The New York herald., 1871-01-13

Sldered at length, but conclusion was reached. II
IS probable that bin will be reported for the ap
pointment OF three commissioners to receive and
audit these claims
Admiral POrter's Nomination Sill Hangs
When the Senate went into executive session to-
day the nomination of Admiral Porter was taken up
and q lively discussion followed In the course OF
which there were some sharp encounters between
the fIends and the opponents OF Porter. There was
nothing new elicited In the discussion. The old
stories against Porter reiterated by those who
opposed him. They advocated the passage of the
bin to abolish the rank OF admiral and vice admiral
and insisted that this was the best way to settle the
business Porter's friends were anxious to press
the nomination 10 o vote, but the other side mani
tested disposition to talk, and so no vote was
reached. Porter's friends feel confident that when
ever vote Is taken he will be confirmed. At all
events, those who are opposing him have hitherto
been afraid to let the matter come to vote.
Gayetics Of tho National Capitnl-Recep-
tions Among the Notables.
The social flower mas now fairly bloomed The
receptions win be numerous and frequent through
the winter season until the religious restrictions OF
Lent crcumscribe the field OF festivities The levee
at the White House on Tuesday acted the opening
wedge for festivities, and to-day the stream of
cipal dignitarles ana citizens was unusually
large. The diplomatic corps was out in
force although afternoon costumes were en-
regle and gold lace prescribed. Sir Edward
and Lady Thornton have issued cards. the first
under their new patent OF nobility for parties, the
first OF which was given this evening. The others
are set for the 26th inst. and the 9th Of February
There Will be no dancing. The reception at the
English Minister'S tonight was brilliant affair. 1t
differed from those usually given by the Cabinet
Ministers and other diguitares In that the
visiting friends only Of the family were
invited. SIN there was throng and the Spacious
parors Of the Legation were unusually crowded
Lady Thornton was elegantly s...!.gea In white tulle
dress, witt an oveTdress Of blue silk, and fairly
sparkled with diamonds. The list OF guests COM
prlsed nearly all OF the distinguished residents OF
washington and all OF the Cabinet except Secreta-
rles BelKnap and Boutwell, The rooms were
profusey decorated with flowers, and in the
centre OF the main hail a magnificent silver
candelabra holding wax candles and festooned with
flowers, was placed which attracted universal ad-
mlration. Tie reception closed with a generous
supper
Mrs. Grant has been indisposed since the recep-
tion on Tuesday, and Will not make her appearance
for several days. The excessive fatigue OF hand
shaking is attributed as the cause Of her illness.
The usual Tuesday afternoon receptions at the
White House, 1t is announced, will continue
until further notice. The evening levees at
which the President is always present, fixed for
the ION OF January and the 81 and 10th OF February.
rumor has gone abroad that the marine band,
which has always been considered an irseparabe
adjunct OF these occasions, will be dispensed wtn
In con sequence, much disappointment has been
manifested, and Mrs. Grant has been urgently en-
treated TO continue the old time custom aud re-
tain the band.
General Sherman intends to hold but two recep-
tions this winter Instead OF issuing special cards
Of invitation he win invite his friends generally,
through the papers, to come without the formality
OF written cards. The days Tor the reception have
not yet been announced.
The French Minister and Nine. Treilhard state
that on account OF the war Europe they will hold
no receptions this winter.
Mrs Ross Ray, Of tine leaders Of fashion in this
city, VAL give fancy bail on the l4sn Of February.