The Sun. — London, England, 1845-12-23 00:00:00

tit 01!1' 170er l i at this stilt: present wh e l after Ig o 11 times. [ signed t" poi n t. sa id at the y 1 0 1 .' You n 3u6 It was i we went 0 Sundays tb on Cour g) :,; 3 g, were h e The follow' n the beYeri" turie inthe 113003iIIS" 'd:— M e td rs' ood, VVv- - ; ransa ction . . ° : opening goposed 613 yr . ?. ' in th.. :qedfor 015,, on from fie" in the chai r ' is ward. , L the cha i r. were O le ei Mr. 1 341.9 h i, nd and - b Put Up wit e nded. n the cbsir r elected Ab blef, n eh r. w sett, Do. T. a nd Dir• fruipic- Lai ip o the reP rr rac klow, re; id the ta T r )011 ball ill tb, ° . lout opposi, Bill, J. u IVbe_ u t bs ?i a , i n tbeco; o f ?tiretoonfr 0 ol" e ge tie o named ie n. 5. by V. e ll• 'os. r J 3 e* ker ' too? CasEltad ter l i e • r roll tb vs ,ed with° the lon i° ic ks sirs. tio fopPe, the e dg, tbaclio Isnitne gs ly tb. .tr # his Led for Dov 'd :;), if ( rood ju (DeP l3/1 ' rere Or_ Df the Co' suing t he B red irnod: d i t he [e e than r•ble woe it the to , An att! re r . co ingta P refer. - A liefeodev .ast uP °l3 tying th, tlS , bed. P v CC of the ,8 in 1114 t he cbsi s r ; w ar(' c f , h , a pson, '"" ,or is ro, id 19 ; ,riot,ls r' the _M i :0 m it )s e ► t t l l ' A 00` •OA .in j itation v* sir. Too nitestia he cbai G rd, wh en was u r mai pro. . n won wade' The Pt AP to a t a• sow- e do c r i 000 0 Tbe 62 5 6 '" 5 6 52 COURT CIRCULAR. WINDSOR, MONDAY.—A fall of snow this morning again prevented the Queen and the Royal Family from enjoying their accustomed early morning airings. Prince Albert took the diversion of shooting this morning. There ware in attendance on his Royal High• ne ss Major-General Sir Edward Bowater, Coload towles, and Mr. R. Ormsby Gore. The royal party returned to the Castle before two o'clock. Earl Delawarr and Sir Henry Wheatley are expected to arrive at the Caste to-day, on a visit to her Majesty. Fier Majesty and her Royal Consort walked out this afternoon. There was no addition to the royal dinner circle at the Castle this evening. The Queen will hold a Privy Council this day (Tues day) at Windsor Castle. Summonses were issued yester uey to the Ministers. The Council is appointed at half- Past two o'clock. The Duke of Cambridge visited her Royal Highness the Duchess of Gloucester, at Gloucester House, yes terday. Lord Granville Somerset, the Chancellar of the Ex ehequer, the Earl of Aberdeen, and Sir James Graham, visited Sir Robert Peel yesterday, at his residence in Whitehall-gardens. Count de Pollon, the Sardinian Minister, transacted business yesterday at the Board of Trade. A special general meeting of the Ecclesiastical Com missioners for England was held yesterday afternoon, at the office in Whitehall-place. The Commissioners pre tent were the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Bishop of London, the Bishop of Ely, the Bishop of Llandaff, the Bishop of Rochester, and the Chancellor of the Ex qequer. BAL MASQUE. ,Zl. Jullien's third annual Bal Masque, which took place ' 4 2t night at Covent-garden Theatre, exceeded in splendour Ity previous public reunion of this description exhibited in la country. The appearance of the audience portion of the r?llse was one blaze of exceeding brilliancy—the fronts of the were gorgeously draperied, and the festoons of flowers, itt d the glass chandeliers with innumerable gas jets, shed a 4 4, lance on every object positively dazzling. Every dispos able seat of the boxes and galleries was occupied, and E) arena with its countless quaint costumes and 1 4, 1 associations formed a coup d'cril as splendid as it unique. We doubt whether such an orchestra was 'ter before united for dance purposes—many of most celebrated instrumentalists of Europe performed the 131 ,°8; and though the numerical force amounted to 108, the 141 1ce of sound was so admirably equalised, that no undue vi olence of sound resulted from the combination. The greatest t e Cularity existed. The sets of dances were regulated by t ituberress powdered and white-wanded masters of ceremo 4iee----qu adrilles, polkas, mazourkas, and tarantellas were ex kilted with great spirit ; and when we left the company l eelned to be enjoying the splendour and mirth of the gay l e i e ene with an appetite that seemed to grow by what it fed 1:4 / 1 ) . The supper and wines were excellent. The hal ) 71 11 6 of 1845 reflects infinite credit on the taste and libe -uty of M. Jullien. ‘/PENING OF THE SHEFFIELD AND MANCHESTER RAILWAY. tis kAAcHEsTEn, MONDAY.—This has been a great day for the two of Sheffield and Manchester, the railways between " 4 c two. points being opened throughout. The great obstacle Lt .. he tuvniel which pierces the chain of hills between Lan -o.4ire avid Yorkshire—was this day formally opened. It 13, 14 cost i'VO,OOO/., and has taken seven years in execution. form Passed over the hills, on coach, a fortnight ago, in a snow lb , and can testify to the marvellous change effected by opening of the railway. 4 train of about twenty carriages left the Sheffield station 1 „„!cn o'clocit this morning, drawn by two new engines, fiZQlllpanied by the Chairman, Mr. J. Parker, M.P. for 4 ' 4 i:field, the other Directors and their friends, to whom t 2itation s had been issued. Precisely at five minutes past the train was put into motion, and got under rapid way. 4 - ", e weather was extremely unpropitious, in consequence of b.‘niendous fall of snow. The train reached Dunford t:tuge in three-quarters of an hour, where it remained 141:ty minutes for water. It then proceeded through the el, which is three miles and twenty yards, at a steady It was 10i minutes in passing through this great sub biralean bore; and on emerging in to the " regions of light," s ko. 7oodhead, the passengers gave three hearty cheers, g the mountains ring. We speedily passed over the Cullerful viaduct at Dieting, and arrived at Manchester at krarter past twelve, the band playing " See, the conquer th hero comes !" The party were met here by the Man !kter shareholders, who proceeded to Sheffield, anOmed it+lth their Sheffield friends. The line will be opened fro the :!c to-morrow. General Pasley, the Government in- °r, left Sheffield at ten o'clock on Saturday, and after Tng over the line, gave the usual certificate of safety t a "a consolidation. - -- )Z 4 : l 11 MINISTRY. —A Privy Council will be held at b p :Ttior to- day, for the purpose of completing the ministerial tiZgements. 'We have reason to believe that, with the VP, tion of the late Lord Wharncliffe, whose lamented loss ti gave had so lately to announce, all the Ministers, save 'remain in the o ffi ces they have hitherto occupied. The t t ,; l ' ll ing of Parliament will be decided upon at to - day's Privy Pttil. It will probably take place about a month from the .nut time. Herald. (1 4 ,"le anniversary of the Marquis of Stafford's birth le.. as celebrated on Tuesday last with the accustomary 44 0 - flags, on his noble father's estates in Staffordshire and kikplandshire. His Lordship on the above day completed s p tth year. 47 0' 1 4 1 Countess of Lincoln was safely delivered of a 144eaterday morning, at the family mansion in Whitehall- V : ko 4 l kount Palmerston received Lord Monteagle, the 8 )1 ;1-Ion. Henry Labouchere, Lord Harry Vale, Mr. F. Osy t s Ur. C. Greville, and a select party, at dinner on Sun -1, t, at his mansion on Carlton Houseetarrace. Itt..'ne Earl of Mornington has taken Oak Hall, near 47gtead, Essex, where his Lordship intends to reside during khTtion of the ensuing year. Oak Hall is situate within a - n. distance of Wanstead Park. tr ~t the Congregation at Cambridge, on Friday, a ilt:;',...P.Atteed the senate, appointing Mr. Cockerell to be the ISiiii:tr. Basevi's successor, as architect to the new Fitz the a m Museum, in conformity with the recommendation of te„,,ltzvrilliam Syndicate, in their report of the 9th of De er i nst . 44 1 211m0ur has been for some time in circulation, d ort ."4B of late obtained a degree of credit altogether dispro- Ili ', to ned to its probability, that an intention existed in the kkest quarter of appointing the Royal Consort to the corn littotlef the army, whenever that most important post should YV t h we vacant by the resignation of the Duke of Wellington. 1 4"%ve unquestionable authority for stating that no such thenion ever existed on the part of her Majesty, and that il lustrious person whose name has been so freely used has l:aell false ambition as to desire a post which requires for tki,, d ue pefermance of its delicate and important duties very - lo c i - "„_ 81 Ve experience in the working of our military system, te, t l'u e occupation of which has been always hitherto asso itO, in the uic mind with long service and brilliant Prements p in t he field.—Times t t lutnicAre APPLES.—It has been noticed that the e 1 introduced this year from the United States into the o,to 4 ° ll markets are much more affected than those of this Ito analogous and that few will keep. The disease is equally ex 've and in its propagation to that so general in titt o ,,, l. t 42 ,13 11 EAST.—There is an instrument invented 1 14 La " orientor," to assist Anglo-Catholics in discovering 1," Ike - ,, ; a4 t; so that they may be able to say their prayers in trght directh n, wherever they may be. ARBOURS" ON THE COAST OF OREGON.—A corre dent of the Morning Chronicle, who has cruised on the k„„ r ll coast in sailing vessels and steamers, states that vol,: a gh there are scarcely any harbours from lat. 42 to the it t 'ibbia River, yet to the northward of this the harbours a tllnerous and splendid ; in fact, there are two in Juan de ti c Straits , that will take nearly the whole of the British tip, Abaerican fleets, and on Vancouver's Island there are ie i .,kore from eight fathoms upwards. The harbours from l ! . to 54 40 are so numerous, and have such famous d ings%tN„,, that the Hudson Bay vessels cruising on the coast tkli t think of remaining under sail all night, as they are in ki t h tegnlar soundings as afforded capital opportunity of lloreing. He has in his possession a list of harbours to the N''‘Yard of Columbia, amounting to upwards of sixty, with latitude and longitude. tit length we are enabled to give a satisfactory 11 1 ` ‘ Y to the many anxious inquiries which have been ad tteatl'ed to us respetting the distribution of the promised de ,v4o,_. ' l3ll for the service performed by the British forces in 4),.. ) -4 . and to explain the cause of its issue having been de llkit for so long a period. It appears that due diligence was Otti b in getting the medal struck, and that it was ready for q tt 'trY in proper time. But in accordance with the policy '4 t Zoiding the possibility of creating any misinterpretation gee kisL e pacific intentions of the British Government, it was ' 4 % ;t 1 Prudent to alter the original device on the reverse of p edal, viz., " The British Lion trampling on the Dragon," I t ki 0 : 0 substitute a trophy incapable of giving offence, by s o _less emblematical of conquest, and more appropriate L ytruk, memorate the expedition. The obverse of the NZ; as it now appears, exhibits a faithful likeness of her , 1 41 0 - n and on the reverse is the motto, " Peace in Asia Isk"xt by Victoria, 1842." It is to be worn suspended vse_the button-hole by a red ribbon, with yellow edges.— r Service Gazette. S t i lt LATE LORD WHARNCLIFFE.—We understand "11 0 411 Sunday morning Mr. Meriman and the physicians, th were called in to consult on the serious illness of this il l t l zo k te d nobleman, assembled at the family mansion in Its * . 4 -stre e t, as well as Sir Benjamin Brodie, when there 44 ee rt ? ) , vf-rnortem examination of the deceased, when it was I , l7'ned that death was caused by an effusion on the brain. 1 4.4 6 " e late Sir Matthew John Tierney, M.D. left L'itC: l te kiln personal . property . estimated at 30,000/. y ' s . died Nee l ,&lssue, but by his will he has bequeathed to his . niece, ,iitt t T ierney, (the daughter of his brother Thomas Tierney, I,l%ie,, a 3lnaster of the 43d Regiment of Light Infantry, who NS, 1 , -4 With him, a legacy of 8,000/. for her absolute use. To b , lo ,o6, l lther, now ' Sir Edward Tierney, Bart., a legacy of ei,' i and to his niece, Harriet Mary, daughter of Sir ~4 1? 4,- 14, he leaves 5,000/. The residue of his property, real 'lser rB enal, he has given to his nephew, Matthew Edward i&i„ e3 : .. ef the Coldstream Guards, son of Sir Edward ; and 'ti"Led his said brother, Sir Edward, and nephew, Matthew s teh li l a eY, Esq., his executors. The latter alone obtained nia , 7, en the 18th inst. The will was made in January, 1 , ; 414 a codicil last September, a month before death. 'lre 4; 4 REPRESENTATION OF HERTFORDSHIRE. — We 4 g o , l l°r med that Mr. Spencer Cowper, in the anticipation of tekto t er al election at an early period, declines to contest the " 1 41 0 Y' With Mr. Halsey at the present vacancy, but has ``tihit i P l eed his intention of coming forward at the next oppor 4. D o ,. ~ r it tki -,heriotis TO THE POOR.—Yesterday the magis ,4low 4 1/ 30 w-street, Lambeth, and Thames Police-courts,ac -41154,"ged having receivedC." for clis gi°n .to poor objects who are deserving of relief. ll,,, v illins BANNs.—The law applicable to banks for t he' e ,l 4 diStifict lv points out the classes of persons for whom .4 1 ..Yere Li)er tl4 o : BB C ; re t e osereoc institUt t 'd—namely, to provide for the safe custody receive de savings belonging to the industrious f eiv B 4 res t ~ ; to accumula t e t `le ,; ) sits of money for the benefit of those Ito ) , -a of recut: produce thereof at compound in ties ; and to return the whole, or d tpo l ) ?trt 3,. of such deposits, 91 ,'d the produce thereof, to such 1 1 ` °l ' B . Scarcely have giez ,; . er impositions been practised etitr,l re spect than by persons very different from those 'ho se -.fled, depositing for themselv:s and their children in to pie. Institutions, and it now behoves t:ustees and managers llo b eec:', a n n d e s t:l ,, to it. It is a great disgrace . 1:0 , those who .. have i t I, 11 11(1.,, " are , committing this imposituMq land it is the i.ei -" duty of trustees and managers to eradicate it l ir r° ughly. Pest ' 0 P. Dickinson and Mr. Acland, members for torzeaoornerset, are veering towards free. trade ; they have to t i e ..`: a cold shoulder towards the Agricultural Protection I)l.ol,n—they deem them imprudent. This is a sign that 1 4.r", # , ,P4r. M ilea the honour of standing alone in iiis glory. . "4 40Urnal. ' TilE SUN LONDON, TUESDAY EVENING, DECEMBER 23, 1845 THE YARMOUTH MURDER. RE-APPREHENSIO3i. OF YARUAM. G LO U CE STER, MONDAY.--'"UUT readers will doubtless remember the particulars of the murder of Harriet Candler, a shopkeeper in Yarmouth, on the night of the 18th of November, 1844. We have from time to time detailed the circumstances and particulars as any fresh evidence or fact has been adduced, and we have now to state that Yarham has been apprehended at Blakeney, in Gloucestershire. Our readers will remember the extra ordinary testimony of the woman Dick, who stated that Yarham had confessed to her that he wa; concerned in the murder. On the strength of this evidence a warrant was granted by the Yarmouth magistrates, on the 6th of December, for the apprehension of Yarham, and placed in the hands of Captain Love, the Superintendent of Police there. Some suspicion being entertained that he was in Gloucestershire, Captain Love came to Gloucester on Saturday morning last, and immediately proceeded to Mr. Williams, the Superintendent of the Gloucester City Police, who, together with the Captain, went off to the town of Blakeney, about sixteen miles from Gloucester. At the house of Mr. Smallwood, shoe maker, Yarham was found at work, and informed of the reasons of the presence of the officers. He said he was aware of the circumstances of the murder from reading the newspapers, but denied the truth of the statement made by Dick, who said that be had confessed his guilt to her three weeks after his release from custody, whereas he says he left Yarmouth fourteen days after. This he says he can prove. He was taken to Gloucester, and on Sunday morning was removed to London, on the way to Yarmouth. GREAT LOSS OF LIFE AND PRO PERTY ALONG THE COAST. One of the fiercest storms that has been experienced for a considerable period took place soon after midnight on Sun day morning, from the N.N.E., and continued the entire day, occasioning innumerable catastrophes along the coast, and great loss of property. Off Margate, a homeward bound vessel, engaged in the Indian trade, was driven ashore on the Knock sands, and speedily became a wreck. She was called the Woodmar. commanded by a Mr. Good, and was from Bombay, having on board a valuable cargo of mer chandise and several passengers, who had a narrow escape from drowning. Shortly after she had struck the sands several luggers came oft to her, and having preserved the passengers from the wreck, resorted to every possible means to get the ship off, but after many hours' labour, and all proving in vain, they were forced to leave her. At Bowcastle, a melancholy shipwreck happened about three miles up the coast to the northward. When the gale was at its height, a quantity of snow falling at the time, a brig named the Mary Ann, laden with coal, from Swansea, for London, was seen buffeting with the wind. She eventu ally drove within a short distance of the land, when the crew let go her anchors. The coast guard acted most cou rageously, for never had a vessel been witnessed being brought up under such circumstances as she under a lee shore. Her anchors held until after dark, when about nine o'clock a heavy sea struck her, snapped her cable, and she was dashed ashore with great violence, and with the excep tion of two seamen, the whole of her crew perished. The two poor fellows who escaped were washed on the beach from the vessel, which became a total wreck. Off Holyhead—Two vessels came in contact, and one it is feared foundered, with ten persons on board, the number of her crew. The vessel is the Aeolus, from Liverpool for the Azores, and the one which ran into her is the Young Queen, of the same port. Two only of the Aeolus's jumped on board the Young Queen, and before the vessels parted another at tempted a similar escape, but fell overboard and was drowned. A vessel was lost at the entrance of Sunderland harbour. The Swift (a brig from Ross bound for Leith), it appears, at tempted to run into the harbour, when she was struck against the south pier by a tremendous sea with such violence, as to turn her completely to the southward. The crew were got on shore, by means of lines thrown by rockets. At Bideford the gale blew terrifically high all day, with heavy falls of snow. In the early part of the day the wreck of the yacht Fanny, the property of Charles Montgome r y, Esq., of Swansea, was driven in the harbour, and her frag ments strewed the shore on both sides for a considerable distance. It is ascertained that the vessel must have struck upon the bar in attempting to make the harbour, when she, no doubt, was instantly dashed to pieces, and all on board perishing. None of the bodies of the crew have as yet been picked up ; but a memorandum, of which the following is a copy. has been found amongst some papers washed up : "John Baillie and William Curran came on board the Fanny on the 20th of October, 1845." Many other fearful casualties occurred, but the correct particulars have not been as yet learned. (From a Second Edition of the Pembroke Advertiser, Friday night.)—lt is with extreme regret that we have to announce the wreck of two vessels at Fisbguard Bay, which happened to-day. The stern of one of them has floated in, on which is inscribed" Howard, of Savannah." There were from thirty to forty persons seen on her deck previous to her going to pieces, but from the boisterous state of the weather no as sistance could be rendered, and it is supposed that all hands perished. From the size of the stern, she must have been a ship of about 700 tons burden. The name of the other vessel we have not yet been able to ascertain, but full particulars will appear in our next. Private letters have been received by this morn ing's mail from Madrid, of great commercial importance, in asmuch as they show a disposition on the part of the present Spanish Ministry to abandon their old restrictive policy, and adopt more liberal principles of trade. The Ministry, it seems, have resolved to admit English cotton manufactures at a decreased rate of duty, those sorts paying the least which are not manufactured in the country. According to this mo dification of the law, it is said that goods of 100 threads to the square inch will pay 50 per cent., and the finer kinds not above 12 to 15. The coarser sorts will have a much higher protective duty. These measures, it is understood, have not been adopted by the Ministry without consulting the Catalo nians, whose opposition, in matters of this kind is so much to be apprehended; and they are about to obtain, if possible, the permission of the Chambers, or, if not, to try the new tariff without discussion, and by an order of the Government. No doubt seems to be entertained with respect to these facts, as far as the intentions of th. Ministers are concerned, but their ability to carry those intentions into effect is subject to . . that doubt - which attends everything Spanish. The late John Irving, Esq., M.P. for Antrim, late of Magheranemona, near Lisburne, Ireland ; of Ashford, Middlesex; Richmond-terrace, Whitehall; and Tokenhouse yard, London. By his will, which was proved in Lon don on Friday last, the 19th inst., by his nephew and sole executor, John Irving, Esq., and which was made in August, 1845, he therein confirms a testamentary disposition executed by him according to the law of Scotland, whereby he devised his estates at Newfield, in Dumfries, North Britain, to his brother-in -law, Alexander Currie, for life; and at his decease to John Irving Currie, the son of the said Alexander Currie, and his heirs. All other his estates in Scotland he leaves to his said nephew, John Irving, and ap points him residuary legatee, subject to a provision for the payment of certain annuities and legacies; and amongst other bequests he leaves to his nephew, John Davidson, 2001. a year, and a legacy of 510/. to his children. To his nephew, William Davidson, 2001. a year; also seve ra l l egac i es o f 500/. to nephews and nieces. To his partners, Sir John Rae Reid, Bart., George Reid, and James Milligan, 500/. each ' • and has remembered other of his friends with similar bequests. The personal estate in England, within the province of Can terbury, was sworn under 30,0001., which is independent of his property in Scotland and Ireland. The Hon. Member died at his residence, Richmond-terrace, on the 10th ult., at the age of seventy-eight.—Post. ST. ANNE'S, SOHo.—The rectory of this parish, which has recently become vacant by the death of Dr. M'Leod, is in the gift of the Bishop of London. It is worth nearly 1,0001. per annum. THE BASTARDY Lams RIGHT or MARRIED WOMEN TO BECOME PLAINTIFFS IN QUESTION!ii OF AF im portance, case involving a question o f considerable came before the sitttng magistrate, Mr. Grove, at the Woolwich Police-court, on Friday last, on a summont obtained by a married woman named Holt, against a young man named Terry, whom she charged with being the father of her illegitimate child. The husband of the complainant is a private of marines, and it was during his absence in South America, where he remained for a period of four years, that the child was born, of which the woman alleged the defendant was the father. The view taken by Mr. Je remy when the summons was applied for, was whether a woman debarred, as in this case, from all intercourse with her husband, was not to be considered as a single woman for the time. Mr. Pelham, who appeared for the defence, took an objection in limine to the summons, which he con tended could not stand, as the complainant, being a married woman, had no standing in law, she could not be plaintiff in any action at common law. The present Act of Parliament was made for single women, and a wife could never lose her marital rights except by divorce. The husband must be the complainant, and even if he where, it was doubtful whether, in a case like this, she could give evidence involving an accusation of adultery against herself. Mr. Nokes, the clerk, said it was singular that a similar application was made at Greenwich that morn ing, and both himself and Messrs. Traill and Jeremy, after looking closely at all the Acts bearing on the question, were of opinion that the summonses ought to be granted. It was true the Act was not for married women, but the question was whether a woman whose husband could not possibly have access to her was not to be dealt with in the light of a single woman. Mr. Pelham said it was quite clear that if a married woman had half a dozen children by as many men, her husband must support them all. It was clear, also, that the settlement of the children must follow that of the father, and this would be the view the magistrates would take of it, supposing the children were paupers. In civil matters, even where the wife was separated from the hus band and occupied a house of her own, it was celled the husband's house, even though he had never been in it and she had paid the rent. If the parties were married legally, it was only by the same legal mode that they could be di vorced. The case was ultimately dismissed from the absence of any corroborative evidence for the complainant. A HARD MASTBB.—At Colchester Town-hall, yesterday (Thursday), William Greenwood, a tailor, living in Walford's-road, attended to hear a complaint brought against him by his apprentice, a youth named Golden Balls. From the statement of the latter it appeared that he was bound apprentice to Greenwood by the parish of St. Botolph, who supplied him with a new suit of clothes; for several months past his master (who made no complaint of the boy's conduct) had subjected him to a series of ill-usage. Besides " pinching his belly" by a short supply of food, he had robbed his back by pawning the clothes with which he had been furnished, and suffering him to go about almost in rags ; the boy was also made to work at his trade the whole of almost every Sunday ; and in order to prevent his making any complaint, lie was in the habit of telling him that it would be no use his going to the magistrates, as they always took the master's part. The boy, however, who appears to be of very docile disposition, found an opportunity of tell ing his tale of woe to a married sister, named baker, by whom it was narrated to the Mayor, who directed the at tendance of the parties. The defendant admitted most of the boy's statements, but urged that want of money had com pelled him to adopt the course complained of. The bench handed over the poor boy to the care of his sister; and, after expressing their sense of the heartless conduct of the defen dant, dismissed him with an intimation that he would before long hear more of the ease. —Essex Standard. REVISION OF THE BUILDINGS AM—We are never willing to find fault, and would at any time step a little way out of the path of strict duty to avoid hurting the feelings of a professional brother, Our object in alluding to one or ,two instances of unwise eonduet on the part of district surveyors, at the present moment, is to induee those who are deputed to see the Act carried out, to " do their spiriting gently," and not by an avaricious grasping after fees; to inc,re!yie still fur ther the feeling of disapprobation which has been engendered. If they would consider for a moment, as wp well know a large number of the body do, that they hold their office for the protection of the public, and not for their own personal a - vantage, their course of actiou would often be different from what it is. The Act is not put into an AtllPer' s hands simply that he may find occasions to demand a fee, but that he may see its provisions for the general good (often opposed tp pri vate interests) honestly carried out; provision is made in it to pay him fairly for all he does, but anything beyond this he ought not to look for; and what is more, must sot.—Ths uilder AM ER ICAN - NEWS. THE PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE. By the Sea, Captain Freeman, from New York, which has made a quick passage of seventeen days to Liverpool, we have received the Message delivered by President Polk, to Congress, at Washington, on the 2d instant. This document, as expected, is very decided as to the right of the States to the Oregon territory, and recommends that notice be given to Great Britain of the wish to terminate the convention of joint occu pancy at the end of twelve months. The national finances of the States are represented as very prosperous, and the Message recommends a reduction of the tariff to a standard required only for revenue purposes. OPENING OF THE TWENTY-NINTH CONGRESS. (From the Journal of Commerce.) The first session of the twenty-ninth Congress com menced at Washington city on Monday last. Both Houses are Democratic ; the Senate by a majority, including vacancies which are certain to be filled by Democrats, of six ; the House, by a majority of nearly two to one. The annexed letter from our cor respondent presents an outline of the introductory proceedings : WASHINGTON, DEC. 1. The Democratic Caucus re-assembled at ten o'clock this morning, and there were present one hundred and fifteen Members. On the first ballot for Speaker, the Hon. John W. Davis, of Indiana, had 65 votes ; George W. Hop kins, of Virginia, 16 votes ; George C. Dromgoole, of Virginia, 7 ; C. J. Ingersoll, 12 ; Mr. Bowlin, 1; Mr. M'Clelland, 2. Scattering 9. Subsequently, a number of Members changed their votes, and Mr. Davis received 77 votes, which is two thirds the whole number given. So Mr. Davis was nominated both in conformity with the majority rule and two-thirds rule. This is a memorable election on many accounts. It is the first distinct and un disguised assumption of the power of the West, and the first marked proof of the declension of the power of the South. The following is THE MESSAGE. FELLOW-CITIZENS OF THE SENATE, AND ROUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, It is to me a source of unaffected satisfaction to meal the Representatives of the States and the people in Con gress assembled, as it will be to receive the aid of their combined wisdom in the administration of public affairs. In performing, for the first time, the duty imposed upon me by the constitution, of giving to you information of the state of the Union, and recommending to your con sideration such measures as in my judgment are neces sary and expedient, I am happy that I can congratulate you on the continued prosperity of our country. Under the blessings of Divine Providence, and the benign in fluence of our free institutions, it stands before the world a spectacle of national happiness. With our unexampled advancement in all the elements of national greatness, the affection of the people is con firmed for the union of the states, and for the doctrines of popular liberty, which lie at, the foundation of our Government. It becomes us, in humility, to make our devout acknow ledgments to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for the inestimable civil and religious blessings with which we are favoured. In calling the attention of Congress to our relations with foreign Powers, I am gratified to be able to state that, though with some of them there existed since your last session serious causes of irritation and misunder standing,: yet no actual hostilities have taken place. Adopting the maxim in the conduct of our foreign affairs, " to ask nothing that is not right, and submit to nothing that is wrong," it has been my anxious desire to preserve peace with all nations ; but at the same time to be pre. pared to resist aggression, and to maintain all our just rights. made rt bieee r ia legislation. tr, t},, Tr_. 0 Thant, by the tots f m ps i eo, e ll , vernment of Me:eico to the ?gent, ma3n.sdeleaewtahrartanGtenc-i to re 1 e t a h s o t d' claimants asto _ Ise . , tetra oi v n e u vernment , discharge oirrefeecti directing en gtht has reeaclaim, payment without I h i therefore, eoo not:buter efu, suspended.dlii ie nt t i h e at an attitude of hostility towards the United States— oeu a y. intercourse time, liex Mexico t i w la ese,riuntilthe two recently, countries occupiedwh as s ease is, undoubted! one of much been marshalling and organising armies, issuing pr . , o y,hardship ; and it decide, n the remains for Congress to whether any and mations, and avowing the intention to make war o vs:net relief ought to begranted to them. Our Minister United States, either by open declaration, or by invading . hasinstructed . , ion of the people to Mexico been to ascertain the facts of Texas. Beth the Congress and Convent of Texas invited this Government to send an army into the case from the Mexican Government, in an authentic that territory t o p ro t e ct and defend them against the and official form, and report the result with as lit t l e menaced attack. The moment the terms of annexation delay as possible, I offered by the United States were :k ccepted by Texas, THE ORCGOIy QUESTION. the latter became so far a part of our u‘vu country as to My attention was early directed to the negotiation, make it our duty to afford such protection and defence. which, on the 4th of March last, I found pending at I, therefore, deemed it proper, as a precautionary mete- Washington between the United States, and Great Bri sure, to order a strong squadron to the coasts of Mexico, taro, on the subject of the Oregon territory. Three and to concentrate an efficient military force on the several attempts had been previously made to settle the western frontier of Texas. Our army was ordered to questions in dispute between the two countries, by ne take position in the country between the Nueces and the gotiation, upon the principle of compromise; but each Del Norte, and to repel any invasion of the Texan ter- had preyed unsuccessful. ritory which might be attempted by the Mexican forces, These negotiations took place at London, in the years 1 Our squadron in the gulf was ordered to co-operate with 1818, 1824, and 1829; the two first Tinder the adminise the army ; but, though our army and navy were placed tration of Mr. Monroe, and the last nnder that of Mr, in a position to defend our own and the rights of Texas, I Adams. The uegotietion of 1818 having failed to ac they were ordered to commit no act of hostility against 1 complish its object, resulted in the convention Of the ' Mexico, unless she declared war, or was herself the ags 20th of October of that year. By the third article of gressor by striking th e fi r st bl ow . The result has been, that convention it was " egret(' that any country that that Mexico has made no aggressive movement, and our may be claimed by either party on the north=west coast military and naval commanders have executed their of America, westwerpsf tise §tony Aloontains, shall, to orders with such discretion, that the peace of the twe gethsr with its li s arbour.s, bays, arid creeks, and the na republics has not beer. disturbed. vigation of all rivers within the same, be free and open Texas had declared her inglepen4ollP, 44R0 maintained for the term of ten years from the date of the signature it by her arms for more than nine yeaps, she hag hag lof the I. ) M.P,Pt Collinti"i to the Vesaela, eitieena, and an organised Go vernmen t in suce essful operatioP dßring 1 subigPtS a llie two powers; it being well underst oo d that period. Her separate existence as an independent that this agreement is not to be construed to the preju state had been recognised by the United States and the dice of any claim which either of the two high contract principal powers of g4rope, Treaties of commerce and ing parties may have to any part of the said country, navigation had been concluded with hpr by different . nor shall it be taken to affept the chtices 1 of any other nations, and it had become manifest to the whole woad power or slate to any part of the said country; the only that any fiirf,her attempt on the part of Mexico to con- I i object of the high contracti ng p art i es i n that respect quer her, or overthrow fief Government, would be vain. ueing to prevent disputes and differences among them. _'even Mexico herself had leecoose sinier s ed of this fact ; selves ! " and while the question of annexation was pending The negotiation of 1814 was productive of no result, before the people of Texas, during the past summer, and the convention of 1818 was left unchanged. the Government of Mexico by a formal act agreed to The negotiation of 1826, having also failed to effect an recognise the independenee of Texas on condition that adjustment by compromise, resulted in the convention of she would not annex herself to any other power. The August 6th, 1827, by which it was agreed to continue in agreement to eeknowledge the independence of Texas, force, for an indefinite period, th e p rov isi ons o f th e thi r d whether with or without this oondition, is conclusive articl e of the convention of the 20th of October, 1818 against Mexico. The independence of 'Texas is a fact and it was further provided, that "it shall be competent, conceded by Mexico herself, and she has no right or au, however, to either of the contracting parties, in case either thority to prescribe restrictions as to the form of go- should think fit, at any time after the 20th of October, vernment which Texas might afterwards assume. But 1828, on giving due notice of 12 months to the other though Mexi c o cannot co m plain of the United States on contracting party, to annul and abrogate this convention ; account of the annexation of Texas, it is to be regretted and it shall, in such case, be accordingly entirely an that serious causes of misunderstanding between the two nulled and abrogated after the expiration of the said term countries continue to exist, growing out of unredressed in- of notice." In these attempts to adjust the controversy, juries inflicted by the Mexican authorities and people on the parallel of the 49th degree of north latitude had been the persons and property of citizens of the United States offered by the United States to Great Britain, and in through a long series of years. Mexico has admitted thoseof 1818 and 1826, with a furtherconcession of the free these injuries, but has neglected and refused to repair navigation of the Columbia River south of that latitude. them. Such was the character of the wrongs, and such The parallel of the 49th degree, from the Rocky Moun the insults repeatedly offered to American citizens and tains to its intersection with the north-easternmost branch the American flag by Mexico, in palpable violation of the of the Columbia, and thence down the channel of that laws of nations and the treaty between the two countries river to the sea, had been offered by Great Britain, with of the sth of April, 1831, that they have repeatedly been an addition of a small detached territory north of the brought to the notice of Congress by my predecessors. Columbia. Each of these propositions had been rejected As early as the Bth of February, 1837, the President of by the parties respectively. the United States declared, in a message to Congress, In October,lB43, the Envoy Extraordinary and Minis that " the length of time since some of the injuries have ter Plenipotentiary of the United States in London was been committed, the repeated unavailing applications for authorised to make a similar offer to those made in 1818 redress, the wanton character of some of the outrages and 1826. Thus stood the question when the negotia upon the persons and property of our citizens, upon the tion was shortly afterwards transferred to Washington, officers and flag of the United States, independent of re- and, on the 23d of August, 1844, was formally opened cent insults to this Government and people by the late under the direction of my immediate predecessor. Like extraordinary Mexican Minister, would justify in the all the previous negotiations, it was based upon princi eyes of all nations immediate war." He did not, how- pies of " compromise ;" and the avowed purpose of the ever, recommend an immediate resort to this extreme parties was, "to treat of the respective claims of the measure, which he declared, " should not be used by two countries to the Oregon territory, with the view to just and generous nations, confiding in their strength for establish a permanent boundary between them westward it - juries committed, if it can be honourably avoided," but of the Rocky Mountains in the Pacific Ocean," Ac in a spirit of forbearance, proposed that another demand cordingly, on the 26th of August, 1844, the British be made on Mexico for that redress which had been so Plenipotentiary offered to divide the Oregon territory by long and unjustly withheld. In these vie we, Committees the 49th parallel of north latitude, from the Rocky of the two douses of Congress, in reports made to their Mountains to the point of its intersection with the north respective bodies, concurred. Since these proceeedi ngs easternmost branch of the Columbia River, and thence more than eight years have elapsed, during which, in down that river to the sea, leaving the free navigation of addition to the wrongs then complained of; others of an the river to be enjoyed in common by both parties—the aggravated character have been committed on the per- country south of this line to belong to the United sons and property of our citizens. A special agent was States, and that north of it to Great Britain. At the sent to Mexico in the summer of 1838, with full autho- same time, he proposed, in addition, to yield to the rity to make another and final demand for redress. The United States a detached territory, north of the demand was made; the Mexican Government promised Columbia, extending along the Pacific and the Straits to repair the wrongs of which we complained ; and after of Fuca, from Bulfinch's Harbour, inclusive, to much delay a treaty of indemnity with that vi ew wa s Hood's Canal, and to make free to the United completed between the two powers on the llth of April, States any port or ports south of latitude 49 degrees, 1839, and was duly ratified by both Governments. By which they might desire, either on the main land or this treaty a joint committee was created to adjudicate on Quadra and Vancouver's Island. With the exception and decide on the claims of American citizens on the of the free ports, this was the same offer which had been Government of Mexico. The commission was organised made by the British and rejected by the American Go at Washington on the 25th day of August, 1840. Their vernment in the negotiation of 1826. This proposition time was limited to 18 months, at the c-xpiraiion of which was properly rejected by the American Plenipotentiary they had adjudicated and decided claims amounting to on the day it was submitted. This was the only propo -2,026,139 dolls. 66c. in favour of citizens o f th e United sition of compromise offered by the British Plenipoten- States against the Mexican Government, leaving a large tiary. The proposition on the part of Great Britain, amount of claims undecided. Of the latter the American having been rejected, the British Plenipotentiary re commissioners had decided in favour of our citizens quested that a proposal should be made by the United claims araountieg to 928,627 dolls. 88e., which were left States for "an equitable adjustment of the question." unacted on by the umpire aathorised by the treaty. When I came into office I found this to be the state Still further claims, amounting to between 3,000,000 and of the negotiation. Though entertaining the settled 4,000,000 dolls, were submitted to the board too late to conviction that the British pretensions of tide could not be considered, and were left undispostd of. The sum of be maintained to any portion of the Oregon territory 2,026,139 dolls. 68c., decided by the board, w a s a li qu i- upon an y p r i nc i p l e o f pu b l i c law recognised by nations, dated and ascertained debt due by Mexico to the claim- yet, in deference to what had been done by my predeces ants, and there was no justifiable reason for delaying sors, and especially in consideration that propositions of its payment according to the terms of the treaty. It compromise had been thrice made by two preceding was riot, however, paid. Mexico applied f or f ur th er i n - Administrations, to adjust the question on the parallel dulgence ; and in that spirit of indulgence and liberality of 49 degrees, and in two of them yielding to Great and forbearance which has ever marked the policy of the Britain the free navigation of the Columbia, and United States towards that republic, the request was that the pending negotiation had been commenced granted; and on the 30th of January, 1843, a new treaty on the basis of compromise. I deemed it to be my duty was concluded. By this treaty it was provided that the not abruptly to break it off. In consideration, too, interest 'due on the'awards in favour of claimants under that under the conventions of 1818 and 1827, the the convention of the 11th of April, 1839, should be paid citizens and subjects of the two powers held a joint oc on the 30th April, 1844, and that " the principal of the cupancy of the country, 1 was induced to make another said awards and the interest arising thereon shall be effort to settle this long-pending controversy in the paid in five years, in equal instalments every three spirit of moderation which had given birth to the re months ; the said five years to commence on the 30th nerved discussion. A proposition was accordingly made, day of April, 1843, as aforesaid." The interest due on which was rejected by the British Plenipotentiary, who, the 30th day of April, 1843, and the three first of the 20 without submitting any other proposition, suffered the instalments, have been paid. Seventeen of these instal- negotiation on his part to drop, expressing his trust that ments remain unpaid, seven of which are now due. the United States would offer what he saw fit to call Tha claims which are left undecided by the joint com- " some further proposal for the settlement of the Oregon mission, amounting to more than 3,000,000 dollars, question more consistent with fairness and equity, and together with other claims for spoliations on the pro- with the reasonable expectations of the British Govern perty of our citizens, were subsequently presented to went." The proposition thus offered and rejected re the Mexican Government for payment, and were so far posted the offer of the parallel of 49 degrees of north recognised that a treaty, providing fur their examine- latitude, which had been made by two preceding Ad tion and settlement by a joint commission, was con- ministrations, but without proposing to surrender to eluded and signed at Mexico on the 20th day of No- Great Britain, as they had done, the free na v i ga ti on vember, 1843. Thi s treaty was, rat i f i ed by the United of the Columbia River. The right of any foreign power states, with certain amendments, to which no just ex- to the free navigation of any of our rivers, through the ception couid have been taken ; but it has not yet re- heart of our country, was one which I was unwilling to ceived the ratification of the Mexican Government. In concede. Italse embraced a provision to makefree to Great the meantime our citizens, who suffered great losses Britain any port or ports on the Cape of Quadra and Van and some of whom have been reduced from affluence to couver's Island, south of this parallel. Had this been a bankruptcy, are withot remedy, unless their rights be new question, coming under discussion for the first time, enforced by their Government. Such a continued and this proposition would not have been made. The extra unprovoked series of wrongs could never have been tole- ordinary and wholly inadmissible demands of the British rated by the United States had they been committed by Government, and the rejection of the proposition made in one of the principal nations of Europe. Mexico was, deference alone to what had been done by my prede however, a neighbouring sister republic, which, follow- cessors, and the implied obligation which their acts ing our example, had achieved her independence, and seemed to impose, afford satisfactory evidence that no for whose success and prosperity all our sympathies were compromise which the United States ought to accept can early enlisted. The United States were the first to ac- be effected. With this conviction the proposition of knowledge her independence, and to receive her into compromise which had been made and rejected was by the family of nations, and have ever been desirous of my direction subsequently withdrawn, and our title to the cultivating with her a good understanding. We have, whole Oregon territory asserted, and as is believed therefore, borne the repeated wrongs she has committed maintained by irrefragable facts and arguments. with great patience, in the hope that a returning sense The civilised world will see in these proceedings a of justice would ultimately guide her councils, and that spirit of liheral concession on the part of the United we might, if possible, honourably avoid any hostile col- States, and this Government will be relieved from all lision with her. responsibility which may follow the failure to settle the Without the previous authority of Congress, the exe- controversy. cutive possessed no power to adopt or enforce adequate All attempts at compromise having failed, it becomes remedies for the injuries we bad suffered, or to do more the duty of Congress to consider what measures it may than be prepared to repel the threatened aggression on be proper to adopt for the security and protection of our the part of Mexico. After our army and navy had re- citizens now inhabiting, or who may hereafter inhabit mained on the frontier and coasts of Mexico many Oregon, and for the maintenance of our just title to wee ks, without any hostile movement on her part, though that territory. In adopting measures for this pur her menaces were continued, I deemed it important to pose, care should be taken that nothing be done put an end, if possible, to this state of things. Vs ith this to violate the stipulations of the convention of 1827, view, I caused steps to be taken, in the month of Sep- which is still in force. The faith of treaties, in tember last, to ascertain distinctly, and in an authentic their letter and spirit, has ever been, and I trust will form, wh a t th e d esigns o f t h e Mexican G overnment were , ever b e , scru p u l ous l y o b serve d by the United States. whether it was their intention to declare war or invade Under that convention a year's notice is required to be Texas, or whether they were disposed to adj us t a nd given by either party to the other, b e for e th e j o i nt oecu settle;in a n am i ca bl e manner , the pending differences pancy can terminate, and before either can rightfully between the two countries. On the 9th of November assert or exercise exclusive jurisdiction over any portion an official answer was received, that the Mexican Go- of the territory. This notice it would, in my judgment, vernment consen t e d to renew the diplomatic relations be proper to give ; and I recommend that provision be which had been suspended in March last, and for that made by law for giving it accordingly, and terminating, purpose were willing to accredit a Minister from the in this manner, the convention of the 6th of August,lB27. United St a t es . wi t h a s i nce re desire to preserve It will become proper for Congress to determine what peace, and restore relations of good understanding legislatien they can, in the meantime, adopt without between the t wo repu bli cs , I waived all ceremony violating this convention. Beyond all question, the pro as to the manner o f renew ing diplomatic intercourse tectiun of our laws and our jurisdiction, civil and cri between them ; an d assum i ng the initiative, on the mival, ought to be immediately extended over our cid 10th of N o vemb e r, a di st i ngu ished citizen of Louisiana zens in Oregon. They have had just cause to complain was appointed E nvo y E x t r aordinary and Minister Plee of our long neglect in this particular, and have, in con nipotentiary to Mexico, clothed with full power to ad• sequence, been compelled, for their own security and just, and definitely settle, all pending differences between protection, t o esta bli s h a P rov i s i onal Government for the two coun t r i es , i nclu di ng t h ose of bounders between themselves. Strong in their allegiance and ardent in their Mexico and th e State o f T exas . The Minister appointed attachment to the United States, they have thus been has set out on t hi s m i ss i on , an d is probably by this time cast upon their own resources. They are anxious that near the Mexican capital. He has been entrusted to our laws should be extended over them ; and I recom bring the negotiation with which he is charged to a con- mend that this be done by Congress with as little delay elusion a t th e ear li est prac ti c able period ; which, it is as possible, in the full extent to which the British Par exrected, will b e i n t i me to enable me to forbear to re- liament have proceeded in regard to British subjects in commend to Congress such ulterior measures of redress that territory, by their Act of July 2, 1821, " for regu for the wrongs an d i n j ur ies we have so long borne as it lating the fur trade, and establishing a criminal and civil would have been p r oper to make had no such negotiation jurisdiction within certain parts of North America." By been instituted, this Act, Great Britain extended her laws and jurisdiction, Congress a pp r opriated a t the last session the sum of civil and criminal, over her subjects engaged in the fur 275,000 d o llars f o r the payment of the A pril and July trade in that territory. By it, the courts of the province instalments o f t h e M ex i can indemnities for the year of Upper Canada were empowered to take cognisance of 1844 ; " p r o v id e d it shall b e ascertained to the satis- causes civil and criminal. Justices of the peace and other faction of th e A mer i c an Government that said instal- judicial officers were authorised to be appointed in meets have been paid by the Mexicen Government to Oregon, with power to execute all process issuing from the agent appointed by the United States to rem ive the the courts of that province, and to "sit and hold courts of same, in such manne r as to discharge all claim on the record for the trial of criminal offences and misde- Mexican Government, and said agent to be delinquent meanours," not made the subject of capital punishment, in remitting the money to the United States." and also of civil cases, where the cause of action shall The unsettled aw e o f ou r relations with Mexico has not "exceed in value the amount or sum of 2001." involved this su bj ec t i n mu ch mystery. The first infor- Subsequent to the date of this Act of Parliament, a !nation, in an aut h e ntic form, from the agent of the grant was made from the "British Crown" to the Hud- United States, a pp o inted un der the administration of my son's Bay Company, of the exclusive trade with the In predecessor, was rece i ve d a t th e State department on the dian tribes in the Oregon territory, subject to are serva 9th of November last. This is contained in a letter, tion that it shall not operate to the exclusion "of the dated the 7th of O c t o ber, a ddressed by him to one of subjects of any foreign states who, under or by force of our citizens then i n M ex i co , with the view of having it any convention for the time being, between us and such communicated to that department. From thi s i t ~.- y foreign states respectively, may be entitled to, and shall pears that the agent, on the '2oth September, 1844, gave be engaged in the said trade." a receipt to th e t reasur y o f Mexico for the amount of It is much to be regretted, that, while under this Act the April and July instalments of the indemnity. In the British s u bjects have enjoyed the protection of Bri the se t tie e pp ea u nf oation, however, he asserts that he tish laws, and British judicial tribunals throughout the had riot received a single dollar in eash; but that he w-0.0 t. i e to t he O regon, " the American citizens in the holds such sec urities as warranted him at the time in same teritory have enjoyed no such protection from their giving the receipt, and entertains no doubt that he will Government. At the same time, the result illustrates the eventually obtain the money. Ag these instalments character of our people and ;their institutions. In spite appear never to have been actually paid by the Go- of this neglect they have multiplied, and their number is rapidly ineresieinz in that teritory. They have made no appeal to artee, but have peaceably fortified themselves in their new homes, by the adoption of republican institu tions for themselves ; forming another example of the truth that self-government is inherent in the American breast, and must prevail. It is due to them that they should be embraced and protected by our laws. It is deemed important that our laws regulating trade and intercourse with the Indian tribes east of the Rocky Mountains should be extended to such tribes as dwell beyond them. The increasing emigration to Oregon, and the care and protection which is due from the Government to its citizens in that distant region, make it our duty, as it is our interest, to cultivate amicable relations with the In dian tribes of that territory. For this purpose, I recom mend that provision be made for establishing- an Indian agency and such sub-agencies as may be deemed neces sary beyond the Rocky Mountains. For the protection of emigrants whilst on their way to Oregon, against the attacks of the Indian tribes occu pying the country through which they pass, I recom mend that a 'suitable number of stockades and block house frrts be erected along the usual route between our fr - litier settlements on the Missouri and the Rocky Mountains, and that an adequate force of mounted rifle men be raised to guard and protect them on the journey. The immediate adoption of these recommendations by Congress will not violate the provisions of the existing treaty. It will be doing nothing more for American citizens than British laws have long since done for Bri tish subjects in the same territory. It requires several months to perform the voyage by sea from the Atlantic States to Oregon ; and although we have a large number of whale ships in the Pacific, but few of them afford an opportunity of interchanging intelligence, without delay, between our settlements in that distant region and the United States. An overland mail is believed to be entirely practicable, and the im portance of establishing such a mail, at least once a month, is submitted to the favourable consideration of Congress. :It is submitted to the wisdom of Congress to deter mine whether, at their present session, and until after the expiration of the year's notice, any other measures may be adopted, consistently with the convention of 1827, for the security ni our rights, and the government and protection of our citizens in Oregon. That it will ultimately be wise and proper to make liberal grants of land to the patriotic pioneers, who, amidst privations and dangers, lead the way through savage tribes inha biting the vast wilderness intervening between our fron tier a ttlements and Oregon, and who cultivate, and are ever ready to defend the soil, lam fully satisfied. To doubt whether they will obtain such grants as soon as the convention between the United States and Great Britain shall have ceased to exist would be to doubt the justice of Congress ; but, pending the year's notice, it us worthy of consideration whether a stipulation to this effect may be made, consistently with the spirit of that convention. The recommendations which I have made as to the best manner of securing our rights iu Oregon are sub mitted to Congress with great deference. Should they, in their wisdom, devise any other mode better calculated to accomplish the same object, it shall meet with my hearty concurrence. At the end of the year's notice, should Congress think it proper to make provision for giving that notice, we shall have reached a period when the national rights of Oregon must either be abandoned or firmly maintained. That they cannot be abandoned without a sacrifiu t of both national honour and interest is too clear to admit of doubt. Oregon is a part of the North American continent, to which it is confidently affirmed the title of the United States is the best now in existence. For the grounds on which that title rests, I refer you to the correspondence of the late and present Secretary of State with the Bri. tish Plenipotentiary during the negotiation. The British proposition of compromise, which would make the Colum bia the line south of 49 degrees, with a trifling addition of detached territory to the United States north of that river, and would leave on the British side two-thirds of the whole Oregon territory, including the free navigation of the Columbia and all the valuable harbours on the Pacific, can never, for a moment, be entertained by the United States, without an abandonment of their just and clear territorial rights, their own self-respect, and the national honour. For the information of Congress, I comtnunicate heree ith the correspondence which took place between the Governments during the late nego tiation. The rapid extension of our settlements over our terri tories heretofore unoccupied, the addition of new States to our confederacy, the expansion of free principles, and our rising greatness as a nation, are attracting the at tention of the Powers of Europe ; and lately the doc trine has been broached in some of them of a " balance of power" on this continent, to check our advancement. The United States, sincerely desirous of preserving rela tions of good understanding with all nations, cannot in silence permit any European interference on the North American continent ; and should any such interference be attempted, will be ready to resist it at any and a hazards. It is well known to the American people and to all nations that this Government has never interfered with the relations subsisting between other Governments. We have never made ourselves parties to their wars or their alliances ; we have not sought their territories by conquest ; we have not mingled with parties in their do mestic struggles; and, believing our own form of govern ment to be the best, we have never attempted to prof agate it by intrigues, by diplomacy, or by force. We may claim o❑ this continent a like exemption from European inter ference. The nations of America are equally sovereign and independent with those of Europe. They possess the same rights, independent of all foreign interposition, to make war, to conclude peace, and to regulate their in ternal affairs. The people of the United States cannot, therefore, view with indifference attempts of European powers to interfere with the independent action of the nations on this continent. The American system of Government is entirely different from that of Europe. Jealousy amongst the different Sovereigns of Europe, lest any one of them might become too powerful for the rest, has caused them anxiously to desire the establish ment of what they term the " balance of power." It cannot be permitted to have any application on the North American continent, and especially to the United States. We must ever maintain the principle that the people of this continent alone have the right to decide their own destiny. Should any portion of them, consti tuting an independent state, propose to unite themselves with our confederacy, this will be a question for them and us to determine, without any foreign interposition. We can never consent that European powers shall inter fere to prevent such a union, because it might disturb the " balance of power" which they may desire to main tain upon this continent. Near a quarter of a century ago the principle was dis tinctly announced to the world, in tho annual message of one of my predecessors, that " the American continents, by the free and independent condition which they have assumed and maintain, are henceforth not to be con sidered as subjects for future colonisation by any Euro pean power." This principle will apply with greatly increased force, should any European power attempt to establish any new colony in North America. In the ex isting circumstances of the world, the present is deemed a proper occasion to reiterate and re-affirm the principle of by Mr. Monroe, and to state my cordial con currence in its wisdom and sound policy. The re -asser tion of this principle, especially in reference to North America, is at this day but the promulgation of a policy which no European power should cherish the disposi tion to resist. Existing rights of every European nation should be respected ; but it is due alike to our safety and our interests, that the efficient protection of our laws should be extended over our whole territorial limits, and that it should be distinctly announced to the world as our settled policy, that no future European colony or dominion shall, with our consent, be planted or established on any part of the North American con tinent. THE PRUSSIAN TREATY. A question has lately arisen under the tenth article of the subsisting treaty between the United States and Prussia. By this article, the Consuls of the two coun tries have the right to sit as judges and arbitrators " in such differences as may arise between the captains and crews of the vessels belonging to the nation whose inte rests are committed to their charge, without the interfe rence of the local authorities, unless the conduct of the crews or of the captain should disturb the order or tranquillity of the country ; or the said Consuls should require their assistance to cause their decisions to be carried into effect or supported." The Prussian Consul at New Bedford, in June, 1844, applied to Mr. Justice Story to carry into effect a deci sion made by him between the captain and crew of the Prussian ship Borusisa ; but the request was refused on the ground that, without previous legislation by Con gress, the judiciary did not possess the power to give effect to this article of the treaty. The Prussian Go vernment, through their Minister here, have complained of this violation of the treaty, and have asked the Go vernment of the United States to adopt the necessary measures to prevent similar violence hereafter. Good faith to Prussia, as well as to other nations with whom we have similar treaty stipulations, requires that these should be faithfully observed. I have deemed it proper, therefore, to lay the subject before Congress, and 1 to recommend such legislation as may be necessary to give effect to these treaty obligations. SPANISH (NAVIGATION) TREATY. By virtue of an arrangement made between the Spanish Government and that of the United States, in December, 1831, American vessels, since the 29th of April, 1832, have been admitted to entry in the ports of Spain, including those of the Balearic and Canary Islands, cn payment of the same tonnage duty of five cents per ton, as though they had been Spanish vessels ; and this, wh e th er our vesse l s arrive i n Spain directly ft off, the United States, or indirectly from any other country. When Congress, by the Act of July 13, 1828, gave effect to this arrangement between the two Go vt rnments, they confined the reduction of tonna ge d uty merely t o S pan i s h vesse l s "coming from a p ort i n Spain," l eav i ng t h e f ormer discriminating duty to rem a i n against suc h vesse l s coming from aport in any other country. It is manifestly unjust that, whilst American vessels, arriving in the ports of Spain from other coun tries, pay no more duty than Spanish vessels, Spanish vessels arriving in the ports of the United States from other countries should be subjected to heavy discrimi nating tonnage duties. This is neither equality nor reciprocity, and Is in violation of the arrangement concluded in December, 1831, between the two countries. The Spanish Government have made re peated and earnest remonstrances against this inequality, and the favourable attention of Congress has been se veral times invoked to the subject by my predecessors. I recommend as an act of justice to Spain that this in equality be removed by Congress, and that the discri minating duties which have been levied under the Act of the 13th July, 1832, on Spanish vessels coming to the United States from any other foreign country, be re funded. This recommendation does not embrace Spa nish vessels arriving in the United States from Cuba MEXICO AND TEXAS. In pursuance of the joint resolution of Congress " for annexing Texas to the United States," my predecessor, on the third day of March, 1845, elected to submit the first and second sections of that resolution to the re public of Texas, as an overture, on the part of the United States, for her admission as a state into our Union. This election I approved, and accordingly the Chargé d'Affaires of the United States in Texas, under in structions of the 10th of March, 1845, presented these sections of the resolution for the acceptance of that Re public. The Executive Government, the Congress, and the people of Texas in convention, hare successively complied with all the terms and conditions of the joint resolution. A constitution for the government of the state of Texas, formed by a convention of deputies, is herewith laid before Congress. It is well known, also, that the people of Texas at the polls have accepted the terms of annexation, and ratified the constitution. I communicate to Congress the correspondence be tween the Secretary of State and our Chargé d'Affaires in Texas; and also the correspondence of the latter with the authorities of Texas; together with the official documents transmitted by him to his own Government. The terms of annexation which were offered by the United States having been accepted by Texas, the public faith of both parties is solemnly pledged to the compact of their union. Nothing remains to consummate the event but the passage by an act of Congress to admit the state of Texas into the Union upon an equal footing with the original States. Strong reasons exist why this should be done at an early period of the session. It will be observed that, by the constitution of Texas, the existing Government is only continued temporarily till Congress can act; and that the third Monday of the present month is the day appointed for holding the first governor, willt lieutenant governor, a n b t e - ggoenveerrnaloreleacntdiobno.th branchesOa that day a the of Legislature, chosen by the people. The President of Texas is re quired immediately after the receipt of official . in formation that the new State has been admitted into our union by Congress, to convene the Legislature; and upon its meeting the existing Government will be superseded, and the State Government organised. Questions deeply interesting to Texas, in common with the other States, the extension of our re• venue laws and judicial system over her people and ter ritory, as well as measures of a local character, will claim the early attention of Congress ; and, therefore, upon every principle of republican government, she ought to be represented in that body without unnecessary delay. I cannot too earnestly recommend prompt action on this important subject. As soon as the Act to admit Texas as a state shall be passed, the union of the two republics will be consum mated by their own voluntary consent. This accession to our territory has been a bloodless achievement. No arm of force has been raised to pro duce the result. The sword has had no part in the vic tory. We have not sought to extend our territorial possessions by conquest, or our republican institutions over a reluctant people. It was the deliberate homage of each people to the great principles of our federative union. we consider the extent of territory involved in the annexation—its prospective influence on America—the means by which it has been accomplished, springing purely from the choice of the people themselves to share the blessings of our union—the history of.the world may be challenged to furnish a parallel. The jurisdiction of the United States, which at the formation of the federal constitution was bounded by the St. Mary's, on the Atlantic, has passed the Capes of Florida, and been peacefully extended to the Del Norte. In contemplating the grandeur of this event, it is not to be forgotten that the result was achieved in spite of the diplomatic interference of European monarchies. Even by the cession e or sfynseos successful n nac. emeneaosadresf Mexico—the udtilcoroaciwom regret, Louisiana, tni pnthmogoe oseekcmoc France—the country which had been our ancient ally— the. country which has a common interest with us in maintaining the freedom of the seas—the country which, opfie commerce—most nanr r re s t T t trmyiea o onxn p swad e t asi n unt, mehnadeosw effortxrt a o ehp iecueccohs to unexpectedly, d wds prevent access etyl riye o,havevna te nhn t c di to the annexation, no ee nnu n edu G xsr e u ao v ut l the recognition of her independence by Mexico, that she would never join herself to the United States. We may rejoice that the tranquil and pervading influence of the American principle of self-government was sufficient to defeat the purposes of British and French interference, and that the almost unanimous voice of the people of Texas has given to that interference a peaceful and effec tive rebuke. From this example, European Govern ments may learn how vain diplomatic arts and intrigues must ever prove upon this continent, against that system of self-government which seems natural to our soil, and which will ever resist foreign interference. Towards Texas, I do not doubt that a liberal and generous spirit will actuate Congress in all that concerns her interests and prosperity, and that she will never have cause to regret that she has united her " lone star" to our glorious constellation. I regret to inform you th a t o u r relations with Mexico, since your last session, have not been of that amicable character which it is our desiro to cultivate with all toreign nations. On the 6th day of March last the Mexican Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipo tentiary to the United States made a formal protest, in the name of his Government, against the joint resolu tion passed by Congress, " for the annexation of Texas to the United States, ' which he chose to regard as a violation of the rights of Mexico, and, in consequence of it he demanded his passports. He was informed that the Government of the United States did not consider this joint resolution as a violation of any of the rights of Mexico, or that it afforded any just cause of offence to his Government ; that the republic of Texas was an independent power, owing no allegiance to Mexico, and constituting no part of her territory or rightful sove reignty and jurisdiction. Ile was also assured that it was the sincere desire of this Government to maintain t with that of Ue3Fipo relations of peace annodtwgiotioldoaunnddienrg standing. That funetiOnary, IWWOve ? these rcpre.vntations and assuranpes, a rgptly terminated his mission, and shortly afterwards left the country. Our Envoy Extraordinary and Mir f ister flenipoten tiary to Mexico was refused all official intercourse with that Government, and, after remaining several months by the permission of his own Government, hi returned and Porto Rico, which will still remain subject to t b provisions of the Act of June 30, 1834, concerning ton nage duty on such vessels. By the Act of the 14th of July, 1832, coffee was exempted from duty altogether. This exemption was universal, without reference to the country where it was produced, or the national character of the vessel in which it was imported. By the tariff of the 30th of August, 1842, this exemption from duty was restricted to coffee imported in American vessels from the place of its production ; whilst coffee imported under all other circumstances was subjected to a duty of 20 per cent. ad valorem. Under this Act, and our existing treaty with the King of the Netherlands, Java coffee im ported from the European ports of that kingdom into the United States, whether in Dutch or American vessels, now pays this rate of duty. The Government of the Netherlands complains that such a discriminating duty should have been imposed on coffee the production of one of its colonies, and which is chiefly brought from Java to the ports of that kingdom, and exported from thence to foreign countries. Our trade with the Netherlands is highly beneficial to bolt, countries, and our relations with them have ever been of the most friendly character. Under all the circum stances of the case, I recommend that this discrimination should be abolished, and that the coffee of Java imported from the Netherlands be placed upon the same footing with that imported directly from Brazil and other coun tries where it is produced. Under the eighth section of the Tariff Act of the 30th of August, 1842, a duty of 15 cents per gallon was im posed on port wine in casks, while on the red wines of several other countries, when imported in casks, a duty of only six cen t s per gallon was imposed. This discri mination, so far as regarded the port wine of Portugal, was deemed a violation of our treaty with that power. which provides, that "no higher or other duties shall be imposed on the importation into the United States of America of any article the growth, produce, or manufac ture of the kingdom and possessions of Portugal, than such as are or shall be payable on the like article being the growth, produce, or manufacture of any other foreign country." Accordingly, to give effect to the treaty, as well as to the intention of Congress, expressed in a proviso to the Tariff Act itself, that nothing therein contained should be so construed as to interfere with subsisting treaties with foreign nations, a Treasury circular was issued on the 16th of July, 1844, which, among other things, declared the duty on the port wine of Portugal, in casks, under the existing laws and treaty, to be six cents per gallon, and directed that the excess of duty which had been collected on such wine should be refunded. By virtue of another clause in the same section of the Act, it is provided that all imitations of port, or any other wines, " shall be subject to the duty provided for the genuine article." Imitations of port wine, the production of France, are imported to some extent into the United States ; and the Govern ment of that country now claims that, under a correct construction of the Act, these imitations ought not to pay a higher duty than that imposed upon the original . port wine of P ortuga l . I t appears to me to be unequal and unjust, that French imitations of port wine should be subjected to a duty of fifteen cents, while the more valuable article from Portugal should pay a duty of six cents only, per gallon. I therefore recommend to Con gress such legislation as may be necessary to correct the inequality. TEXAN CLAIMS. The late President, in his annual message of December last, recommended an appropriation to satisfy the claims of the Texan Government against the United States, which had been previously adjusted, so far as the pow era of the Executive extend. These claims arose out of the act of disarming a body of Texan troops under the com mand of Major Snively, by an officer in the service of the United States, acting under the orders of our Go vernment ; and the forcible entry into the Custom House, at Bryarly's landing, on Red River, by certain citizens of the United States, and taking away therefrom the goods seized by the collector of customs as forfeited under the laws of Texas. This was an liquidated debt, ascertained to be due to Texas when an independent state. her acceptance of the terms of annexation pro posed by the United States does not discharge or inva lidate the claim. I recommend that provision be made for its payment. CHINA. The commissioner appointed to China during tho special session of the Senate in March last, shortly after wards set out on his mission in the United States ship Columbus. On arriving at Rio de Janeiro on his pas sage, the state of his health had become so critical that, by the advice of his medical attendants, he returned to the United States early in the month of October last. Commodore Biddle, commanding the East India squadron, proceeded on his voyage in the Columbus, and was charged by the commissioner with the duty of ex2hanging with the proper authorities the ratifications of the treaty lately concluded with the Emperor of China. Since the return of the commissioner to the United States, his health has been much improved, and he entertains the confident belief that he will soon be able to proceed on his mission. SOUTH A MERICA. --- Unfortunately, differences continue to exist among some of tl,e nations of South America, which, following our example, have established their independence, while in others internal dissensions prevail, It is natural that our sympathies should be warmly enlisted for their welfare; that we should desire that all controversies be tween them should be amicably adjusted, and their go verntnents administered in a manner to protect the rights and promote the prosperity of their pecple. It is con trary, however, to our settled policy, to interfere in their controversies, whether external or internal. I hz.ve thus adverted to all the subjects connected with our foreign relations to which I deem it necessary to call your attention. Our policy is not only peace with all, but good-will towards all the powers of the eal th. While we are just to all, we require that all shall be just to us. Excepting the differences with Mexico and Great Britain our relations with all civilised nations are of the most satisfactory character. It is hoped that in this enlightened age these differences may be arni• cably adjusted. FINANCIAL STATEMENT. The Secretary of the Treasury, in his annual report to Congress, will communicate a full statement of the condition of our finances. The imports for the fiscal year ending on the 13th of June last were of the value of 117,254,564 dolls., of which the amount exported was 15,346,830 dolls., leaving a balance of 101,907,734 dolls. for domestic consumption. The exports for the same year were of the value of 114,646,606 dolls.; of which the amount of domestic articles was 99,291,776 dolls. The receipts into the Treasury during the same year were 29,769,133 dolls. 56 cents ; of which there were derived from customs 27,528,112 dolls. 70 cents ; from sales of public lands, 2,770,022 dolls. 30 cents; and from incidental and miscellaneous sources, 163,998 dolls. 56 cents. The expenditures for the same period were 29,968,206 dolls. 98 cents; of which 8,588,157 dolls. 62 cents were applied to the payment of the public debt, The balance in the Treasury on the Ist of June last Was 7,658,306 dolls. 22 cents. The amount of the public debt remaining unpaid on the Ist of October last was 17,075,445 dolls . 52 cents. Further payments of the public debt would have been made, in anticipation of the period of its reimbursement under the authority conferred upon the Secretary of the Treasury by the Acts of July 21, 1841, and of April 15, 1842, and March 3, 1843, had not the unsettled state of our relations with Mexico menaced hostile collision with that power. In view of such a contingency, it was deemed prudent to retain in the Treasury an amount un usually large for ordinary purposes. A few years ago, our whole national debt growing out of the revolution and the war of 1812 with Great Britain was extinguished, and we presented to the world the rare and noble spectacle of a great and growing people who had fully discharged every obligation. Since that time the existing debt has been contracted; and small as it is, in comparison with the similar burdens of most other nations, it should be extinguished at the earliest practicable period. Should the state of the country permit, and especially it our foreign relations interpose no obstacle, it is contemplated to apply all the moneys in the Treasury as they accrue beyond what is required for the appropriations by Congress to its liquidation. I cherish the hope of soon being able to congratulate the country on its recovering once more the lofty position which it so recently occupied. Our country, which ex hibits to the world the benefits of self-government, in developing all the sources of national prosperity, owes to mankind the permanent example of a nation free from the blighting influence of a public debt. THE TARIFF. The attention of Congress is invited to the importance of making suitable modifications and reductions of the rates of duty imposed by our present tariff laws. The object of imposin g d u ti es on i mports s h ou ld be to raise revenue to pay the necessary expenses of Government. Congress may, undoubt e dly, in the exercise of a sound discretion, discriminate in arranging the rates of duty on different articles ; but the discrimination should be within the revenue standard, and he made within the view to raise money for the support of Government. It becomes important to understand distinctly what is meant by a revenue standard, the maximum of which should not be exceeded in the rat es o f d uty i mposed. It is conceded, and experience proves, th a t d u ti es may b e laid so high as to diminish or prohibit a lt oget h er t h e im portation of any given article, and thereby lessen or de stroy the revenue, which, at lower rates, would be de rived from its importation. Such duties exceed the revenue rates, and are not imposed to raise money for supportrevenue, of o o n f e Government. If C ongress l evy a d u ty f or per cent. on a giv en ar ti c l e , it w ill pro duce . a given amount of money to th e T reasur y, and will incidentally and necessarily afford protection or advan tage to the amount of one per cent. to the home manu facturer of a similar or like article over the importer. If the duty be raised to 10 per cent., it will produce a greater amount of money, and afford greater pro tection. If it be still raised to 20, or 2:5, or 30 per cent., and if, as it is raised, the re venue derived from it is found to be increased, the pro tection or advantage will also be increased ; but if it be raised to 31 per cent., and it is found that the revenue produced at that rate is less than 30 per cent., it ceases to be a revenue duty. The precis e p o i n t i n the ascending scale of duties at which it is ascertained from experience that the revenue is greatest, is the maximum rateof duty which can be laid for the bow fide purpose of collecting money for the support of Go vernment. To raise the duties higher than that point, and thereby diminish the amount collected, is to levy them for protection merely, and not for revenue. As long, then as Congress may gradually increase the rate of duty on a given article, and the revenue is incr ease d by such increase of d u ty, th e y are within the revenue standard. When they go beyond that point, and, as they increase the duties, the revenue is diminished or destroyed, the act ceases to have for its object the rais ing of money to support Government, but is for protection mert•ly. It does not follow that Congress should levy thee he 10 yCOM' er s • on a t )0( 1 . t ou a , t oni 1 wi t here re ch, lid 4,