New-York daily tribune. [volume] (New-York [N.Y.]) 1842-1866, 1857-01-22
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Special Dispatch 10 The H. Y. Tribune.

Special Dispatch 70 The n. 7. Tribune
WASHINGTON, Wednesday, Jan. 81, 1857.
The House to-day epgrcssed nearly the whole
sitting of FIVE hours with Mr.. SimOntOns case OF
contumacy. 1t first asserted jurisdiction, and
then proceeded to consider what course should be
adopted. When the elephant had been Gagged,
there was discussion CT various propositions sub
mitted on this point. Humphrey Marshall sug-
pested, as the true and dgnifed course, that the
Speaker should PROFOUND the interrogasory pro-
posed BY the Committee, and Mr. SimOnton should
be required to answer in writing under oath; bat,
at the suggestion of Others, he was allowed to
reply orally and in his own way. His effort was
directed to show that the investigation was not
founded upon the course Of The Times, and he dis
puted the power of the House. under existing laws
to arrest and detain him. The first proposition
has been sufficiently discussed. Although three
members did disparage the publication, the inquiry
originated in specific charges made by him and the
editor. Mr.. Kelsey so stated in bringing the sub
iect TO the notice of the House, and Mr. Paine only
confirmed by his personal knowledge what had
heen asserted. Mr. Paine's confirmation In no way
relieved the first responsibility, but it fortified the
accusation. Ia regard to the second point, Mr..
Simonton did Tot succeed as well as he might have
done if the proper counsel had been employed to
discuss the authority of the House. He erredsin
appearing for himself as men often do when finding
slients in themselves. The real point in this case
is simply this Mr.. SmODtOn charged publicly that
corrupt combinations had been formed on the Mia
pesota and other bills. When examined before the
Committee, be admitted having been approached
by two Members of Congress directly, and indl-
rectly by others, for the purpose Of acting as go
between in negotiating the sale of their votes, and
being required to disclose the names of the men,
otrs, he falls back upon the confidence repOsed in
him. II appears to me that this purpose should
have been considered before the eliminating publ
cation was made. Confidence has not two aspects.
The patriotic reason which led 10 public warning
should not scruple az exposure when demanded By
bgh considerations. In delivering his speech, Mr..
Simonton appeared with the confident air of one
not surprised in his situation. and who expected 10
encounter such an ordeal. His manner was good
and assured, but half the speech would have lett
better impression. Before leaving the House in
custody, be gave the Sergeant alarms notice Of
action for false imprisonment. Of course, be will
remain until the 4th of March, and then be dis
charged. This will end it, 80 far as be Is con-
cerned Other testimony may reveal what has
thus far been concealed, and the moral conviction
will not be relieved as TO the several members yet
shrouded. The bill reported by the Investigating
Committee to compel testimony in such cases,
gives one month aud one year, and one hundred
and one thousand dollars, as the extreme penalties
for refusing. 1t has gone to the Judiciary Com
nittee for consideration.
The Wsys and Means Committee will require the
vote on the Tariff before the appropriations are
granted, 20 some lodges contemplated viii not be
permitted.
The President will FL existing vacancies in the
Navy from the regular active list, and bis nomna-
tons may be soon expected. The retired men will
have to take their chances hereafter.
If Mr.. Buchanan attempts to put any disunon-
sts into bis Cabinet, be may expect thorough oppo
sition in the Senate and his Administration may
not start as soon or smoothly as expected.