Morning journal and courier., 1882-01-13
SpirituaIism ys. Insanity,


 In the Supreme Court of Errors in session at Hartford, the case finished yesterday morning raises new point of special inter- est, namely, whether, because Q testator is a spiritualist, and in his will makes provision for the propagation of spiritualism, he is in- sane or acting under undue influence. The case is that involving the validity of the will of Calvin Hall, of Somers. It seems that the testator had no nearer relatives, when he made his will, than nieces and. nephews That to these he gave the bulk of his prop erty, and left small legacy to the Spiritual church of Somers He made his will in 1856 and died twenty three years later, in 1879. Between the time of making his will and his decease he paid off all the legacies except that to the Spiritual church of Somers and took re- ceipts from the legatees that they had re- ceived their legacies and they would never contest the will. Just before the limit ex- pired for heirs outside the estate contesting the will-long after it had expired for those in the State-a grand nephew of the testator, living in New York city, took an appeal, claiming that because the testator was a spiritualist he was insane, etc. The case was tried to the jury in Holland last June and they set aside the will. It is claimed the jury was made up principally of Congrega- tional deacons: The question is on a new trial, and whether the judge, in refusing to charge the jury that belief in spiritualism was not conclusive evidence of insanity erred in his charge.
 Enterta nments.
 The company not having yet been fully organized House last night.
 MINISTRIES
 Barlow, Primrose and Vests mammoth mnstrels appear at Peck's Grand Opera House Saturday eyen- ing, Jan 2l.
 G1LMoRE's BAND.
 The famous Gilmore, with his famous band, will give grand concert at the Caru Opera House Janu- ary 18th. . READINGS AND MUSIC.
 On Thursday evening of next week fine entertain ment will be given at the Atheneum. On this occa- sion Miss Sarah Cowell will appear in select readings assisted by Miss Maud Morgan and MT. George Wash bourne Morgan, both celebrated musicians ETickets are on sale at Cutters art store.
 HIBERNIAN MINsTRELs. This and tomorrow evenings Heaye's Hibernian Minstres, with the Irish Brigade band and orches tra, will occupy the stage at Peck's Grand Opera House. This is the only Irish minstrel company in existence, and with new and beautiful scenery not fail to draw crowded houses A grand matinee will be given Saturday afternoon. Reserved seats at LOom1s'.
 FLoRINEL.
 Miss Julia A. Hunt made her first appearance in this city at Carll Opera House last evening. But comparatively small audience present, which is to be regretted as the performance surpassed in celIence many that have attended with crowded houses The play, written by MT. Sydney Rosenfeld is 8 pretty love story interestingly told and with clever plot It s free from all coarseness and vulgar ity and has vein of sentiment which appeals to the better nature and the author is compliented in the applause that it forces from the auditors It enlist ed attention of the audience at and the thread of the story was unraveled expressions of admiration and pleasure were frequently heard. judicious condensing Of some minor DOT t1ons of the play might improve it, it is unusually long, but otherwise it may be said to be an uncom monty interesting and beautiful drama. Miss Hunt, as has been claimed for her. Is excellent actress and shows degree of talent superior to the ordinary star. At times she reminds one of Maggie Mitchell Her efforts secured for her several calls the front of the curtain The support throughout unusually good the whole cast being worthy of praise. The piece was well mounted and handsomely costumed, and the entertainment can be chased among those of the best that have been given here this season. This evening" and tomorrow after noon and evening the play will be repeated, and do not hesitate to recommend 1t to the public.