —Misr E. Pearce, Mrs. J. Caulfield, Miss Brunell, an Miss Summers ; Mr. J. Caulfield, Herr F. Jonghmans, R. Grover, T. Riino, T. Farrant, S. Jones, J. Barker, W. Melling, and P. Cowie ; Masters Austin, Ben nett, and Coni; Mr. Sam Cowell and E. Mackney. Piano forte, J. Harroway, R.A. ; harmonium, J. Caulfield, jun. ; director, Mr. J. Caulfield. Commence at Seven o'clock pre :,•isely. Suppers, &c., until twelve o'clock. In addition to the equal Vocal Entertainment, the celebrated SPANISH MINSTRELS will appear in costume at Nine and Eleven o'clock Every Evening, and sing some of their favourite selec tions MGR WATER AT LONDON BRIDGE. Teas DaT—M.orn. 25 min. aft. 4—Evening 46 min. aft. 4 THE WE..A.TLIER—SUN OFFICE, DECRIEBER 31. TUEIIIIOIIF.TICR, IN THE SHADE. 49 -highest sine noon yesterday. 48 —lowest this morning and during the night. 50 -this day at noon. BAROMETER, 30 28. WIND, S.W.-Light, with dull, mild weather. 52; r i A4AN ql-1 L'NDON, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 1866 The remarkable year which closes to-day cannot, we conceive, be regarded either politically, so cially, or commercially, with any great degree of satisfaction. It cannot, on the contrary, but be remembered in England as a year of great crime, of many disasters, and of extraordinary abase ment. In whatever we may be impelled to utter during the course of this melancholy retrospect of 1856, we are solicitous to speak of public events solely in obedience to the dictates of a conscien tious truthfulness. We are anxious to slur over nothing by means of a paltry reticence. We are particularly desirous,' iu cur epitome of the prin cipal occurrences which have transpired during the past twelvemonths, to " . set down nought is malice ;" while at the same time, in the course of our resume, nothing whatever will be wilfully extenuated. It cannot, we do really believe, but arrest the attention of the most fsuperficial observer, at the very first glance down the vista of events extend ing back from the end of this present month of December to the beginning of last January, that while 1856 has been for England nominally a Year of Peace, it has actually been pro ductive in all its evil influence of the calamitous effects usually resulting from a Time of War. It has evolved from, the Peace, literally from the Peace, as from another PANDORA'S Box, the cus tomary concomitants of War—diplomatic compli cations, internal disorder, and financial extrava gance ! It has effected this simply, obviously, notoriously, because that Peace was absolutely, to all intents and purposes, nothing more nor less than a most Disgraceful Compromise. The ter mination of the contest with Russia, in truth, was altogether so disgraceful, so discreditable, so fraught with infamy and degradation to England as one among the very foremost of the reputed arbitrers of the Destinies of Christendom—that it is no marvel whatever to us that its fruits have been solely the loss of blood, of treasures, and of reputation. Turning our attention, however, from generalities to particulars, let us, as briefly as possible, recapitulate the prominent ills already complained of collectively—counting them out painfully one by one, as painfully almost as though in doing so we "dropped our blood for drachmas" —these evil fruits of 1856 classified politically, socially, and commercially. First of all, then, Commercially-1856 has added, in round numbers, another 13,000,0001. to the Consolidated Debt through the simple de vice of the financial operations of the present Government. Accomplishing this by the funding of Exchequer Bills to the extent of 3,000,0001., and by the negotiation of fresh loans to the tune of 10,000,0001. Consols fluctuating meanwhile from 851 to 91i —giving a rise of just 6 per cent.: while the oscillations in the rates of dis count during the year have been still more remark able in their way, extending from 7 as the maxi mum to 4i as the minimum, 6 per cent. being at last, for 1856, the closing minimum of the Bank of England. Simultaneously the Railway Shares exhibiting an extraordinary vibration—down to up to 1 0/.—the interest involved in these h actually.capitalrepresenting all the while an a s m a o rs u e n to f equivalent to the sum total of the National Debt, namely 800,000,0001. At the same time that the great monetary barometer of the Funds, and the hardly less im portant monetary thermometer of the Share Markets, have evidenced these astonishing vibra tions, oscillations, fluctuations, or whatever we may like to call them—(significant tokens, we cannot but regard them, of the unhealthy action of public events upon Public Credit and Public Enterprise, alternating between the flush of Ple thora and the pallor of Atrophy) — what disastrous proofs have we not had of the morbid condition of the mercantile system, resulting from all this, as revealed to us in the exposure of divers now WEDNESDAY EVENING, DECEMBER 31, 1856, most notorious, but, until very recently, wholly unsuspected criminals ! JOllli SADLEIR'S gigantic forgeries and wholesale embezzlements, consum mated by his craven suicide upon Hampstead-heath on the Gth of February, being followed not long afterwards by the discovery of the enormous pecula tions of Wu. ROBSON, and a lit tle later on by the still more startling revelation of the complicated frauds of his accomplice, laoroLD REDPATH—frauds ex-1 ceeding, it is actually calculated, the gross aggre gate of 200,000/. sterling Again, the crash of the Tipperary Bank, in the spring, finds an un happy balance of ill in the autumnal crash of the Royal British Bank, announced in the Gazette as bankrupt on the 24th of October. Associated with all which forging and swindling, with all which systematic peculation and wholesale em bezzlement—there comes to us in this dreary financial and commercial retrospect of 1856, the dismal remembrance of the more than doubled Income Tax still iniquitously weighing down the resources of the nation 1 And with this Monster Evil yet glowering like a hideous and paralysing incubus upon the prostrate strength of the Em pire—the thought of some 80,000,0001. or 100,000,0001. sterling, of some 20,000 or 30,000 brave soldiers, of much blood and of many tears, squandered to no end upon the late calami tous war with Russia—or if to any end at all that can be exactly estimated, to the end of a grand Diplomatic "Sell," to the end of a great political "Do," to the eid of a notorious national Degra dation. Secondly, in a Social point of view-1856 has surer been productive of little that can be regarded - SI matter for self-gratulation. Apart from the bursting open of so many " whitened sepulchres," as evidenced in the revelation of the monstrous crimes of a mercantile character, already particularised—there has been, as it ap pears to us, a most deplorable stagnation even in the "efforts" towards any comprehensive im provement. Reform, as a watchword, has all this while been held in abeyance. In spite of the boasted Peace ! Precisely as though we were still engaged in a momentous and all -absorbing contest with the Russian Autocrat ! Everything almost still sustained at war prices—every body hampered more or less onerously by the drag of a doubled Income-Tax—everywhere the signs amongst us of the ill effects resulting from a sanguinary and utterly futile Struggle against Russian domination : we have had no compensa tion at all, not the smallest, not the shadow of the shade of a compensation, in the way of an ap preciable boon in any one of our great reform movements. Acircumstance accounted for, perhaps —apart from the deadening influence of a War without any good results, without even the secondary advantage of an Indemnity wrested from the foe—by the simultaneous downfall of almost all our great political reputations. Statesmen, by twos and by threes, like the masts of the State Vessel—have we not seen them suddenly, as it were, go by the board? So rapidly, entirely, and disastrously for their in fluence upon the country at large—that we might as well look to the Ticket-of-leave System, the System productive only of murders, burglaries, and I;arottings, for the diminution of our criminal population—as look to my Lord JOHN RUSSELL, or to Sir JAMES GRAHAM, or to Mr. WILLIAM GLADSTONE, for any great boon to the people ! Or for the building up in place of the present Nlinistry upon Sufferance, in lieu of this Cabinet of an Emergency, instead of this faineant dictatorship, as it may be called, of Viscount PALMERSTON—of some strong, popu lar, energetic Administration. Otherwise to ex press the existing very remarkable " situation " —We :night as reasonably look for the evidences of social probity amongst us in the Adulterations of our Food, and even (horrible to tell !) of the very drugs sold for the alleviation of human suf ferings by our Apothecaries (Adulterations, "proved" through the Lancet, by Dr. HASSELL)— we might, we say, as reasonably look for the evi dences of social probity amongst us in these notorious and undeniable Adulterations—as look for the auguries of legislative benefactions in the " burst-up " fame, and influence, and popularity, of so many of our grand " Conscript Fathers," the Did Majores of the Imperial Legislature ! Thirdly and lastly, Politically considered -1856 must perforce, we take it, be admitted to have proved rather a Failure. Not simply by its dearth of good in the way of Reforms: Not merely by the Parliamentary decease of so many distinguished Athletes in the arena of Statesman ship. But viewing the year 1856 politically, we mean, in a wider sense—regarding it, that is to say, in reference to our Foreign Relations True, without doubt—and we thank HEAVEN for it gratefully and with all imaginable reverence — the glorious Alliance, knitting France and Eng land together by the bonds of a most intimate friendship, has still been uninterruptedly sus tained, as we hope it will yet, please Gon, be indefinitely perpetuated ! But—beyond this — where in our relations with the rest of the world, where during the past twelve months can there be found any substantial or even specious advan tages ? With Russia we have made Peace—so called. But—scarcely havewe done so when we find ourselves plunged into a contest with Persia, by the instigation—notoriously and incontrovertibly—of the councils of the AUTOORAT Our interposition between the Sing and the people of the Neapoli tan Sovereignty is despised and of no avail. Our Ambassador is suddenly and almost ignominiously expelled by the United States Government from Washington. And fast upon the gulping down of this insult from Brother JONATHAN with the wryest of faces—JOHN BULL has to stand, hat in hand, bowing and smirking his thanks for the courtly gift of his old arctic venture of the Resolute. Receiving, as best he may, and precisely as Van keedoodledom wills it—first his " kicks" and then his "halfpence." If, moreover, we are, at one end of the year, nominally making peace with Rus sia, and at the other end of it virtually going to war with it again through Persia—we are, in this same muddling 1856, getting once more at loggerheads with JOHN CHINAMAN at Canton, bombarding his forts, and placing his jeopardised dynasty between two fires, that of British war vessels and that of the army of the Re volutionists ! Open war to the east and to the west of Asia—war with Persia and war with China—a hollow truce in Europe—un certainty, if not ill-blood, in America : these are among the foreign boons of 1856 for England 1 Have we much cause, therefore, let us ask—now that we have cast a retrospective glance over the past twelve months—have we much cause, com mercially, socially, or politically, for self-gratula tion ? Alas about the only solace left to us is to obey the great Drill-Master Time—" Right about-Face !" And to look onwards to 1857 hopefully In another part of this day's impression will be found a considerable portion of the report of the Federal Council of Switzerland on the affair of Neuchatel. This very important and interesting document, -which was laid before the Federal Assembly at Berne on Saturday last, enters fully and clearly into the history of the negotiations that have taken place in reference to the Prussian difficulty. It completely vindicates the conduct of the Swiss authorities, which has been temperate and coneiliatory,, while it was also firm and dignified. They were prepared to make any con- cession consistent with their cherished indepen- dente, for which they would struggle to the last. Although simple Republicans, their honour was as precious as that of FREDERICK WILLIAM, and they could not consent to the immediate liberation of the insurgents, until satisfactory assurances had been given of a final arrangement. As truly stated, " the mere assurance of good offices given in a vague manner could not satisfy them. It was necessary, at the least, that France and England should engage to bring about such a transaction as should not impose on Switzerland conditions inconsistent with her honour And dignity. They had an unques tionable right to such a pledge, and without it they could not take a step which would be tanta mount to the admission of the Prussian claims. It is due to the English Government to say that, notwithstanding the contemplated matri monial alliance, they took a more straightforward and equitable view of the subject than any of the Imperial Cabinets. They never " recommended or wished to recommend the preliminary and unconditional liberation of the prisoners." That would, indeed, be begging the question. It would leave everything in the hands of Prus sia, permitting dormant claims to continue, that must inevitably occasion future complications. All that FEEDS IC WILLIAM would grant was, that, the preliminary demand being satisfied, he would be prepared " to enter into negotiations." The Federal Council were equally to enter into negotiations ; but they could not, in the first in stance, grant what was equivalent to a recognitien of the disputed title of the claimant. The insur gents had endeavoured by force to over throw an existing and recognised Govern ment. In that attempt blood was shed, and although considerable allowance might be made for the feelings by which the Prussian tools were misled, it would be neither more nor less than an abdication of supreme power if an amnesty were granted save on conditions expressly arranged. The terms propounded by England, and which, it may be assumed, were known and acceptable to Prussia, would readily be accepted, but it was essential that they should he more clearly defined. The Confederation were quite willing that FRE DERICK WILLIAM should retain the empty title of Prince of NEUCHATEL, provided HO substantial authority were associated therewith. They would respect his private property as they would that of any and every private individual in the canton, but they could not recognise the domains, dues, and revenues claimed in the capacity of Sovereign as falling under that category. Therefore, in order to pre vent the possibility of misconception, or future disputes, they very reasonably required that the property claimed should be distinctly specified ; and, in like manner, that " the religious and charitable institutions, in which the KING took a lively interest," should be stated and set forth. These are reasonable precautions, which no " moderate" max could refuse. If, after such a proposition, hostilities should break out, we can only say they cannot be ascribable to the Federal Council, who will possess the sympathies of every right•minded and unprejudiced man in the arduous struggle that must ensue. The Income Tax excitement is still progressing, and will soon arrive at the boiling point. Many interesting and important meetings have been held in various parts of the country. None more so, however, than that of the citizens of Clout:ester, who for the second time assembled to express their detestation of a tax " unequal and unjust in its application, oppressive in its execution, vexatious in its assessment, demoralising in its tendency, and, from its inquisitorial character, derogatory to the freedom of Englishmen—more particularly when applied to trade, professions, and uncertain incomes, which should therefore be immediately and totallyrepealed so far as relates to schedule D." The leading feature of this interesting discus sion was the presence and co-operation of a gal lant Admiral holding an influential position in the Ministry. The First Naval Lord of the Admi ralty is one who could scarcely be expected to oppose the Government. And yet Sir M. F. BERKELEY spoke in a manly, straightforward, and intelligible language. He actually confessed that the attempt to take advantage of the quibble was worthy only of a pettifogging attorney who had been struck off the rolls for chicanery and dishonest practices—would be " a sneaking po licy, unbecoming gentlemen and men of honour." There is a sailor-like frankness in the speech of the gallant Admiral that wins respect. He repu diates with disdain " the dirty trick," and seems disposed to break a lance with those who ascribe such vile intentions to the Government. We like him all the better for this honest indignation, and only regret that he was not enabled to give an auiltorised contradiction to the rumour. - But he himself decl fired that he spoke on ly as a subordinate, without direct communication with the head of the Cabinet, and he must be conscious that the Chancellor of the Exchequer last session more than hinted that the " petti fogging quibble" would be resorted to, and that the Ministerial organs have assumed it as an estab lished fact. There is, therefore, ample foundation for the supposition that the unworthy dod fi ge tt m in a g y , be attempted. If it should not be so, nothing that has been put for ward, either in the p ress or at public meetings, will a pp ly. The cap not the shafts will fall innocuously from the shield, strengthened by candour and honesty. We rejoice to find that the Gallant Admiral agrees with the language origi nally put forward in The Sun, an d s i nce adopted by " The Liverpool Financial Reform Association." It slay be " rather harsh," but in such cases it is necessary to speak plainly and intelligibly, so as to leave no doubt of the estima tion in which such proceeding would be held. We fully concur in the financial views put for ward by the Honourable and Gallant Admiral. We do not, the country does not, desire to do away with direct taxation. It only requires that it should be equitably and fairly assessed and levied without harshness. We do not seek to re-establish indirect taxation, nor would we impair the efficiency of the national establishments—more especially of our wooden walls, of which, as Englishmen, we are justly proud. We cannot, however, accept Mr. COBDEN as a mouthpiece—" Ricmiain is now no officer of ours." Despite his assertions, we feel and know that the Income Tax does interfere with " the progress of industry." A wide distinction, how ever, exists as to a tax on accumulated and rea lised property. That is the least impost, as we have repeatedly stated, that can be enforced. If the Financial Minister be contented there with the Nation will cordially acquiesce in the necessity. If not, he must prepare himself for all the opposition which an indignant and thoroughly excited people can offer to that which they feel to be alike inequitaMe and impolitic. BEER AND ALE EXPORTED.—The declared value of beer and ale exported in 11 months ended N —Mrewer was 128,114/, RE-ESTABLISHMENT OF STEAM COMM UNI CATION WITH AUSTRALIA. A contract has been concluded by her Majesty's Go• vernment with the European and Australian Royal Mail Company, for the conveyance of mails once a month, by the route of Suez, between this country and the Aw3tralian colonies. The packets under this contract will depart from the port , af Southampton, and, as in the case of the Indian mail, in addition to, and in connexion with, the direct packet, a special service will be maintained via France, for the conveyance of supplementary mails from this co-antry. The first mail to be despatched, via Southampton, under the new arrangements, will be made up in Lon don on the morning of the 24th February next, and the first mail to be despatched, via Mar seilles, will be made up in London on the evening of the 28th February. Subsequently to those dates, the mails will be despatched uniformly, via South ampton, on the morning of the 12th of the month (com mencing with the month of March), and via Marseilles on the evening of the 16th of each month. On those occasions, however, when the 12th of the month falls on a Sunday, the mails for Australia, via Southampton, will be made up and despatched on the previoxs evening, and when the 16th of the month falls on a Sunday, the mails will be made up and despatched on the following evening.—By command of the Post master-General, ROWLAND HILL, Secretary. General Post Office, Dec. 30, 1856. The Earl of Clarendon arrived in town, yesterday, from visiting her Majesty at Windsor Castle. The Countess of Erroll arrived in town, last week, from Slaines Castle, Aberdeenshire. The Earl and Countess of Desart have arrived in town. The Right Hon. Edward Cardwell, M.P., is at pre sent on a visit to his uncle, the Rev. Dr. Cardwell, Principal of St. Alban Hall, Oxford. A. letter from Nice states that the Baroness Vigier (Sophie Cruvelli) is at present residing in that town for her health. She is seen almost every day in a pony carriage, which she drives herself. The Rev. Father Ventura had a few days ago an attack of apoplexy, which placed his life in danger ; but he is now recovering. THE GUANO TRADE.—There is no duty'on guano. In the 11 months ended November the quantity imported was 175,688 tons. A powerful man named Jone 3, alias Giles, was yesterday fully committed for trial from the Southwark Police court for highway robbery. Ile was the holder of a ticket of leave. The ship, John Bunyan, has arrived off the Start, from Sydney, with dates about six days later than those received from the same port by the Red Jacket. The amount of gold brought by the John Bunyan (if any) remains to be ascertained. THE FOREIGN TRADE OF THE COUNTRY. The number of vessels employed in the foreign trade of the United Kingdom, in the 11 months ended the 30th ultimo, was 28,147 th a t en t ere d i nwar d s, and 38,86 7 that cleared outwards. It is at present believed that the shipments of specie and bullion by the Colombo, which will leave South ampton, with the India and. China mails, on the 4th January, will certainly exceed 600,000/., but this is merely a rough estimate. DEATH Or - a WOMAN IN THE SURREY TREATRE.— Last night Mr. W. J. Wayne, the deputy coroner, held an inquest at the Workhouse of St. Gee rge the Martyr, on the body of ivlartha Baker, who came to her death suddenly in the lobby of the boxes of the Surrey Theatre, on Saturday night last. The sergeon veto was sent for said she had died of a disease of the heart. The jury returned a verdict of " Natural death." TRADE REPORT—MANCHESTER, TUESDAY.—Under the renewed influence of a further excited cotton market in Liverpool yesterday, the prices of yarns and goods were again quoted higher. The active demand which arose a few days ago from several unexpected quarters of the world has sufficed to take of any pre existing stocks, and the usual requirements of buyers are not likely to be obtained except at permanently higher rates than at present. CAPTURE OF PAUL FOR THE FRAUDS AT THE CITY OF LONDON UNION.—John Paul, late assistant clerk of the City of London Union, in St. Mary Axe, who has been e.harged with several "misdemeanours and felonies," in the misappropriation of sums to a very large amount, was captured about six o'clock last night, in the vicinity of Hackney, by Daniel May, one of the most intelligent of the detective force connected with the city of London constabulary. ACCIDENT TO MR. CIIIRLES MATHEWS.—Various rumours having been in circulation respecting the health of Mr. Charles Mathews, we are requested to state that he has been confined to his bed for the last week under a most painful affection of his arm, the result of an acci• dent at the :Manchester Theatre. A severe operation was yesterday performed for his relief, and although he is still seriously ill, every hope is entertained that ho will soon be enabled to resume his professional engage. ments. Dr. Wynn. of Finsbury-square, was yesterday placed before Mr. Hammill, at the Worship-street Police-court, cherged with violently assaulting Mr. Benham, an attor ney's clerk, residing in the same house. The complainant, whose head was enveloped in bandages, said on the preceding eveniug the doctor rushed out of his, room and commenced assaulting him so violently that, he became insensible. There bad been some mieunderstanding betwceu them relative to the pussessi on of the Leese. The magistrate ordered Dr. Wynn to appear at the sessions to answer the charge. Bell was accepted. An interesting archmelogieal disc every has just been made at the village of Trigueres, near Mon targis, de partment of the Loiret, in France. It consists of the remains of a Roman amphitheatre, 230 feet long, by 195 wide, capable of containin g 10,000 s p ec t a t ors . The walls in some places are bet when three and four feet thick, in others almost double. There are two large staircases at each extremity, leading to the upper rows of seats. The complete exploration of the ruin has not yet been effected.—Literary Gazette. The process of painting the interior of the new read ing-room at the British Museum has at length been completed, and the scaffolding removed. There are twenty panels in the ceiling, each of which is painted in light blue, the decoration of the intervening girders being executed in gold, which has also been liberally employed in ornamenting the cornices and other acces sories. The effect is considered extremely satisfactory, the colours being brilliant in themselves, and from their lightness investing the vast dome with an appearance of grace and airiness which could hardly have been expected, considering its colossal proportions.—Literary Cazette. A RIVAL OF MR. STURGEON .—A young gentleman of the name of Guiness, a relative of the great Dublin brewer, has lately been creating a sensation among the religious public in Devonshire. His admirers say that he has a voice quite as powerful as Mr. Spurgeon's, and much more sonorous and persuasive. He preached at Crediton on Tuesday last, when the Baptist chapel, not being found capable of holding half the applicants for tickets, the Music-hall at the Public Rooms was hired for the occasion, and although more than 500 people were there crowded together, great numbers went away who could not gain admission. LYCEUM THEATRE.—An incid out occurred at this theatre on Monday which for the time excited consider able apprehension. In the opening scene of the " Corsair," Submarine ascends, attended by a naiad. Last evening the light dress of the latter was suddenly observed to be in flames. The sensations of alarm were speedily changed, however, to shouts of applause at the presence of mind of some gentleman connected with the theatre, who da s h e d f o rward from the wings and with his hat succeeded in beating down and extinguish ing the flames. It was, nevertheless, some time before the plaudits of the people could reassure the trembling little naiad. EXPLOSION OF GAS IN A STREET LETTER-BOX.— During the past summer the Post-office authorities fixed a number of letter-boxes for public convenience at the extremities of the borough of Wakefield. One of them was erected at the top of Wrengate. On Christmas Day, two boys, who reside in that locality, wanting a light, one of them struck a lucifer match against the iron pillar, when an explosion of gas immediately took place, and one of the youths was severely burnt and the other somewhat injured. Mr. Rowland Hurst, the postmaster at Wakefield, at once despatched Mr. Howson, one of the clerks in the Post-office, to ascertain the particulars. From inquiry, it appeared that the gas had escaped into the box from the mains in the street, the door of which was blown open, and the bag which receives the letters was tossed, with its contents, to a considerable distance. DEATH IN THE CASUAL WARDS OF ST. PANCRAS WORKHOUSE.—Yesterday, at the meeting of the direc tors of the poor of St. Pancras, held in the Board room adjoining the workhouse, at Camden Town, M Churchwarden St r eeten i n th e c h a i r, very considerable. sensation was created by a report that a young woman named 'Ann Lane, who had been admitted into the casual wards of St. Pancras Workhouse in t a o st b a e te e of destitution, and who h a d b een discovered x ceedingly ill by the nurse, had bee n a ll owed to remain in the ward in an exposed place, Where the window panes had been broken, for nearly 48 hours, without medical treatment, and that shes tohad the re exp i re d . Considerable discussion ensued a the board entering int o any the propriety o f theirs investigation until after the coroner's jury h a d made; and a motion, moved by Mr. Churchw Wyatt, ard that a sp e ci a l board be cal ; and alled after the i nquest was held, was nega and seconded by Me tive an amend inquest moved by M r . L aw f or d, 11 . ock ton, was carried by 13 t o co n duct that the board at set O nce proceed t o i nves ti ga t e th e of their officers. Eventually adjourned till a ft er the coroneesincieee t t h . e inquiry was THE PLANET JUPITER.—This planet will again be occulted by thet will come on the afterno on o f F r id ay nex t, January 2. It a w n e d llin.contact with her limb at two min. befor e 5 o'clock, emerge at one minute after 6. The di sappearance will take; place 15 at a point deg. from the moon's vertex, counting roun 1 . by the right band, in an inverting telescope ; the re-appearance at an angle of 284 deg. reckoned in the same manner. During the oc cultation Jupit er w ill b e near the meridian of London, and consequently i n a very f avoura b le pos i tion for obser vation. All fou r sa t e lli tes w i ll b e v i sible at the time, the fourth at a considerable distance from the planet on the left hand in the inverting telescope, the third about half as far from it on the same side, and the first and second near together on the right of Jupiter. On this occasion the planet will be entirely hidden by the moon for about an hour, the metropolis being far within the limiting parallels of latitude for the occultation. On the Bth of November last the upper limit passed very close to the northern suburbs of London, and hence occurred the interesting phenomenon of a partial occultation of the planet, the predicted and actual circumstances agree ing almost exactly. LATEST NE WS. THE PARIS CONFERENCES. PARIS, WEDNESDAY. The Moniteur states that the representatives of the several Governments who were parties to the Treaty of Paris meet to-day (Wednesday), at the hotel of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, to arrange as to the means of putting an end to the difficulties which have arisen in connection with the carrying out of the 20th Article. A letter from Besancon (Doubs) mentions that two companies of infantry of the garrison of that town had left for the canton of Morteau ; and that it was very probable that a French army would be established on the eastern frontier "to be ready for all emergencies." It was said that the army would consist of not less than 60,000 men,—that Marshal Canrobert would be named to command it,—and that the head-quarters would be Besancon. This intelligence is generally corroborated by the local papers. Notwithstanding these warlike rumours a pacific solution is far from being despaired of even now. The Paris correspondent of the Times (second edition), in a letter dated yesterday, says "A telegraphic despatch from Berne of yester day's date announces the arrival of an 'Envoy Extraordinary' from the Emperor Napoleon. It is probable that an attache has been sent with despatches to the French Resident Minister, but I doubt much whether any person to whom the designation, under present circumstances, of En voy Extraordinary' can be applied, has left Paris." . _ A letter dated Berlin, Dec. 29, just received, says :—" Sir Colin Campbell, who is to bring over the insignia of the Order of the Bath, and present them to the Prince next Thursday in the name of Queen Victoria, has not arrived to-day at the apartments taken for him at the Hotel Royal, and where he is hourly expected. His non-arrival excites the more interest and anxiety, as his departure from England for this place has been known here these two days." BERNE, TUESDAY EVENING. Councillor Furrer's journey to Frankfort was occasioned by a telegraphic message from the re- presentatives of the German Governments, con vened for the purpose of devising means to pre vent a conflict. The Federal Council replied telegraphically, announcing the despatch of Coun cillor Furrer, who will also visit the Courts of Southern Germany. The new French proposal was not made by an Envoy, but through M. Bar mann, who was authorised for the purpose by the Emperor. The American Minister has left for Berlin. The steamers on the Lake of the Four Cantons are armed with artillery. All the Swiss fortresses and castles are put in a state of defence. BERNE, TUESDAY NIGHT, The National Council has adopted unanimously the proposition passed by the Federal Council on Saturday, for the grant of an unlimited credit. BERLIN, TUESDAY. Colonel Manteuffel has set out for Vienna. STUDGARDT, DEC. 30. The Moniteur Officiel publishes the Report of the Commission relative to the passage of Prussian troops. The Commission, relying on the positive righi of Allies, refuses the demand of Prussia as a po litical intrusion. FRANCE. PARIS, TUESDAY. The Momiteur of yesterday publishes a report from M. Billault, the French Minister of the In terior, asking a credit of 3,000,000 f. (120,0001.) for public works in the provinces. The report is fol lowed by an Imperial decree approving the report and granting the money. The report is as follows : " Sire,—This year's harvest was a better one, and the importation of foreign grain considerable. The price of wheat underwent a s low but gradual fall, and on different points of the empire the price per hectolitre was 25f. " Nevertheless, and despite the measures taken by your orders to facilitate and cheapen the price of grain, despite the great reduction obtained with that view on the railway charges, some of the de partments almost entirely without, others with very poor narvests, still suffer severely. from the high prices, and ask help from your Majesty. " Doubtless, this paternal intervention of your Government, which for three years has devoted to the relief of the distressed suffering from want--;n 1854, 10,000,00 0 f. ; in 1855 , 5 , 000 , 00 0 f. ; in 185 1 6, 10 other millions , cannot be placed among the or dinary expenses of each year, as it must remain ex ceptional, and cease with the scourge which it tries to put down; it may now follow the decreasing pro gression, and 3,000,000 f. will suffice, I hope, for 1857. " The object in view is not so much to give cha rity to the indigent out of work, as to provide labour where it may be wanted this winter, and to lessen by charity, carefully distributed, that heavy difference between the price of food and the amount of daily wages. " Thanks to the perfect tranquillity enjoyed by the country, industry and commerce are in full activity. The fruitful impulse given to the great public works multiplies throughout the country the workshops in which the workman can find em ployment ; and the Emperor, with his wonted soli citude for the wants of the working classes, has himself designated among the enterprises projected by the State those which might at once provide work where it is most wanted. For the districts that will not benefit by these blessings I shall, if necessary, promote works of municipal interest. But what appears to me most especially to deserve the favour of the Government, and what I shall encourage as much as possible, are those charitable institutions the ingenious activity of which, avoiding costly measures, provides directly, and at reduced prices, food and clothing for the poor. Numerous establishments of this descrip tion are already in activity in different parts of the empire, and, in endeavouring to re-establish between the wants of a family and the daily wages that balance which bad harvests have for the mo ment disturbed, they have obtained results the benefits of which are duly appreciated by the work ing classes. "To realise in this double point of view the charitable intentions of your Majesty I only ask for a credit of 3,000,000 f., for I shall find in the country that immense auxiliary called charity. Three successive years of sacrifices have neither tired nor exhausted it, and the Government has never appealed to it in vain. The prefects are well aware that the zeal which best pleases the Emperor is that which places itself at the head of all good works, which promotes or seconds acts of devotion. They will neglect nothing to fulfil, according to your Majesty's desire, that duty of humanity and of good government. The chief officials of the de partments will, I am sure, give them their cordial support ; for simply to fulfil one's duty is not taking o an active and willin g p ar t i n th e genero us views the Emperor ; it is only half servin g him. These efforts, these g oo d exam pl es , w ill bea r fruit ; the difficulty will be once more overcome, and it will not be a sight without significance in the eyes of the world—that courageous and patriotic resig nation with which our populations will have sup ported four consecutive years of bad harvest. Under other Governments a single year of misery engendered disturbances ; for three years not the ' slight3st emotion has been manifested ; for there are two things, Sire, of which the people are well aware—your paternal solicitude for its sufferings, and the strength of your Government.—l am, with profound. respect, Sire, your Majesty's very obedient and very humble servant, " BILLAULT." BOURSE, Dec. 30.—The foil owing were the last quotations Cash. fr. c. End of Month. 4i per Cents 3 per Cents 66 55 6(5 $0 New Loan Bank Shares 3,950 ROMal 1 (x d) Si Credit Mobilier 1,39) Austri In Belgian Five 5......,.. Spauisl 1 Threes 4ll Piedmontese (5) ...... 92 Home .IDebt .RAILWAYS—FOR CA SR. fr. c. fr. c. Orleans 1,315 Wester' t Northern 940 Strasburg Lyons 1 , 365 New Ditto Mediterranean — Grand Central Lyons Geneva Cette GREECIE. SPEECH OF KING OTHO. The legislative session of the Greek Chambers was opened by King Otho on the 19th of December with the usual formalities. His Majesty made the following speech : " Gentlemen Deputies and Senators—Having returned, after an absence of some months, to our well beloved Greece, it is with real pleasure that I see you assembled around me, and that I can ex press to my devoted people, through the medium of their representatives, all the affection I enter tain for them, and my gratitude for the attachment and fidelity they have always shown towards me, and which is the indissoluble link between the Throne and the nation. It was by manifesting them anew during my absence that the cares of the regency intrusted to the Queen, my beloved con sort, were alleviated. I also express my satisfac tion to the legislative bodies, whose active and patriotic zeal has facilitated the work of the Go vernment during the same period. " Since I last addressed the Chambers peace, which is the most solid foundation of the prosperity of nations, has been restored to Europe, and I have powerful reasons for believing that the foreign Eroops which the war introduced into Greece will be soon withdrawn. " I have the satisfaction of announcing to you that I am on a friendly footing with all foreign Powers. / " Before every other consideration, my Govern ment, remembering the obligations of Greece to wards the great Powers, her benefactors, has spon taneously offered to respond to them to the best of its power. The condescending dispositions and goodwill of the Powers towards Greece give me the best hopes of a happy and final settlement Of that transaction. " Brigandage, which is abhorred by the nation, was not long since a great evil at home and aroused the indignation of foreign States. By wis e and energetic measures, by the valour of our soldiers, and the willing support of the people, EnY Government has succeeded in extirpating that scourge, and in restoring complete security to Greece. There is only the frontier line where brigandage cannot be suppressed without the fi rm co-operation of the adjoining State. To ob tain that result I have concluded a special conven tion with Turkey, which my Government has punc tually carried out. " The object of my most constant and ser ious solicitude is the internal development, materia l 3s . well as intellectual, of Greece. It is for the G ree t people the surest foundation of all progress an", prosperity. To attain this end the Government has taken various measures, and laws of great icii; portance have been decreed. My Government is actively employed in their execution. « F ore i gn cap it a l h as b een soug ht f or to multiplyt and perfect the means of communication, wi lheu r , which no material progress is possible, to r estore our rich plains which became swamps, to agricul ture,, and to construct necessary ports. lam ha r P t i o to inform you that capitalists have commence' respond with confidence to the appeal. to "Great praise and national gratitude are due the enthusiastic p nary atriotism which the G reeks, wherever they are, display in advancing the r" gross of Christian civilisation in their cone able in offering the first fruits of their indefa tiga labours for the erection of sacred edifices, of scho o ls which provide knowledge and improve the 1 11 °,r.',.: and of pious, scientific, and philanthropic ments. ders regular course of government ren b should e it necessary that the budget of each year eon , discussed by the Chambers before the sums it been tains are expended. Two budgets havin,g, th i s voted together in the preceding session, tna,u , order may be re-established and sanctioned_ Lll,, Government will bring before you immediately estabusa budget of 1858. the annual session. " A reform of the taxes and the • sal ofthe t, - various bills will be submitted to you during national property, which is one of its conalLio to have will be one of the first subjects you will fore you, consider. A new tariff will be laid be t h e based upon those healthy principles adopted laY most enlightened nations. errors are "Experience has proved that many _, a to be found in the communal and electoralerla My Government will submit to your consid ss te i : disposal liberty. guarantee to communal and constitutional public officials, improvements in both, so as to give every pc I"' " Laws to protect the rights of the national dom ains, which will regulate d u ti e s of the lower clergy and the s cientific ur serious attention.activity of the natioa, will call for yo the prudence o your a nd patriotism. Providence, vr "I recommend all these laws, t which concern the dearest interests of the nation, "M a y that Divine r? vidence, whose shado a l ways rests on Gre ece, g uide and bless! your delibe rations we lfare of the country a tions for the con e first session of the fifth Parliamentary period is open. THE OVERLAND MAIL. MARSEILLES, TuEspAY! The Valetta, with the Indian and China mails,arrived at 1 p.m. The mails will be despatched for London at 10 this evening. LLOYD'S SHIPPING.--(This Day.) LONDON, Dec. 31.—Wind this day at noon, 0. " " light breeze and dull cloudy weather. PORTSMOUTH, Dec. 30.—Wind W.S.W.—Arrived lieuriata, from Bremen, for La Guayra. FALMOUTH, Dee. 30.—Wind W. moderate.rrived —Edina, from Malta, for St. John's , N.B. Off the Port -- John Lawson, from Guatemala. COWES, Dec. 30.—Wind. W.—Arrivecl—Wynand, from Foochowfoo, and sailed for Rotterdam. M er lirip SCILLY, Dec.2 9 . — Wind N.W ., fresh.—Sailed — for Madeira ; Dorcas , Jamaica . this LIVERPOOL, Dec. 31. — The barqu e Mar y Ann, of port, sank last night in Rhos Bay. Ada, QUEENSTOWN, Dec. 29 . —Wind S.W.—Arrived— from Cowes; Coringa, Dem erara. icks, from CARDIFF, Dec. 30.—The Am erican ship Garr Antwerp to this ,port, and the Charles M'Cloughai: hence to Martinique, are both on shore on the Bret.o, Point The Tribune, of London, from Bristol to C di, parted her anchors yesterday and drove over the sand , where she struck heavily. She will be surveyed. (PEA nzaraio TELEGItArg.) SOUTHAMPTON, 'Wednesday, 9.30 a.m. The Royal Mail Co m p an y 's steam ship Camilla, ie fromßuenos Ayres, w ith mails, com in g home for repairs, telegraphed, having passed Hurst Station at 8.40 a.m. LIVERPOOL, Wednesday Morning. Wind S.W. Orleans; Mag nolia, Bonny; Sailed —Prince ton, for New John Dalton, Calcutta. The barque Ma r y Ann, from Liverpool, for Gibraltar, sunk last night in Rhos Bay. Sailed from Beaumaris on the 29th inst. QUEENSTOWN, Dec. 29. Wind S.W. Arrived—Ceringa, f r om Demerara ; Ada, Callao. Sailed—McLarn, for Alexandria. (BY SUBMARINE AND BRITISII TELEGRAPH. ) 4 a.m. G RAV ESEND, Wednesday, 9.5 Wind W. ; last houi's ebb ; cloudy. ju A le r n r s ive u d, eis D en ec b . or 3 g l : for 130tilogn —Penelope, from liartiaburg Ud d ewa lla ; e Eclipse, ; Orwell, Copenhagen ; Friendship , Bordeaux; Sco, Sailed, Dec. 3 1 . — Pa nther, ; Madeira. DEAL, Virednesday, 9.45 a.m. Wind S. by W. ; moderate. Anchored—Mau Bonfield, from London, for Messina Sydney, from London, for Sierra Leone. John Bunyan, ship, from Sydney, for London, passed in tow early this morning• The Grace, of Wrbitebaven, Durban, master, from Cuba, for Liverpool, was abandoned on the 12th instant in a sinking state, having previously lost her rudder, captsie and crew taken off, and saved by the Danish schooner Gazelle, bound to Bremen ; put on board the Deal lugger Rose, off Dungeness ; landed hero last night, and ill b e forwarded to London by the Royal Benevolent ship wrecked Mariners' Society. CUSTOM -HOUSE, TUESDAY, DEC. 30. Rag ENTERED INWARDS. —The Eugene, from Bayonne; -----.. Michael, Moulmein ; Emma, ildclevialla • rosero, St. Michaels ; Voskelena, Leer ; Black Sea, ikyab. ,7 ENTERED OUTWARDS.—The Bulgersteyn for Aaerail Spitfire, Hong Rose, Trieste and Venice ; Amazon, Havre • Minster V° Kong and Canton ; James, Dunkirk ; W ll Basso, S a ntander; Sylphidia, Santander ; Sally, Colombo ; Unity, Rouen. Prem ier, Lisbon ; Jessie, Dunkirk Cat h a rine, kr S C L EARED OUT WITH CARGO.—The Myrtle, Sev ille; e ville; Faith, Demerara. HANDSOME PRESENTATION TO A CLERGYMAN. --"t/,'" Monday evening the Rev. Dr. aYlor, incumbent of John's Church, Liverpool, was presented with a silver tea and c offee service, with inaisivo silver salvor, of the Louis Quatorze pattern, together with a p urse coutairy iug GO sovereigns, by his congregation.