Year: 1860

My DEAR ENQUIRER:

 Though the Dutch custom of New Years calls does not prevail so universally here as in New York; it is considered solon les reyles to pay ones respects to the President, the Cabinet and Ministers, and such of the Senators and Members of the Lower House as are domestica- ted here with their families. Between eleven and twelve o'clock to-day, the President receiv- ed the foreign ministers, the attaches of the le- gations the officers of the army and navy, and the Judges of the Supreme Court, and the equipages, courtdresses, and uniforms are said to have presented e brilliant spectacle. At noon the gates were opened to the Democratic Sove- reigns. Among this numerous and highly re- spectable class, we dashed up the circular gray el-way of the White House, at precisely quarter past twelve, in all the grandeur of Washing ton "hack," which must be seen to be adequate ly admired, and was at once deposited upon the front steps, in a cold wind and a surging crowd, which was unpleasantly suggestive of the vicini- ty of the Ticket Office of North River Steam boat about to start, or the steps of the Opera House on benefit night in January, before the doors are opened. Once, however, happily with in the outer door, cheered by the warmer atmos- phere, and the music of an excellent Military Band stationed in the Hall, we submitted with resignation to the slow progress of our proces- sion two by two, between files of marines through the outer and inner hall, and through the crim- son room," till we reached the blue, oval recep- ton room, where the President stood, with vest, cravat, ample collar and hair all in pure White uniform, gracefully taking the hand of each vis- itor, with smile, bow and word, dispatch ing according to the best calculation I could make, about one in three seconds. We had also the further privilege of lowing to Miss Lane and the ladies who surrounded her, as we "mov- ed on"iu the repressible file, through the ceebrc- ted East Room, around again to the Hall, and thence by temporary stle of rough boards out of side window.

 The old gentleman himself looked fresh and vigorous, seeming to have another Presidential term in him, if his ungrateful eountrymen would only let it come out.

 IoA nAySoh, Muot say GudG dltuOuSH ClllS lily | first presentation at Court, was made under fat tering auspices, having the advantage of walking in the procession with no less exalted person. age than member of the inorganic House of Representatives, the Hon. Mir. D. of Mass, yet have very serious misgivings whether the acquaintance which I formed with His Excellen- cy at this interview, will prove to be so intimate that he would remember me with affectionate in- terest when he makes up one of those pleasant lists of friends which he now and then sends in- to the Senate, who are to be complimented from time to time-say quarterly-with polite little notes, addressed to the Treasurer, commenting them to his kind consideration.

 We next drove to the residence of MT. Charles F. Adams, who is pleasantly established with his family on Pennsylvania Avenue, about two miles from the Capitol, to and from which he may be seen walking every day. Here we met the en- tire Connecticut delegation, whose prepossessing address gives an earnest of what may be expect ed of them, if the House shall ever be ready for business. Mir. Adams, as seen from my perch in the Gallery reminds one, in the shape of his head and outline of feature of his father; though on nearer view of him, the resemblance is not 90 striking. While he does not impress you with the same startling vigor and flushing excitement that was so apparent in his illustrious father there is an air of refinement and culture about him; and with an evident firmness which belongs to his race, he has the quiet modesty of the true gentleman.

 We called upon all the Cabinet Officers in town, and some of the Senators and Represen- tatives for you see improved my opportuni- ties, as it is not usual for an obscure scrbber to have so distinguished an escort. But I don't mean to fatigue you with any further descrip- ton. Let me say, however, that at the house of Gen. Cass, besides the courteous host and his most agreeable family, we found much to reward our visit. His spacious house is filled with rare antiques and exquisite works of art. The whole effect is as un-American as you can conceive.- It is refreshing to find wealth exhibited in some other form besides upholstery, rosewood chairs carved in the latest French fashion, astonishing carpets, and great mirrors in stunning frames of gilt-plaster. These rooms have the air and fla vor of Italy. I am sorry have not room to de- scribe some of the works of painting and sculp- ture with which they are filled. If should be SO happy as to revisit them, may do so in an- other letter. EYE-GLAss.

 SONG OF THE LOCOMOTIVE.

 Fast through the sombre pine forests flash,

 Pounding the track with monotonous crash;

 Lighting the gloom with Q comet-like glare,

 Thrilling with noises unearthly the air;

 Startling the turkey and coon from their sleep