Washington sentinel. [volume] (Washington [D.C.]) 1853-1855, 1854-11-17
yOfal anb Dsrsonal.

An Old Party.-We yesterday noticed, on
Pennsylvania avenue, an old man shoveIling dirt
into an old cart, in the shafts Of which was an old
horse. The man was moi probably more than
sixty years Of age, but excessive toll had bowed
him almost 10 the earth, and therefore il was with
extreme difficulty that he pursued his humble
vocation. What contrast to the spruce, gay
widowers whom we have seen in our lifetime, on
the lookout for new family relations! As for the
horse, il looked as though its proyender had been
accommodated TO the high price of that essential
article; and if had been gifted, like BALKANS ass,
with the power of speech, we doubt not il would
have made declaration OF that fact. There was
not even tuft of grass in proximity to its nose,
to impart to the faithful beast reviving fresh
ness. Spirited nags gaoped past dixie the better
fed and apparelled sfthe human race promenade
before the friendless members of our common
family as if to showa superior condition. With
regard to the cart, il was somewhat similar 10
Betsey Hamilton's chaise, and anever was mew.n
But the man, and the horse, and the cart, had
all rendered good service in their day, and like
other things Of EARTH that old, must soon pass
away.
The Newspaper Press. There are published
in this city six daily newspapers Of them
in the morning, and the others in the afternoon,
with combined circulation of probably from eight
to ten thousand copies. In addition TO these, two
of the Baltimore penny papers circulate extern
sivey in Washington, being delivered at the doors
Of the subscribers by breakfast time. Thus, In
effect we have eight daily newspapers in this city,
beside semi-weekly and weekly publication.
The evening cars bring hither the morning news
papers from New York, which are sold by the Pc
riodical agents and the newsmen and newsboys.
All the leading periodicals Of the country here
be purchased, and find ready sales. Thus our
citizens are well supplied with news and literary
reading; and if they do not become wise and
acquire full knowledge Of all passing events, it
phatically reading community, and long may it
so continue.
Wood and C0al.-We have heard frequent
complaints from consumers that, often, they do
not get as much of those necessary articles as
they bargain for The first man who has yet re-
ceiyed more than the stipulated quantity is, pro-
badly, yet to be found 1t cannot be supposed
that there is any shriakage in wood and COAL but
it may be that mistakes are made by the employ
ment OF persons incompetent 10 measure them
or the haulers may lessen their loads in mercy TO
their horses, or TO proong their employment. We
are far from imputing dishonesty 10 the merchants;
but il would seem that the measurement of wood
and coal, by retail, ought to be better regulated.
-.
Literary.-The members of the Columbia
Fire Company, who, several years ago. formed
themselves into an association for the purpose Of
mental improvement, have already fine library
and made arrangements for the delivery of a
course Of lectures, during the ensuing winter in
the hall of their engine-house, on Capitol Hill.
Among other gentlemen who have consented to
deliver lectures is Alexander Dimitry, esq, 90
well known in this city for his high literary and
oratorical attainments.
Hacks Unemployed Yesterday, we noticed
upwards Of twenty hacks before one of our hotel
doors, the drivers standing on the pavement impa-
tiently accosting the passers-by with IA hack,
sir ~ A gentleman who happened TO halt for a
moment in their vicinity, was at once surrounded
by web of whips With desperate effort he
effected his escape, and hailed an omnibus, much
10 the chagrin Of the idle Jehus.
Centre Market.-There was no scarcity of
produce in the market yesterday and, as to some
articles, there was slight reduction of former
rates. Plenty Of ducks and chickens, at compa-
ratively moderate prices. Sellers were extremely
cautious Of paper money, and many of them
would receive nothing but the hard cash.
The Oyster Panic is nearly over, and lovers
Of the bivalves have returned to their plates of
/" stewedr and afried." The savory smell issuing
from the kitchens OF the restaurants iempts many
a passer-by to the gastronomic entertainment, and
he goes to his home or TO business strengthened
and refreshed. There are, however, some timid
people who have not yet tasted, this season, Of
the luxury, for fear Of fatal consequences. They
thus exhibit prudence nj the expense
Of their sppstites.
Thanksgiving.--The mayor Of Georgetown
has issued his proclamation, setting apart Thurs
day, the 23d instant, as day of thanksgiving and
prayer. The time for a similar observance in this
city has not yet been named by the mayor of
Washington, but we presume that the same day
viii be designated, as that seems TO be desired by
our citizens.
Balls-Already, during this season, there have
been numerous balls, and additional ones are an
nounced TO take place. Clubs, and military and
fire companies, together with the fair sex, Of
course, are yet to indulge in the innocent amuse-
ment. Dancing is more popular than ever before
in this community, Judging by the present indica-
lions.
Young Lady, several days ago, while walk
ing on Pennsylvania avenue, lost her watch,