Public ledger. [volume] (Memphis, Tenn.) 1865-1893, 1869-11-19

Yesterday morning ct five o'clock the
steamer Great Republic, SO long detained
between here and Vicksburg by defect
ia one of her boilers, arrived at our
wharf, and Mr.. Jefferson Davis imme-
diately came ashore with few friends
and proceeded directly to the Peabody
Hotel, where suit of rooms had been
retained for him. At that early hour
few persons were abroad on the streets,
aud the reception given Mr.. Davis was
as informal and quiet as he could have
desired. The news of his presence in
the city soon spread, and in an hour or
two visitors began to flock to the Pea
body. A variety of motive, must have
controlled those who went, but all had
desire to see the illustrious visitor.
Some called who had known Mr.. Davis
personally in the Mexican war, and in
the stormy days of politics in Mississippi
twenty years ago; many went who had
seen him in Washington City when his
voice shook the Capitol to its founda-
tions; others who had seen him in
Richmond the recognized head and
front of the Southern Confederacy.
Others in the throng had faithfully
followed the banner, that fell forever,
without ever seeirg the renowned chief
tain. Of the latter clsss was the writer,
who, among others, was duly introduced
to Mr.. Davis in his parlor We looked
upon the serene, spare made, elderly
gentleman, and thought, is this indeed
Jefferson Davis ? the political champion,
the hero of Mexican fame, the ruler for
four years Of powerful nation, the war
rior and statesman whose name has re-
sounded throughout Europe ? He is
smaller in stature than we expected, and
older, since our ideas were formed from
pictures taken many years ago. His
hight is probably five feet seven inches;
his hair almost iron.gray, and his short,
thin whiskers the same color. He is erect
and symmetrical and very thin. He
would probably not weigh over one hum
bred pounds. Ia answer to en- inquiry
made by almost every one who called, he
stated that his health was better than it
had been for several years. With every
one he was cordial, and made all around
him feel at ease. The conversation was
confined to such neutral subjects as the
state of the weather, the prospects of the
cotton crop, and the growth Of the city,
etc.
During the forenoon several hundred
persons called, and all came away pleas
antly impressed with Mr.. Davis suavity
of manners, and believing that be may
yet live to engage in some active pursuit
many years.
1t has been rep orted that he has come
here to assume charge of an insurance
company, but if such is his purpose no
one has the authority for saying SO. It
is UNDERSTOOD, however, that be Ia to re-
main but few days st present.
Last night about ten o'clock, the So
dality Band appeared in front of the Pea
body and played in exquisite style
number of popular airs. A large crowd
quickly aassMhlsd. in tsa sipliss The
streets in front of the hotel were blocked
With people, and the wonder was where
they ali came from 10 so short time
Not a loud word was said, The band
continued to piay ios so44e time, and
while every one knew that the serenade
was in honor of Mr.. Davis, none called
for him to appear, fearful the demonstrs
ton should be misconstrued; but when
"Dixie" was struck up, there was a unan-
imous clapping of hands which DENOTED
the earnest feelings and sympathies of
the sssemblsge. The compliment was
uudisguised and delicate. When the
music ceased the crowd slowly dispersed,
and the worthy young gentlemen compos-
ing the band we're invited down to
Madame Vincent's by some Of Mr.. Davis
friends ir the city, aud RECALLED with
splendid oyster supper, and an hour or
two, we learn, was passed in very socia-
BILE ard pleasant manner. The affair
was 10 good taste and spirit, and highly
creditable to all around.
Mr.. D avis is still at the Peabody, and
many ladies and gentlemen are still call
to see him.