From Washington

WASHINGTON, Feb. 18.

A very large number of army and volunteer appointments were confirmed, including captains, lieutenants, adjutants, surgeons, assistant surgeons, etc.

The promotion of Gen. Grant to the Major-Generalship gives him a superior command to Brig.-Gen. Buell in the same department.

The Secretary of State says he sees indications of satisfactory reaction in favor of the United States in Great Britain as well as on the continent.

World’s Correspondence.

The recent news from Europe, touching the determination of the allied powers to put Hapsburg as ruler over Mexico, and thus create a monarchy on our borders, is exciting profound emotion here.  The fact that some such [scheme] was on the tapis [sic], has been in possession of the department for some time past, and it will be found that dispatches have already been sent to our ministers at London, Paris, and Madrid, protesting energetically against any such project.

Tribune’s Correspondence.

The Navy Department will issue proposals to-morrow, for the building of a number of steam men-of-war of various kinds.  The department will withhold, for the present, the proposals for iron clad steamers.  The construction of gunboats will be urgently pressed.

(World’s Dispatch.)

Among other things presented to the House yesterday was the memorial of the American Geographical and Statistical Society, asking the intercession of Congress in reference to the ship canal connecting the river St. Lawrence and all the great lakes on the northern boundary with the Atlantic Ocean in the bay of New York, in any future adjustment of the commercial relations between the U. S. and Great Britain.

Tribune’s Dispatch.

In well informed circles here it is positively asserted that Gen. Fremont has completely vindicated himself of all charges brought against his conduct of the war in Missouri, by the vote of the joint committee of investigation.  A highly important command is indicated for him in the far west.

Herald’s Dispatch.

A disposition has been manifested in the Senate to pass over most of the nominations for Brigadier Generals for the present, and let the nominees win their stars by gallantry and efficiency on the field before they are confirmed.  A broad line of distinction has been drawn in the Senate between officers who lounge about the hotels or dawdle in drawing rooms, and those who devote their attention to the improvement of the efficiency of their commands or in active duties in the field.  Whenever their comes up the nomination of any one against whom or in whose favor there is nothing particular to be said, by common consent it is passed over to await the future conduct of the candidate, and let him prove his merits by his deeds.

WASHINTON, Feb. 19.

Col. Garfield, now in Eastern Ky., has been nominated a Brigadier General.

Secretary Stanton has prepared from official reports full lists of all privates who have distinguished themselves, that they may be promoted.

It is rumored that Stephens has resigned the rebel Vice Presidency.

Gen. Bishop Polk is said to have recently written letters advising emancipation as the last resort of the South.

On Trumbull’s motion, Gen. Grant has just been unanimously confirmed as Major General.

This morning’s Republican says that the private soldier who told of Gen. Stone’s communicating with the rebels on one occasion, was a few nights since furiously attacked by a midnight assassin, who had burglariously entered his room.  The assassin was obliged to yield to a superior force.

The Capitol will be illuminated on Saturday from basement to dome.

A bill will to-morrow be introduced into the Senate, repealing the black code of the district, whether embraced in the Maryland laws, or city ordinances, and putting the blacks on the same footing with whites as regards trial, punishment, and giving of testimony.  It will be accompanied by a thorough analysis of the infamous code.

WASHINGTON, Feb. 20.

Numerous applications continue to be made for permission to trade at the several captured points on the Southern coast. – None of them have been granted.

Information has been received here that the iron clad gunboat, on the Ericson plan, is thus far satisfactory to the official inspector.  A trial trip to Fort Monroe is contemplated.

The President’s son, William, aged eleven years, is so sunk as to preclude the possibility of recovery.

WASHINGTON, Feb. 20.

A dispatch boat from Gen. Burnside has just arrived at Baltimore.  The official report of Gen. Burnside is now in its way to Washington.  The Federal losses at the battle of Roanoke Island were 50 killed and 222 wounded.  The rebel loss was 13 killed and 39 wounded.  The enemy were protected by entrenchments, and poured a destructive fire upon or advance column, so that our loss is the heaviest.

NEW YORK, February 20.

Specials state that Senators Wade and Andrew Johnson had an interview with Gen. McClellan yesterday, and urged the necessity of action with the army of the Potomac, as well as in the West.

The Senate will take up the Mexican treaty in executive session.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 21, 1862, p. 1

From Washington

WASHINGTON, Feb. 15.

The railroad operations of the War Department require that there should be a just and efficient system of railroad transport, that would secure to the Government energetic action with a fair tariff of charges.  The Secretary of War, believing that he may safely appeal to the practical experience of the officers of the railroad companies and their patriotic feelings for aid in devising such a system, invites the chief officers of the respective railroad companies of the loyal States to meet and confer with him on this subject at Washington on Thursday, the 20th day of February, 1862.  Hon. Erastus Corning and N. L. Wilson, now in this city are requested to act as a committee of arrangements.

Signed,

EDWIN M. STANTON.

Secretary of War.

Tribune Correspondence.

WASHINGTON, Feb. 16.

Senator Latham will to-morrow introduce a bill for the survey of a telegraph line from San Francisco to the northwest coast overland, via Behring’s Straights and Asiatic Russia to the mouth of the Amoor river as proposed by McDonald Collins.

The military committee asks for an appropriation of $100,000 and two small vessels, in order to make the preliminary survey.  The enterprise will be under the direction of the President, and other nations will be invited to participate in it.

A board of officers convened to investigate the quality of clothing furnished by contractors, have discovered that at least one third now on hand is entirely worthless.  The facts being reported to the Secretary of War he ordered that payments to the contractors be at once suspended.

Gen. Segwick [sic], a Brigadier-General in General Heintzleman’s division, has been assigned to the command of Gen. Stone’s division.

WASHINGTON, Feb. 17.

Chief justice Tanney [sic] this morning delivered the opinion in the case of Gordon, the slave trader, denying the motion made by Judge Dean for a writ of probation to prevent his execution, on the ground of a want of power in the Court to review proceedings in criminal cases to restrain the action of a ministerial officer.  The application was based on alleged irregularity in the New York Circuit Court.  Application will be made to the President in behalf of Gordon, on the same grounds.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, February 18, 1862, p. 1

From Washington

Tribune Correspondence.

NEW YORK, Feb. 14.

The committee on the conduct of the war, to-day, in examining the case of Gen. Stone, discovered new facts, which divide the responsibility of the blunder at Ball’s Bluff between Gen. Stone and another General.

Previous to the discharge of Wikoff, the committee on the judiciary examined Gen. Sickles, whose frequent visits to the incarcerated Wikoff and his journeys from the cell to the residents of ex-Lieut. Watt at the other end of the avenue, had excited suspicion.  Sickles claimed to be Wikoff’s counsel, and to have acted throughout in that capacity.  The committee put some home questions to him, he replied sharply, and for a few minutes a war of words raged.  While his examination was pending, the Sergeant-at-Arms appeared with Watt.  He testified that he saw the message in the library, and being of a literary turn of mind perused it; that, however, he did not make a copy, but having a tenacious memory, carried portions of it in his mind, and the next day reported them word for word to Wikoff.  That personage had previously testified that the passage transmitted to the Herald was given him by Watt orally.

WASHINGTON, February 14.

Hamilton Fish and Bishop Ames returned to Washington to-day and made a report to the Government of their mission to relieve Union prisoners in the south.

They repaired to Fortress Monroe, and made known their commission to the Confederate authorities at Norfolk, by whom the matter was referred to Richmond.  A reply came, refusing the commissioners admission to the Confederate Territory, but expressing readiness to negotiate for the general exchange of prisoners.  Our commissioners opened negotiations which resulted in perfect success.  An equal exchange was agreed on, but the confederates had 300 more prisoners than we.  With commendable magnanimity, they proposed to release those also, on condition that our Government would agree to release 300 of their men that they may next fall into its hands.

WASHINGTON, Feb. 15.

Mrs. Senator Chandler has received a letter from Col. Wilcox, who says that himself and other prisoners at Columbia, S. C. are in good health and that their condition has been rendered comfortable by the clothing received from the United States authorities.

The Oregon Democrat and the Los Angeles and California Star have been suppressed from the mails, on the ground that they have been used for the purpose of overthrowing the Government and giving aid and comfort to the enemy now at war with the United States.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, February 17, 1862, p. 1

Washington Correspondence

WASHINGTON, May 9, 1862

It has been the subject of much fear that the national arms might fall in consequence of so large a proportion of incapables having been put in the lead.  Compared with the character of our men under arms, the generals are, as a mass, scarcely equal – perhaps not equal – to the average of the men in the ranks, and are totally unworthy to lead such an army to the field.  This could hardly be otherwise, in the manner that our army was, something like of necessity, made up.  Certainly it was to have been expected.  The appointment of officers was a strife and scramble, when they had to be made so rapidly that proper scrutiny was hardly possible, in good part they were appointed because they could offer regiments and brigades, when regiments and brigades were immediately needed and greedily taken on any terms while the balance were made chiefly on the recommendation of politicians who had friends to pay off, to conciliate or to secure.  One gentleman on the War Committee, who in no degree partakes of the sensation character, who is unlikely to be either depressed or elated without sufficient reason, who is not prone to speak without consideration, and who, in his position, having had nearly every officer of distinction in this quarter and very many from other quarters of the country before him for examination, told me that he utterly despaired of the country, its fortunes having been placed in the hands of a body of men so weak in character and capacity.  Not having seen it he said no evidence would have made him believe none could have made him realize the incapacity of the body of men whom the lives of our army and the fortunes of the country were turned over.  I think anyone who has seen much of our leading commanders, has measurably received the same impression.  And yet we succeed.  One thing our croakers and our thoughtfully despairing men have overlooked. – We of the loyal side had, as a class quite as good material to select from as the rebels, and were not at all less likely to select with discretion than they for the circumstances with them necessarily rendered the clutch for office quite as confused as impudent and selfish as with us.  If we have fools, there was quite as great reason why they should have them and they actually have eclipsed us in this respect.  Hence, on that score there never was anything to fear, as events have demonstrated.  Yet, if incapacity has not seriously periled our cause it has needlessly and deplorably sacrificed thousands of our brave and patriotic soldiers – has carried desolation and despair to thousands of homes that yet should be bright with joy.  Another gentleman upon the same committee, a man of as much penetration and talent as anyone on it, tells me that of all the leading men of the army who have been before it, Gen. McClellan is the weakest.  He said he could not realize that he was the head of the army.  He was the lightest, the most effeminate, the least competent of all.  In his examination he seemed lost, uncertain, unsteady – a man for home the term effeminate was the fittest that could be used.  And this is the man who was to turn Congress out of doors, the “man on horseback” whom Dr. Russell was dreaming about, the young Napoleon who was to lead the American army like an avalanche against the rebels!  But, said my friend, on the other hand, no man has appeared before the committee of whose talents and military capacity I have formed so high an opinion as of General Stone.  That gentleman he considers the most qualified to command of any in the army, and greatly regretted his disgrace he individually having do doubt as to his actual treason. – Gen. Stone was a schoolboy companion of my own.  I knew him well in days long past, and I do not think this judgment of his talents and military attainments is far out of the way.

The disposition made of the case of Mr. Vandever you will have seen.  Had it been brought to a vote, I have no doubt but that the result would have been as I think I indicated in my last – a decision against the power to hold a commission in the army and a seat in the House at the same time.  But there was a disinclination to decide the question against members who are patriotically serving in the field and a hope was indulged that the difficulty might be got over by the close of the war before December – at least there was a ready willingness that they might be continued in the possession of all honor and influence as long as possible.  In all there are eleven members who hold commissions in the army, that I can count up.  There may be still more.

IOWA.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 17, 1862 p. 1

First Session -- 37th Congress

WASHINGTON, May 2. – HOUSE. – Mr. STEVENS, from the committee on Ways and Means, reported a bill making appropriations for the support of the army for the year ending with June 1862.

The House then took up and finally discussed the bill granting pensions.

Mr. GOODWIN said the bill had been carefully prepared and was unanimously reported from the Committee on Invalid Pensions, after being submitted to the Commissioner of Pensions for all persons whether regulars or volunteers, engaged in the military and naval service who have been disabled or wounded since the 4^th of March, 1861, and while in the service of the United States, in line of duty, &c.

The further consideration of the subject was then postponed until Tuesday next.

Mr. ODELL presented a memorial from the Chamber of Commerce in favor of a tax upon all sales of merchandise, by which it is estimated that $115,000,000 can be annually collected.

The house went into consideration of private bills.

Messrs. MORRILL of Vermont, BIDDLE and VORHEES the first named having rose to a special explanation made remarks exculpating Gen. Smith from the charge of drunkenness.

Mr. WASHBURNE also defended General Grant on similar charges.

Mr. RICHARDSON thought all these things ought to be left to the military authorities.  If the riot act was read dispersing congress the army would get along much better.

Mr. FISHER vindicated Delaware from the remarks of Senator Saulsbury.

At the conclusion of Mr. FISHER’S remarks the House adjourned till Monday.

WASHINGTON, May 2. – SENATE – The president pro tem presented a message from the President in regard to the arrest of Gen. Stone which has already been reported.  The President says he will be allowed a trial without unnecessary delay.  Charges and specifications furnished him and every facility for defense afforded him by the war department.

The Confiscation bill was taken up and discussed by Messrs. Doolittle, Cowen and Wade and adjourned till Monday.

WILSON of Mass. From the Military Committee reported back the bill to facilitate the discharge from enlistment for special disabilities.

Mr. HALE offered a resolution that the Naval Committee inquire into the expediency of providing for appointments to the naval corps the same as to the Naval academy adopted.

Mr. SUMNER gave notice that he should introduce a bill to abolish coast wise traffic in slaves and to prevent the transportation of slaves through the United States.

On motion of Mr. WADE the Homestead bill was taken up.  An amendment was adopted excluding from the benefits of the bill any person who has been in arms against the U. S. or who has given aid and comfort to the enemy.

On motion of Mr. POMROY the bill was postponed until Monday.

Adjourned.

WASHINGTON, May 5. – SENATE. Mr. HARRIS presented a petition in favor of a general Bankrupt Act.

Mr. TENEYOK offered a resolution that the Military Committee enquire into the propriety of extending provision of the Act offering $100 to volunteers honorably discharged and to such volunteers as may have been or hereafter may be disabled by warrants and discharged. – Adopted.

HOUSE.  Mr. ALDRICH introduced a bill indemnifying the people of Kansas for losses and depredations.  Referred.

The House passed the bill to provide increased revenues from imports and to pay the interest on the public debt, &c.

The House then went into Committee of the Whole on the Pacific Railroad bill.

Mr. FREDERICK A CONKLING immediately moved that the committee rise with an intention to move the postponement of the bill till the second Monday in December next.

The Motion was lost by a vote of 34 against 61.

WASHINGTON, May 5. – Mr. WILSON from the Military Committee, reported back the bill to limit the number of Major Generals and Brigadier Generals with an amendment making the Major General 30 instead of 20.  The amendment was adopted.

Mr. HALE moved to strike out 200 and insert 180 as the number of Brigadier Generals.

Mr. WILSON of Massachusetts hoped the bill would pass.  He thought 150 Brigadier Generals enough.  About 150 had been sent in here.

Mr. CLARKE thought we ought to make the bill according to the service and not according to the appointments.  The chairman of the Military Committee (Mr. Wilson) thinks that 150 Brigadier Generals is enough and yet we refuse to put the number down because we have got these appointments here and have not [illegible]ness to strike them out.

Mr. WILSON said he thought 150 enough but the President and Secretary of War seemed to think more were necessary.

Mr. HALE.  That would look to the country as if we were legislating for the salvation of the Brigadier Generals and not for the salvation of the country.

The bill was laid over.

Mr. WADE introduced a bill donating public lands to several States and Territories which provides for the benefit of agriculture and public acts.  Referred.

Mr. WILSON of Massachusetts offered a joint resolution to suspend all business under the act entitled an act to secure to the officers and men employed in the Western Department and Missouri their pay bounty and pensions.  Carried.

He also presented a joint resolution relative to an exchange of prisoners that humanity and sound policy require that the officers and men of the Army and Navy of the United States held as prisoners by the force now in arms against the authorities of the Government should be released from captivity by such exchanges as may be needful and such exchanges as a measure of humanity and military expediency would recognize solely admitted facts that these forces in arms against the authority of the United States held in captivity in prisons whom it is desirable to release by necessary practical measures.  Referred.

Mr. HALE moved to take up the resolution offered by him some time since in regard to a debate in the Senate.  Rejected yeas 17 nays [22].

The homestead bill was then taken up.

Mr. POMEROY opposed it.

The confiscation bill was then taken up.

Mr. HOWE against it.

Executive session – adjourned.

HOUSE – Various amendments were made when the committee rose and reported the bill to the house.  The previous question was ordered of the bill which was ordered to be printed in order that the House might examine the amendments with the understanding that the vote was to be taken on its passage at 2 o’clock to-morrow.

Adjourned.

WASHINGTON, May 6. – HOUSE. – Mr. COLFAX by unanimous consent introduced a bill to prevent frauds on the Government, which provides that all persons engaged in furnishing supplies of any kind for any Department of the Government by contract or otherwise or performing any service therefore who shall be found guilty in any United States Court, and all accessories therefore shall be sentenced to imprisonment for not less than six months nor more than 10 years and a fine not exceeding double the amount of the fraud and all officers are required when fraud is discovered to institute suit.  Referred to the Judiciary Committee.

Mr. BINGHAM from the committee on the Judiciary offered a resolution that a committee of two be appointed to go [to] the Senate and at the bar there in the name of the House of Representatives and of the people of the United States impeach West H. Humphreys Judge of the District Court of the United States for Tennessee for high crimes and misdemeanors, and acquaint the Senate, and the House will in time exhibit particular articles of impeachment against him and make good the same and that the Committee demand that the Senate take measures for the appearance of said West H. Humphreys to answer said impeachment.

In response to a question, for information, the report of the Judiciary committee was read which in effect charged that the Judge acted out his secession proclivities.

Mr. MAYNARD showed the justice of the present proceeding for impeachment.

The resolution was adopted.

Mr. DAVIS called up the California election case reported form the Committee on Elections, declaring that F. F. Lowe is not entitled to a seat as a Representative from that State.

Mr. DAWES explained that the prayer of the memorialists was founded on a statute of the United States as well as the Constitution of the State of California claiming three Representatives in the present Congress, the number to which she is entitled under the apportionment taken on the last census.

The Pacific Railroad bill passed by 80 majority.

WASHINGTON, May 6. – SENATE. – Mr. SHERMAN offered a resolution that the Secretary of War communicate to the Senate all copies of reports of the officers in command at the recent battle of Pittsburgh.  Laid over.

Mr. KING presented petitions in favor of a bankrupt act.

The Homestead Bill was then taken up.  The question being on Mr. CARLISLE’S amendment, which was rejected by yeas 11, nays 28.  The bill was then passed, yeas 33, nays 7.

YEAS – Anthony, Browning, Chandler, Clark, Collamer, Cowan, Dixon, Doolittle, Fessenden, Foote, Foster, Grimes, Hale, Harris, Henderson, Howe, Kennedy, King, Lane, of Indiana, Lane, of Kansas, McDougall, Murrill, Penny, Sherman, Simmons, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Wade, Williamson, Wilson, of Mass., Wilson, of Missouri, Wright.

NAYS – Bayard, Carlisle, Davis, Powell, Saulsbury, Willey.

Mr. ANTHONY moved to postpone the special order.  Negatived – Yeas 14, Nays 23.

The Confiscation bill was then taken up.

Mr. WILSON of Mass., offered an amendment to the amendment of the Senate, striking out all after the first section and substituting the second section.  It provides that the act shall not be construed in any way to effect the punishment of any person for treason.  The third section authorizes and requires the President to seize the property of the leading rebels substantially as the Sherman amendment to the original bill.  The fourth section provides that whenever it becomes necessary to suppress the rebellion, the President be authorized to seize the personal property of other rebels not included in the list.

The 5^th section provides that when the owners of property flee so that they cannot be brought to trial and do not appear by a certain day specified by the Constitution, the property be confiscated and the slaves freed.

The 6^th section provides that the President be authorized and required to make proclamation and fix the day not more than 30 days after those persons who continue rebellion, their slaves shall be set free.

The 7^th section provides for voluntary colonization and emigration.

The 8^th section gives the President power of amnesty.

Mr. WILSON briefly explained his substitute.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 4

The War News

Interesting News from Port Royal.

Further Particulars of the Tennessee River Expedition.

Gun-Boat Expedition up Cumberland River.

NORFOLK PLACED UNDER MARTIAL LAW.

Gen. Stone’s Treasonable Doings.

MR. WYKOFF IN CLOSE CONFINEMENT.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

From Washington

NEW YORK, Feb. 13.

The Tribune’s Washington Correspondent says of Gen. Stone that he used to have stolen interviews with the rebels, and that a package on at least one occasion, was seen to pass from him to them. He, with surly words, refused a pass to the widow of a volunteer, who wished to seek for the body of her husband within the enemy’s lines, but in the case of the rebel ladies, who on frivolous pretexts desired to go and come, he was all urbanity, and freely gave passes – passes, too, which covered trunks not to be examined.

The Senate military committee will report, at their next meeting, a reorganization of the medical department of the army, increasing the number of surgeons and other members of the service, and making it a separate department.

Gen. Montgomery, military governor of Alexandria, is abusing his office by releasing rebels arrested by his subordinates. Not content with allowing Rev. Mr. Stewart to omit the prayer for the President from the service, he set him at liberty after his arrest on account of the treasonable omission.

The Alexandria Chronicle says much excitement has been occasioned by the arrest of Rev. Mr. Stewart, who in spite of remonstrances and warning, persisted in parading his rebel proclivities in the pulpit.


(World’s Dispatch)

WASHINGTON, Feb. 12.

A well known Citizen here, named Magruder, a shoe dealer, was arrested to-day on a charge of treason, he having been communicating with the enemy. The charges against him in this respect are alleged to be very serious.

WASHINGTON, Feb. 13.

The sergeant at arms pursuant to an order by the house of Representatives, has placed Henry Wikoff in close confinement, selecting the guard house in the Capitol for that purpose. Mr. Wikoff said to-day that this was a kind of capital punishment that he had not anticipated.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, February 14, 1862, p. 1

Gen. Stone

The telegraph has already given us reasons for the arrest of Gen. Stone, which are probably the correct ones. Of his guilt, there seems to be abundant evidence. A gentleman residing in this county has received a letter from his son, who is a soldier in Gen. Stone’s brigade, in which he says that the officer was frequently seen to pass through the lines of our army toward the rebel camp after nightfall, with a bundle of papers under his arm. No doubt evidence of this kind has been presented to the committee on the management of the war, which they have laid before the War Department, with the effect to send him to Fort Lafayette.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, April 14, 1862, p. 2

First Session -- 37th Congress

WASHINGTON, April 28. – HOUSE – The Speaker announced the following Special Committee on the Confiscation of Rebel property:

Messrs. Olin, of New York, Elliott, of Massachusetts, Noel, of Missouri, Hutchins, of Ohio, Mallory, of Kentucky, Beaman, of Michigan and Cobb, of New Jersey.

Mr. OLIN remarked that he had heretofore asked to be excused from serving on this Committee, and he repeated the reasons for the request, which was now complied with.

On motion of Mr. McPHERSON, it was

Resolved, That the Secretary of War transmit to the House copies of the reports of Commanders of Regiments, Brigades and divisions engaged at the battle of Shiloh, Tenn.

On motion of Mr. GOOCH, the Senate bill for the recognition of Hayti and Liberia, was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.

On Motion of Mr. COLFAX it was

Resolved, That the Judiciary Committee be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for punishing all contractors guilty of defrauding the Government, with penalties similar to those for grand larceny.

Mr. SPAULDING introduced a joint resolution, which was referred to the Committee on Commerce, authorizing the appointment of Commissioners to negotiate concerning the reciprocity treaty, and authorizing the President to give the necessary instructions for terminating the present unfair treaty.

Mr. ASHLEY reported back from the committee on Treasury the bill to prevent and to punish the practice of polygamy, and to arrest certain acts of the territory establishing the same.

Mr. Merrill of VERMONT said this bill was the same as that introduced by him two years ago, with the exception of the omission of its applicability to the District of Columbia. The bill was passed.

The House resumed the consideration of the report on Government Contracts. The first Resolution reported by them was postponed for the two weeks. The next resolution on the Secretary was then taken up, and is as follows:

That the Secretary of the Treasury be requested to adjust the terms of the Government for the five thousand Hall carbines, purchased thro’ Simon Stevens by. Gen. Jno. C. Fremont, on the 6th day of August, 1861, and afterwards rejected at the U. S. Arsenal at St. Louis, on the basis of a sale of such arms to the Government for $12.50 each, rejecting all other demands against the Government, on account of the purchase of said arms.

Mr. STEVENS moved the following as a substitute for the above:

That nothing has occurred to lessen our confidence in the honesty, integrity and patriotism of Maj-Gen. Fremont.

Mr. WASHBURNE raised the point of order that the substitute was not genuine.

Mr. STEVENS maintains the original resolution imposed censure on Gen. Fremont.

The Speaker maintains Mr. Washburne’s point of order.


WASHINGTON, April 28 – HOUSE. – Mr. SEDGWICK further concluded that the Navy Department conducted its business with energy and credit.

Mr. STEVENS attacked the report of the Committee, and charged that they had proceeded on false principles and acted generally unfairly. House adjuourned.


SENATE. – The President pro tem presented a communication concerning the number of slaves in the District of Columbia. The Secretary said the statistics were compiled some years ago and were perhaps not available now. The communications was referred to the committee on the District of Columbia.

Messrs. KING and SUMNER, presented petitions in favor of the emancipation of the slaves.

Mr. DAVIS presented petitions from Tobacco Manufacturers, asking for a reduction of the proposed tax on Tobacco.

Mr. WILSON, of Massachusetts, from the military committee reported back the bill for the organization of the Signal Department, and moved its indefinite postponement, and it was accordingly postponed.

Mr. WILSON, of Massachusetts, offered a resolution that the Secretary of War be requested to inquire into the condition of the Harper’s Ferry Armory, what damage has been done to it, what is the value of the property of the United States there now, and what amount is necessary, and whether it is expedient to restore the Armory, and re-occupy the works. Adopted.

Mr. POMEROY introduced a bill to prevent the importation of adulterated liquors, by providing a punishment therefore.

On Motion of Mr. Wilson, of Massachusetts, the resolutions of the Ohio Legislature, in regard to rebels keeping their slaves at Camp Chase was taken up.

Mr. SHERMAN had read a letter from a member of the Legislature concerning the rebel prisoners who were permitted to go about the city of Columbus, lounge at the hotels, and abuse the Government with perfect liberty, also an article in the Cincinnati Commercial to the same effect; also another article in the Cincinnati Gazette, showing that Government was taking measures to have the negroes at Camp Chase liberated and the rebel prisoners removed to proper quarters.

The resolutions were referred to the Military Committee.

On motion of Mr. TRUMBULL the bill for the more convenient enforcement of the laws for security to keep the peace for good behavior was taken up.

After some discussion the bill was passed yeas 35, nays 31.

Mr. WADE presented several petitions asking for a uniform system of taxation according to the population of a State and persisting against the tax bill from the House.

The Senate went into Executive Session.


WASHINGTON, April 29 – HOUSE – Mr. BLAIR of Va., enquired of Mr. Potter, on what authority he yesterday predicated his charge of disloyalty against Judge Pitts of Northampton county, Virginia.

Mr. POTTER replied, on the address of Judge Pitts to the Virginia Legislature at Richmond. The address was now read, in which Judge Pitts refers to the action by the Legislature to depose him without giving him an opportunity for defense. The consummation of this would be manifestly unjust. He could only plead not guilty of disloyalty to the south and doubted not he could triumphantly vindicate himself from every charge his enemies and persecutors might bring against him. He protested against being removed from office by extra constitutional means.

House then resumed the consideration of the report of the Select Committee on Government contracts.

ROSCOE CONKLIN said he voted against raising this Committee. It seemed that none could be so honest or eminent, that it could be desirable to clothe them with the unheard of power as decided on that occasion, it seems unfit to constitute an advisory board to supervise questions of integrity, relating to every man engaged in the administration of departmental affairs. It seemed to him a roving commission to take into consideration the honesty or fraud of all future contracts to be entered into by any Department of the Government. It brought with it grave objections, and little argument could be found in its favor. Experience had demonstrated that the objections to their mode had been abundantly [sustained] by the conduct of the Committee, which had done grave [and] irreparable injustice to both individuals and classes, these as well as the nation have suffered by the declarations of the Committee.

As this Committee was a pioneer experiment and had turned out badly, they could dispense with it. The gentleman (Mr. Davis) had said there was indubitable evidence of fraud. He was right in assuming that the current expenditures of the Government this year was as much as during the Administration which the people hurled from power, because of its corruption. He (Mr. Conkling) remarked that if any man was provided in making that Statement, it would justify the people in resorting to anything best available to redress the wrong. The poisoned arrows furnished by the franking privilege was shot far and wide among the loyal States of the Republic. Like other remarks and statements the gentleman (Davis) made, however, deliberately prepared, this was one of manure, he would be willing to recall.

The Committee had proceeded on exparte testimony in secret; parties never were informed they were to be tried and convicted and stigmatized, and as a case in point he said the Committee had privately and clandestinely gathered evidence against Gen. Fremont to black his character as a citizen and soldier, at the time he was in command of an army. They never informed Gen. Fremont that he was aspersed, or gave him the names of the witnesses against him and they afforded him no opportunity for defense.

What good, Mr. Conklin asked, had the Committee done to offset the harm he was not aware that one single fraud had been exposed by the Committee which remained unearthed at the time they pretended to dig it up.

Mr. CONKLIN asked the Speaker what time remained to him. The speaker replied 18 minutes.

Mr. DAWES asked the time to be extended to the gentleman.

Mr. WASHBURNE, I object to that.

Mr. CONKLING, I know [that]; and do you know how I know it? Because the member from Illinois is the only man in this House surly enough to interpose objections in such a cause.

Mr. WASHBURNE rose to reply, when Mr. Conkling called the member to order.

Mr. WASHBURNE (excitedly). I call the creature to order.

Mr. CONKLING. The member from Illinois understands the rules of this House and must understand that this is not the place for personal altercation. He knows the proper place for that is outside of these walls.

Mr. WASHBURN – excitedly – yes, and I am ready for it.

Mr. CONKLING. No individual in this House better knows than the member from Illinois, that I stand by what I say until convinced that I am in error, and therefore there is no necessity for any interruption here.

Mr. CONKLING in the course of his remarks said he regarded the committee as one of those armaments too expensive under the circumstances to be indulged in.

Mr. CONKLING was severe on the committee, which he thought ought immediately be disbanded.

Mr. WASHBURNE spiritedly replied. He said Mr. Conkling was the instrument of the robbers, plunderers and thieves who had been holding high carnival in anticipation of the overthrow of the Committee.

Mr. HICKMAN vindicated the report of the Committee and referred to the subjects that have heretofore frequently reported.

After [considerable] debate Mr. FENTON, moved the previous question on the pending resolutions of the committee.

Mr. STEVENS moved to table the whole subject, pending which the House adjourned.


SENATE. – Mr. GRIMES introduced a bill to provide that the school tax collected from the colored people of the District of Columbia to be applied to the education of colored Children.

On Motion of Mr. HALE a resolution authorizing the Secretary of the Navy to discharge a contractor after fulfilling his contract, was after some discussion, laid over.

Mr. HALE explained that under the present law the Department can call for a large amount of work to be done at the same price.

Mr. WILSON of Mass., introduced a bill to amend the bill of the last session of Congress confiscating slaves so as to include the wives and children of salves.

On Motion of Mr. POWELL the resolution calling on the Secretary of State for the number and names of persons who have been arrested in the State of Kentucky and imprisoned in forts &c., of other states.

Mr. SUMNER moved as a substitute, that the President, if not incompatible, will give any information in his possession touching the arrest of persons in Kentucky since the first of Sept. 1861.

Mr. POWELL hoped the substitute would not be adopted, as he thought it a mere dodge to evade his resolution.

Mr. Wade presented two petitions from citizens of Ohio for confiscation.

Mr. DOOLITTLE introduced a bill fro the collections of taxes in insurrectionary districts.

The President sent the Senate a communication avowing his responsibility for the arrest of Gen. Stone, and stating that the General cannot be tried at present, because the witnesses whose presence will be necessary are in the field. The Confiscation Bill was take up and Mr. Browning made a lengthy speech in opposition to it.

Without taking the question the Senate adjourned.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 3, 1862, p. 4

PHILADELPHIA, February 10 [1862]

Gen. Stone was arrested yesterday morning; first, for misbehavior at Ball’s Bluff; second for holding correspondence with the enemy before and since Ball’s Bluff, and receiving visits from rebel officers in his camp; third for treacherously suffering the enemy to build a fort since the battle of Ball’s Bluff, under his guns, unmolested; fourth, of a design to expose his force to capture by the enemy under pretence of orders for moving from the commanding General.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Wednesday Morning, February 12, 1862, p. 1

The War News

A Battle In Progress At Roanoke Island.

REBEL GUNBOATS SUNK.

Gen. Stone sent to Fort Lafayette.

$100,000,000 Treasury Note Bill Passed.

ARRIVAL OF THE AMERICA.

The Pirate Sumter still Roaming.

SEC’Y STANTON THANKS GEN. HALLECK.

Doings about Fort Henry.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, February 11, 1862, p. 1

Gen. Stone Arrested

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 10.

Gen. Stone Passed through this city on the 12 o’clock train last night, in custody, en route for Fort Lafayette.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, February 11, 1862, p. 1

From Washington

WASHINGTON, Feb 9.

(Tribune’s Correspondence)

Senator Morrill has prepared a bill fro the immediate emancipation of all slaves in the District of Columbia, and providing for a compensation not to exceed $300 a head on loyal owners. It has not yet been acted upon in committee. There are about 3,000 slaves in the District.

The clergyman who has persistently omitted the prayer for the President from the service read in his church, at Alexandria, has been arrested.

To correct a misapprehension about the interest paying clause in the legal tender bill, Mr. Rice of Mass., desired an amendment that the certificate of the deposit might be funded [on] five years’ seven percent bonds, with semi-annual interest payable in coin. Mr. Stevens consented to the funding, but objected to the words “in coin.” Mr. Spaulding, with his own pen, struck out the words from the amendment. A fair copy was made, but “in coin” was reinstated by the copyist, whoever he was. The amendment was presented and adopted, the friends of the bill being unaware that the words “in coin” were in it. The incongruity and want of principle in paying interest in specie on the seven per cent bonds and in paper on the six percent bonds, and the hostility of the friends of the bill to any specie clause whatever, as certain to depreciate the treasure notes and sent the Government into the street every six months to by $35,000,000 of gold, made a reconsideration inevitable. The who thing was an accident.


(Time’s Dispatch.)

The rebel government has sent word to Mr. Fish. And Bishop Ames, that they would not be admitted into the Confederate States to discharge any mission whatever.


(World’s Dispatch.)

The published fact that Gen. Stone has been removed from the command of a division on the upper Potomac, is corroborated. It is not known who has succeeded him.

WASHINGTON, Feb. 6.

Dr. Cheever preached another sermon this P. M. in the Hall of the House of Representatives, in favor of emancipation as a war measure.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, February 11, 1862, p. 1

XXXVIIth CONGRESS – First Session

WASHINGTON, April 29.

Mr. Grimes introduced a bill to provide that the school tax collected from the colored people of the District be appropriated to the education of colored children.

On motion of Mr. Hall, a resolution authorizing the Secretary of the Navy to discharge a contractor after fulfilling his contract, was, after some discussion on it, laid over.

Mr. Hale explained that, under the present law, the department can call for a large amount of work to be done at the same price.

Mr. Wilson of Mass., introduced a bill to amend the bill of last session confiscating slaves, so as to include the wives and children of slaves.

On motion of Mr. Powell, the resolution calling on the Secretary of State for the number and names of persons who have been arrested in the State of Kentucky and imprisoned in forts, etc., was taken up. Mr. Sumner moved as a substitute that the President, if not incompatible, will give any information in his possession, touching the arrest of persons in Kentucky since the 1st of September, 1861.

The President sent the Senate a communication avowing his responsibility for the arrest of Gen. Stone, and stating that the General cannot be tried at present, because the witnesses whose presence would be necessary are on the field.

The confiscation bill was taken up and Mr. Browning made a lengthy speech in opposition to it. Without taking a vote on the question the senate adjourned.


HOUSE. – Mr. Blair, of Mo., inquired of Mr. Potter on what authority he yesterday predicated his charge of disloyalty against Judge Pitts, of Northampton county, Va.

Mr. Potter replied – On the address of Judge Pitts to the Virginia Legislature at Richmond. The address was now read, in which Judge Pitts refers to the action of the Legislature to depose him without giving him an opportunity for defence. The consummation of this would be manifestly unjust. He could only plead not guilty of disloyalty to the South, and doubted not he could triumphantly vindicate himself from every charge his enemies and persecutors might bring against him. He protested against being removed from office by extra constitutional means.

The House then resumed the consideration of the report of the select committee on government contracts.

Mr. Roscoe Conkling thought this committee had done grave and irreparable injustice, both to individuals and classes. Mr. Davis had said there was indubitable evidence of fraud, well nigh in a single year as much as the current expenditures of the Government during the administration which the people had hurled from power on account of its corruption. He (Conkling) thought if this statement were true, the people would be justified in resorting to anything short of revolution to redress the wrong; but he was satisfied that Davis, on more mature deliberation, would recall it. The committee had proceeded on ex parte testimony; parties never were informed that they were to be tried, and convicted, and stigmatized, and hung up to festering infamy. As a case in point, he said the committee had clandestinely gathered evidence against Gen. Fremont, to blast his character as a citizen and a soldier, at the time he was in command of the army. – They never informed him that he was aspersed, or gave him the names of the witnesses against him, and they afforded him no opportunity of defense. What good had the committee done to offset the harm? He was not aware that one single fraud had been developed by the committee, which remained unearthed at the time they pretended to dig it up.

Mr. Conkling asked the Speaker what time remained to him.

The Speaker replied eighteen minutes.

Mr. Dawes – The time will be extended to the gentleman.

Mr. [Washburne] – I object to that.

Mr. Conkling – I know that, and do you know how I know it; because the member from Illinois is the only man in the House surly enough to interpose objections in such a case.

Mr. Washburne rose to reply, when Mr. Conkling called the member to order.

Mr. Washburne (excitedly) – I call the creature to order.

The Speaker demanded the preservation of order.

Mr. Conkling – The member from Illinois understands the rules of this House, and must understand that this is not the place for personal altercations. He knows the proper place for that is outside these walls.

Mr. Wasburne (excitedly) – Yes, I am ready for it.

Mr. Conkling – No individual in this House better knows than the member from Illinois that I stand by what I say until convinced that I am in error, and therefore there is no necessity for any interruption here.

Mr. Conkling in the course of his remarks said he regarded the committee as one of the ornaments to expensive under the circumstances to be indulged in. Mr. Conkling was severe on the committee, which he thought ought immediately to be disbanded.

Mr. Washburne spiritedly replied. He said Mr. Conkling was the instrument of the robbers, plunderers and thieves who had been holding high carnival in anticipation of the overthrowing of the committee.

Mr. Hickman vindicated the report of the committee, and referred to the subjects heretofore frequently repeated.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Wednesday Morning, April 30, 1862, p. 1

XXXVIIth CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

WASHINGTON, April 21.

SENATE. – The debate on the resolution relative to Brig. Gen. Stone continued at great length, when Mr. McDougal accepted Mr. Wilson’s resolution in place of his own, calling on the President if not incompatible with the public interest, for all the information relative to the arrest and imprisonment of Brig. Gen. Stone, which then passed.

The confiscation bill was then taken up. Executive session adjourned.


HOUSE. – Mr. Diren’s resolution requiring the Attorney General to bring suit against Gen. Fremont, was tabled.

Mr. McPherson presented a resolution in Favor of the establishment of a professorship of German in the West Point Military Academy, on the ground of the value of the study of its practical utility in view of the number of Germans in the army, and in the richness of German literature in military science.

The resolution of Mr. Aldriep, instructing the judiciary committee to report back the bill for the trial and punishment of military officers charged with swindling was passed. Adjourned.


WASHINGTON, April 22.

SENATE. – Several petitions from emancipation and a bankrupt law were presented.

Mr. Clark, from the select committee on the case of Stark, of Oregon, made a report, weather adverse or not was not stated.

Mr. Anthony presented a resolution calling on the President for copies of all orders of the commanding Generals, instructions, etc., given to Gen. Sherman, lately commanding the South Carolina department. – Mr. Anthony believed that the credit of taking Ft. Pulaski belonged to Gen. Sherman. The correspondence would show that he had discharged all the duties required of him. If Savannah had not been taken, it was not because he had not acted in accordance with orders.

The bill for the establishment of a department of agriculture was taken up, and the substitute of Mr. Wright for the bill was rejected.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Wednesday Morning, April 23, 1862, p. 1

XXXVIIth Congress – First Session

WASHINGTON, April 21.

SENATE. – Messrs. Howe and Howard presented memorials from citizens of Wisconsin and Michigan, praying for a ship canal from Lake Michigan to the Mississippi river.

Mr. Doolittle spoke in favor of the resolutions in regard to Brig. Gen. Stone.

Mr. Wade replied to him.

Mr. Cowell offered a resolution calling on the Secretary of State for the names of all persons, resident of the State of Kentucky, who have been arrested by his order, and confined in forts, camps, and prisons, since the 1st of Sept. last. Also number and age of those who had been released; and the number, names and ages of those retained.

Mr. Sumner objected, and the resolution was laid over under the rule.


HOUSE. – Mr. Cox, of Ohio, submitted the following: Resolved, That the secretary of War inform the House of the following facts: 1. What has delayed reply to the resolution of this House, calling for information as to the age, sex, condition, &c., of Africans employed in Gen. Wool’s department. 2. What number of slaves has been brought into this District by the army officers, or other agents of the Government, from Virginia, since the enemy abandoned Manassas, and their lines on the Potomac. 3. What number of fugitives from Maryland and Virginia are now in the city of Washington, their sex, and probable ages. 4. What number is now in, and has been sent to Frederick, Md. 5. How many are now fed and supported by the money of the U. S., appropriated by congress to prosecute the war. 6. By what authority where both old and young, male and female, sent by rail to Philadelphia, at whose expense, the amount of expense, and the purpose for which they were sent. 7. If he has not the means to answer these inquiries, to take the necessary steps to obtain the information.

On motion of Mr. Lovejoy, the resolution was tabled, 65 against 31, the republicans generally voting in the affirmative.

On motion of Mr. Porter, a resolution was adopted, instructing the committee on invalid pensions for disabled soldiers of the present war. The House reconsidered the vote by which the resolution was adopted to-day, calling for the expenditures of the Western department and then rejected it.

Mr. Divens resolution requesting the Attorney General to bring a suit against Gen. Fremont and Mr. Beard, to recover money obtained on the order of Fremont, was taken up. Mr. Divens [spoke] of the extravagance of the expenditures on the St. Louis fortifications; the money having been drawn without any just equivalent and without any form of law.

Mr. Colfax disapproved of the St. Louis contracts, but the circumstances under which they undertaken, offered an extenuation for them. Why did government then wait until Gen. Fremont was in the face of the enemy before they malignantly pursued him. Why not wait until the end of the war, instead of so acting as to cause him to loose the confidence of his army in front of the foe.

Mr. Blair replied to Mr. Colfax, that St. Louis never was in danger, excepting from Gen. Fremont, who brought with him a gang of Californians to the prejudice of the people of Missouri. He admitted that the was partly influenced in placing Gen. Fremont in command in the west, but he had suffered for it, and he hoped he would be pardoned.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, April 22, 1862, p. 1

First Session -- 37th Congress

WASHINGTON, April 18. – HOUSE – Mr. ALDRICH reported a bill providing for the examination of claims for Indian depredations in New Mexico.

The House went into committee of the whole on the Pacific Railroad bill.

Mr. SHEFFIELD opposed the bill.

The committee rose, and the further consideration of the bill was postponed till Monday week. Several private bills were passed.

Adjourned till Monday.


WASHINGTON, April 21. – HOUSE – Mr. EDWARDS introduced a bill making appropriation for destitute widows and heirs of volunteers who have died, been killed, or may be killed in the service. Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.

Mr. ELLIOTT offered a motion that the Secretary of the Treasury be requested to communicate a statement of expenditures of money in the Department of the West.

Mr. BLAKE offered a motion that the Secretary of War be directed to cause the necessary blank forms to be distributed among the sick and wounded soldiers and their relatives, in order that they may obtain the back pay and bounty due to said soldiers.

Mr. COX, of Ohio, submitted the following: Resolved, that the Secretary of War inform the House of the following facts. 1st. What has delayed the reply to the resolution of this House calling for information as to the age, sex, condition, &c., of the Africans moved in Gen. Wool’s Department, and what number of slaves has been brought into this district by the army officers or other agents of the Government from the State of Virginia since the enemy abandoned the possession of Manassas and their lines on the Potomac. 3d. What number of fugitives from Maryland and Virginia are now in the city of Washington, their sex, and probable ages; what number is now and has been sent to Frederick, Maryland. 5th. How many are now fed and supported by the United States; by what authority were both old and young, male and female, sent by rail to Philadelphia, and at whose expense, and the proposes for which they were sent. If the Secretary has not the means to answer the enquiries to take the necessary steps to obtain the information.

On motion of Mr. LOVEJOY the resolution was tabled by a vote of 65 against 31. The Republicans generally voting in the affirmative.

On motion of Mr. PORTER, a resolution was adopted instructing the Committee on Invalid Pensions to report a bill providing pensions for disable soldiers of the present war.

The House reconsidered the vote by which the resolution was today adopted calling for the expenditures of the Western Department, and then rejected it.

Mr. DIVIN’S resolution requesting the Attorney General to bring suit against Gen. Fremont and Mr. [Bard] to recover money obtained on the order of Fremont, was taken up.

Mr. DIVEN continued The extravagance of the expenditures in the St. Louis fortifications; the money having been drawn without any form of law.

Mr. COLFAX disapproved of the St. Louis contracts, but the circumstances under which they were undertaken offered an extenuation for them. Why did gentlemen wait until General Fremont was in the face of the enemy before their [malignity] pursued him – why not wait until the end of the war instead of so acting as to cause him to lose the confidence of his army in front of the foe.

Mr. BLAIR replied to Mr. Colfax, that St. Louis never was in danger excepting from Gen. Fremont who brought there a gang of Californians to the prejudice of the good name of the people of Missouri. He was partly influential in placing Gen. Fremont in command in the west, but he had suffered for it and he hoped he would be pardoned.


SENATE. – The President pro. tem. presented petitions in favor of the bankrupt law; also in favor of a ship canal from Lake Michigan to the Mississippi River.

Mr. LANE, of Indiana, presented a petition from the free colored [citizens] of the Untied States, praying for setting aside portions of the territory outside of the National lines, for their colonization and maintenance in Central America.

The memorial was respectful and deserving of the attention of Congress. He desired it should be read and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations, which was agreed to.

Mr. LANE said while he did not believe that free colored people where entitled to all the rights or privileges of white citizens of the U. S., nevertheless favored their just right to petition, a right awarded even among the most despotic Governments of Europe. It was evident that slaves were freed, and by our armies. – Something must be done with them and emancipation, an apprenticeship or other measures adopted for them. It is not in accordance with the genius of our institutions, that these people should be returned to slavery. He alluded to the great bloodless and moral triumph of freedom in the abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia, as fully equal to the armies by the chivalric and brave sons of the west.

Messrs. HOWE and HOWARD presented memorials from the citizens of Wisconsin and Michigan praying for a ship canal from Lake Michigan to the Mississippi river.

Mr. DOOLITTLE presented a joint resolution from the Wisconsin Legislature, tendering to the President of the United States an approval of his course. He said these resolutions passed almost unanimously.

The resolutions were received, and the House resolution for supplying the Smithsonian Institute with a copy of Wilkes’ expedition was taken up.

Mr. HALE supposed they would pass the resolution and have the books sent to the Smithsonian Institute, as the two most gigantic humbugs ought to go together.

Mr. DOOLITTLE spoke in favor of the resolution in regard to Brig. Gen. Stone.

Mr. WADE replied to him.

Mr. POWELL offered a resolution calling on the Secretary of State for the names of all persons residents of the State of Kentucky who have been arrested by his order and confined in forts and camps as prisoners since the first of September, also the number and age of those who has been released, and the number, name and ages of those retained.

Mr. SUMNER objected and the resolution lies over under the rule.

The resolution calling for information in relation to the arrest of Brig. Gen. Stone was then taken up.


WASHINGTON, April 21 – SENATE. – The debate continued at great length, when Mr. McDOUGAL accepted Mr. WILSON’S resolution in place of his own, calling on the President, if not incompatible with the public interest, for all the information relative to the arrest and imprisonment of Brig. Gen. Stone, which then passed.

The confiscation bill was then taken up.

Mr. DAVIS obtained the floor.

Executive session – adjourned.


HOUSE – Mr. DIVIN’S resolution was tabled.

The resolution of Mr. ALDRICH instruction the Judiciary Committee to report back the bill for the trial and punishment of military officers charged with swindling, was passed.

Adjourned.


WASHINGTON, April 22 – SENATE. – Several petitions for emancipation and bankrupt law were presented.

Mr. CLARK, from the Select Committee on the case of Senator Stark of Oregon, made a report, but whether adverse or not was not stated. Ordered to be printed.

Mr. ANTHONY presented a resolution calling on the President for copies of all orders of the commanding general’s instructions, &c., given to Gen. Sherman, lately commanding the S. C. Department. Mr. Anthony said the credit of Fort Pulaski belonged to Gen. Sherman, and he believed that the correspondence could or would show that he had discharged all the duties required of him. If Savannah had not been taken it was because he had acted in accordance with [orders]. He didn’t desire to deprive the North of anything.

The bill for the establishment of the department of Agriculture was taken up and the substitute of Mr. Wright for the bill was rejected.

Mr. FOOTE moved to amend the bill by a substituted providing for a statistical and agricultural Bureau.

Pending a vote the bill to confiscate the property and free the slaves of rebels was taken up.

Mr. DAWES objected.


HOUSE. – Mr. McPHERSON presented a petition in favor of the establishment of a Professorship of German in the West Point military Academy on the ground of the value of the study and its practical utility, in view of the number of Germans in the army and the richness of German literature in military science.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 26, 1862, p. 4

Who is to Blame?

When gross mismanagement, or want of military strategy, or neglect of duty leading to defeat, or even to victory so dearly purchased as at the battle of Pittsburg, occurs, the question naturally arises, who is to blame? For the terrible defeat of the Federal forces at Bull Run somebody was in fault. Col. Miles was tried before a court of inquiry for having been instrumental through drunkenness in contributing to the defeat. Some nineteen affirmed that he was drunk and twenty-six that he was not, so the investigation was dropped for fear it might prove “detrimental to the service.” For the Ball’s Bluff slaughter somebody was outrageously to blame, but who? Gen. Stone has been arrested and is now in prison, whether for this terrible disaster to our brave troops and the sacrifice of the noble Gen. Baker, is not clearly known. The transaction we presume, will yet be investigated and the guilty party be ascertained. For the disaster of the first day at the Pittsburg battle, a fearful responsibility rests upon some one of the Generals commanding. That there was gross and criminal neglect to post pickets and prepare for the defensive by using every possible precaution, while in the immediate presence of a powerful foe, led by a consummate General of offensive proclivities, is evident. Where or to whom that blame attaches, there seems to be a diversity of opinion; but that there was gross, criminal negligence all believe. Without speculating or attaching blame to any of the officers in command, we are content to abide the investigation which surely must be made.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, April 19, 1862, p. 2

XXXVIIth CONGRESS - - FIRST SESSION

WASHINGTON, April 15.

SENATE. – Mr. Wilkinson presented a resolution from the citizens of Minnesota praying Congress to call on all the people of the U.S., bond and free, to aid in the suppression of the rebellion, and assuring them the protection of the flag.

Mr. Trumbull, from finance committee, reported the House bill, without amendment, for establish a branch mint at Denver, Colorado.

Mr. McDougal called up the resolution calling upon the Secretary of War for information as to the causes of the delay in the trial of Gen. Stone. Mr McD. Alluded to the fact that it was now fifty days since Gen. Stone had been arrested and closely confined in a dark fort; without being able to learn why he was arrested. The manner of his arrest and his confinement seem to be more the result of a Venitian Council of Ten than that of an official act in a free Republic.

Mr. Wade defended the committee on the conduct of the war, and believed Stones arrest justifiable.

Mr. Wilson offered a substituted for the resolution calling on the President for all information not incompatible with the public interest, relative to the arrest of Gen. Stone.

Mr. McDougal desired it to go over till to-morrow, as he wished to reply.

Mr. Sherman, from conference committee, reported back to the naval appropriation bill.

After an executive session the Senate adjourned.


HOUSE. – Mr. Trowbridge called up the motion heretofore made by him to reconsider the vote by which, on the 24th of March, the House adopted a resolution requesting the Secretary of War to inform them of the cause, if any for the protracted delay in exchanging Col. Corcoran; and directing him to stop all exchanges until Col. Corcoran shall be released. Mr. Trowbridge wished distinctly to say, that it was no part of his desire to place any impediment in the way of the release of Col. Corcoran, and he protested and asked the House to join him in preventing the release of the other prisoners to be made subordinate to Col Corcoran.

After further consideration the resolution was amended so as to request the Secretary of war to inform the House the cause, if any, which has prevented the exchange of Cols. Corcoran and Wilcox and the other prisoners of war, held since July last.

The house resumed the consideration of the bill to regulate the franking privilege, being a codification of the laws upon that subject with amendments.

Mr. Colfax moved to lay the bill on the table. Agreed to by 58 to 48.

The House concurred in the reports of the committee of conference on disagreeing votes on the post office and navy appropriation bills.

Adjourned.

– Published in the Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Wednesday Morning, April 16, 1862, p. 1