Documenting the American South Logo

Journal of the House
of Representatives of the State of Mississippi,
December Session of 1862, and November Session of 1863:

Electronic Edition.

Mississippi. Legislature. House of Representatives


Funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services
supported the electronic publication of this title.


Text transcribed by Apex Data Services, Inc.
Text encoded by Lee Ann Morawski and Natalia Smith
First edition, 2000
ca. 1.5MB
Academic Affairs Library, UNC-CH
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
2000.

No copyright in the United States

Source Description:
(title page) Journal of the House of Representatives of the State of Mississippi, December Session of 1862, and November Session of 1863
565 p.
JACKSON.
COOPER. & KIMBALL STEAM PRINTERS AND BINDERS.
1864.

Call number 1670 Conf. (Rare Book Collection, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)


        The electronic edition is a part of the UNC-CH digitization project, Documenting the American South.
        The text has been encoded using the recommendations for Level 4 of the TEI in Libraries Guidelines.
        Original grammar, punctuation, and spelling have been preserved. Encountered typographical errors have been preserved, and appear in red type.
        Any hyphens occurring in line breaks have been removed, and the trailing part of a word has been joined to the preceding line.
        All quotation marks, em dashes and ampersand have been transcribed as entity references.
        All double right and left quotation marks are encoded as " and " respectively.
        All single right and left quotation marks are encoded as ' and ' respectively.
        All em dashes are encoded as --
        Indentation in lines has not been preserved.
        Spell-check and verification made against printed text using Author/Editor (SoftQuad) and Microsoft Word spell check programs.


Library of Congress Subject Headings, 21st edition, 1998

Languages Used:

LC Subject Headings:


Revision History:


Illustration


JOURNAL
OF THE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
OF THE
STATE OF MISSISSIPPI,
DECEMBER SESSION OF 1862,
AND
NOVEMBER SESSION OF 1863.

JACKSON.
COOPER. & KIMBALL, STEAM PRINTERS AND BINDERS.
1864.


Page 3

HOUSE JOURNAL.

WEDNESDAY, December 17, 1862.

        At a special session of the Legislature of the State of Mississippi, began and held in pursuance of the Constitution and the Governor's Proclamation, at the State House, in the city of Jackson, in the county of Hinds, State of Mississippi, on Wednesday, the 17th day of December, A. D. 1862, and the sovereignty of the State of Mississippi the forty-sixth,

        Be it remembered, That on this day, at the place above mentioned, being the time and place designated for the assemblage of the Legislature of the State of Mississippi, the members of the House of Representatives convened in the Representative Hall at twelve o'clock, M.

        The Speaker took the chair and called the House to order.

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The roll was called and the following members answered to their names:

        MR. SPEAKER, Messrs. Allen, Barton, Bardin, Boddie, Chandler, Clark, Deason, Denney, Dyer, Enochs, Fatheree, Fox, Graham, Harper, Harris, Hicks, Hooker of Holmes, Hooker of Lawrence, Johnson of Warren, Kirk, Lyle, McDonald, McLaurin, Miller of Oktibbeha, Nelson, Seal of Harrison, Semmes, Shelly, Thomas, Smith of Lowndes, Walker, Williams of Wilkinson, and Wood.

        No quorum being present,

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        The House adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        On motion of Mr. Bardin, the roll was called.

        No quorum being present,

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The House adjourned to 10 o'clock to-morrow morning.


Page 4

THURSDAY, December 18, 1862.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Upon call of the roll, a quorum being present,

        The House proceeded to business.

        The Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        Hon. William T. Powe, member elect from the county of Jasper, to fill the vacancy occasioned by the death of Hon. A. F. Dantzler, and Hon. C. F. Hamer, member elect from the county of Yazoo to fill the vacancy occasioned by the death of Hon. Q. D. Gibbs, appeared, were qualified and took their seats.

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        The House proceeded to the election of a Doorkeeper in place of A. T. Foster.

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        William J. Brown, Jr., was elected Doorkeeper by acclamation,

        Who, thereupon, took the oath of office and entered upon the discharge of his duties.

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        Resolved, That the Clerk be instructed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives, having a quorum, are now ready to proceed to business, having elected William J. Brown, Jr., their Doorkeeper,

        And have adopted the following joint resolution, in which the concurrence of the Senate is desired:

        Resolved, That a committee of----on the part of the Senate, and three on the part of the House, be appointed to wait on his Excellency, the Governor, and inform him that the two Houses are now organized and ready to receive any communication he may have to make; and have appointed as said committee on the part of the House, Messrs. Johnson of Warren, Kirk and Shields.

        On motion of Mr. Bardin,

        The House adjourned to 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Mr. Hooker of Holmes, asked and obtained leave of absence for his colleague, Mr. Dyer, on account of sickness.

        On motion of Mr. Terrell, of Covington,
The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.


Page 5

FRIDAY, December 19, 1862.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to wait upon the President of the Confederate States and General Joseph E. Johnston, and tender to them and their staffs seats in this House, and also request the President, if consistent with his present duties, to address the members of this House this evening at 7 o'clock, or at such other time as may suit his convenience.

        The Speaker appointed Messrs. Johnson of Warren, Jones, and Hooker of Hinds, said committee.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Mr. Harper asked leave to introduce a bill.

        Mr. Hicks raised a point of order, that no bill could be acted upon by this House until the Senate had found a quorum and organized for business.

        The Speaker decided that it was now competent for this House to proceed to business.

        Mr. Harper, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to reorganize and establish the military system of the State of Mississippi,

        Which was read the first time.

        On motion of Mr. Hooker, of Hinds,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read a second time and laid upon the table.

        Mr. Johnson, of Warren, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee appointed to wait upon President Davis and General Johnston, and tender to them and their staffs seats in this Hall, and also to request the President to address the members of the Legislature, have performed the duty assigned them, and now beg leave to report that both the President and General Johnston expressed themselves as gratified at the courtesy extended to them, of which they will avail themselves upon their return from Vicksburg, and also that the President will then name the time when he will be able to address the Legislature.


Page 6

        Mr. Harper, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorise the impressment of slaves and other personal property for military purposes,

        Which was read the first time.

        Mr. Harper moved that the rule be suspended, that the bill be read a second time and referred to a select committee of five, and one hundred copies ordered to be printed.

        Motion lost.

        Mr. Hooker, of Hinds, moved that the bill be laid upon the table, and one hundred copies ordered to be printed,

        Which motion prevailed.

        On motion of Mr. Hooker, of Hinds,

        The House adjourned until 10 o'clock to-morrow morning.

SATURDAY, December 20, 1862.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The following message was received from the Senate, through Mr. Porter, their Secretary:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by the Senate to inform the House of Representatives that the Senate is duly organized and ready to proceed to business.

        Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        Mr. Hooker, of Holmes, presented the following resignation:

JACKSON, December 20, 1862.

To the Hon. Senate and House of Representatives
of the State of Mississippi:

        I hereby resign the office of Sergeant-at-Arms of this Legislature.

SAMUEL POOL.


        Which resignation was received.

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        Resolved, The Senate concurring, That the two Houses proceed to the election of Sergeant-at-Arms at half-past 10 o'clock, A. M., this day.

        Mr. Chandler, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act better to provide for the families of our soldiers,

        Which was read the first time.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the second time and referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.


Page 7

        On motion of Mr. Shields,

        Resolved, That the Secretary of State be requested to furnish for the House, copies of the Revised Code, the Journals of the Convention, and the acts of the Legislature since 1857.

        Mr. Chandler, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize Tax Collectors to receive in payment of the military tax all funds receivable for other State taxes,

        Which was read the first time.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the second time and referred to the committee on the Judiciary.

        The following message was received from the Senate, through Mr. Porter, their Secretary:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has concurred in the joint resolution of the House in relation to the appointment of a joint committee to inform the Governor of the organization of the two Houses, and of their being ready to receive any communication he may have to make to them; and have appointed as a committee on the part of the Senate Messrs. Gordon and Davis.

        The Senate has also concurred in joint resolution of the House in relation to the election of Sergeant-at-Arms.

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        Resolved, That the House take a recess of five minutes for the purpose of preparing the Hall for the reception of the Senate, to the end that the two Houses proceed to the election of a Sergeant-at-Arms.

        The recess having expired, the House resumed its session.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The Clerk was requested to inform the Senate that the Hall of the House was now in readiness for their reception, to the end that the two Houses proceed to the election of a Sergeant-at-Arms.

        The Senate having been informed, entered the Hall and took the seats assigned them.

        The President having explained the object of the joint convention,

        Mr. Hicks nominated J. J. Denson, and, on his further motion,

        He was declared elected Sergeant-at-Arms by acclamation,

        And, having taken the oath of office, entered upon the discharge of his duties.

        The object of the joint convention having been accomplished, the Senate retired.

        Mr. Graham, by leave, introduced a bill

        To provide for the collection of the military tax in the same manner as other State taxes,

        Which was read first time.


Page 8

        On motion of Mr. Graham,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the second time and referred to the committee on the Judiciary.

        Mr. Johnson, of Warren, made the following report:

        The committee on the part of the House appointed to wait on the Governor, report that they have discharged that duty, and that the Governor replies that he will make his communication to this body in writing.

        Mr. Johnson, of Warren, introduced a bill

        To authorize the suspension of the writ of Habeas Corpus,

        Which was read the first time.

        On motion of Mr. Strong,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the second time and referred to the committee on the Judiciary.

        The following message was received from the Governor, through his private Secretary, Mr. Rives:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by his Excellency, the Governor, to deliver to you, his message in writing, with accompanying documents.


Page 9

GOVERNOR'S MESSAGE.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE, JACKSON, MISS.,
December 20th, 1862.

Gentlemen of the Senate
and House of Representatives:

        For the consideration of matters of vital interest to the safety of the State, you have been called into extra session. The magnitude of the preparations, and the vast armies sent by our enemies for our subjugation, require corresponding efforts on our part to render our defense successful. To effect this end, I recommend that the entire white male population of the State from sixteen to sixty years of age, be enrolled in the militia, and that such as are deemed able to go into active service be called at once to the defense of the State. This class who are able for active service in the field will probably constitute one-half of the entire population subject to military duty. The other half could be organized as a reserve, to be armed and drilled for local defense against raids of small foraging parties of the enemy. One-fourth of this reserved class could act as armed patrols in their respective counties, and thus give a feeling of security to the people in every county in the State. As it is a matter of necessity to the safety of the State and the successful prosecution of the war, to fill up our regiments now in the field, and to return to the army the hundreds who are absent without leave, or on expired furloughs, or have recovered from disability and are now able to return to duty, I suggest the importance of requiring the sheriffs, magistrates and constables to aid the military authorities of the State and of the Confederate States to enroll, and, if necessary, to arrest conscripts, and send them to the proper camps, and to arrest and send to their commands all who owe service to the country and either neglect or refuse to perform it.

        The prompt and faithful performance of this duty should be enforced by heavy penalties, extending to even the dismissal from office, for wilfully failing or refusing to give the required aid in arresting and sending back to duty those who seek to avoid it. I recommend that the Legislature pass an act disfranchising every citizen who shall be convicted of evading or refusing to perform the military duties required of


Page 10

him by law--either by leaving the State or hiding out from home or otherwise. Such are not fit to associate on terms of equality with the loyal and brave who return with honorable scars from the battle for independence.

        Slave labor has been employed by State and Confederate authorities on works deemed necessary for the public safety. The liberal and patriotic have cheerfully responded to the calls for slaves for this purpose, while some have refused to contribute anything, or even to send their slaves on assurance of full and ample compensation. I ask that authority be given the Executive--under such restrictions as may be deemed wise--to call out for the State or Confederate authorities such number of slaves as may be necessary for such works in the future; and that the burthen may be equally borne by all, I suggest that the slaves be enrolled.

        While asking for more stringent legislation to compel the citizen to do his duty to the State and country, I will respectfully remind the Legislature that one class of our citizens has claims upon the State as imperative and as sacred as any claim the State can have upon the soldier in this perilous hour. I allude to the families and dependents of our soldiery now or soon to be in the field. Deprived of the means of support by calling the husband and father to the army, they may justly claim protection and a supply of the necessaries of life from the State, which now requires the services of their natural protectors. The provision heretofore made by the Legislature is found to be wholly inadequate. Owing to the drought of the past season, which extended over a large portion of the State, and the necessity of calling more men into the field, the number of destitute families will be greatly increased, and thereby add largely to the wants of our people, who are even now in some districts suffering for bread. Such a condition of affairs ought not to be allowed to exist while there is means within the State to prevent it. I therefore recommend that the most liberal provisions be made by the Legislature in behalf of the families of our soldiers now in the field, and the widows and orphans of such as have fallen in defense of their country; and I further recommend, in this connection, that discretionary power be given to the Boards of Police in each county to extend any legislative provision that may be made by county taxes--if such legislative provision should again be found inadequate to supply the necessaries of life to the sufferers of their respective counties.

        The most pressing want of our people at the present time is a supply of salt. During the last summer I sent agents to Virginia, Alabama and Louisiana, in order to secure, if possible, a supply of salt for the people of the State, either by purchase or by mining. Their missions have, however, from


Page 11

various causes, proven entirely unsuccessful, except the agent to Louisiana, who succeeded in purchasing a small quantity of salt in New Iberia, in Louisiana. About 40,000 pounds of salt are now at Vicksburg, which I propose to distribute to the destitute families of soldiers. Some other contracts have been recently made for a large supply of salt, and if I should be successful in these, I hope to be able to supply the State. These contracts I will be pleased to submit to any committee that the Legislature may appoint for that purpose. If these efforts should prove a failure, I know of no other source of supply but by mining on State account at New Iberia, Louisiana, where the deposit so far as is known, is unlimited. In that event I ask that authority be given to use the slave labor of the State, and the wagons and teams necessary for the mining and hauling the salt to Atchafalaya, the nearest point to steamboat navigation. While my efforts have procured but a very small amount of salt on State accounts, I have given all the information and assistance in my power to private enterprise, and it affords me much satisfaction to say that in consequence of such information and assistance many individuals have succeeded in supplying themselves and neighbors with salt. I have been unable to obtain transportation sufficient to convey the salt obtained to the interior of the State. I therefore request that the Legislature will take some action in the premises so as to secure speedy transportation for the salt that may be obtained in the future, and as the item of bread is of vital importance to a large portion of the State, it would be well for the Legislature to include transportation for corn and wheat in any provision made for the transportation of salt.

        The exorbitant prices asked for every article of food by those who are engaged in buying and selling for profit, and many who produce them, is putting the means of living beyond the reach of many of our poor citizens--if permitted to go unchecked will transfer the property of the country to the hands of the worst and least patriotic of our population. I ask that a law be passed prohibiting the buying and selling of grain for profit, and its distillation into spirits, and that some reasonable price be fixed beyond which the extortioner cannot go without incurring a heavy penalty.

        The military bill passed at the last session of the Legislature made no provision for the appointment of the staff of the Major General of the State Militia. I recommend that authority be given to the Major General to appoint his staff, as the duties of his office cannot be performed without such aid.

        Treasury notes to the full amount authorized by the Legislature at its last session, have been advanced on cotton. This act for the relief of the people and for supplying a sound circulating


Page 12

medium for the State has accomplished all that its most sanguine friends expected, and of the $2,500,000 appropriated by the Legislature for military purposes, but $381,534 have been expended, leaving in the Treasury a balance of $2,218,466. No further appropriation in this behalf is required.

        For the information of the Legislature as to the condition of the State troops, I respectfully refer you to the report of Major General T. C. Tupper, herewith transmitted. The minute men now in the field have done good service, and they cannot be too highly commended. Their presence and efficiency have done much to restrain the inroads of the invading foe. The State Armory at Bra don is doing all that could be expected, with the limited means in our possession, in the construction and repairing of arms. For full information upon this subject, I refer you to the report of the Chief of Ordnance herewith transmitted.

        You will see by the report of the Adjutant General of the State that we now have forty-six regiments of infantry in the Confederate service, besides the cavalry and artillery, and the unattached battalions and companies of the several arms, which were organized by and reported directly to the Confederate authorities at Richmond, leaving no record of their existence or strength in the office of the Adjutant General in this State.

        Since your last session, Mississippi has become the theater of war. After the fall of New Orleans and Memphis three sides of the State were exposed to the Northern plunderer. Until recently our people have suffered, compared with the four States adjoining, but little loss of property, for the enemy have been required to pay in blood for the plunder they gathered on our soil. Their efforts were mainly directed to clearing the Mississippi river of the only remaining obstruction to its free navigation. Some fortifications hastily constructed at Vicksburg were at the beginning of the contest scarcely deemed worthy of their notice, but after months past spent in bombarding, and at times the most furious that has ever occurred upon this continent, the united efforts of both the upper and lower fleets could not secure the safe passage of one boat. Battered and bootless, they retired in acknowledged defeat. The spell which attended the name of gunboats was broken at Vicksburg. While this brilliant success to our arms--occurring on her soil--adds renown to the State, Mississippi can only claim a share of the glory of the achievement--Louisiana, Alabama, Kentucky, Tennessee and Missouri had gallant representatives there to share the danger of the conflict and the honors of the triumph. Nor should I forget the brilliant part played in this defense by the Confederate


Page 13

steamer Arkansas and her heroic officers and crew. Though baffled last summer, the enemy have worked with all the energy which wounded pride and bitter hate could give them, and are now returning to the seige with larger fleets and much larger land forces. We have not been idle spectators of their preparations, and the history of Southern triumph at the Hill City, I hope, is not yet finished. Thanks to the energy of our mechanics and the skill of our engineers, the foremost of their gunboat fleet lies a shattered wreck at the bottom of the Yazoo river. The torpedo has at last done its work. I hail this success as a happy omen of our triumph over our enemies in the approaching struggle--that triumph must be sought by patient endurance and hard fighting. From all the accounts of the devastations committed, wherever their troops have marched over our soil, it is manifest that we have nothing to lose by fighting. Mississippi is now called on to put forth all her strength to repel the invasion of her enemies who have discarded both the principles and practice of civilized warfare. The struggle is now for her existence as a State. Her sons have won for her an enviable renown by gallantry unsurpassed on many fields, and attracted to her the bitterest hatred of the common enemy of the Confederacy. I appeal to the Legislature for such legislation as in their wisdom, they may deem necessary to enable the State to maintain the proud position among her sister States won for her by the blood of her heroic sons. Let us convince the world by our actions that all the patriotism and courage did not go out of the State with the Regiments that have heretofore gone to meet the enemy on more distant fields. If Mississippi is true to her former history, I have an abiding confidence that after a few months more of suffering and trials, the God who loves justice and rewards devotion, will bless our land with independence and peace.

JOHN J. PETTUS.


        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The message was laid upon the table and 500 copies ordered to be printed.

        On motion of Mr. Shields,

        Resolved, That five hundred copies of the Documents accompanying the Governor's message be printed for the use of this House.

        On motion of Mr. Terrell,

        The vote adopting the resolution was reconsidered,

        And on his further motion,

        The House resolved itself into secret session for the consideration of the accompanying documents to the Governor's message.


Page 14

        After a short time spent therein the doors were opened, and

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        The following resolution was adopted:

        Resolved, That the reports of the Major General and Chief of Ordnance, and other documents accompanying the Governor's message, be referred to the committee on Military Affairs.

        Mr. Hooker, of Holmes, offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That this House will not act upon any business at its present session, except that to which the attention of the House is called by the message of the Governor and accompanying documents, and the business now before the House, and such other matters as the exigency of the times may demand.

        Mr. Graham moved to lay the resolution upon the table,

        Upon which motion the yeas and nays were demanded by Messrs. Shields, Gulley, and Hooker, of Holmes,

        And the motion to lay upon the table was lost by the following vote:

        YEAS--Messrs. Bardin, Brooks, Buntin, Deason, Edwards of Kemper, Enochs, Graham, Hicks, Hooker of Hinds, Humphreys, Jackson of Amite, Martin, Magee of Pike, McElroy, Miller of Oktibbeha, Powe, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Terrell and Wells--21.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Barnes, Boddie, Chandler, Clark, Durr, Fatheree, Fox, Gulley, Hamer, Harper, Harris, Hooker of Holmes, Hooker of Lawrence, Irby, Johnson of Warren, Jones, Kirk, Lewis, Lyle, McDonald, McLaurin, Moore, Nelson, Semmes, Shields, Strong, Thomas, Walker, Williams of Wilkinson, and Wood--31.

        Mr. Johnson, of Warren, moved the previous question.

        The question was then taken on the adoption of the resolution and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. Hooker, of Hinds, offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the Auditor of Public Accounts be requested to furnish to this House a statement of the amount collected under an act to support the indigent families of soldiers in the army, and how the same has been distributed among the various counties of the State.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        The bill entitled an act to reorganize and establish the military system of the State of Mississippi, was called from the table.

        And upon his further motion,

        The bill was referred to the committee on Military Affairs, and one hundred copies ordered to be printed.


Page 15

        On motion of Mr. Terrell,

        The House adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Mr. Wood, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to prevcnt the distillation of corn or other grain, molasses or sugar,

        Which was read the first time,

        And on motion of Mr. Wood,

        The rule was suspended and the bill read the second time, and referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.

        On motion of Mr. Miller, of Oktibbeha,

        Resolved, That his Excellency, the Governor, through the Chief of Ordnance, be requested to furnish the House a more full and specific statement of the number, condition and description of arms received from the several counties--what number and what kind from each county--what number from each county approved as good or fit to be repaired--and what number rejected as useless or unfit to be repaired.

        Mr. Miller, of Oktibbeha, asked leave of absence for Mr. Boyd, of Tippah,

        Which was granted.

        Mr. Wood asked leave of absence for Mr. Denney, in consequence of illness,

        Which was granted.

        Mr. Shields asked leave of absence for Mr. Fowles,

        Which was not granted.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        Resolved, That the non attendance of all members of this House, who are at distant points in the army of the Confederate States, be and the same are hereby excused.

        Mr. Strong gave notice that he would, at an early day, introduce a bill providing for increased defenses on the Yazoo river.

        The Speaker announced that he had appointed John Terret and Charles M. Evans as Pages to this House.

        On motion of Mr. Harris,

        Mr. Chandler was added to the committee on Military Affairs.

        The Speaker announced that he had filled vacancies in several of the Standing Committees, as follows, to-wit:

        In the committee on Ways and Means: Messrs. Thomas, Strong, Chandler and Graham.

        In the committee on the Judiciary: Mr. Hooker, of Holmes.

        In the committee on Claims: Messrs. Powe, Walker and Bardin.


Page 16

        In the committee on Propositions and Grivances: Messrs. Kirk, McLaurin, Nelson and Buntin.

        In the committee on Military Affairs: Messrs. Harper, Hamer, Hooker, of Hinds, and Tindall.

        Mr. Thomas offered the following resolutions, which were unanimously adopted:

        Resolved, That this House has heard with deep sorrow of the death of QUESNEY D. GIBBS, late a member from the county of Yazoo.

        Resolved, That the earnest and patriotic devotion to his country's honor and independence, which he has sealed with his life, entitles his memory to a grateful appreciation by the State.

        Resolved, That the proceedings of this House in relation to the death of Capt. Q. D. Gibbs, be communicated to the family of the deceased by the Clark.

        Resolved, That as a further mark of respect to the memory of the deceased, this House do now adjourn until Monday morning, 10 o'clock.

        The House adjourned until Monday morning at 10 o'clock.

MONDAY, December 22, 1862.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of Saturday read and approved.

        The Speaker presented the following communication from the Auditor of Public Accounts:

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, JACKSON,
December 22, 1862.

Hon. J. P. Scales,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

        SIR--In compliance with a resolution adopted by the House of Representatives on the 20th inst., I have the honor herewith to transmit a statement showing the amount of tax collected for the support of indigent families of volunteer soldiers in the army, and the pro rata share of each county of said tax.

Most respectfully, your ob't servant,

A. J. GILLESPIE,
Aud. Pub. Accounts.


Page 17

        

STATEMENT of Military Relief Tax of 1861, collected, and the pro rata share of each county in the State of Mississippi of said fund:

COUNTIES. Net amount of Tax collected. Pro rata share of each county.
Adams $ 7,288 99 $ 1,753 79
Amite 3,086 81 2,790 77
Attala 2,814 23 5,409 51
Bolivar 6,219 12 1,161 23
Calhoun 1,301 48 5,051 11
Carroll. 6,813 06 7,813 21
Chickasaw 3,999 25 3,956 78
Choctaw* 2,684 73 8,993 55
Claiborne**   1,428 84
Clark*** 2,240 81 5,614 99
Coahoma 3,839 69 234 16
Copiah 4,580 62 5,452 52
Covington 645 49 1,944 94
DeSoto 6,979 86 4,578 01
Franklin 1,837 93 1,605 65
Greene 235 70 669 02
Hancock 711 12 1,199 46
Harrison 1,015 48 559 11
Hinds 10,585 32 5,031 99
Holmes 6,121 12 5,333 05
Issaquena 3,600 00 315 40
Itawamba 2,542 32 5,089 34
Jackson 550 00 1,500 52
Jasper 2,075 90 2,523 16
Jefferson 4,178 00 1,529 19
Jones 276 06 2,150 42
Kemper 2,433 57 4,157 49
Lafavette 3,426 38 3,995 01
Lauderdale 2,195 07 4,262 62
Lawrence 1,789 37 2,446 71
Leake 1,684 20 4,281 73
Lowndes 7,380 02 3,794 30
Madison 7,320 55 4,171 82
Marion 843 78 1,017 87
Marshall Not settled 6,804 90
Monroe 6,543 98 7,617 28
Neshoba. 1,291 75 2,226 88
Newton 1,884 59 2,016 62
Noxubee 6,641 89 5,648 45
Oktibbeha 3,856 33 2,169 54

        * Settled in full since distribution.


        ** Settled in full since distribution.


        *** Settled in full since distribution.



Page 18

Panola $ 6,161 50 3,053 60
Perry 278 40 597 34
Pike 2,504 86 1,916 27
Pontotoc 4,182 14 7,211 09
Rankin 3,350 85 4,984 20
Scott 1,876 67 2,174 32
Simpson 890 94 1,557 86
Smith 1,112 10 2,972 36
Sunflower 3,787 17 1,476 63
Tallahatchie 3,354 98 1,753 79
Tippah 3,288 34 6,694 99
Tishomingo*   8,725 94
Tunica 2,627 83 621 24
Warren Not settled 3,421 57
Washington 11,496 29 1,481 40
Wayne 623 01 893 62
Winston 1,940 85 2,590 07
Wilkinson 4,759 25 2,972 36
Yalabusha 4,433 12 3,431 12
Yazoo 8,803 24 2,155 20
Total 198,985 91 198,985 91

        * Settled in part since distribution.


A. J. GILLESPIE,
Auditor of Public Accounts.

AUDITOR'S OFFICE,
Jackson, Miss., Dec. 22, 1862.

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        Resolved, That one hundred copies of the Auditor's Report, just read, be printed for the use of this House.

        On motion of Mr. Shields,

        The vote adopted on Saturday, by which five thousand copies of the Governor's message were ordered to be printed, was reconsidered,

        And on his further motion,

        Two hundred copies were ordered to be printed for the use of this House.

        Mr. Bardin asked leave of absence for Mr. Edwards, of Choctaw,

        Which was granted.


Page 19

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        The call of the counties was suspended.

        Mr. McLaurin presented the petition of Edward Robinson and others, of Smith county.

        Which, on his motion,

        Was referred to a special committee of three.

        The Speaker appointed Messrs. McLaurin, Miller, of Oktibbeha, and Brooks, said committee.

        Mr. Terrell presented a communication from Capt. Barnes and other citizens of Covington county, in relation to the militia law of the State,

        Which, on his motion,

        Was referred to the committee on Military Affairs.

        Mr. Martin, from the committee on Propositions and Grievances, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred the Bill entitled "an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers," have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the same back, and recommend that it do pass with an amendment.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        Resolved, That one hundred copies of the bill and amendment recommended by the committee, be printed for the use of this House.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        Resolved, (The Senate concurring,) That a joint select committee of five members on the part of the House, and----on the part of the Senate, be appointed, to whom shall be referred all that portion of the Governor's message relating to the militia and the proper means of repelling the present invasion, with instructions to take into consideration the subject of the whole military strength of the State, and to report a bill for its immediate defense.

        The Speaker appointed Messrs. Jones, Harper, Strong, Dyer and Hamer said committee.

        Mr. Dyer introduced the following:

        Resolution in relation to the Proclamation of Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, on the subject of Emancipation.

        Which was referred to the committee on Military Affairs.

        Mr. Barton, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act in relation to Executors, Administrators and Guardians.

        Which was read once.


Page 20

        On motion of Mr. Barton,

        The Constitutional rule was suspended, the bill read the second time.

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        The bill was referred to the committee on the Judiciary.

        On motion of Mr. Graham,

        Resolved, That so much of the Governor's message as relates to the purchase and transportation of salt be referred to a select committee of five.

        The Speaker appointed Messrs. Graham, Fall, Martin, Rogers and Withers.

        Mr. Graham, by leave, introduced a bill entitled

        An act to provide for the further issuance of Treasury Notes as advances on cotton.

        Which was read the first time.

        On motion of Mr. Graham,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the second time, and referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.

        Mr. Graham introduced the following:

        Resolved by the Legislature of the State of Mississippi, That we disapprove of the Exemption bill recently passed by the Confederate Congress, and particularly that portion of said bill which exempts from the military service all persons who happen to own a certain number of negro slaves. This we regard as an unjust discrimination in favor of the larger planter against his less opulent neighbor. Indeed, it is to force the poor men of the country to do all the fighting and bear all the toils and hardships of war, while the rich are left quietly at home to indulge in idleness and ease. In the name of justice and equality we protest against this most iniquitous and detestable class legislation, and instruct our Senators and Representatives in Congress to procure the repeal of this obnoxious law.

        Which, on his motion,

        Was referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.

        Mr. Chandler, by leave, introduced a bill entitled

        An act to enroll the militia of this State, and to aid the Confederate authorities in defending the State,

        Which was read once.

        On motion of Mr. Graham,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read a second time, and referred to the committee on Military Affairs, and one hundred copies ordered to be printed.

        Mr. Fall, by leave, introduced a bill entitled

        An act to authorize the removal of the Judicial and other public Records of counties, and for other purposes,

        Which was read once.


Page 21

        On motion of Mr. Fall,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the second time, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Brooks, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to extend the provisions of the Stay law to probating of notes in the Probate Courts of this State.

        Which was read the first time.

        On motion of Mr. Brooks,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read a second time and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Graham offered the following resolution,

        Which, upon his motion,

        Was referred to the committee on the Penitentiary:

        That the Superintendent of the Penitentiary be and he is hereby required, under such rules and regulations and restrictions as may be prescribed by the Board of Inspectors, to hire or employ such free white labor, as together with the convict labor, shall be sufficient to keep the machinery of the Penitentiary for the manufacture of cotton and woolen goods in constant employment, both day and night, excepting Sundays.

        The following message was received from the Senate, through Mr. Porter, their Secretary:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has passed bills of the following titles:

        An act for the relief of Thomas M. Rae, assignee of James B. Wigginton.

        An act further to amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the town of Canton, and to repeal all former acts incorporating the same.

        In which they ask the concurrence of the House of Representatives.

        The Senate has concurred in the joint resolution of the House appointing a joint select committee to whom shall be referred all that portion of the Governor's message in relation to the militia and to the defense of the State, and have appointed as said committee on the part of the Senate, Messrs. Yerger, Poindexter and Chrisman.

        Mr. Hicks called up the Senate message,

        A bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of Thomas M. Rae, assignee of James B. Wigginton,

        Was read the first time.

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the second time.

        On his further motion,

        The rule was suspended, the bill was read the third time,

        And passed with title as stated.


Page 22

        Mr. Strong called up the Senate bill entitled

        An act further to amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the town of Canton, and to repeal all former acts incorporating the same.

        Which was read the first time,

        And on motion of Mr. Strong,

        The rule was suspended and the bill read the second time.

        On his further motion,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read a third time,

        And passed with the title as stated.

        On motion of Mr. Harper,

        The bill entitled

        An act to reorganize and establish the military system of the State of Mississippi,

        Was called from the table.

        And, on his further motion,

        The bill was referred to the joint committee on Military Affairs.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The vote by which a bill entitled

        An act to enroll the militia of this State and to aid the Confederate anthorities in defending the State,

        Was referred to the committee on Military Affairs,

        Was reconsidered.

        And, on his further motion,

        The bill was referred to the joint committee on Military Affairs of both Houses.

        On motion of Mr. Terrell,

        The vote by which the bill to provide for the relief of soldiers' families, was ordered to be printed,

        Was reconsidered.

        On motion of Mr. Martin,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on the bill entitled

        An act better to provide for the families of our soldiers,

        Mr. Johnson, of Warren, in the chair.

        After a short time spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House with a recommendation that it do pass as amended.

        On motion, the report was received.

        The question being taken on the amendments, the following were adopted, to-wit:

        Be it further enacted, That the provisions of this act shall also apply to the destitute families of deceased soldiers, and other families wholly or partially dependent upon any soldier.

        Mr. Terrell offered the following amendment:

        And the families of discharged soldiers who have been wounded or otherwise disabled in the military service of the country.


Page 23

        Mr. Hamer offered the following substitute for Mr. Terrell's amendment:

        And the indigent families of discharged soldiers who are disabled by the casualties of war.

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Wood offered the following amendments:

        Be it further enacted, That if any Tax Collector shall fail to collect, or any Tax Collector or County Treasurer shall fail to pay over the tax levied by this act, within the time limited by law, it shall be the duty of the Auditor forthwith to put the bond of such defaulting officer in suit, and in addition to the penalty of thirty per cent. now imposed upon defaulting Collectors, said defaulting officer shall be fined in a sum of not less than five hundred nor more than five thousand dollars.

        Be it further enacted, That before the Tax Collectors shall proceed to collect said tax, they shall be required to give bond in the penalty of the whole amount instead of one-half according to the provisions of the fifth section of the act to which this is an amendment.

        Pending which,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        House took up the bill pending at adjournment.

        Mr. Wood's amendments being under consideration, were adopted.

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the third time,

        And passed with title as stated.

        On motion of Mr. Harper,

        The bill entitled

        An act to authorize the impressment of slaves and other personal property for military purposes,

        Was called from the table.

        And, on his further motion,

        The bill was referred to the joint committee on Military Affairs.

        Mr. Graham, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to tax unauthorized issues of paper money.

        Which was read once.

        On motion of Mr. Graham,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read a second time by its title, and referred to the committee on the Judiciary.

        On motion of Mr. Withers,

        Resolved, That the committee on Military Affairs be instructed to enquire into the propriety and expediency of


Page 24

requiring all civil officers of this State to give aid and efficiency to the conscript laws of the Confederate States, and report by bill or otherwise.

        Mr. Jones, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of this State,

        Which was read the first time.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read a second time, and referred to the joint committee on Military Affairs, and one hundred copies ordered to be printed.

        On motion of Mr. Shields,

        Resolved, That the joint committee on Military Affairs be instructed to enquire into the expediency of creating an office of Supervising Surgeon of the State, whose duty it shall be to look after the troops of the State of Mississippi when sick, and report their condition to the Governor, and that they report by bill or otherwise.

        On motion of Mr. Shields,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock.

TUESDAY, December 23, 1862.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        Mr. Fall asked leave of absence for Mr. Johnson, of Warren, in consequence of illness,

        Which was granted.

        Mr. Wood moved a suspension of the regular order of business to enable him to introduce the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the committee to whom that portion of the Governor's message relating to the transportation of salt and provisions for the indigent families of soldiers was referred, be instructed to confer with General Johnston and ascertain how far facilities for transportation can be afforded without conflicting with the military necessities of the Confederate Government.

        Mr. Dyer, from the committee on the Judiciary, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill entitled an act in relation to Executors, Administrators


Page 25

and Guardians, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House, with a recommendation that it do pass.

        On motion of Mr. Dyer,

        The report was received and agreed to.

        And on his further motion,

        The bill was read the third time under a suspension of the rule,

        And passed with title as stated.

        Mr. Dyer, from committee on the Judiciary made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to provide for the collection of the military tax in the same manner as other State taxes, have had the same under consideration, and a majority of the committee have instructed me to report the bill back to the House, with a recommendation that it do not pass.

        On motion of Mr. Dyer,

        The report was received.

        Mr. Dyer moved that the report be agreed to.

        Pending which,

        The following message was received from the Governor, through his private Secretary, Mr. Rives:

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Jackson, Miss., Dec. 23, 1862.

Gentlemen of the Senate
and House of Representatives:

        I herewith transmit to the Legislature resolutions adopted by the Legislature of the State of Alabama, in relation to the transportation on Railroads. And as the people of Mississippi have experienced the same difficulties in relation to the transportation necessary to supply food to those sections of the State where the drouth has left them without enough to sustain the population until another crop can be made, I ask such action on the subject as may remedy the evil, and at the same time interfere as little as possible with the Confederate authorities in the use of these roads.

        The Express companies seem to be taking a much larger amount of the transportation on the Railroads than formerly. If the Railroad authorities could be induced to limit the amount of freight thus taken over their roads, at enormous charges, there would be more room and capacity for freight for private citizens.


Page 26

        I also transmit, herewith, joint resolutions of the Legislalature of Alabama on the subject of guaranteeing the war debt of the Confederate Government by the several States. I doubt not that the Legislature will do all in its power to satisfy our sister States, the Confederate Government, and the world, that Mississippi is willing to "sink or swim" with the Government to which she has voluntarily attached herself.

JOHN J. PETTUS.


        On motion of Mr. Hooker, of Holmes,

        The further consideration of the bill under consideration was postponed, and made the special order for 3 o'clock.

        Mr. Shields moved to take up the Governor's message.

        And, on his further motion,

        The same, with accompanying documents, was referred to joint committee on Military Affairs.

        Mr. Johnson, of Warren, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The special committee appointed to wait upon the President of the Confederate States, beg leave further to report that they have the pleasure of informing the House that President Davis will address the House, in compliance with its request, at 12 o'clock, M., on Saturday, 27th inst.

        On motion of Mr. Fall,

        The regular order of business was suspended to enable him to introduce a bill to be entitled

        An act to increase the pay of the Guards of the Penitentiary.

        Which was read the first time.

        On motion of Mr. Fall,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the second time.

        Mr. Chandler offered the following amendment.

        Amend by adding this section:

        SEC.--. Be it further enacted, That the fees of Jailors for feeding persons confined in the county jails, shall be eighty cents per day for each white person, and seventy cents per day for each slave, free negro or mulatto confined therein, in lieu of the fees now allowed.

        On motion of Mr. Hooker, of Holmes,

        The bill and amendment were referred to the committee on the Penitentiary.

        On motion of Mr. Terrell,

        The House went into secret session for the consideration of a report.

        After some time spent therein, the doors were opened.

        Mr. Hicks asked leave to introduce a bill.


Page 27

        Leave being granted, a bill entitled

        An act for the relief of Capt. Henry Jamison,

        Was read the first time.

        On his further motion,

        The rule was suspended and the bill read second time.

        And, on his further motion,

        The rule was suspended, and the bill read third time and passed.

        Ordered, that title stand as stated.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The House adjourned to 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Mr. Chandler called up the special order, a bill entitled

        An act to provide for the collection of the military tax as other State taxes.

        Mr. Hooker, of Holmes,

        Moved the previous question.

        Which being sustained,

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, December 24, 1862.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        Mr. Barton introduced a claim, by leave, with a view to its reference.

        The claim was referred to the committee on Claims.

        Mr. Dyer, from the Judiciary committee, made the following reports:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the removal of the Judicial and other public records of counties, and for other purposes, have had the same under consideration, and have amended it by inserting the following words, viz: "The Judge" before the words "any court," in the third line of the second section thereof, and by striking out the words "either" "or" in the eighth line of said section, and the word "without" in the ninth line in said section, and by adding a


Page 28

third section to said bill providing for compensating Clerks for removing the records, &c., of their respective courts, in the event of the removal of the same, and have instructed me to report the bill, with the amendments thereto, back to the House, and recommend that it do pass as thus amended.

        On motion of Mr. Dyer,

        The report was agreed to.

        On his further motion,

        The amendments were agreed to.

        Mr. Brown offered an amendment, by way of additional section,

        Which was adopted.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill entitled an act to authorize the suspension of the writ of Habeas Corpus, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the bill back to the House with a recommendation that it do not pass.

        On motion of Mr. Dyer,

        The report was received.

        Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        Moved that the report be agreed to.

        Which motion prevailed.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to tax unauthorized issues of paper money, have had the same under consideration, and have amended the first section by striking out the following words, viz: "Twenty-five per cent," and inserting in lieu thereof the following words, to-wit: "One hundred per cent," and the majority of the committee has instructed me to report the bill back to the House, with the amendment, with a recommendation that the bill, as amended, do pass.

        On motion of Mr. Dyer,

        The report was received.

        On his further motion,

        The amendment was adopted.

        Mr. Shields offered the following amendment:

        Amend by striking out the words "have issued or may hereafter."

        Mr. Hooker, of Holmes,

        Moved to amend the amendment by adding: "or permit to remain in circulation as exchange notes or money."


Page 29

        When, on motion of Mr. Hooker, of Hinds,

        The bill and amendments were recommitted to the Judiciary committee.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The regular order of business was suspended, and the unfinished business of yesterday was taken up,

        Being a bill to be entitled

        An act to provide for the collection of the military tax in the same manner as other State taxes.

        The previous question was moved by Mr. Hooker, of Holmes.

        Which being sustained,

        The question was taken on agreeing to the report of the committee,

        And decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Hooker, of Holmes, Chandler and Turley:

        YEAS--Messrs. Billups, Brown, Buntin, Buford, Denney, Dyer, Edwards of Kemper, Fall, Fatheree, Gaines, Gulley, Hamer, Harper, Hicks, Hooker of Holmes, Hooker of Hinds, Hooker of Lawrence, Humphreys, Johnson of Warren, Lyle, Moore, Powe, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shields, Tindall, Thomas, Turley, Withers, Williams of Wilkinson, and Wood--31.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Barton, Bardin, Barnes, Boddie, Chandler, Clark, Deason, Durr, Edwards of C., Enochs, Fox, Graham, Harris, Irby, Jackson of Amite, Jones, Kirk, Magee of Pike, McDonald, McElroy, McLaurin, Miller of Oktibbeha, Rogers, Semmes, Shelley, Smith of Lowndes, Terrell and Wells--30.

        Mr. Lyle made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred a bill entitled an act to prevent the distillation of corn or other grain, molasses or sugar, have considered the same, and have instructed me to report the same back and recommend that it do pass with certain amendments.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Hicks moved to lay the bill and amendments on the table,

        Which was lost.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The bill and amendments were referred to the Judiciary committee.


Page 30

        The following message was received from the Senate, through its Secretary, Mr. Porter:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has passed a bill to be entitled an act in relation to the Penitentiary.

        Mr. Lyle, from the committee on Propositions and Grievances, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred the bill entitled an act to provide for the further issuance of Treasury Notes as advances upon cotton, have considered the same, and have instructed me to report the same back and recommend that it do not pass.

        On motion of Mr. Lyle,

        The report was received.

        Mr. Williams, of Wilkinson,

        Moved that the report be agreed to.

        The question on agreeing to the report was taken and decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays, called for by Messrs. Graham, Barton and Enochs:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Bardin, Barnes, Billups, Boddie, Brooks, Buntin, Buford, Chandler, Deason, Denney, Dickens, Durr, Dyer, Edwards of C., Fall, Gaines, Hamer, Harper, Hicks, Hooker of Holmes, Hooker of Hinds, Hooker of Lawrence, Irby, Johnson of Warren, Jones, McDonald, Miller of Oktibbeha, Powe, Rogers, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Semmes, Shields, Tindall, Thomas, Turley, Withers, Williams of Wilkinson, and Wood--41.

        NAYS--Messrs. Barton, Clark, Edwards of Kemper, Fatheree, Fox, Graham, Gulley, Harris, Humphreys, Jackson of Amite, Kirk, Lyle, Magee of Pike, McElroy, Shelly, Smith of Lowndes, Terrell, Walker and Wells--19.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, asked leave to introduce a bill.

        The bill was read for information, and its introduction objected to because of conflict with rule of order adopted at a former day of this session.

        The objection was sustained by the Chair.

        An appeal was taken from the decision of the Chair.

        The decision of the Chair was sustained by call of yeas and nays, called for by Messrs. Brooks, Barton, and Seal, of Harrison:

        YEAS--Messrs. Barton, Brown, Brooks, Buford, Denney, Dickens, Edwards of Kemper, Fatheree, Gaines, Graham,


Page 31

Gulley, Hamer, Humphreys, Irby, Jackson of Amite, Miller of Oktibbeha, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shields, Terrell, Tindall, Withers and Wood--23.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Bardin, Barnes, Boddie, Chandler, Clark, Deason, Durr, Dyer, Edwards of C., Enochs, Fall, Harper, Harris, Hooker of Holmes, Hooker of Hinds, Hooker of Lawrence, Johnson of Warren, Jones, Kirk, Lyle, Magee of Pike, McDonald, McElroy, McLaurin, Powe, Rogers, Semmes, Shelley, Smith of Lowndes, Thomas, Turley, Walker, Wells, and Williams of Wilkinson--36.

        Mr. Shelley, by leave, introduced a bill entitled

        An act to amend an act to create a fund for the support of destitute families of volunteers in this State, and for other purposes, approved December 16, 1861.

        On his motion,

        The constitutional rule was suspended, and bill read second time.

        On motion of Mr. Hooker, of Hinds,

        The bill was referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.

        Mr. Terrell, by leave, introduced a bill entitled

        An act in relation to the fees of Jailors.

        On his motion,

        The rule was suspended and bill read second time.

        On his further motion,

        The constitutional rule was suspended and bill read third time,

        And passed with title as stated.

        Mr. Dyer, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to repeal an act in relation to slaves, approved November 29, 1861.

        Read second time.

        Mr. Jones offered an amendment by way of substitute.

        And, on his further motion,

        The bill and substitute was referred to joint committee on Military Affairs.

        Mr. Jones, by leave, introduced a bill entitled

        An act to provide for guaranty, by the State of Mississippi, of the Bonds of the Confederate States.

        On his motion

        The rule was suspended, and the bill read second time by its title.

        And, on his further motion,

        The bill was referred to the joint committee on Military Affairs.

        Mr. Wood asked leave to introduce a bill.

        The bill was read for information, and its introduction


Page 32

objected to because of conflict with rule of order adopted at former day of this session.

        Mr. Chandler offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That a committee to be composed of five members of the House, be appointed to examine the salt contracts made by the Governor, and to make such report thereof as in their judgment may be demanded.

        The Speaker appointed as said committee, Messrs. Chandler, Tindall, Fall, Lyle and Fox.

        On motion of Mr. Harris,

        The House adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Mr. Graham, by leave, introduced a bill entitled

        An act in relation to the redemption of lands and other property sold for taxes.

        On his motion,

        The rule was suspended and bill read second time.

        When, on motion of Mr. Brown,

        The bill was referred the committee on Judiciary.

        Mr. Lyle, by leave, introduced a bill entitled

        An act act to further provide for the public defense.

        On his motion,

        The constitutional rule was suspended and the bill read a second time.

        And on his further motion,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read a third time,

        And passed, with title as stated.

        Mr. Seal, of Hancock, asked leave to introduce a bill.

        The bill was read for information, and its introduction objected to because of conflict with rule of order adopted at former day of this session.

        Mr. Gulley offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the committee on Ways and Means be instructed to enquire into the expediency of the State assuming the payment of the tax commonly called the War tax, or whether any method can be devised by which the burden can be removed from the tax payer and the faith and credit of the State still preserved, and to report by bill or otherwise.

        Mr. Magee, of Pike, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to apply the Swamp Land funds of Pike county to the support of indigent families of soldiers in said county.

        On his motion,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read second time.


Page 33

        On his further motion,

        The rule was suspended, and bill read third time,

        And passed, with title as stated.

        Mr. Chandler offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That when the House adjourn, it will adjourn to meet again on Saturday next at 10 o'clock, A. M.

        Mr. Brown moved to amend by striking out "Saturday" and inserting "Friday."

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The resolution and amendment were laid upon the table.

        Mr. Jones offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That Mr. Chandler, of Clark, be added to joint select committee on Military Affairs.

        Mr. Shields called up Senate message, being a bill entitled

        An act in relation to the Penitentiary.

        On his motion,

        The bill was read first time.

        On his further motion,

        The rule was suspended and bill read second time.

        Mr. Fall offered amendment by way of additional section.

        On motion of Mr. Graham,

        The bill and amendment were referred to committee on the Penitentiary.

        His Excellency, the Governor, through his Secretary, Mr. Rives, communicated a message in relation to Hospitals.

        Mr. Graham, by leave, introduced a bill with the following title:

        A bill to be entitled an act to change the militia laws of this State.

        On his motion,

        Rule was suspended, bill read second time by its title.

        Mr. Harper moved to lay on the table.

        On motion of Mr. Fall,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

THURSDAY, December 25, 1862.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Minutes of yesterday read and approved.

        Mr. Brooks asked that the title of a bill which Mr. Seal, of Harrison, offered on yesterday, should be spread upon the Journals.

        Leave was granted.


Page 34

        The following message from the Governor was called up:

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Jackson, Miss., Dec. 24, 1862.

Gentlemen of the Senate
and House of Representatives:

        The sick and wounded soldiers from the State of Mississippi demand, at the hands of the Legislature, that attention which will ensure their comfort and proper treatment. The Hospital system of the Confederate States army is necessarily imperfect, and it has failed to give that speedy relief to our suffering soldiery which their cases often imperatively demand. A more perfect, system of Hospitals, perhaps, under existing circumstances, cannot now be established without the assistance of the States themselves. I have good reason to believe that separate State Hospitals, whenever they have been permitted to be established by the Confederate authorities, have done much good. And it is believed, also, that the appointment, by State authority, of skillful and efficient surgeons, to visit the Hospitals in the different departments and see to the condition of our sick and wounded soldiers, would result in much good. I therefore recommend that the Legislature make provision by law for the appointment of at least two competent surgeons--one for the department of Virginia, and the other for the West--whose duty it shall be to attend to the wants of our sick and wounded in their respective departments.

JOHN J. PETTUS.


        Which, on motion of Mr. Shields,

        Was referred to a select committee of five.

        The Speaker appointed as said committee, Messrs. Shields, Jones, Turley, Williams and Hicks.

        Mr. Gaines moved that the House adjourn until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock.

        Which was lost.

        The following message was received from the Governor:

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
December 24, 1862.

Gentlemen of the House of Representatives:

        I herewith transmit the report of the acting Chief of Ordnance, in compliance with the resolution of the House passed on the 20th December inst., requiring "a more full and specific statement of the number, condition and description of arms received from the several counties," &c.

JOHN J. PETTUS.


        Which, with accompanying documents, were referred,

        On motion of Mr. Hooker, of Hinds,

        To the joint select committee on Military Affairs.


Page 35

        Mr. McLaurin asked leave of absence for Mr. Harris, of Leake,

        Which was refused.

        Also, leave of absence for Mr. Lyle,

        Which was granted.

        Mr. Tindall asked leave of absence for Mr. Rogers, of Pontotoc,

        Which was granted.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by the Senate to inform the House of Representatives that they have passed a bill to be entitled an act to amend an act approved January 29, 1862, to suspend for a limited time certain parts of the Statute of Limitations.

        Also, a bill entitled an act to procure salt for the indigent families of soldiers, and for other purposes.

        In which the concurrence of the House is desired.

        On motion of Mr. Hooker, of Hinds,

        The message was taken up, and a bill entitled

        An act to amend an act approved January 29, 1862, to suspend for a limited time certain parts of the Statute of Limitations,

        Was, on his further motion,

        Read first and second time,

        And referred to the committee on the Judiciary.

        Mr. Hooker, of Hinds,

        Called up Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to procure salt for the indigent families of soldiers, and for other purposes.

        On his motion,

        The rule was suspended and bill read first and second time.

        When, on motion of Mr. Graham,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on the bill.

        Mr. Johnson, of Warren, in the chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported the bill back to the House and asked leave to sit again, which was granted.

        Mr. Powe, by leave, introduced the following resolutions, which were unanimously adopted:

        WHEREAS, This House has heard with profound regret and sorrow, the death of Captain A. F. DANTZLER, late a member of this House from the county of Jasper; therefore, be it

        Resolved, That in the death of Mr. Dantzler in the prime and vigor of life, the faithful and patriotic devotion to his country's honor and independence, which he sealed with his


Page 36

blood upon the battle-field at Corinth, in that memorable conflict, entitles his memory to the grateful appreciation of the people of the State.

        Resolved, That the proceedings of this House in relation to the death of Capt. A. F. Dantzler, be communicated to the family of the deceased by the Clerk.

        Resolved, That as a further mark of respect to the memory of the deceased, this House do now adjourn until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock.

        The Speaker declared the House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock.

FRIDAY, December 26, 1862.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        On motion of Mr. Shields,

        The call of counties was suspended.

        Mr. Shields, from special committee, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The special committee to whom was referred the Governor's message on the subject of the appointment of medical supervisors for the soldiers of the State of Mississippi, report that they have prepared the accompanying bill, with the recommendation that it do pass.

        On his motion,

        A bill entitled an act to appoint medical supervisors for the sick and wounded soldiers of the State of Mississippi,

        Was read first and second time.

        And, on his further motion,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole,

        Mr. Hicks in the Chair.

        After a short time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported the bill back to the House with a recommendation that it do pass.

        A division was called for, and the report received.

        When, on motion of Mr. Shields,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read a third time

        And passed with title as stated.

        Mr. McLaurin, from special committee, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The special committee to whom was referred the petition of certain citizens of Smith county, asking that Wm. P.


Page 37

Hutchings, of said county, may be discharged from military service, have considered the same, and a majority of the committee have instructed me to report the bill prepared in conformity with the prayer of the petition submitted herewith, and recommend its passage.

        Which was received.

        Mr. McLaurin moved that the rule be suspended, and bill read the second time.

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Boddie, from the committee on Penitentiary, reported back Senate bill which had been referred to that committee, and asked to be discharged from its further consideration, there being no committee on the part of the Senate.

        On motion of Mr. Fall,

        Senate bill entitled

        An act in relation to the Penitentiary,

        Was called up.

        Mr. Fall offered the following amendment, which was adopted:

        Be it further enacted, That article 31, of chapter 65, of Revised Code, is hereby repealed, and that hereafter the pay of the Guard of the Penitentiary shall be as follows: The Sergeant of the Guard shall receive seventy-five dollars, and the Privates fifty dollars per month, as the Inspectors shall agree, and the Inspectors may appoint one of the Guards as Doorkeeper or Turnkey of the prison at a salary of sixty dollars per month.

        On his motion,

        The rule was suspended, the bill was read a third time,

        And passed with title as stated.

        Mr. Terrell asked leave to introduced a bill,

        Which was refused.

        Mr. Hamer asked leave to introduced a bill.

        Request not granted.

        Mr. Graham moved to suspend the regular order of business with a view to taking up Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to procnre salt for the indigent families of soldiers, and for other purposes.

        On his further motion,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on the bill.

        Mr. Shields in the Chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported the bill, with an amendment, back to the House, and recommended that the bill do pass as amended.

        On motion of Mr. Graham,

        The report was received and agreed to.


Page 38

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read a third time,

        And passed as amended.

        Ordered, that the title stand as stated.

        Mr. Jones, from the joint select committee on Military Affairs, moved to suspend the regular order of business to make a report.

        The rule being suspended,

        Mr. Jones made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint select committee on Military Affairs, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the impressment of slaves and other personal property for military purposes, have duly considered the same, and have instructed me to report it back to the House, with sundry amendments, and to recommend that the bill, amended as proposed, do pass.

        Which, on his motion,

        Together with accompanying bill and amendments, were made the special order for three o'clock, P. M., this day.

        Mr. Harper, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to increase the manufacture of arms.

        On his motion,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read first and second time.

        And, on his further motion,

        Laid on the table.

        Mr. Shields moved that the House take a recess until half-past 11 o'clock.

        Which was lost.

        The bill to change the militia laws of this State, was taken up.

        On motion of Mr. Graham,

        The rule was suspended, and bill read a second time.

        Mr. Hooker, of Hinds,

        Moved to lay the bill on the table,

        Which motion did not prevail.

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        The bill was referred to the joint select committee on Military Affairs.

        Mr. Graham offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the Governor inform the House why the militia have been called from some counties and not from others; and especially why the militia of the counties of Adams, Wilkinson, Jefferson and Claiborne, are not now in the field, and why all the militia have been called from some counties and only a part from other counties.


Page 39

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has passed a House bill entitled an act in relation to Executors, Administrators and Guardians, with sundry amendments thereto, in which they ask the concurrence of the House of Representatives.

        They have also passed a House bill entitled a bill for the relief of Capt. Henry Jamison, of Attala county.

        The Senate has also passed bills of the following titles:

        An act for the relief of certain public officers.

        An act to prohibit the distillation of spirits from grain.

        In which the House is asked to concur.

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        Senate message just received was taken up.

        And, on motion of Mr. Shields,

        House bill entitled an act in relation to Executors, Administrators and Guardians, with Senate amendments,

        Was referred to Judiciary committee.

        Senate bill entitled,

        An act to prohibit the distillation of spirits from grain, was taken up.

        On motion of Mr. Shields,

        The rule was suspended, bill read two several times,

        And referred to Judiciary committee.

        Senate bill entitled,

        An act for the relief of certain public officers, was taken up.

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The rule was suspended, bill read first and second time,

        And referred to the Judiciary committee.

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        The House took recess until forty-five minutes past 11 o'clock, A. M., to prepare the Hall for the reception of the President of the Confederate States, General Joseph E. Johnston and his staff, and the Senate.

        The recess having expired,

        The Senate were invited into the Hall.

        The Senate, proceded by the Sergeant-at-Arms, entered the Hall and took the seats assigned them.

        The President of the Confederate States, Gen. Johnston and staff, accompanied by the special committee of the House, Messrs. Johnson, of Warren, Jones and Hooker, entered the Hall. The President was conducted to the Speaker's desk, and was introduced to the Legislature by Hon. Mr. Drane, President of the Senate. He addressed the Legislature, and the large crowd of citizens in attendance, for about one hour and fifteen minutes. At the close of the President's address, General Johnston being conducted to the stand, tendered his thanks for the honor paid him.


Page 40

        On motion of Mr. Wood,

        The House adjourned to 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The special order, a bill entitled an act to authorize the impressment of slaves and other personal property for military purposes,

        Was, on motion of Mr. Jones, taken up.

        The Speaker announced that no quorum was present.

        A call of the House was ordered.

        A quorum being present,

        On motion, the call was suspended.

        On motion of Mr. Johnson,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, in the Chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported the bill back to the House with sundry amendments, and recommended that the bill as amended do pass.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The amendments were read and adopted seriatim.

        Mr. Miller, of Oktibbeha, offered the following amendment:

        Amend the first section by adding:

        "Provided, That no property of any party in the military service of the Confederacy or the State, shall be impressed without his consent."

        Mr. Chandler offered to amend the amendment by adding after the word "State," "or who has a son in said service."

        On motion of Mr. Hooker, of Hinds,

        The amendment and amendment to the amendment, were laid upon the table.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        The rule was suspended, and the bill read a third time.

        Mr. Terrell offered the following additional section by way of ryder:

        SEC.--. Be it further enacted, That in all cases, officers appointed by the Governors, shall, before proceeding to carry out the provisions of this act, in any case, first show authority for doing the same, from the Governor, with the seal of the State thereto attached.

        Which, on motion of Mr. Hooker, of Hinds,

        Was laid on the table.

        The bill being upon its passage,


Page 41

        The yeas and nays were called for by Messrs. Graham, Chandler and Brooks, and decided in the affirmative:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Bardin, Barnes, Boddie, Brown, Buntin, Clark, Deason, Dyer, Edwards of C., Enochs, Eskridge, Fatheree, Fox, Gaines, Gulley, Hamer, Harper, Hicks, Hooker of Hinds, Hooker of Lawrence, Humphreys, Johnson of Warren, Jones, Kirk, Magee of Pike, McDonald, McLaurin, Miller of Oktibbeha, Moore, Nelson, Seal of Harrison, Shelley, Shields, Smith of Lowndes, Terrell, Tindall, Thomas, Turley, Walker, Wells, Withers and Williams of Wilkinson--44.

        NAYS--Messrs. Barton, Brooks, Chandler, Denney, Graham, McElroy, Powe and Semmes--8.

        Mr. Terrell, by leave, introduced a bill entitled

        An act to suspend article 196, of chapter 4, of the Revised Code, in certain counties.

        On his motion,

        The rule was suspended and bill read first and second time.

        And, on his further motion,

        Was referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Harmer, by leave, introduced a bill entitled

        An act to legalize the assessment of Yazoo county for the year 1862.

        On his motion,

        The rule was suspended and bill read first and second times.

        Mr. Hooker, of Lawrence,

        Moved to amend by adding the county of Lawrence.

        Motion carried and amendment adopted.

        On motion of Mr. Hamer,

        The rule was suspended and the bill read a third time,

        And passed as amended,

        Ordered, that title be amended by the insertion of the word "Lawrence" between "Yazoo" and "county."

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

SATURDAY, December 27, 1862.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.


Page 42

        Mr. Martin, from the committee on Propositions and Grievances, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred a resolution condemning the Exemption Law passed at the late session of Congress, have considered the same, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House, with an amendment by way of substitute, with a recommendation that the substitute do pass.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        On his further motion,

        Substitute adopted.

        Mr. Dyer, from the committee on the Judiciary, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of certain public officers, have had the same under consideration, and have amended it by striking out "thirty" in the fifth line and inserting "ninety" in lieu thereof, and have instructed me to report the bill, with the amendment thereto, back to the House with a recommendation that the bill, as amended, do pass.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        And, on his further motion,

        The rule was suspended, and bill, as amended, read third time and passed.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        Leave of absence, during the session of the House, was granted to the members of the joint Military committee.

        Mr. Dyer, from the Judiciary committee, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to suspend article 196, of chapter 4, of the Revised Code, in certain counties, have had the same under consideration, and having recommended the passage of another bill on the same subject, they have instructed me to report said first mentioned bill back to the House, with a recommendation that it do not pass.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Barton asked a suspension of the constitutional rule with a view to the introduction of a joint resolution, which was refused.

        Mr. Powe, by leave, introduced a bill entitled

        An act to authorize persons who may have sold arms to the State to be paid therefor.


Page 43

        Which was read the first time.

        On his motion,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the second time by its title,

        And, on motion of Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        Referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.

        Mr. Miller, of Oktibbeha, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act in relation to the arms received from the several counties, which have been rejected by the Chief of Ordnance.

        Read first time.

        On his motion,

        The rule was suspended, and bill read second time.

        And on his further motion,

        Referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed a House bill entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, with amendments thereto, in which the concurrence of the House is desired.

        The Senate has also passed the House bill entitled an act in relation to the fees of Jailors, with sundry amendments thereto, in which the House is asked to concur.

        Which, on motion of Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        Was taken up.

        The amendment of the Senate to House bill entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, was read.

        And, on motion of Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        Referred to the Judiciary committee.

        The bill in relation to the fees of Jailors,

        Was called up.

        When, on motion,

        The first amendment of the Senate was agreed to.

        Mr. Martin moved that second amendment be concurred in.

        Which was refused.

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The third Senate amendment was concurred in.

        An act in relation to W. P. Hutchings, of Smith county,

        Was read second time.

        And, on motion of Mr. Johnson, of Warren,

        Referred to joint committee on Military Affairs.

        On motion of Mr. Martin,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Mr. Dyer, from the Judiciary committee, made the following report:


Page 44

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend an act approved January 29, 1862, to suspend for a limited time certain parts of the Statute of Limitations, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House, and recommend that the bill do pass.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Jones moved to postpone the further consideration of the bill until Monday morning at 10 o'clock.

        Mr. Graham moved to lay the bill on the table.

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Jones, from the joint select committee on Military Affairs, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint select committee on Military Affairs, to whom were referred the several bills on the subject of the militia of the State, have maturely considered the same, and a majority have instructed me to report the accompanying bill entitled an act to amend the act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of this State, approved January 24, 1862, as a substitute therefor, and to recommend that the substitute bill do pass.

        On his motion, the bill to be entitled

        An act to amend an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of this State, approved January 24, 1862,

        Was read the first time.

        On his further motion,

        The Constitutional rule was suspended, the bill read the second time.

        Mr. Graham offered amendment by way of substitute.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        The bill and substitute were laid on the table, and one hundred copies of each ordered to be printed, and made special order for Monday next at 12 o'clock, M.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has passed a bill entitled an act to suspend for a limited time the collection of the tax therein named.

        The House is asked to concur in the same.

        The Senate has concurred in the House amendments to Senate bill entitled an act in relation to the Penitentiary.

        The Senate has also passed a bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act authorizing the issuance of Treasury notes as advances upon cotton, approved December 19, 1861.


Page 45

        In which the concurrence of the House is requested.

        The Senate has concurred in the House amendment to the Senate bill entitled an act for the relief of certain public officers, and insist on their second amendment to the House bill entitled an act in relation to the fees of Jailors.

        Mr. Chandler moved to take up Senate message:

        Senate bill entitled an act to suspend for a limited time the collection of the tax therein named.

        And, on his motion,

        The rule was suspended and the bill read first and second times.

        On motion of Mr. Hooker, of Hinds,

        The House adjourned until Monday morning at 9 o'clock.

MONDAY, December 29, 1862.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of Saturday read and approved.

        Mr. Dyer asked and obtained leave of absence for Mr. Johnson, of Warren, who had been ordered by General Lee to rejoin his command at Vicksburg.

        Mr. Fall asked and obtained leave of absence for Mr. Hooker, of Hinds, for the purpose of joining his command at Vicksburg.

        Mr. Chandler moved a call of the House.

        No quorum being present,

        The Sergeant-at-Arms was sent for absentees.

        A quorum appearing,

        The call was suspended.

        Mr. Jones moved,

        That one hundred additional copies of the bill entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the volunteer and militia laws of the State, and substitute, be printed.

        Which was adopted.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The vote referring the bill entitled an act to better provide for the families of our soldiers, together with the Senate amendment, to the Judiciary committee, was reconsidered.

        Mr. Chandler offered the following amendment to the Senate amendment:

        Strike out "thirty" in second line, fourth section, and insert "one hundred."

        Which was adopted.


Page 46

        On his further motion,

        The Senate amendment was concurred in.

        Mr. Dyer, from the Judiciary committee, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a Senate bill to be entitled an act to prohibit the distillation of spirits from grain, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House with a recommendation that it do pass.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Wood offered the following amendments:

        1st. Amend by inserting the words "sugar or molasses" after the words "or other grain," wherever they occur.

        2d. Strike out "or" and insert "and" between the words "dollars" and "imprisoned" in third line from bottom, and strike out all after the words "six months" in second line from bottom.

        3d. SEC. 2. Be it further enacted, That this act shall take effect from and after the tenth day of January, 1863.

        Mr. Chandler moved to amend the amendment by inserting after the figures "1863," "and shall continue in force twelve months."

        Which was adopted.

        On motion of Mr. Wood,

        The amendment as amended was adopted.

        On motion of Mr. Dyer,

        The bill passed to its third reading.

        Mr. Graham offered the following amendment by way of ryder:

        Be it enacted, That it shall be unlawful to in port into this State any wines or spiritous liquors, whatsoever, except such as may be imported for the use of the medical department of the army.

        Which, on motion of Mr. Jones,

        Was laid on the table.

        Mr. Graham offered the following, by way of ryder:

        Be it enacted, That it shall be unlawful to sell or give away any spiritous liquors in this State, except for medical purposes, during the continuance of the present war.

        Which, on motion of Mr. Dyer,

        Was laid on the table.

        Mr. Tindall offered the following amendment by way of ryder,

        Which was adopted:

        Be it further enacted, That the Governor of this State shall have power, and it shall be his duty, to grant license to distill spirits from grain or other substances as he may deem


Page 47

necessary for medical, mechanical and chemical purposes. And he may arrange that all the spirits that is distilled shall be on State account, and take a guarantee of its purity; Provided, That said spirits, so distilled, shall not be sold to any private person except for medical, mechanical or chemical purposes alone, and at a profit not exceeding one hundred per cent. upon the cost of production.

        Mr. Graham offered the following amendment by way of ryder:

        Be it enacted, That a tax of fifty per cent. shall be assessed and collected, as other taxes, upon the price of all spiritous liquors sold by any person in this State.

        Which, on motion of Mr. Dyer,

        Was laid on the table.

        Mr. Dyer moved that bill be read a third time with view to its passage.

        Upon which he moved the previous question.

        Which being sustained,

        The bill was passed by yeas and nays, called for by Messrs. Graham, Barton and Wood:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Barnes, Billups, Brown, Brooks, Chandler, Clark, Deason, Denney, Dickens, Durr, Dyer, Edwards of Kemper, Edwards of Choctaw, Enochs, Eskridge, Fox, Gaines, Gulley, Hamer, Harper, Harris, Hicks, Hooker of Holmes, Hooker of Lawrence, Humphreys, Irby, Jackson of Amite, Jones, Kirk, Lyle, Martin, McDonald, McElroy, McLaurin, Miller of Oktibbeha, Nelson, Powe, Semmes, Shields, Smith of Lowndes, Strong, Terrell, Thomas, Walker, Wells, Withers, Williams of Wilkinson, and Wood--50.

        NAYS--Messrs. Barton, Bardin, Batte, Buntin, Graham, Magee of Pike, Moore, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Tindall and Turley--11.

        On motion of Mr. Dyer,

        The title was amended by the addition of "sugar and molasses."

        Mr. Dyer, from the Judiciary committee, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to prevent the distillation of corn or other grain, molasses or sugar, with several amendments thereto, have had the same under consideration, and having recommended the passage of another bill on the same subject, they have, therefore, instructed me to report said first named


Page 48

bill, with the amendments thereto, back to the House, and recommend that it do not pass.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Jones, from joint select committee on Military Affairs, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint select committee on Military Affairs, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to provide for a guaranty by the State of Mississippi, of the bonds of the Confederate States, have maturely considered the same, and have instructed me to report it back to the House, with certain amendments, and to recommend that as amended, the bill do pass.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        The bill was read second and third times, and passed by yeas and nays, as follows:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bardin, Barnes, Batte, Billups, Boddie, Brown, Buntin, Chandler, Clark, Dale, Deason, Denney, Dickens, Durr, Dyer, Edwards of Kemper, Edwards of Choctaw, Enochs, Eskridge, Fall, Fox, Gaines, Graham, Gulley, Hamer, Harper, Harris, Hicks, Hooker of Holmes, Hooker of Lawrence, Humphreys, Irby, Jackson, of Amite, Jones, Kirk, Lyle, Martin, McDonald, McElroy, Miller of Oktibbeha, McLaurin, Moore, Nelson, Powe, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Semmes, Shields, Smith of Lowndes, Strong, Terrell, Tindall, Thomas, Turley, Walker, Wells, Withers, Williams of Wilkinson, and Wood--60.

        NAYS--None.

        Ordered, that title stand as stated.

        Mr. Jones, from the joint select committee on Military Affairs, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint select committee on Military Affairs, to whom was referred a substitute bill to be entitled an act to repeal an act entitled an act in relation to slaves, and also to repeal article 39, section 8, 33d chapter of the Revised Code, have duly considered the same, and have instructed me to report it back to the House with certain amendments, and to recommend that as amended, the bill do pass.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        The bill was read the third time.

        Mr. Graham offered the following amendment by way of ryder:

        Be it enacted, That this act shall take effect when Congress shall repeal so much of the Exemption act as provides for


Page 49

the exemption from military service of any person for or on account of his ownership or control of any slave or slaves.

        Which was lost.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        The bill passed by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Graham, Deason and Kirk:

        YEAS--Messrs. Allen, Bardin, Batte, Billups, Boddie, Brooks, Buntin, Chandler, Clark, Denney, Dickens, Durr, Dyer, Edwards of Kemper, Fall, Fox, Gaines, Gulley, Hamer, Harper, Hicks, Hooker of Holmes, Hooker of Lawrence, Humphreys, Irby, Jackson of Amite, Jones, Lyle, Martin, Magee of Pike, McDonald, McElroy, Nelson, Powe, Semmes, Shields, Terrell, Tindall, Thomas, Turley, Walker, Wells and Withers--43.

        NAYS--Messrs. Barton, Deason, Edwards of Choctaw, Enochs, Graham, Kirk, McLaurin, Miller of Oktibbeha, Seal of Hancock, Smith of Lowndes, and Williams of Wilkinson--11.

        Ordered, that title stand as stated.

        On motion of Mr. Tindall,

        The House adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Mr. Jones moved to take up the special order of the day, viz:

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of this State.

        Which motion was lost.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The unfinished business was taken up, viz:

        A bill to suspend for a limited time the collection of the tax therein named.

        Mr. Harper, offered the following amendment:

        SEC. 2. Be it further enacted, That the certificates of loan or Treasury Notes of this State, the payment of which is secured by the tax the collection of which is hereby suspended, shall bear interest at the rate of ten per cent. per annum after maturity, until paid.

        On motion of Mr. Deason,

        The amendment was laid on the table, by yeas and nays, called for by Messrs. Deason, Shields and Turley, viz:

        YEAS--Messrs. Allen, Barton, Bardin, Barnes, Batte, Boddie, Chandler, Clark, Deason, Denney, Dickens, Durr, Edwards of Kemper, Edwards of Choctaw, Enochs, Fall, Fox, Graham, Harris, Hicks, Hooker of Holmes, Hooker of Lawrence, Humphreys, Jackson of Amite, Lyle, Martin, Magee


Page 50

of Pike, McDonald, McElroy, McLaurin, Miller of Oktibbeha, Moore, Nelson, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Semmes, Smith of Lowndes, Tindall, Walker, Wells, Williams of Wilkinson, and Wood--42.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Brown, Brooks, Dyer, Eskridge, Gaines, Gulley, Hamer, Harper, Irby, Jones, Kirk, Powe, Shields, Strong, Thomas, Turley and Williams of Wilkinson--19.

        Mr. Miller, of Oktibbeha, offered the following amendment:

        Strike out "until twelve months after the close of the present war between the Confederate States and the United States," and insert "until the first day of January, 1864."

        Which, on motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Was laid on the table.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, moved to refer the bill to the Judiciary committee.

        Which motion was lost.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The bill was read the third time and put upon its passage, and decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays, called for by Messrs. Seal, of Harrison, Eskridge and Harper, viz:

        YEAS--Messrs. Allen, Barton, Bardin, Barnes, Batte, Boddie, Buntin, Chandler, Clark, Deason, Durr, Edwards of Kemper, Edwards of Choctaw, Enochs, Fatheree, Fox, Graham, Gulley, Harris, Hicks, Hooker of Lawrence, Jackson of Amite, Kirk, Lyle, Martin, Magee of Pike, McDonald, McElroy, McLaurin, Miller of Oktibbeha, Moore, Semmes, Smith of Lowndes, Terrell, Walker, Wells, and Williams of Wilkinson--37.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Billups, Brown, Denney, Dyer, Eskridge, Fall, Gaines, Hamer, Harper, Hooker of Holmes, Humphreys, Jones, Nelson, Powe, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shields, Strong, Tindall, Thomas, Turley, Withers and Wood--24.

        Mr. Dyer, from the Judiciary committee, made the following reports:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to authorize Tax Collectors to receive in payment of the military tax all funds receivable for other State taxes, have had the same under consideration, and a majority of the committee have instructed me to report it back to the House with a recommendation that it do not pass.

        Which, on his motion,

        Was received and agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred a


Page 51

bill to be entitled an act to extend the provisions of the Stay Law to probating of notes, accounts, &c., in the Probate Courts of this State, have had the same under consideration, and having recommended the passage of another bill on the same subject, they have instructed me to report the bill back to the House, and ask to be discharged from its further consideration.

        Which, on motion,

        Was received and agreed to.

        The following message was received from the Senate: MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed House bills entitled as follows:

        An act to further provide for the public defense.

        A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the removal of the Judicial and other public records of counties, and for other purposes, with amendments thereto,

        In which the concurrence of the House is desired.

        Also, an act to legalize the assessment of Yazoo and Lawrence counties for the year 1862, with amendments to the same, in which they desire the concurrence of the House.

        The Senate have adopted sundry amendments to the House amendments to the Senate bill entitled an act to procure salt for the indigent families of soldiers, and for other purposes.

        The House is asked to concur in said amendments.

        The Senate have disagreed to the House amendment to Senate amendments to the House bill entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers.

        The Senate has adopted an amendment, by way of substitute, to the joint resolution of the House in relation to the Exemption Law passed by the Confederate Congress, in which they ask the concurrence of the House.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock.

TUESDAY, December 30, 1862.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        The following message was received from the Senate: MR. SPEAKER--

        The following members of the joint committee on Claims, have been appointed on the part of the Senate, viz:

        Messrs. Jordan, Brown and Loper.


Page 52

        Mr. Dyer asked leave of absence for Mr. Buntin,

        Which was granted.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The Senate messages were taken up.

        A bill to be entitled an act to remove the Judicial and other public records of counties, and for other purposes, was taken up.

        On motion of Mr. Brown,

        The Senate amendments were concurred in.

        An act to legalize the assessment of Yazoo and Lawrence counties for 1862, was taken up.

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The Senate amendment was concurred in.

        An act to be entitled an act to procure salt for the indigent families of soldiers, was called up.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The House insisted upon its amendment to the Senate amendment.

        House resolution in relation to the Exemption Act, was called up.

        On motion of Mr. Graham,

        The House refused to concur in the Senate substitute to said resolution.

        Mr. Terrell, from the committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills have examined House bills of the following titles, and having found the same correctly enrolled, have this day presented them to his Excellency, the Governor, for his approval and signature, to-wit:

        An act for the relief of Capt. Henry Jamison, of Attala county.

        An act to further provide for the public defense.

        Mr. Dyer, from the committee on the Judiciary, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act in relation to Executors, Administrators and Guardians, and certain Senate amendments thereto, have had the same under consideration, and have amended the Senate amendments as follows, and have instructed me to report the bill back to the House, as amended by them, and recommend that the bill as amended do pass.

        Which, on his motion,

        Was received and agreed to.

        And, on his further motion,

        The Senate amendment as amended, was concurred in.


Page 53

        Mr. Dyer, from the Judiciary committee, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act in relation to the redemption of land or other property sold for taxes, have had the same under consideration, and having recommended the passage of another bill on the same subject, they have instructed me to report the first mentioned bill back to the House, and ask to be discharged from its further consideration.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Martin, from the committee on Propositions and Grievances, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred a bill to authorize persons who may have sold arms to the State to be paid therefor, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House with a recommendation that it do pass.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. Powe,

        The bill entitled an act to authorize persons who may have sold arms to the State to be paid therefor,

        Was read the third time, and passed with title as stated.

        Mr. Martin, from the committee on Propositions and Grievances, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred a bill in relation to the arms received from the several counties which have been rejected by the Chief of Ordance, have had the same under consideration and instructed me to report the same back to the House, with a recommendation that it do pass.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        And, on his motion,

        A bill to be entitled an act in relation to the arms received from the several counties, which have been rejected by the Chief of Ordnance,

        Was read the third time, and passed with title as stated.

        On motion of Mr. Wood,

        The regular order of business was suspended, and the bill entitled

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State, was called up.


Page 54

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole,

        Mr. Thomas in the Chair.

        After a short time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported progress, and asked leave to sit again at 3 o'clock, P. M.

        Mr. McElroy, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to provide further means for the support of indigent families of our soldiers.

        On his motion,

        The Constitutional rule was suspended, the bill read the first and second times,

        And referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.

        Mr. Hicks asked leave to introduce a bill,

        Which was refused.

        Mr. Harper called from the table a bill to be entitled

        An act to increase the manufacture of arms.

        On his motion,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole,

        Mr. Martin, in the Chair.

        After a short time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported the bill back to the House with a recommendation that it do pass.

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Smith, of Lowndes, asked leave to introduced a bill,

        Which was refused.

        Mr. Jackson, of Amite, asked leave to introduced a bill,

        Which was refused.

        On motion of Mr. McElroy,

        The House adjourned to 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        On motion of Mr. Dyer,

        The Senate was requested to return a bill to be entitled an act to amend an act approved January 29, 1862, to suspend for a limited time certain parts of the Statute of Limitations, which had been inadvertently communicated to that body by the Clerk of the House.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        The special order for 3 o'clock, P. M., was taken up, being a bill entitled

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State.

        On his further motion,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on said bill,


Page 55

        Mr. Thomas in the Chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported progress, and asked leave to sit again to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock,

        Which was agreed to.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by the Senate to inform the House of Representatives that the Senate insists on their disagreement to the House amendment to a Senate amendment to a House bill entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, and ask a committee of conference thereon, and have appointed as said committee on the part of the Senate, Messrs. Gordon, Cummings and Ellett.

        I am instructed by the Senate to return to the House a bill to be entitled an act to amend an act approved January 29, 1862, to suspend for a limited time certain parts of the Statute of Limitations, in compliance with the request of the House this day.

        The Senate has passed a House bill entitled an act to authorize persons who may have sold arms to the State to be paid therefor.

        On motion of Mr. Barton,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, December 31, 1862.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The regular order of business was suspended, and Senate message taken up.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The House agreed to request of Senate that a committee of conference be appointed on disagreement between the two Houses on House bill entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers.

        The Speaker appointed as said committee, Messrs. Chandler, Wood, Semmes, Martin, and Miller, of Oktibbeha.

        Mr. Bardin offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) The two Houses adjourn, sine die, on to-morrow, the first of January, at 3 o'clock, P. M.


Page 56

        Mr. Turley moved to lay the resolution on the table,

        Which motion was lost.

        The resolution was then adopted.

        Mr. Withers from the committee on Enrolled Bills made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined and found correctly enrolled, bills of the following titles, and have laid the same before the Governor for his approval, to-wit:

        An act to authorize the removal of the Judicial and other public Records of counties, and for other purposes.

        An act to legalize the assessment in the counties of Yazoo, Lawrence and Carroll.

        The following messages were received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has adopted an amendment, by way of substitute, for the House bill entitled an act to appoint medical supervisors for the sick and wounded soldiers of the State of Mississippi, in which they ask the concurrence of the House.

        Said substitute is entitled, an act to authorize the appointment of two medical commissioners to specially attend the sick and wounded soldiers from this State in the Confederate army, and for other purposes.

        The Senate have insisted upon their amendment, by way of substitute, for the joint resolution of the House, disapproving a certain portion of the Confederate Exemption Law.

        The Senate has refused to concur in the House amendments to the Senate amendments to a House bill in relation to Executors, Administrators and Guardians.

        The Senate has passed a House bill entitled an act to increase the manufacture of arms.

        The Senate has refused to agree to the report of the committee of conference appointed to consider the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on the bill entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, and insisted upon their disagreement to the House amendment to the Senate amendment to said bill, and ask for another conference thereon, and have appointed as said committee on the part of the Senate, Messrs. Luckett, Huie and Poindexter.

        Mr. Dyer, from the Judiciary committee, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to tax unauthorized issues of paper money, have had the same under consideration, and have made the following amendments thereto, and have instructed me to


Page 57

report the bill, with the amendments, back to the House, and recommend that the bill as amended to pass.

        Which, on his motion,

        Was received and agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. Dyer,

        The bill entitled an act to tax unauthorized issues of paper money,

        Was read the third time, and passed with title as stated.

        On motion of Mr. Shields,

        The Senate bill entitled an act to amend an act approved January 29, 1862, to suspend for a limited time certain parts of the Statute of Limitations, was taken up,

        Read third time, and passed with title as stated:

        Mr. Graham offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the Auditor inform the House upon what basis he distributed the fund for the support of indigent families of soldiers among the several counties, and whether the data for the distribution was obtained from the lists furnished by the Boards of Police, or from the lists in the Adjutant General's office.

        Mr. Harper called up the unfinished business of yesterday, being a bill entitled

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State.

        Mr. Harper moved that the House resolve itself into committee of the whole,

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Harper offered a substitute for the substitute offered by Mr. Graham.

        Mr. Chandler moved a suspension of the further consideration of the bill, with a view to take up Senate message in relation to the report of the committee of Conference.

        Mr. Chandler, from the committee of Conference, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Conference appointed to consider the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on the bill entitled an act better to provide for families of our soldiers, have duly considered the matters referred to them, and have instructed me to report the following recommendation, to-wit: That the Senate amendment be amended in the second line of the fourth section by striking out the word "thirty" and by inserting the words "seventy-five," and that the Senate amendment as thus amended be agreed to by the House.

        Mr. Chandler moved that the report be received and agreed to.

        A division being called for, the report was received.


Page 58

        The House refused to agree to the report.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        A committee of Conference, consisting of five members, was appointed to meet Senate committee appointed to consider the disagreeing vote of the two Houses on the bill entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers.

        The Speaker appointed as said committee, Messrs. Hooker, of Holmes, Bardin, Lyle, Strong and Boddie.

        Mr. Shields called up bill appointing medical supervisors,

        And, on his motion,

        The substitute of the Senate was adopted.

        Mr. Jones, by leave, introduced a bill entitled

        An act to aid in strengthening the army of the Confederate States.

        And on his motion,

        The constitutional rule was suspended and bill read second time.

        On his further motion,

        The bill was referred to the joint select committee on Military Affairs.

        On motion of Mr. Turley,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        There being no quorum present,

        On motion of Mr. Martin,

        A call of the House was ordered.

        No quorum appearing,

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The Sergeant-at-Arms was sent for absentees.

        A quorum appearing,

        The call was suspended.

        The unfinished business was taken up, being the substitute offered by Mr. Harper for the substitute offered by Mr. Graham to bill entitled

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The substitute was laid on the table.

        Mr. Graham moved the adoption of the substitute entitled

        An act to change the militia system of the State,

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Hicks offered an amendment, by way of substitute, for original bill, being a bill entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State.


Page 59

        Mr. Chandler offered, by way of amendment, a substitute bill.

        A bill to be entitled

        An act to amend the militia laws and to aid the Confederate authorities in defending the State.

        On motion of Mr. Hooker, of Holmes,

        The further consideration of the bill was postponed.

        Mr. Hooker, from the committee of Conference, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint committee of Conference, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, would respectfully report that they have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report that the committee unanimously recommend that said bill be amended by striking out "one hundred" and insert "fifty" in lieu thereof, and recommend that said bill thus amended, do pass.

        Which, on his motion,

        Was received and agreed to.

        The Speaker presented to the House the following communication from the Auditor of Public Accounts:

AUDITOR'S OFFICE,
Jackson, Miss., Dec. 31, 1862.

To Hon. J. P. Scales,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

        SIR--In compliance with a resolution of the House of Representatives, this day received, I have the honor to report that the basis of distribution of the State Military Relief Fund, for the year 1861, was as follows, to-wit:

        Each county receiving its pro rata distribution of said fund according to the number of volunteers reported. The reports of the number of volunteers were received from the Boards of Police of the several counties of the State, with the exception of the counties of Panola, Adams, Claiborne, Harrison and Coahoma. The report of the number of volunteers in said last mentioned counties was received from the Adjutant-General, Col. Jones S. Hamilton, as per his report now on file in this office.


        On motion of Mr. Hooker of Holmes,

        The House adjourned until 7 o'clock, P. M.

7 O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met.

        Mr. Terrell from the committee on enrolled bills, made the following report:


Page 60

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on enrolled bills have examined House bills of the following titles, and found the same correctly enrolled, and have presented the same to the Governor for his approval, to-wit:

        An act to increase the manufacture of arms.

        An act to authorize persons who may have sold arms to the State to be paid therefor.

        The following message was received from the Governor:

EXECUTIVE, OFFICE,
Dec. 31, 1862.

MR. SPEAKER--

        His Excellency, the Governor, has signed and approved House bills entitled

        An act to authorize the removal of the Judicial and other public Records of counties, and for other purposes.

        An act for the relief of Capt. Henry Jamison, of Attala county.

        An act to legalize the assessment of the counties of Yazoo, Lawrence and Carroll.

        An act further to provide for the public defense.


        On motion of Mr. Dyer,

        The Senate message was called up.

        On motion of Mr. Dyer,

        The House refused to concur in Senate amendment offered as substitute for House resolution disapproving of a certain portion of the Exemption Law of the Confederate Congress.

        On motion of Mr. Shields,

        The House insisted upon its amendment to Senate amendment to House bill in relation to Executors, Administrators and Guardians.

        Mr. Miller, of Oktibbeha, offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the Secretary of State be requested to inform the House why the Acts and Journals of the last regular session of the Legislature have not been distributed as required by law.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has passed a bill entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State, in which they ask the concurrence of the House of Representatives.

        The Senate have agreed to the report of the last appointed committee of Conference to consider the disagreement between the two Houses in relation to the House amendment to Senate amendment to House bill entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers. The recommendation


Page 61

of said committee agreed to by the Senate, is as follows: That the words "one hundred" be stricken out of the eighth line of the first section of said bill, and that the word "fifty" be inserted in lieu thereof.

        Mr. Graham called up Senate message.

        On motion of Mr. Graham,

        Senate bill entitled

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State,

        Was read the first time.

        On motion of Mr. Dyer,

        The constitutional rule was suspended, and bill read the second time.

        On motion of Mr. Strong,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on the bill,

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, in the Chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported progress, and asked leave to sit again at 9 o'clock to-morrow morning.

        On motion of Mr. Terrell,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow at 9 o'clock, A. M.

THURSDAY, January 1, 1863.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        Mr. Dyer, by leave, introduced the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the thanks of this House are due and are hereby tendered to the Hon. J. P. Scales, for the courteous, dignified, able and impartial manner in which he has presided over its deliberations during the present session.

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Gulley, by leave, introduced the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the thanks of this House are hereby tendered to R. C. Miller, Esq., Clerk of the House, the Assistant Clerk and the Sergeant-at-Arms, for the courteous and satisfactory manner in which they have discharged the duties of their offices during the present term.

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Jones, from joint select committee on Military Affairs, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint select committee on Military Affairs, to whom


Page 62

was referred a bill to be entitled an act to aid in strengthening the army of the Confederate States, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the bill back to the House and recommend its passage.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        The bill entitled an act to aid in strengthening the army of the Confederate States, was read the third time,

        And passed with title as stated.

        On motion of Mr. Wood,

        The unfinished business was called up, being Senate bill entitled

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State.

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on said bill,

        Mr. Thomas in the Chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported progress, and asked leave to sit again at 3 o'clock, P. M.

        Which was granted.

        On motion of Mr. Graham,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The Speaker presented the following communication from the Secretary of State:

OFFICE OF SECRETARY OF STATE,
Jackson, Miss., Jan. 1, 1863.

Hon. J. P. Scales,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

        SIR--I am in receipt of a resolution of the House of Representatives, requesting to be informed "why the Acts and Journals of the last regular session of the Legislature have not been distributee as required by law. In reply, I state as the reason "why the Laws and Journals of the last regular session of the Legislature have not been distributed according to law," that the Public Printer has failed to deliever the Acts and Journals according to law. The Acts were delivered some two or three months since. A portion of the Journals were delivered within the last two weeks. A portion of them have not yet been delivered. I did not distribute the Acts when delivered, because I did not wish to make a partial distribution.



Page 63

        The following message was received from the Governor:

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Jackson, Miss., Jan. 1, 1863.

Gentlemen of the House of Representatives:

        I herewith transmit to you the report of Col. A. M. West, Quartermaster-General of the state of Mississippi. At the time I transmitted to you the reports of the heads of the other military departments of this State, the report of Colonel West had not been handed in. And even now, the report has not been signed, for the reason that the Quartermaster-General--after preparing his report--was called away to his famlly in Holmes County, where he was taken violently ill, and has not since been able to resume his duties. The report is, however, official, and shows the operations in the Quarter-master's department in the State, since the eleventh day of February, 1862.

JOHN J. PETTUS.


        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have refused to concur in the Joint Resolution adopted by the House for the adjournment of the two Houses this day at 3 o'clock, P. M.

        The Senate have passed a bill entitled

        An act amendatory of an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State.

        The House is asked to concur in the same.

        The Senate have passed bills of the following titles in which the House is asked to concur, viz:

        A bill to be entitled an act supplementary to the act entitled an act to suspend for a limited the collection of the tax therein named.

        A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Southwestern Telegraph Company to issue change notes or tickets.

        The Senate have passed the House bill entitled an act to provide for a guaranty, by the State of Mississippi, of the bonds of the Confederate States.

        And have also passed House bill entitled an act to authorize the impressment of slaves and other personal property for military purposes, with sundry amendments thereto, in which the concurrence of the House is desired.

        The Senate have concurred in the first, second and fifth amendments of the House to a Senate bill entitled an act to prohibit the distillation of spirits from grain, and have concurred in the third amendment of the House to said bill, with an amendment thereto, and have refused to concur in the fourth amendment of the House to said bill.

        The Senate adheres to their disagreement to House amendments to Senate amendments to House bill entitled an act in relation to Executors, Administrators and Guardians, and ask


Page 64

a committee of Conference thereon, and have appointed as said committee on the part of the Senate, Messrs. Luckett, Ellett and Poindexter.

        The Senate insists on their amendments, by way of substitute, to a joint resolution of the House disapproving a certain portion of the Exemption Law of the Confederate Congress, and ask a committee of Conference to consider the same, and have appointed Messrs. Yerger, Moore and Loper as said committee on the part of the Senate.

        The Senate has adopted a joint resolution entitled joint resolution in relation to cotton burnt or destroyed, in which the House is asked to concur. Said resolution requires the appointment of a joint committee to prepare a memorial to Congress, &c. Messrs. Yerger, Poindexter and Luckett have been appointed, on the part of the Senate, on said committee.

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        The unfinished business was taken up, it being Senate bill entitled

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State.

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on said bill,

        Mr. Thomas in the Chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported progress, and asked leave to sit again.

        Which was agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. Bardin,

        The House adopted the following resolution:

        Resolved, (The Senate concurring,) That the Legislature adjourn sine die on to-morrow, January 2d, at 3 o'clock, P. M.

        Mr. Dickens offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That any member absenting himself from the House, without leave, will incur the censure of the same, and shall be promptly arrested by the Sergeant-at-Arms.

        Which was adopted.

        On motion of Mr. Hooker, of Holmes,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole upon Senate bill entitled

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State,

        Mr. Thomas in the Chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported bill back to the House, with amendments, and recommended that the bill as amended do pass.

        Which was received and agreed to.


Page 65

        On motion of Mr. Hooker, of Holmes,

        The bill was read the third time.

        Mr. Strong offered the following amendment by way of ryder:

        Amend by striking out all exemptions in this bill and the bill to which this is an amendment, except such Judicial and State officers as are necessary to hold the regular terms of the courts of the country and fill the Executive offices of the State.

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Jones offered the following amendment by way of ryder.

        Amend by way of ryder by adding the following section:

        SEC.--. All who have heretofore furnished substitutes in the service of the State, or of the Confederate States; and all persons who have been discharged from the service of the Confederate States shall be subject in each and every particular to the operation of this act.

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Bardin moved the previous question,

        Which being sustained,

        The bill was passed by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Graham, Gulley and Deason, as follows:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bardin, Batte, Billups, Boddie, Brooks, Clark, Deason, Dickens, Durr, Edwards of Choctaw, Enochs, Fall, Fatheree, Fox, Gaines, Gunn, Harper, Harris, Hicks, Hooker of Holmes, Hooker of Lawrence, Humphreys, Irby, Jackson of Amite, Lyle, Martin, McDonald, McElroy, McLaurin, Miller of Oktibbeha, Moore, Nelson, Powe, Seal of Harrison, Shields, Smith of Tishomingo, Tindall, Thomas, Turley, Wells, Withers, Wood, and Williams of Wilkinson--44.

        NAYS--Messrs. Brown, Edwards of Kemper, Graham, Gulley, Hamer, Jones, Seal of Hancock, and Strong--8.

        Ordered, that the title stand as stated.

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The Governor's message and accompanying documents were referred to the joint standing committee on Military Affairs.

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The House adjourned until 7 o'clock, P. M.

7 O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met.

        Mr. Shields called up Senate message, being a bill entitled

        An act amendatory of an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State.

        Which, on motion of Mr. Chandler,

        Was laid on the table.


Page 66

        A bill to be entitled an act supplementary to the act entitled an act to suspend for a limited time the collection of the tax therein named,

        Was read the first time.

        On motion of Mr. Hooker, of Holmes,

        The rule was suspended and bill read second time.

        On his further motion,

        The rule was suspended, and bill read third time,

        And passed, with title as stated.

        Senate bill entitled an act to authorize the Southwestern Telegraph Company to issue change notes or tickets,

        Was, on motion of Mr. Chandler, rejected.

        On motion of Mr. Shields,

        Senate amendments to House bill entitled

        An act to authorize the impressment of slaves and other personal property for militiary purposes,

        Were concurred in.

        Senate bill entitled an act to prohibit the distillation of spirits from grain, was called up.

        Pending consideration of Senate amendment thereto,

        On motion of Mr. Graham,

        A call of the House was had.

        No quorum appearing,

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock

FRIDAY, Jan. 2, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        Messrs. Lyle, Martin and Powe asked leave to change their votes on the passage of a bill entitled

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State,

        Which was granted.

        On motion of Mr. Wood,

        The unfinished business was taken up, being the consideration of Senate amendment to House amendment to Senate bill entitled

        An act to prohibit the distillation of spirits from grain.

        On motion of Mr. Wood,

        The House concurred in the following Senate amendment:

        Amend the third amendment of the House of Representatives by striking out the words "and shall continue in force twelve months."


Page 67

        Mr. Tindall moved that the House insist upon fourth amendment disagreed to by the Senate.

        And on motion of Mr. Wood,

        A committee of Conference, consisting of three, was appointed on the disagreement of the two Houses on said amendment.

        The Speaker appointed as said committee Messrs. Wood, Martin and Harper.

        On motion of Mr. Shields,

        A committee of Conference of five, to meet Senate committee on disagreement of the two Houses on House bill entitled an act in relation to Executors, Administrators and Guardians, was appointed by the Chair, consisting of Messrs. Shields, Hicks, Miller, Chandler and Tindall.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed a House bill entitled an act to tax unauthorized issues of paper money.

        The Senate have also passed House bill entitled an act to aid in strengthening the army of the Confederate States, with sundry amendments thereto, in which the concurrence of the House is desired.

        The Senate have concurred in the House amendments to Senate bill entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State, with various amendments to the said House amendments.

        The House is asked to concur in the same.

        Mr. Shields moved a call of the House,

        There being no quorum present,

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The Sergeant-at-Arms was sent for absentees.

        A quorum appearing,

        On motion of Mr. Wood,

        The call was suspended.

        Mr. Hooker, of Holmes, called up Senate message in relation to Senate bill entitled

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State.

        Mr. Thomas moved to concur in first Senate amendment:

        Amend by way of additional section:

        Be it further enacted, That the Major General, when in active service, shall be entitled to the same staff with officers of the like rank in the service of the Confederate States; and that the law fixing the salary of the Major General, be and the same is hereby repealed.

        Which was lost.

        On motion of Mr. Harper,


Page 68

        The second and third amendments were agreed to.

        And on motion of Mr. Deason,

        The House refused to concur in fourth amendment, which was as follows:

        Amend by additional section:

        Be it further enacted, That the Governor may, in his discretion, detail any persons liable to militia duty who may seek to be detailed, upon proper showing, by affidavit, that the person seeking to be detailed is the owner, overseer, agent or manager of a plantation and twenty or more negroes, and that his presence or that of some other suitable person is absolutely necessary in order to secure the proper management of the same, and that he is not able to procure the services of a suitable person over the age of fifty or under the age of eighteen years to manage and control the same; Provided, the person owning the same shall be required, for such privilege, in addition to his other taxes, to pay a special tax of thirty per cent. upon his State tax upon the property which the party is detailed to take charge of, to be collected by the Sheriff of his county at the same time that the State tax is collected, which said special tax when collected shall be paid into the State Treasury to be distributed as other funds for the benefit of indigent families of soldiers; and the Governor may, in his discretion, detail a suitable person, subject to militia duty, to manage and control the plantation and negroes belonging to any unmarried woman or minor, upon proper showing, by affidavit, that she or they are unable to procure the services of a suitable person over fifty or under eighteen years of age to manage or control the same, upon the payment of a similar tax as above, to be collected and distributed as above provided.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Moved to reconsider the vote by which the House refused to concur in first Senate amendment.

        Which was lost.

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        The fifth and sixth amendments were concurred in.

        Mr. Edwards, of Kemper,

        Moved the appointment of a committee of Conference on the disagreement of the two Houses on Senate amendments,

        Which was lost.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The joint resolution of the Senate in relation to cotton burnt or destroyed,

        Was laid on the table.

        Mr. Jones called up Senate message in relation to House bill entitled

        An act to aid in strengthening the Confederate States army.


Page 69

        And on his motion,

        The Senate amendments were concurred in.

        Mr. Martin, from the committee on Propositions and Grievances, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred a bill to provide further means for the support of the indigent families of our soldiers, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House with a recommendation that the same do pass, with an amendment: Amend by filling the blank with "one."

        Which was received.

        Mr. Martin moved to amend report of the committee by striking out "one" and inserting "five."

        Mr. Wood moved to amend by inserting "ten."

        Mr. Chandler moved to amend the amendment to the amendment by inserting "twenty-five."

        Which was lost by yeas and nays, called for by Messrs. Hooker, of Holmes, Hamer and Turley, viz:

        YEAS--Messrs. Bardin, Chandler, Deason, Durr, Edwards of Choctaw, Enochs, Gulley, Gunn, Harris, Martin, McElroy, McLaurin, Nelson, Powe, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Smith of Tishomingo, Tindall and Wells--19.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Batte, Billups, Boddie, Brown, Brooks, Clark, Dickens, Edwards of Kemper, Fall, Fatheree, Fox, Hamer, Harper, Hicks, Hooker of Holmes, Humphreys, Irby, Jackson of Amite, Jones, Lyle, McDonald, Miller of Oktibbeha, Moore, Shields, Smith of Lowndes, Strong, Thomas, Turley, Withers, Williams of Wilkinson, and Wood--32.

        On motion of Mr. Harper,

        The regular order of business was suspended and the following resolution adopted:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That General Joseph E. Johnston be requested to address the two Houses, in secret session, on the condition of military affairs, immediately.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        The regular order of business was suspended, and the vote of the House concurring in Senate amendments to House bill entitled an act to strengthen the army of the Confederate States, was reconsidered.

        On motion of Mr. Jones,

        The House refused to concur in said Senate amendment.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have concurred in the joint resolution of the


Page 70

House requesting General Joseph E. Johnston to address the two Houses, in secret session, immediately, and have adopted the following resolution, in which the concurrence of the House is desired:

        Resolved, (the House concurring,) That a committee of two on the part of the Senate, and----on the part of the House, be appointed to wait on General Johnston, and conduct him to the Hall of the House of Representatives. Messrs. Poindexter and Davis have been appointed as said committee on the part of the Senate.

        Mr. Harper moved that the Senate message just received be concurred in,

        Which was adopted.

        The Chair appointed as said committee, Messrs. Harper, Seal, of Harrison, and Tindall.

        On motion of Mr. Harper,

        The House took a recess of five minutes to prepare the Hall for the reception of the Senate to the end that the two Houses, in secret convention, be addressed by General Joseph E. Johnston, made in request of both Houses.

        The recess having expired, the House resumed its session.

        The Senate, preceded by the Sergeant-at-Arms, entered the Hall and took the seats assigned them.

        General Joseph E. Johnston, escorted by the joint committee of both Houses, entered the Hall and was conducted to the Speaker's desk.

        On motion of Mr. Harper,

        The convention resolved itself into secret session.

        After a short time the doors were opened,

        Wen, on motion of Mr. Ellett, Senator from Claiborne,

        The thanks of the joint convention were tendered General Johnston for his courtesy in complying with the invitation of the two Houses, and for the interesting and valuable information communicated to them.

        Hon. Mr. Drane, Senator from Choctaw, moved that as the object for which the two Houses had assembled in joint convention was accomplished, that it be now dissolved.

        Which was adopted.

        The Senate having retired, the House resumed the consideration of the unfinished business, being the amendment of Mr. Wood to fill the blank with "ten."

        Mr. Bardin moved to lay the amendment and bill on the table,

        Which was lost by yeas and nays, called for by Messrs. Smith, of Lowndes, Fall and Turley:

        YEAS--Messrs. Bardin, Batte, Boddie, Brown, Brooks, Dickens, Edwards of Kemper, Fall, Hamer, Hicks, Hooker of Holmes, Humphreys, Irby, Jackson of Amite, Seal of


Page 71

Hancock, Shields, Smith of Lowndes, Strong, Thomas, Turley and Withers--21.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Billups, Chandler, Clark, Deason, Durr, Edwards of Choctaw, Enochs, Fatheree, Fox, Gaines, Gulley, Gunn, Harper, Harris, Jones, Lyle, Martin, McDonald, McElroy, McLaurin, Miller of Oktibbeha, Nelson, Powe, Seal of Harrison, Smith of Tishomingo, Tindall, Wells, Williams of Wilkinson and Wood--31.

        Mr. Brown offered the following amendment:

        Amend by adding this proviso, viz:

        Provided, however, That no person exempt from service in the Confederate army, who shall be taken into the military service under the militia law of the State shall be subject to such tax.

        Mr. Hooker, of Holmes, offered the following substitute for the amendment:

        Insert after twenty negroes, in first section, "and a like tax upon the negroes of all other persons not in the military service of the Confederate States."

        Mr. Chandler moved to lay the substitute and amendment on the table.

        A division being called for,

        The question was taken on the adoption of the substitute.

        No quorum appearing,

        On motion of Mr. Bardin,

        The House adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The unfinished business was taken up, being the motion to lay on the table the substitute offered by Mr. Hooker of Holmes,

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Fatheree offered the following substitute for amendment offered by Mr. Brown:

        Provided, That the said tax shall not be levied or collected from those persons who shall serve in the militia six months or more.

        Which was adopted.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The bill was read the third time and passed, by yeas and nays, called for by Messrs. Hooker of Holmes, Brown and Shields:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Chandler, Clark, Deason, Durr, Edwards of Choctaw, Enochs, Fatheree, Fox, Gaines, Gulley, Gunn, Harper, Harris, Jackson of Amite, Jones, Lyle, Martin, McDonald, McElroy, McLaurin, Moore, Nelson,


Page 72

Powe, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shields, Smith of Tishomingo, Tindall, Wells and Wood--31.

        NAYS--Messrs. Bardin, Batte, Billups, Boddie, Brown, Brooks, Dickens, Edwards of Kemper, Fall, Hamer, Hooker of Holmes, Humphreys, Irby, Miller of Oktibbeha, Shields, Smith of Lowndes, Strong, Thomas, Turley, Withers and Williams of Wilkinson--22.

        Ordered, that title stand as stated.

        Mr. Hooker, of Holmes, offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the Doorkeeper be instructed to close the door and not permit members to leave the House while the same is in session, unless by leave of the House.

        Mr. Harper offered the following substitute, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the Doorkeeper, in view of the difficulty of keeping a quorum, be required to guard the door to prevent any member from leaving the House without leave, and the Sergeant at-Arms to attend the departure of trains to prevent members leaving until the adjournment of the Legislature.

        Mr. Withers from the committee on Enrolled Bills made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills, beg leave to report that they have examined and found correctly enrolled bills of the following titles, and have laid the same before the Governor for his approval:

        An act to authorize the appointment of two medical commissioners to especially attend to the sick and wounded soldiers from this State, in the Confederate army, and for other purposes.

        An act better to provide for the families of our volunteers.

        An act to provide for a guaranty, by the State of Mississippi, of the bonds of the Confederate States.

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The House adjourned until 7 o'clock, P. M.

7 O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have concurred in the request of the House of Representatives for a committee of Conference upon the fourth amendment of the House to the Senate bill entitled an act to prohibit the distillation of spirits from grain, and have appointed Messrs. Gordon and Ellett as a committee on the part of the Senate.


Page 73

        The Senate insist upon their first and fourth amendments to the House amendments to the Senate bill entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State, and ask a conference of the two Houses thereon, and have appointed Messrs. Starke and Ellett as said committee on the part of the Senate.

        The Senate insists upon their amendments to House bill entitled an act to aid in strengthening the army of the Confederate States, and request a conference thereon, and have appointed as a committee of conference on the part of the Senate, Messrs. Gordon and Poindexter.

        The Senate have agreed to the following reports of the committee of Conference on the disagreement of the two Houses on the fourth amendment of the House to a Senate bill entitled an act to prohibit the distillation of spirits from grain, viz: The committee recommend that the House recede from their fourth amendment to Senate bill entitled an act to prohibit the distillation of spirits from grain.

        The Senate have also agreed to the report of the committee of Conference recommending that the House do recede from its amendments to Senate amendments to a House bill entitled an act in relation to Executors, Administrators and Guardians.

        Mr. Wood, from the committee of Conference, on the part of the House, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Conference upon the disagreement of the two Houses upon the fourth House amendment to a Senate bill entitled an act to prohibit the distillation of spirits from grain, have had the same under consideration, and have agreed to recommend that the House of Representatives do recede from their said fourth amendment.

        Which was received.

        Mr. Wood moved that the report be agreed to.

        Mr. Tindall moved a call of the House.

        No quorum appearing,

        Mr. Strong moved that the Sergeant-at-Arms be sent after absentees.

        Mr. Martin moved a suspension of the call.

        On motion of Mr. Martin,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow at 9 o'clock, A. M.

SATURDAY, January 3, 1863.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of yesterday was read and approved.


Page 74

        Mr. Hooker, of Holmes, moved a suspension of the regular order of business with a view of taking up Senate message.

        The unfinished business was taken up, being the report of the committee of Conference upon House amendment to Senate bill entitled an act to prevent the distillation of spirits from grain.

        On motion of Mr. Wood,

        The House concurred in the report.

        Mr. Harper offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the Speaker be directed not to sign any certificate for pay for any member who shall be absent at the adjournment of this House, without special leave of absence previously obtained for the remainder of the session.

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Hicks called up Senate message asking committee of Conference on the disagreement of the two Houses on Senate amendments to a bill entitled

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State.

        Mr. Hicks moved to concur in first Senate amendment,

        Which was adopted by yeas and nays, called for by Messrs. McLaurin, Seal, of Harrison, and Martin:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Batte, Billups, Boddie, Brooks, Clark, Dickens, Eskridge, Fatheree, Fox, Gaines, Hamer, Harper, Hicks, Hooker of Holmes, Humphreys, Irby, Jackson of Amite, Jones, Lyle, Miller of Oktibbeha, Moore, Nelson, Shields, Smith of Tishomingo, Smith of Lowndes, Strong, Tindall, Thomas, Turley, Wells, Williams of Wilkinson, and Wood--33.

        NAYS--Messrs. Bardin, Brown, Chandler, Deason, Durr, Edwards of Kemper, Edwards of Choctaw, Enochs, Gulley, Gunn, Harris, Martin, McDonald, McElroy, McLaurin, Powe, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, and Withers--19.

        Mr. Hicks moved to concur in fourth Senate amendment.

        Mr. Deason moved the previous question,

        Which was lost, by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Martin, Deason and Chandler:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Boddie, Brown, Gaines, Hamer, Hicks, Hooker of Holmes, Humphreys, Shields, Smith of Lowndes and Thomas--11.

        NAYS--Messrs. Bardin, Batte, Billups, Brooks, Chandler, Clark, Deason. Dickens, Durr, Edwards of Kemper, Edwards of Choctaw, Enochs, Eskridge, Fatheree, Fox, Gulley, Gunn, Harper, Harris, Irby, Jackson of Amite, Jones, Lyle, Martin, McDonald, McElroy, McLaurin, Miller of Oktibbeha, Moore, Nelson, Powe, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Smith of


Page 75

Tishomingo, Tindall, Turley, Wells, Withers, Williams of Wilkinson, and Wood--39.

        Mr. Hicks moved that the House concur in request of Senate for a committee of Conference on the disagreement of the two Houses on the military bill, and that the committee on part of House consist of three.

        Which was adopted.

        The Speaker appointed as said committee Messrs. Hicks, Chandler and Hamer.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have concurred in the joint resolution of the House for adjournment, with an amendment thereto: to strike out Friday, 3 o'clock, P. M., and insert Saturday, the 3d inst., at 3 o'clock, P. M., in which they ask the concurrence of the House.

        On motion of Mr. Bardin,

        The House took a recess of fifteen minutes.

        The recess having expired, the House was called to order.

        Mr. Hicks, from the committee of Conference, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Conference on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on the bill to amend the militia and volunteer laws of the State, have considered the subject, and have agreed to the following report, to-wit:

        That the additional section adopted by the Senate as an amendment to the bill from the House, be amended by striking out all after the enacting clause and inserting the following, to-wit: That if upon a sufficient showing in writing, the Governor shall believe that the public interest, or the safety of any part of the people would be promoted by permitting any person ordered or drafted into the service, to remain at home, he shall have the power to excuse such person from the said service. And that the House do agree to the Senate amendment so amended, and that the Senate agree to the said amendment recommended by the committee of Conference.

        Which was received.

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        The report was agreed to.

        And, on his further motion,

        The House concurred in fourth Senate amendment to House amendment to military bill.

        Mr. Jones, called up Senate message asking committee of Conference on the disagreement of the two Houses on Senate amendment to House bill entitled

        An act to aid in strengthening the army of the Confederate States.


Page 76

        On motion of Mr. Chandler,

        The following Senate amendments to said bill were concurred in, viz:

        1st. Amend the bill by striking out the first section.

        2d. Amend the second section by striking out the words "said marshals" in the second line, and inserting the words "the Sheriff of every county in this State by himself or his deputies."

        3d. Amend the third section by striking out the word "marshal" in the second line, and inserting the word "sheriff," and also strike out the word "marshal" in the thirteenth line, and insert "sheriff."

        4th. Amend the fourth section, by striking out the word "marshal" in the third line, and inserting "sheriff."

        5th. Amend the fifth section by striking out all after the enacting clause to and including the words "of the Govornor" in the fourteenth line; and by inserting after the word "failure" in the fifteenth line, the words "by any sheriff," and by striking out all of said section five after the words "discretion of the court" in the eighteenth line.

        6th. Amend the sixth section by striking out the word "marshals" where it occurs, and insert "sheriffs."

        7th. Amend section seven by striking out the word "sheriff" in the second line, and also by striking out the word "marshal" where it occurs in said seventh section, and inserting the word "sheriff."

        8th. Insert between sections seven and eight, the following additional section:

        SEC.--. Be it further enacted, That every sheriff shall take the receipt of the proper officer of the Confederate government for every conscript, deserter, straggler or absentee without leave, whom he may arrest and deliver to such officer, and shall be entitled to five dollars for every such person delivered by him to such Confederate officer; and the Auditor shall issue his warrant therefor on the production of such receipt; and such sheriffs shall also be entitled to receive from the State Treasury the actual expenses incurred by him in the arrest and delivery of such conscripts, stragglers, deserters, or absentees without leave, for which the Auditor shall issue his warrant on the production to him of a detailed account of said expenses, sworn to by the sheriff or deputy sheriff by whom the said expenses were incurred.

        9th. Amend the bill by striking out section nine.

        The following message was received from the Governor:

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Jackson, Miss., Jan. 4, 1863.

MR. SPEAKER--

        His Excellency, the Governor, has signed and approved


Page 77

House bills entitled, an act to authorize the appointment of two medical commissioners to especially attend to the sick and wounded soldiers from this State in the Confederate army, and for other purposes.

        An act to increase the manufacture of arms.

        An act to authorize persons who have sold arms to the State to be paid therefor.

        An act better to provide for the families of our soldiers.


        Mr. Bardin called up Senate message in relation to adjournment.

        And on his motion,

        The resolution was adopted.

        Mr. Shields, from the committee of Conference on the disagreement of the two Houses on Senate amendment to House bill in relation to Executors, Administrators and Guardians, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the part of the House, appointed to confer with the Senate committee on the bill in relation to Executors, Administrators and Guardians, report that they have had a conference, and recommend that the House do recede from their disagreement to the Senate amendments to said bill.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. Shields,

        The House concurred in Senate amendment to said bill.

        Mr. Fatheree, by leave, introduced a bill entitled

        An act to repeal section twenty-two of an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State, approved January 24, 1862, and for other purposes.

        On motion of Mr. Shields,

        The bill was laid on the table.

        Mr. Clark, from the committee on Claims, introduced a bill entitled,

        An act making certain appropriatious therein named.

        And on his motion,

        The rule was suspended, and bill read second time.

        On motion of Mr. Harris,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on said bill,

        Mr. Hicks in the Chair.

        After a short time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported the bill back to the House with a recommendation that it do pass.

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The report was received and agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. Clark,

        The rule was suspended, and the bill read a third time,

        And passed with title as stated.


Page 78

        On motion of Mr. Edwards, of Kemper,

        The House adjourned until half-past 1 o'clock, P. M.

HALF-PAST ONE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The following message was received from the Governor, through his private Secretary, Mr. Rives:

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Jackson, Miss., Jan. 3, 1863.

Gentlemen of the Senate
and House of Representatives:

        The most responsible office, and one involving more hazard and labor than any other in the militia of the State, is the office of Quartermaster General, combining the responsibilities and labor of Commissary and Paymaster General. I regard the salary of fifteen hundred dollars ($1500,) as wholly inadequate to the risk and labor of this office, and recommend that the field pay of Colonel be given for the performance of this duty. I furthermore recommend that the pay of the Adjutant General be raised also to the pay of Colonel.

JOHN J. PETTUS.


        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have agreed to the report of the committee of conference in relation to disagreement of the two Houses on the 4th amendment of the Senate to House amendments to Senate bill entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of the State. The committee recommend the following amendment to the said fourth amendment of the Senate: Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert the following:

        "That if upon a sufficient showing in writing, the Governor shall believe that the public interest or the safety of any part of the people would be promoted by permitting any person ordered or drafted into the service to remain at home, he shall have power to excuse such person from the said service."

        The Senate have adopted joint resolutions entitled preamble and resolutions explanatory of the reasons inducing the Legislature to suspend for a limited time the collection of the military tax imposed by ordinance of the Convention.

        The Senate have passed House bill entitled an act making certain appropriations therein named, with amendments thereto, in which the House is asked to concur.

        Mr. Thomas called up joint resolution of the Senate entitled preamble and resolution explanatory of the reasons


Page 79

inducing the Legislature to suspend for a time the collection of the military tax imposed by ordinance of the Convention.

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The rule requiring joint resolutions to lay on the table one day, was suspended.

        On his further motion,

        The preamble and resolutions were adopted.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed a bill entitled an act relative to the compensation of Quartermaster and Adjutant-General, in which the House is asked to concur.

        On motion of Mr. Strong,

        The Senate message just received, was taken up.

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        Senate bill entitled an act relative to the compensation of the Quartermaster General and Adjutant-General,

        Was read the first time.

        On his further motion,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the second time.

        Mr. Martin moved to lay the bill on the table.

        Upon which motion the yeas and nays were called for by Messrs. Martin, McLaurin and Enochs:

        YEAS--Messrs. Bardin, Brooks, Chandler, Clark, Durr, Edwards of Kemper, Edwards of Choctaw, Enochs, Fox, Gulley, Gunn, Harris, Jackson of Amite, Martin, McDonald, McElroy, McLaurin, Moore, Nelson, Powe, Tindall, Thomas and Wells--23.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Batte, Billups, Boddie, Brown, Deason, Dickens, Eskridge, Fatheree, Gaines, Hamer, Harper, Hicks, Hooker of Holmes, Humphreys, Irby, Jones, Lyle, Miller of Oktibbeha, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shields, Smith of Tishomingo, Smith of Lowndes, Strong, Turley, Withers, Williams of Wilkinson, and Wood--27.

        No quorum voting,

        Mr. Harper moved a call of the House.

        A quorum appearing,

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The call was suspended.

        The following message was received from the Governor:

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Jan. 3d, 1863.

MR. SPEAKER--

        His Excellency, the Governor, has signed and approved House bills entitled:

        An act to tax unauthorized issues of paper money.


Page 80

        An act to provide for a guaranty by the State of Mississippi of the bonds of the Confederate States.

        An act to authorize the impressment of slaves and other personal property for military purposes.

        An act in relation to Executors, Administrators and Guardians.


        Mr. Thomas called up Senate message on appropriation bill.

        Mr. Clark moved to reject Senate amendments,

        Which was lost.

        On motion of Mr. Thomas,

        The following Senate amendments were concurred in:

        Amend article 3d by striking out "nineteen" and inserting "twenty;" and by striking out "thirty eight" and inserting "forty." Also, amend article 3d by adding the following words: "And to our faithful negro man Jeffrey, for his own use, the sum of ten dollars."

        Mr. Withers from the committee on enrolled bills, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined bills of the following titles, and found the same correctly enrolled, and have laid the same before the Governor for his approval, viz:

        An act to authorize the impressment of slaves and other personal property for military purposes.

        An act to tax unauthorized issues of paper money.

        An act in relation to Executors, Administrators and Guardians.

        An act to aid in strengthening the army of the Confederate States.

        An act making certain appropriations therein named.

        Mr. Jones offered the following joint resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, (The Senate concurring,) That a committee of five on the part of the House, and----on the part of the Senate, be appointed to wait on the Governor and ascertain from him if he desires to make any further communication to either House.

        The Chair appointed as said committee Messrs. Jones, Tindall, Dickens, Irby and Strong.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have concurred in the joint resolution of the House appointing a joint committee to wait on the Governor and ascertain from him if he desires to make any further communication to either House, and have filled the blank with three, and appointed as said committee on the part of the Senate, Messrs. Moore, Starke and Jordan.


Page 81

        The following message was received from the Governor:

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Jan. 3, 1863.

MR. SPEAKER--

        His Excellency, the Governor, has signed and approved House bills entitled:

        An act making certain appropriations therein named.

        An act to aid in strengthening the army of the Confederate States.


        Mr. Jones, from the committee appointed to wait on the Governor, reported that they had discharged the duty assigned to them, and that the Governor informed them that he had no further commnnication to make.

        Mr. Jones offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the Clerk of the House inform the Senate that the House is now ready to adjourn sine die.

        Which was adopted.

        The hour fixed for adjournment, (three o'clock, P. M.,) having arrived, the Speaker announced the House adjourned sine die.


Page 83

HOUSE JOURNAL,
REGULAR SESSION, NOV. 1863.

        At a regular session thereof, begun and holden in the city of Columbus, in the county of Lowndes, State of Mississippi, in pursuance of the proclamation of the Governor declaring that on account of the exposed condition of the city of Jackson it was impracticable to hold the regular session of the Legislature at that place, on Monday, the second day November, Anno Domini, one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the sovereignty of the State of Mississippi the forty-sixth.

MONDAY, November 2, 1863.

        Be it remembered, That on this day, at the place aforesaid, the members of the House of Representatives convened in the Court House in the city of Columbus at 12 o'clock, M., and were called to order by R. C. Miller, Clerk.

        On motion of Mr. Ragan, of Claiborne,

        Mr. A. B. Bradford of Bolivar, was called to the Chair.

        On motion of Mr. Tindall, of Monroe, R. C. Miller, of Clark, was appointed Clerk pro tem.

        The counties being called alphabetically, the following gentlemen produced their credentials and were severally sworn in and entered upon the discharge of their duties:

        From the county of

        Amite--Moses Jackson.

        Attala--E. M. Wells, S. H. Clark.

        Bolivar--A. P. Bradford.

        Calhoun--Charles A. Lewers, M. D. L. Stephens.


Page 84

        Carroll--W. W. Liddell.

        Chickasaw--C. C. M. Marable, B. B. Moore.

        Choctaw--Thomas Fox, George M. Archer.

        Claiborne--Joseph Regan.

        Clark--D. P. Bestor.

        Coahoma--J. L. Alcorn.

        Copiah--W. M. Deason.

        Covington--Thomas Pope.

        DeSoto--M. D. Johnson, H. O. Allen.

        Green--S. O. McKay.

        Hancock--D. Seal.

        Harrison--R. Seal.

        Holmes--A. M. Sessions, B. T. Owen.

        Itawamba--M. Pounds, J. D. Barton, Wm. Downs.

        Jackson--W. G. Evans.

        Jasper--W. T. Powe.

        Jones--Amos Deason.

        Kemper--P. H. Gulley, H. C. Robinson.

        Lafayette--Jacob Thompson, N. A. Isom.

        Lawrence--Hymerick Hooker.

        Lowndes--J. M. Arnold, A. Murdock.

        Madison--W. B. Lott.

        Marion--T. B. Foxworth.

        Marshall--J. W. C. Watson, E. W. Upshaw, J. R. Daniel, James Fort.

        Monroe--Jno. L. Tindall, L. E. Houston.

        Neshoba--W. A. McKay.

        Noxubee--J. M. Cunningham.

        Oktibbeha--J. G. Carroll.

        Panola--F. B. Irby, W. C. Maxwell.

        Pontotoc--T. B. Dillard.

        Rankin--B. F. Sutton.

        Scott--Jno. R. Hendon.

        Smith--G. W. Stubbs.

        Sunflower--James Minter.

        Tallahatchie--W. S. Eskridge.

        Tippah--F. S. Wier, W. E. Rogers, B. Johnson.

        Wayne--Henry Gray.

        Wilkinson--Joseph Johnson.

        Winston--R. D. Brown.

        Yallobusha--J. Buntin.

        Yazoo--J. W. Barnett.

        Mr. Lewers moved that the House take a recess till 3 o'clock, P. M.,

        Which motion was lost.

        The House then proceeded to the election, of Speaker, Messrs. Minter and Allen acting as tellers.

        Mr. Ragan nominated J. L. Alcorn, of Coahoma.


Page 85

        Mr. Eskridge nominated Jacob Thompson, of Lafayette.

        Mr. Daniel nominated Lock E. Houston, of Monroe.

        Mr. Gulley nominated Roderick Seal, of Harrison.

        Mr. Carroll nominated A. Murdock, of Lowndes.

        On the first ballot

        Neither gentleman having received a majority of all the votes cast the House proceeded to a second ballot, the names of Jacob Thompson and A. Murdock being withdrawn.

        On the second ballot

        Mr. Lock E. Houston having received a majority of all the votes cast, was declared to be duly and constitutionally elected Speaker of the House of Representatives for the term of two years.

        The Chairman appointed Messrs. Watson, Thompson and Minter to conduct the Speaker elect to the Chair.

        The Speaker then returned his thanks to the House for the honor conferred.

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        Robert C. Miller, of Clark, was declared Clerk by acclamation, who having taken the usual oath entered upon the duties of his office.

        The House then proceeded to the election of Doorkeeper.

        Mr. Murdock nominated Lewis Green, of Lowndes.

        On the first ballot

        Mr. Worrell having received a majority of all the votes cast was declared duly and constitutionally elected Doorkeeper of the House of Representatives.


Page 86

        On motion of Mr. Archer,

        The Clerk was instructed to inform the Senate that the House has met and organized by the election of Lock E. Houston, of Monroe, Speaker, Robert C. Miller, of Clark, Clerk, and W. C. Worrell, of Lowndes, Doorkeeper, and is now ready to proceed to business.

        Mr. Alcorn asked and obtained leave of absence.

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock.

TUESDAY, November 3, 1862.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        The following gentlemen presented their credentials and were sworn in as members of the House.

        From the county of

        Copiah--Samuel J. Morehead.

        DeSoto--Wm. A. Boon.

        Hinds--J. T. Rucks.

        Lauderdale--J. R. McLaurin, W. G. Grace.

        Perry--Hiram Hathorn.

        Pontotoc--John A. McNeil, S. D. Pinson, S. J. High.

        Rankin--W. K. Easterling.

        Tishomingo--J. M. Prewitt, Robert Lowry.

        Washington--J. N. Fowler.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Resolved, That the rules of the House adopted at the last session of the Legislature be adopted as the permament rules of this House, and that each member be furnished with a copy.

        The Speaker appointed Jacob Dickinson and Richard Hudson as pages of the House.

        Mr. Regan offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the resident Clergymen of the city of Columbus be invited to open the sessions of this House every morning with prayer.

        On motion of Mr. Tindall,

        The House took a recess till 12 o'clock, M.

12 O'CLOCK, M.

        Recess having expired the House was called to order by the Speaker.


Page 87

        The following message was received from the Senate, through their Secretary, Mr. Porter:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by the Senate to report the following resolutions which have been adopted by that body:

        Resolved, That the Secretary is instructed to inform the House of Representatives that the Senate has organized by the election of James Drane, President, D. P. Porter, Secretary, and B. L. Smith, Doorkeeper.

        Resolved, (the House concurring,) That a committee of three on the part of the Senate, and----on the part of the House, be appointed to wait on his Excellency, the Governor, and inform him that the two branches of the Legislature have met at the time appointed by the Constitution of the State, and at the place designated in his proclamation, and that the two Houses have organized and are now ready to receive any communication that he may have to make.

        The President has appointed Messrs. Greer, Patton and Oliver as the committee for the above purpose on the part of the Senate.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The message from the Senate was taken up, the blank filled with five, and the resolutions concurred in.

        The Speaker appointed as the committee on the part of the House, Messrs. Seal, of Harrison, Thompson, Bradford, Regan and Johnson, of Wilkinson.

        Mr. E. W. Dale, representative elect from the county of Tunica, presented his credentials, was sworn in and took his seat.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, offered the following joint resolution:

        Resolved, (The Senate concurring,) That the two Houses proceed to the election of a Sergeant-at-Arms at half-past 12 o'clock to-day.

        The rules being suspended, said resolution was adopted.

        Mr. Regan offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That the two Houses meet in joint convention on Tuesday, the 10th of November, for the purpose of electing one Senator to the Confederate States Congress to fill the vacancy occasioned by the expiration of the term of the Hon. James Phelan.

        Which was read once, and laid over till to-morrow morning.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have concurred in the joint resolution of the House in relation to the election of Sergeant-at-Arms this day at half-past twelve o'clock.

        The committee appointed on the part of the House to wait


Page 88

on his Excellency, the Governor, through their chairman, Mr. Seal, of Harrison, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint committee appointed to wait on the Governor, report that they have discharged the duty imposed on them, and are informed by the Governor that he will forthwith make a communication in writing.

        The following message was received from the Governor, through his private Secretary, Mr. Rives:

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Miss., Nov. 3, 1863.

MR. SPEAKER--

        I am directed by his Excellency, the Governor, to deliver to you his message in writing, with the accompanying reports and documents.

        The hour having arrived, the two Houses met in joint convention for the purpose of electing a Sergeant-at-Arms.


        On motion of Mr. Oliver, of the Senate,

        The joint convention proceeded to the election of Sergeant-at-Arms by ballot.

        Mr. Bradford, of the House, nominated D. R. Corley, of Tishomingo.

        Mr. Moore, of the Senate, nominated G. P. Killian, of Lowndes.

        The President appointed Messrs. Wilson, of the Senate, and Brown, of the House, as tellers.

        On the first ballot

        D. R. Corley was therefore declared duly elected Sergeant-at-Arms for this Legislature, and the oath was administered by the President.

        The President of the Senate declared the joint convention dissolved, and the Senate retired.

        On motion of Mr. Allen,

        The House adjourned till 2 o'clock, P. M.

TWO O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        On motion of Mr. Regan,

        The Governor's message was taken up and read.


Page 89

GOVERNOR'S MESSAGE.

        [The various reports referred to in the following message
will be found in the Appendix to this Journal.
--PRINTER.]

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Mississippi, Nov. 3, 1863.

Gentlemen of the Senate
and House of Representatives:

        Since the last meeting of the Legislature, Mississippi has been made the theatre of a continued war; and notwithstanding the many sacrifices of her citizens, and the efforts of the army sent for her protection, a large portion of her territory has been overrun by the Federal army, and much of her property has been destroyed and large quantities carried away. Their superior numbers have enabled the enemy to overrun large districts of country, but they have not as yet been able to occupy permanently but an inconsiderable portion of the territory of Mississippi. Corinth, Vicksburg and Natchez, with a few square miles surrounding each, is all that they can justly claim as being within their lines. The advance of heavy columns of the enemy upon the city of Jackson early in May last, at a time when we had no adequate force for its protection, rendered it necessary, in my opinion, to remove the archives and public property of the State, as far as I was able, from Jackson to Enterprize, where the seat of government was temporarily established. Since the first occupation of Jackson by the enemy, Vicksburg has fallen, and the Federals have been again in possession of the capital of the State, and it has remained in such an exposed position, that I deemed it unsafe to return with the archives and other public property. I therefore established the seat of government temporarily, first at Meridian, and more recently for the convenience of suitable buildings for offices, at Macon.

        The ordeal through which the State of Mississippi has been called to pass has been one of sore tribulation, and well calculated to test the loyalty of her citizens. There have been a flood of rumors as to the disloyalty of particular districts and localities of the State, but I have received no reliable information of any considerable disaffection in any quarter. It is


Page 90

perhaps true that some individuals, taking counsel of their fears, have taken the oath of allegiance to, and sought the protection of the government of the United States. But the great heart of the people of Mississippi remains as true to the cause, and their determination to succeed in the great struggle in which we are now engaged, and is as hopeful and buoyant as when the contest first began.

THE PENITENTIARY--DISPOSAL OF THE CONVICTS.

        Believing it to be very certain that the enemy would occupy the city of Jackson, it became necessary to make some disposition of the convicts in the Penitentiary; and having been informed that twenty-five of these convicts were unfriendly to our cause, and would in all probability join the Federal army if permitted to fall into their hands, I determined, therefore, upon consultation with the superintendent and supervisors of the Penitentiary, to send these convicts to some place of greater security. I applied to the Governor of Alabama for permission to send them to the Penitentiary of that State, which he kindly granted, and they are now confined at Wetumpka.

        Learning, also, that there were----convicts willing to take up arms in defense of their country, I pardoned them and caused them to be mustered into service, and they have since been distributed to the different regiments from the State in the Confederate army.

        A considerable number of convicts still remained in the Penitentiary who were either unable or unwilling to go into the army. These were, upon the near approach of the Federal army, turned out without pardon. I was satisfied that the enemy would destroy the Penitentiary buildings, and being unable to get any safe place of confinement for these convicts, I thought it to be the best disposition that could be made of them.

        Upon the first occupation of the city of Jackson by the Federal army, the Penitentiary buildings were all destroyed, and there remains now, of that institution, with all its machinery, but little save the rubbish of the walls. One steam engine and a lot of iron and copper is all that can be recovered from the ruins. I have directed Col. U. Bourne, acting Chief of Ordnance, to collect every article of value from the rubbish and transport them to Meridian. I have directed the copper to be sold to the Government of the Confederate States for the manufacture of percussion caps. The steam engine will in all probability be destroyed by rust or otherwise before the State will again be in a condition to use it. I therefore recommend that some disposition be made of it by


Page 91

the Legislature. I herewith transmit the report of the supervisors of the Penitentiary showing that at the time of its destruction it was yielding a handsome revenue, there being a nett profit to the State of the last year of $60,490 76.

        There is another matter in this connection to which I desire to call your attention. Since the Penitentiary has been destroyed, several persons have been convicted of crimes the punishment for which is imprisonment in the Penitentiary, and they are now confined in the jails of their respective counties awaiting some action of the Legislature, and it is for you to determine whether or not a temporary Penitentiary shall be established.

INSTITUTIONS FOR THE DEAF AND DUMB, BLIND, AND INSANE.

        The State institutions for the Deaf and Dumb and for the Blind, have been broken up at Jackson. The Lunatic Asylum was much damaged during the seige of Jackson in its fencing and outbuildings. The main building suffered but little, and the institution, under the supervision of its able and attentive superintendent, Dr. Robt. Kells, assisted by the board of Trustees, still gives shelter and sustenance to this truly unfortunate class of our citizens. The money heretofore appropriated by the Legislature has been sufficient, with rigid economy in its disbursement, to keep up the institution; but the increased cost of every article of consumption or use, renders it necessary for the Legislature to take this subject again under consideration. An asylum like this, for the protection and proper treatment of the unfortunate lunatics of the State, was found to be absolutely necessary in times of prosperity and profound peace, but now when the country is torn and distracted by war and invasion, and our citizens have scarcely time to provide for the protection of the sane members of their families, it is still more important that the Legislature make adequate provision for the maintenance and protection of this unfortunate class. I therefore recommend that the Legislature take the affairs of the Lunatic Asylum again under consideration, and make such additional appropriations as may be found necessary for its proper support.

IMPRESSMENT OF HORSES.

        The cavalry force of this department, under Gen. Van Dorn, having been ordered to Tennessee to reinforce General Bragg, the open country of the State of Mississippi was left exposed to the cavalry raids of the enemy without any adequate force for its protection. Under these circumstances, when the State had been traversed from one end to the other


Page 92

by an insignificant force of mounted men under Grierson and when the whole State appeared to be in imminent danger of being overrun and destroyed, I published a call for volunteers in this arm of the service to serve for from three to twelve months, and meeting with great difficulty in raising the force required on account of the scarcity of horses, I ordered a sufficient number of horses, bridles and saddles to be impressed to mount and equip such men as were willing to volunteer who were unable to mount themselves. In obedience to these orders six hundred and nineteen horses, and two hundred and thirteen saddles, and one hundred and twenty-five bridles were impressed at an aggregate cost of two hundred and twenty-four thousand, nine hundred and ten dollars and fifty cents, and placed at once in the service. These horses, bridles and saddles are still the property of the State, to be disposed of as the Legislature may direct. The principal damage done the property of the State has been accomplished in the main by marauding parties of the enemy numbering from fifteen to five hundred men. Against such parties as these it is impossible to protect the country by means of infantry alone. Such forces can only be held effectually in check by means of cavalry. I have an understanding with the President of the Confederate States, and also with General Johnston, to turn the cavalry force raised as above mentioned, over to the Confederate service, the Confederate government agreeing to pay for the use and risk of the State horses during their term of service, and also to pay the value when any such horse or horses shall be killed or captured by the enemy. This arrangement is, however, subject to any disposition which the Legislature may deem proper to be made in the premises. I am well satisfied that Mississippi can be protected only by mounted men, and therefore every assistance that can be consistently rendered should be given by the Legislature to this arm of the service.

ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT.

        Circumstances have forced the removal of the State armory from Brandon to Meridian, where temporary buildings have been erected for the reception of the machinery, unfinished guns and guns out of repair, and ordnance stores on hand. The fortunes of war have caused the removal of the State armory twice since the commencement of the present contest--first from Panola to Brandon, and more recently from Brandon to Meridian. These repeated removals have very much retarded the repairing and manufacture of arms. It is, however, hoped that the armory will soon be in working order and that its operations will not again be disturbed. For more


Page 93

definite information I refer you to the report of Col. U. Bourne, acting Chief of Ordnance, herewith transmitted. I also send you the report of Col. A. M. West, Quartermaster General of the State, to which I refer you for full information as to the transactions of his department. The business of that officer has been so extended, and the assistants allowed the Quartermaster General by law so limited, that a large amount of unsettled accounts have accumulated upon his bands. I therefore recommend that he be allowed such additional clerks or assistant Quartermasters as may be found necessary for the proper transaction of the business of the office, or that an auditor be appointed to examine all unsettled accounts coming before the Quartermaster General for settlement.

ADJUTANT GENERAL.

        The report of the Adjutant General, herewith transmitted, will show to the Legislature the number of regiments, battalions and unattached companies that have been organized and turned over to the Confederate government, in this State, so far as the same was done by State authority. Some regiments were organized in the State under authority derived directly from the Secretary of War, and their muster rolls were never field in the Adjutant General's office. Of such there is no record, nor is mention made of them in the report. The report will also show the number of drafted men and volunteer cavalry organized under State authority as State troops.

REMOVAL OF NEGROES.

        While our enemies are unable to hold permanently any considerable portion of the State, the exposed condition of the Northern and Western districts to cavalry raids, and the facility with which the enemy can enter the counties upon the margin of the navigable rivers in the State, renders it necessary that the Legislature devise some means for the protection of the property in those districts. Some means should be devised at least to prevent the negro men from falling into the hands of the Federal authorities, and thus becoming a powerful auxilliary means in their hands for our subjugation. Every able-bodied negro man that falls into the hands of the enemy is not only a laborer lost to the country in the production of supplies for the support of our armies in the field, but he is also, under the present policy of the United States government, a soldier gained to its army. This has become a subject of too much importance to be lightly passed over.


Page 94

Already marauding bands of these freed negroes are desolating neighborhoods in the valley of the Mississippi, and citizens of Mississippi have been murdered at their homes by them. It is the policy of the United States Government, in the conduct of this war, to use these negro troops to perfect the destruction and demoralization of the country which the Federal army may occupy. Such being the intention of our enemies, the whole strength of the Government should be brought to bear to prevent negro men from falling into their hands. I therefore recommend that the Legislature pass some law for the removal of all able-bodied negro men from the more exposed districts of the State, authorizing the Governor of the State, the President of the Confederate States, or the General commanding the department, to make such disposition of them as may be deemed best for the public good--a just and proper compensation being made to the owners for the hire during the term they remain in the employ of the Government.

SALT.

        Previous to the meeting of the last session of the Legislature, I entered into contracts for salt with several foreigners who proposed to import it by running the blockade, which contracts I submitted to a committee of the Legislature. The salt under these contracts was to be paid for in cotton. I directed Col. West, Quartermaster General for the State, to purchase 500 bales of cotton, all of which was not bought, for that purpose, and to have a sufficient quantity on hand to pay for the first cargo. Fifty bales of this cotton was by my order delivered to one of the contractors, A. Minnett, a Frenchman, to be shipped to France--he securing the State of Mississippi against loss by depositing ten thousand dollars in Confederate notes with the State Treasurer. A change of Generals and of the policy of the Federal authorities prevented the fullfilment of these contracts. Minnett and the other contractors failed to deliver the salt according to their contracts, and the ten thousand dollars deposited as above mentioned still remains with the Treasurer. I sent Hon. D. S. Pattison, with twenty thousand dollars, to Iberia, in Louisiana, in charge of a steamboat, to purchase salt for the State of Mississippi, and failing in that, to offer transportation to such citizens of the State as he might find there with salt purchased for their own family consumption, or for the use of their neighbors, without resale or speculation. Capt. Pattison reached Iberia in time to procure a boat load of salt for the State and its citizens, but on the homeward trip of the boat, on Bayou Tesche, it was stopped by Confederate authority


Page 95

and prevented from a further prosecution of the enterprize on account of threatened danger from Federal gunboats, until the mouth of the bayou was actually blockaded. Capt. Pattison succeeded, however, after much labor, in getting, as he reported, forty thousand pounds of salt delivered at Vicksburg. Whatever amount so received, was distributed to destitute families as directed. For further information see Col. West's report as salt agent. Capt. Pattison has not as yet made a full report and settlement of his proceedings as salt agent. I am, therefore, unable to give the Legislature any further information as to his transactions. I also sent R. O. Dixon, Esq., as a special agent for the State of Mississippi, to Virginia, to make contracts for salt water, intending to establish furnaces for the manufacture of salt on State account; but he could not succeed in making such contracts as would justify the expenditure of money necessary to carry into successful operation the plan proposed, and it was therefore abandoned.

        Having failed to establish manufactures of salt on State account as I desired, I authorized Messrs. Strong, Cunningham & Co., of Monroe and Chickasaw counties, in this State, to manufacture salt at Saltville on private account for the people of North and Northeast Mississippi.

        Under the act of the extra session of the Legislature, held in December and January last, appropriating five hundred thousand dollars to purchase salt for the indigent families of soldiers, I appointed Capt. W. C. Turner salt agent, and directed him to go to the salt works in the State of Alabama with instructions to buy salt, make contracts for its manufacture in sufficient quantities to supply the destitute families of our soldiers if it could be obtained in that way, or failing to get a sufficient quantity, to establish furnaces and manufacture salt on State account. His instructions were to get salt by either or all the above means. In pursuance with these instructions, he contracted with------for the manufacture of----bushels of salt, to be delivered by installments. For a more extended account of his transactions as salt agent, I refer you to his report herewith transmitted, stating, however, that the salt has not been delivered in the quantities and at the times agreed upon by the contractors. On or about the 13th of April last, I appointed Col. West salt agent, to receive and distribute to the different counties the pro rata share of whatever salt might be obtained by purchase or manufacture, distributing the salt so received, to the Boards of Police. I subsequently, on the 18th day of October, appointed him salt agent for the State at large, with authority to supervise generally all contracts for the purchase or manufacture of salt on State account, and to receive and superintend its equitable distribution as above mentioned. I


Page 96

refer you to his report as salt agent, herewith transmitted, for further information upon this subject.

        Having purchased the cotton for the purposes mentioned in the foregoing part of this communication, and losing all hope of securing with it the salt contracted for, I ordered Col. West to turn over fifty bales of it to Dr. Luke Blackburne, one of the medical commissioners for the State, to be shipped to Havana, in the island of Cuba, to be there exchanged for arms and munitions of war. This cotton was delivered to Dr. Blackburne as directed, but as yet he has made no report of his success in the premises.

WIVES, WIDOWS AND CHILDREN OF SOLDIERS.

        The proper support and maintenance of the widows and children of deceased soldiers, and the families of those now in the army, is a subject of great importance, and deserves at the hands of the Legislature the most serious consideration. I regard it as your solemn duty to make such provision for their comfort and support as will no longer leave the families of our brave soldiers in anywise dependent upon the uncertain contributions of private charity for that support and protection which they have a right to demand for the sacrifices now being made by their lawful protectors. The diminution of the State tax will greatly diminish the military relief fund now provided by law. This diminution, with the increased price of provisions and the greatly increased number of those dependent upon this fund for support, will, it is thought, make it necessary for the Legislature to make some additional provision upon this subject.

MONEY.

        I sent Hon. A. B. Dilworth, as agent for the State of Mississippi, to the city of Memphis to make contracts with Messrs. Hutton & Freligh, the only persons known to me in the country in condition at that time to print the Treasury notes for the "Cotton Loan" in the manner provided. Contracts for printing the Treasury notes for the advance on cotton, of the denominations specified in the act approved 19th December, 1861, upon electrotype plates as directed by the supplemental act approved January 29th, 1862, and also for printing the Treasury notes to be issued on State account for military purposes, provided by an act approved January 29th, 1862, were made with them at a cost of four cents per note. Of the notes to be used as an "advance upon cotton" there were printed six hundred and fifty seven thousand, one hundred and fifty-six, which at a cost of four cents per note


Page 97

amounted to the sum of twenty-six thousand, two hundred and eighty-six dollars and twenty-four cents, ($26,286 24;) and for the notes to be issued for military purposes there were printed two hundred and five thousand, two hundred and ninety-five, at a cost of eight thousand two hundred and eleven dollars and eighty cents, ($8,211 80,) making the total aggregate cost of printing the notes amount to the sum of thirty-four thousand, four hundred and ninety-eight dollars and four cents, ($34,498 04.) The great demand for change notes of the cotton money made it necessary to have a large proportion of these printed. This caused the disproportion in the cost of printing the five million "cotton money" and the two and one-half millions of Treasury notes.

        There have been eight thousand five hundred and eighty-seven applications made for advances upon cotton, and the whole amount of the five million of dollars provided by law has been exhausted. The amount refunded on account of the loan, up to the 29th day of October, is five hundred and seventy-seven thousand, seven hundred and nine dollars.

        The amount of money issued upon my requisitions on account of the military fund provided by the act approved January 29, 1862, is one million, one hundred and fifteen thousand, five hundred and fifty-four dollars and ninety-three cents. Of this sum one hundred and twenty thousand, six hundred and two dollars and twenty-seven cents was issued on account of the appropriation for salt, approved January 1st, 1863. The amount refunded on account of this military fund, is two hundred and sixty-two thousand, five hundred and eighty-nine dollars and sixty-seven cents, of which twelve thousand, five hundred and eighty-nine dollars and sixty-seven cents was on account of sales of salt.

        The third section of the act authorizing the issuance of these Treasury notes for military purposes, provides for funding them in sums not less than five hundred dollars in State bonds, payable in ten years, with interest from the date thereof at eight per cent. per annum. None of these notes have been so funded for the reason that no provision was made for a form or for printing the bonds, nor is the time or the manner of paying the interest thereon prescribed.

        I have been informed that some of these notes are now on deposit to be funded, awaiting the preparation of these bonds and some provision for the payment of the interest. I therefore recommend that some provision be made for printing the bonds and for the payment of the interest annually


Page 98

        by coupons or otherwise as the wisdom of the Legislature may direct.

        The amount expended of the appropriation for arms under the act approved December 15th, 1859, is seventy-two thousand, seven hundred and forty-five dollars and twelve cents, ($72,745 12,) for which vouchers are on file in my office.

        I herewith transmit the partial report of the Auditor of Public Accounts, made to me, showing the condition of the principal military funds provided by law and respectfully refer you to the full report of the Auditor and Treasurer for further information.

MILITIA.

        The many defects in the practical operation of the militia laws of the State, makes it my duty to call your attention especially to that subject. The Confederate army in this department has been constantly confronted and opposed by a greatly superior invading force, so that the Generals commanding have not only been unable to protect the State from invasion by large bodies of infantry, but the enemy's cavalry have made repeated raids into the State which have been alike destructive to the property of the country and that cordial good feeling for and confidence in the ultimate success of our struggle among the people, so essential to a successful termination of this contest. While the attention of the commanding Generals of the department have been invariable drawn, as of right it should be, to the advancing columns of the invading foe, I have exhausted all the means in my power to give them such assistance as I deemed necessary for the protection of the country against raids. I have kept constantly in the field all the volunteer State cavalry that could possibly be raised, and while I have not been as successful in raising as large bodies of troops as I desired, I have given essential aid in the protection of a large portion of the State which would otherwise have been left in a wholly defenseless condition, and I am happy to be able to state to the Legislature that these State organizations have rendered much good service in the Northern and Northwestern districts at a time when there were no Confederate troops to spare for that purpose. Being mostly in unattached battalions and companies, and well acquainted with the roads and principal localities of the country in which they have operated, these State organizations have been able to afford much greater security to the citizens and


Page 99

do much more damage to the enemy than larger bodies of troops less acquainted with the country could have accomplished, after inflicting severe chastisement upon marauding parties whose only object was plunder. While other bodies of the State troops have been kept in the field less actively engaged than the cavalry, they have been placed, at the request of commanding Generals, to guard important depots of public stores, and other important points along the line of the different railroads, and have thus relieved the regular troops of that duty and to that extent strengthened the Confederate army in the field. In explanation of the causes that occasioned the organization of the State troops in the first instance, and the continuing them in the field, I herewith transmit copies of the several calls and requisitions made by Gen[.] Ruggles, Price and VanDorn, and also the additional correspondence with the President of the Confederate States, Secretary of War and Gen. Johnston and Pemberton upon the same subject. My efforts to place the number of troops in the field, which I deemed necessary to guard the State against destructive raids, have been much embarrassed by the opposition of a part of the press of the State opposing the enforcement of the militia law passed at the last session of the Legislature. The great confidence of the people in the ability of the Confederate government to protect the State from invasion, induced large numbers of them to regard the efforts being made to organize and bring into the field the militia of the State as unnecessary, and the law itself as impracticable and oppressive. Had the efforts which have been made to organize the State troops received that support, which in view of the great danger threatening us, I had a right to expect, there is much reason to believe that the condition of Mississippi would now be much better than it is. A few thousand additional troops at Jackson in May might have held that place until reinforcements to General Johnston, then arriving, could have overwhelmed the invading army and maintained our position at Vicksburg. The present condition and prospects of the country demands of the Legislature to seriously consider the subject of a thorough and extended reorganization of the military strength of the State. I therefore again recommend the extension of the militia law so as to include and make subject to militia duty every free white male person, either a citizen or temporary resident, not actually conscribed, between the ages of sixteen and sixty years; and as a large portion of these will necessarily be kept at home, only such


Page 100

as are physically able to discharge the duties of soldiers should be sent to the field, and the remainder should be organized, armed and equipped for local defense against sudden raids, and held as a police force for the counties in which they live. The militia officers should be allowed pay for the time they are actually engaged in the discharge of their official duties. The law, as it now stands, imposes duties often arduous and expensive upon them, and makes no provision for pay or allowance. I am satisfied if this was done, it would add much to the efficiency of these officers. The extension of the conscription laws to forty-five years, has so reduced the militia strength of the State that I do not believe it necessary to retain the office of Brigadier General of militia. The Major General, with the assistance of the regimental and company officers, will be entirely sufficient to carry into effect any law necessary to be passed. In any organization that it may be found necessary to make, the Governor should be authorized to appoint all the Quartermasters and Surgeons. Under the existing law, neither the Governor nor the Quartermaster General have had the control over these officers which in my opinion the good of the service requires.

SALARIES OF STATE OFFICERS.

        The salaries of the State officers were fixed by law at a time when provisions and property were at a low valuation compared to the present exorbitant prices at which every species of property and provisions is held. The pay which is allowed to these officers, if made in the currency of the country, is not sufficient to give them that support and maintenance which the credit of the State demands they should receive. I therefore recommend that their salaries be increased.

        I have sought from the beginning of the war to the present time to make the largest preparation to meet our enemies which the means and power entrusted to me enabled me to make. I have believed it better to spend what we have in mainly resistance than permit it to become the prey of plundering invaders, and in this my last message to the representatives of a people threatened by a more destructive invasion than any in modern times--in view of the known purpose of the enemy to lay waste our land and confiscate whatever escapes the ravages of war--in view of the known determination of the Lincoln government to reduce this people to a condition far worse than European surfdom


Page 101

--view of that "dark durance" this and succeeding generations are doomed should Federal arms prevail--permit me earnestly to recommend that no consideration of dollars and cents should stand in the way of the amplest preparation of men and means, and the most extreme measures for the defense of the country. There is no half-way house of rest in this revolution. Independence or death, or that which is worse than death, are the alternatives presented to this people, and the sooner this truth is fully realized and acted upon, the better for us and our children. May God who favors the just cause and blesses with success fidelity, patriotism and courage, preside over your deliberations and direct your councils.

JOHN J. PETTUS.


        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, moved that the Governor's message be laid on the table, 2,000 copies printed for the use of the House, and that it be made the special order of the day for Friday next at 12 o'clock, M.

        Which was adopted.

        The following bills were introduced, read three several times, the rules being suspended, and passed, the titles standing as stated:

        By Mr. Regan:

        An act entitled an act to remove the civil disabilities of Walter McDougal, a minor.

        By Mr. Downs:

        An act to amend the school laws of the county of Itawamba.

        By Mr. Powe:

        A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Speaker of the House of Representatives and President of the Senate to appoint messengers between the two bodies.

        By Mr. Archer:

        A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the Mississippi Manufacturing Company.

        On motion of Mr. Bradford,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9½ o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, November 4, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Lyon.


Page 102

        The Speaker announced the following standing committees:

        ON THE JUDICIARY.--Messrs. Watson, Seal of Harrison, Rucks, Hicks, Powe, Lewers and Upshaw.

        WAYS AND MEANS--Messrs. Thompson, Alcorn, Murdock, Tindall Bestor, Cunningham and McLemore.

        PROPOSITIONS AND GRIEVANCES--Messrs. Wells, Moore, Hendon, Minter, Sessions, Brown and Lott.

        MILITARY AFFAIRS--Messrs. Upshaw, Stephens, Taylor, Jackson and Arnold.

        ELECTIONS--Messrs. Seal of Harrison, Hicks, Eskridge, Irby, McGehee, Lowry and Carroll.

        EDUCATION--Messrs. Bestor, Fort, McNiel, Stubbs of Smith, and McKay of Neshoba.

        CORPORATIONS--Messrs. Hicks, Owen, Johnson of Wilkinson, Barton and Gulley.

        COUNTY BOUNDARIES--Messrs. Tindall, High, McKay of Green, McLaurin and Downs.

        PUBLIC LANDS--Messrs. Fox, Morehead, Isom and Sutton.

        UNFINISHED BUSINESS--Messrs. Daniel, Liddell, Foxworth, Hooker, Lambeth, McElroy and Dale.

        Also, the following joint standing committees:

        ON STATE AND CONFEDERATE RELATIONS--Messrs. Bradford, Thompson, Seal of Harrison, Moore and Barnett.

        ON INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS--Messrs. Alcorn, Fowler, Minter, Gowan and Prewitt.

        CLAIMS--Messrs. Murdock, Dillard, Kirk, Marable and Robinson.

        PENITENTIARY--Messrs. Rucks, Deason of Copiah, Lott and Yandell.

        LUNATIC ASYLUM--Messrs. Liddell, Regan, Pope, Allen and Ross.

        INSTITUTION FOR THE BLIND.--Messrs. Fox, Falconer, Evans, Montgomery and Ware.

        INSTITUTION FOR THE DEAF AND DUMB--Messrs. Dale, Jackson, Rogers, Pounds and Clark.

        ENROLLED BILLS--Messrs. Johnson of DeSoto, Powe, Harris, Deason of Jones, and Shelley.

        Messrs. Thos. R. Gowan, of Simpson, C. T. Kirk, of Winston, and Wm. H. Taylor, of Hinds, presented their credentials and were sworn in as members.

        W. C. Worrell, Doorkeeper elect of the House of Representatives, appeared and took the oath of office.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, offered the following joint resolution which was adopted, the rule being suspended:

        Resolved, (The Senate concurring,) That the Sergeant-at-Arms make arrangements with the Postmaster of this place for mailing all public documents of the Legislature, and that


Page 103

the Postmaster present his account for the same to the committee on Claims for payment.

        On motion of Mr. Eskridge,

        Resolved, That the Auditor of Public Accounts be and he is hereby instructed to furnish stationery necessary for the use of this House.

        Mr. Murdock offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the regular hours for the sessions of this House shall be from 9 A. M. to 1 P. M., and from 2 to 4 P. M.

        Mr. Thompson moved to amend by striking out 9 o'clock and inserting 10 o'clock.

        Mr. Regan moved to lay the amendment on the table,

        Which motion was lost.

        The question was then taken on the adoption of Mr. Thompson's Amendment, and decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays as follows, Messrs. Eskridge, Archer and Murdock calling for them:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Bradford, Bestor, Brown, Buntin, Barnett, Cunningham, Deason of Copiah, Daniel, Dillard, Dale, Easterling, Fowler, Foxworth, Fort, Grace, High; Hendon, Isom, Irby, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Kirk, Lott, Lowry, Morehead, Maxwell, McKay of Neshoba, McNiel, Pope, Powe, Pinson, Prewitt, Regan, Rucks, Rogers, Seal of Hancock, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Taylor, Thompson, Upshaw, Wier and Watson--45.

        NAYS--Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Boon, Barton, Clark, Carroll; Downs, Deason of Jones, Evans, Eskridge, Fox, Gully, Gowan, Gray, Hooker, Hathorn, Jackson, Johnson of DeSoto, Liddell, Lewers, Marable, Murdock, McKay of Green, McLaurin, Owen, Robinson, Seal of Harrison, Sessions, Stephens and Wells--30.

        Mr. Powe offered the following substitute, which.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Was laid on the table.

        Resolved, That the regular hours of meeting of the House, at the present session, shall be as follows: to meet at 10 A. M. and adjourn at 1 P. M., and meet at 3 P. M.

        Mr. Johnson, of DeSoto, offered the following substitute, which,

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Was laid on the table.

        Resolved, That the regular hours for the meetings and adjournments of this body for the present session be as follows: Meet at 9½ A. M. and adjourn at 12½ P. M., meet at 2½ P. M. and adjourn at 4½ P. M.

        Mr. Dale offered the following amendment, which was adopted:


Page 104

        "Strike out all after the hour of meeting in the morning."

        The Speaker presented the following communications to the House:

OFFICE OF SECRETARY OF STATE,
Columbus, Miss., Nov. 4, 1863.

Hon. L. E. Houston,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

        SIR--I have the honor, through you, to transmit to the Legislature the votes cast for Governor in the respective counties of the State of Mississippi, on Monday, the 5th day October, A. D. 1863, which have been received at this office.

        Separate sealed returns have been made from thirty-five counties. From the counties of Adams, Claiborne, Harrison, Issaquena, Tunica, Warren and Washington, no returns have been received.

        From the residue of counties from which no separate sealed returns were received, I here with enclose the general returns in which are stated the vote for Governor.

AUDITOR'S OFFICE,
Columbus, Miss., No. 4, 1863.

Hon. L. E. Houston,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

        SIR--Owing to the difficulty of procuring paper for the use of the Legislature, I will not be able to furnish the usual abundant supply for the use of the members, but will continue to furnish such supply of stationery as I have on hand.

        The counties being called alphabetically,


        Mr. Barton introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of M. D. Files, Sheriff of Itawamba county,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on Claims.

        Mr. Downs introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the Board of Police of Itawamba county to borrow money from the school fund,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on Education.

        Mr. Murdock introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the Police Court of Lowndes county to fix the fees of Jailors,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Fox moved to amend by adding the county of Choctaw.

        Mr. Powe moved to amend by striking out the "county of Lowndes" and inserting the "Boards of Police of the several counties of the State."

        On motion of Mr. Seal,


Page 105

        The bill and amendments were referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Dale introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to repeal an act therein named,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on Internal Improvements.

        Mr. Regan called up the joint resolution offered by him on yesterday in relation to the election of Confederate States Senator.

        Mr. Thompson moved that the further consideration of the resolution be postponed until Wednesday, the 18th instant,

        Which was lost.

        On motion, the resolution was amended by striking out "Tuesday, the 10th," and inserting "Thursday, the 12th inst.," and adopted.

        Mr. Arnold offered the following joint resolution, which was adopted, the rules being suspended.

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That the two Houses convene in the Representative Hall on Thursday, the 5th instant, at 11 o'clock, in order that the returns of the late election for Governor of the State may be opened and published.

        Mr. Upshaw offered the following joint resolution, which was read once:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That the Confederate State Senators from this State be instructed, and the members of Congress from the different Districts from Mississippi be requested, to use their best endeavors to procure all things necessary to be done to make Confederate Treasury notes a legal tender in all contracts whatever, throughout the Confederate States.

        Mr. Isom offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the committee on Elections be instructed to report upon the constitutionality of Confederate military officers occupying seats in this House as members,

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Cunningham introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act supplementary to an act entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, approved January 3, 1863,

        Which was read once.

        Mr. Gowan gave notice that on to morrow he would introduce bills entitled:

        An act to amend the election laws of this State; and

        An act to amend the laws of this State prohibiting the payment of debts until twelve months after the close of the war.

        Mr. Murdock gave notice that on to-morrow he would introduce a bill to be entitled

        An act to enforce the collection laws of this State.


Page 106

        Mr. Eskridge gave notice that he would on to-morrow introduce a bill to be entitled

        An act for relief of Clerks of Courts of Record of this State.

        Mr. Lewers gave notice of the introduction of the following bills:

        An act regulating the payment of debts.

        An act to prevent the sale of and speculation in certain commodities.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has passed the House bill providing for the appointment of messengers to the two Houses of this Legislature.

        On motion of Mr. Downs,

        The House adjourned till 2 o'clock, P. M.

TWO O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Mr. Downs, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the Board of Police of Itawamba county to make a certain appropriation therein named,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Cunningham offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the committee on Military Affairs be instructed to inquire into the expediency of abolishing the militia system as it now exists in the State, and report to this House at as early a day as possible, by bill or otherwise.

        Mr. Owen offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed by the Speaker to ascertain what portion of the documents accompanying the Governor's message should be printed, and that 100 copies of such documents be printed for the use of the House, and that the committee report by to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

        The Speaker appointed as said committee Messrs. Owen, Thompson, Eskridge, Seal of Harrison and Dillard.

        The committee on Enrolled Bills made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills have examined a bill entitled "an act to authorize the Speaker of the House of Representatives and President of the Senate to appoint messengers between the two bodies," and find the same correctly enrolled.

        Mr. Rucks offered the following resolution, which was adopted:


Page 107

        Resolved, That the Sergeant-at-Arms be authorized to employ a carpenter to construct suitable temporary writing desks for each member of this House.

        The following message was received from the Governor, through his private Secretary, Col. J. H. Rives:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Governor has approved and signed the following House bill:

        An act to authorize the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate to appoint messengers between the two bodies.

        On motion of Mr. Rogers,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow at 10 o'clock, A. M.

THURSDAY, November 5, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Mr. Stainback.

        The journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        Mr. Robert E. Wynne, of Yallobusha, presented his credentials, and was sworn in as a member of this House.

        On motion of Mr. Tindall, Mr. Bradford was added to the committee on Militarry Affairs.

        The Speaker announced the following committees:

        ON AUDITOR'S OFFICE--Messrs. Fort, Johnson of De Soto, Murdock, Gray and Seal of Hancock.

        ON TTEASURER'S OFFICE.--Messrs. Clark, Brown, Johnson of Tippah, Boon and Harris.

        ON LIBRARY.--Messrs. Archer, Rucks, Morehead, Lott and Barton.

        ON PUBLIC BUILDINGS.--Messrs. Hathorn, Taylor, Montgomery, Grace and Isom.

        ON STATE UNIVERSITY.--Messrs. Alcorn, Tindall, Arnold, Gowan and Bestor.

        Mr. Owen, from a Select Committee, made the following report, which was received and agreed to:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee appointed to examine and ascertain what portion of the documents accompanying the Governor's message should be printed for the information of the House, report in favor of printing the following in the order set forth:


Page 108

        1st. Auditor's Report.

        2d. A. M. West's Report as salt agent, and accompanying documents.

        3d. W. C. Turner's Report as salt agent, and accompanying documents.

        4th. U. Bourne's Ordnance Report and exhibit A.

        5th. C. H. Manship's Report as inspector of the Penitentiary.

        6th. A. M. West's Quartermaster's Report and accompanying documents.

        7th. J. S. Hamilton's Adjutant and Inspector General's Report.

        All of which is respectfully submitted.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled "An act to amend Art. 15, of chapter 4, of the Revised Code."

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Tindall gave notice that he would, on to-morrow, or some future day, introduce bills of the following titles:

        An act to provide assessment rolls for the several counties of this State.

        An act to revise and amend "An act to extend the time for the collection of taxes for the current fiscal year, approved December 20th, 1861, and for other purposes."

        Mr. Allen, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled "An act for the relief of certain tax collectors, and for other purposes."

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on the Judiciary.

        Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled "An act to amend chapter 8 of the Revised Code, entitled 'An act establishing the fees of certain officers,' so far as relates to the clerks of the Chancery and Probate Courts of Wilkinson county."

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee of Ways and Means.

        Mr. Regan offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the Auditor of Public Accounts be requested to inform the House of the number of soldiers in the State and Confederate service, whose names have been sent up by the Board of Police of the several counties of this State, as provided for by an act entitled "An act better to provide for the families of our soldiers," approved January 3d, 1863; the amount of money collected under the provision of said act, and the amount distributed to each county for the relief of the families of soldiers of the State and Confederate


Page 109

service, and the amount of money (if any) belonging to said fund.

        Mr. Fowler, of Washington, offered the following resolution which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the Chair appoint a Special Committee of five whose duty it shall be to report, at as early a day as practicable during the session of the Legislature, a bill for the relief of indigent families of soldiers in the service of the Confederate States.

        The Chair appointed as said committee Messrs. Fowler, Hicks, Dale, Tindall and Barnett.

        Mr. Murdock offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the Judiciary Committee be instructed to inquire into and report whether military offices held under the authority of the Confederate States are lucrative offices, as contemplated in section 27 of Art. 3 of the Constitution of the State of Mississippi.

        Which, on motion of Mr. Johnson of De Soto, was laid on the table, by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Murdock, Carroll and Barton, as follows:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Allen, Bradford, Boon, Buntin, Barnett, Deason of Copiah, Daniel, Evans, Easterling, Eskridge, Fowler, Fox, Foxworth, Fort, Gully, Grace, Gowan, Gray, Hooker, High, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of De Soto, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Kirk, Liddell, Lowry, Lewers, Marable, Morehead, Maxwell, McKay of Green, McKay of Neshoba, McNeal, Owen, Pope, Powe, Pinson, Prewitt, Rucks, Robinson, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Sessions, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Taylor, Thompson, Tindall, Upshaw, Wells, Wier, Watson and Wynne--58.

        NAYS--Messrs. Arnold, Bestor, Barton, Brown, Clark, Cunningham, Carroll, Downs, Deason of Jones, Dillard, Dale, Hathorn, Hudson, Isom, Lott, Moore, Murdock, McLaurin, Pounds, Regan, Rodgers--20.

        Mr. Gowan offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the committee on Military Affairs be, and they are hereby instructed, to inquire into the reasons why the first battalion of Mississippi State Troops have never received their pay, and to report by bill or otherwise, as the necessitics of the case may require.

        Mr. Murdock, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        "An act to enforce the collection laws of this State."

        Which was read twice and referred to the committee on the Judiciary.

        Mr. Tindall offered the following resolution, which was adopted:


Page 110

        Resolved, That James Phelan, J. C. W. Watson, Gen. W. S. Featherston, Fulton Anderson, William Yerger, Charles Fontaine, S. J. Gholston and Walker Brooke be invited during the recesses of the House to occupy this hall and address the Legislature on the state of the country.

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of De Soto,

        Mr. Irby was added to the Committee on Enrolled Bills.

        Mr. Gowan offered the following joint resolution, which was adopted under a suspension of the rules:

        Resolved, By the House of Representatives, (the Senate concurring), That our Senators and Representatives in the Congress of the Confederate States be, and they are hereby instructed, to use every effort in their power to raise the pay of our soldiers, as follows: Privates, $20 per month; Corporals, $25; and Sergeants $35, except First Sergeants, and they to receive $40 per month.

        Mr. Arnold offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the Committee on the Judiciary be instructed to inquire into the constitutionality of allowing soldiers in the field, whether in or out of the State, to vote in all State and county elections, and report by bill or otherwise.

        The following message was received from the Senate through their Secretary, Mr. Porter:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have concurred in the joint resolution of the House appointing 11 o'clock on Thursday, the 5th, as the time for counting the votes cast for Governor at the last election.

        The Senate have passed House bill entitled "An act to remove the civil disabilities of Walter McDougal," with an amendment thereto, in which the concurrence of the House is desired.

        Also, House bill entitled an act to amend an act incorporating the Mississippi Manufacturing Company.

        The following bills originating in the Senate have also passed that body:

        An act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Lauderdale county.

        An Act Act to compel railroads to keep light, fire and water on their cars.

        The President of the Senate has appointed the following joint standing committees:

        COMMITTEE ON STATE AND CONFEDERATE RELATIONS--Yerger, Wilson and Greer.

        ON INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS--Bradford, Bowles and Patton.


Page 111

        ON CLAIMS--Greer, Lewers and Jordan.

        ON THE OFFICE OF THE AUDITOR OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS--Moore, Terry and McRae.

        ON THE OFFICE OF SECRETARY OF THE STATE--Griffin, Wilson and Quinn.

        ON THE OFFICE OF TREASURER, STATE COMMISSIONERS AND EXECUTIVE CONTINGENT FUND--Hamilton, Mosely and Mayson:

        ON ENROLLED BILLS--Patton, McRea and Jordan.

        ON THE STATE UNIVERSITY--Bowles, Wilson and Luckett.

        The President of the Senate has appointed A. L. Crouch as Senate Messenger to the House of Representatives, in pursuance of an act of the 4th instant allowing each house a messenger.

        On motion of Mr. Regan,

        The Senate message just received was taken up.

        The Senate amendment adding the words, "except the right of suffrage at the end of first section" to the House bill entitled "An act to remove the civil disabilities of Walter McDougal, a minor," was, on motion of Mr. Regan, concurred in.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The House took a recess of ten minutes to provide the hall for the joint convention of the two houses to count the vote for Governor.

        Recess having expired, the House was called to order by the Speaker.

        The Senate having been informed that the House was ready for their reception, entered and took the seats assigned them.

        The Presdent of the Senate having explained the object of the joint convention,

        The Speaker of the House proceeded to open the sealed returns and publish the vote for Governor.


Page 112

        

OFFICIAL RETURNS of the vote for Governor of the State of Mississippi, at an election held on the first Monday in October, 1863, as opened and counted by joint convention of the two Houses of the Legislature, on Thursday, the 5th day of November, 1863:

COUNTIES. Chas. Clark A. M. West R. Davis...
Carroll 353 44 24
Chickasaw 615 64 95
Choctaw 380 106 52
Claiborne      
Clark 865 231 82
Coahoma      
Copiah 346 128 51
Covington      
DeSoto 338 9 22
Franklin 214 10 2
Greene 80 18 2
Hancock 142 9 5
Harrison      
Hinds 406 170 7
Holmes 338 65 3
Itawamba. 726 36 117
Jackson 60 56 4
Jasper 270 284 36
Jefferson 174 5  
Jones 50 107 4
Lawrence 246 48 10
Leake 256 165 23
Lowndes 592 322 75
Marion 154 36 6
Monroe 600 46 194
Neshoba 188 37 2
Newton 195 118 9
Noxubee 324 190 31
Pike 275 51 18
Pontotoc 1,148 70 254
Rankin 832 471 238
Scott 156 199 17
Simpson 104 123 4
Tallahatchie 156 7 37
Wayne 111 50 2
Wilkinson 258 17 20


Page 113

Winston 283 106 11
Yazoo 247 45 4
Total 11,876 3,392 1,469

        On motion of Mr. Yerger, of the Senate,

        The vote for Governor as communicated to the Secretary of State, with the general returns, was rejected but ordered to be spread upon the Journals. It is as follows:

        

UNSEALED VOTES.

COUNTIES. Clark. West. Davis..
Amite 221 80 3
Attala 229 224 20
Bolivar 130 2 4
Calhoun 411 107 109
Coahoma 82 30  
Covington 63 131 6
Kemper 407 199 41
Lauderdale 796 307 135
Marshall 651 33 45
Oktibbeha 315 126 14
Perry 24 12  
Panola 537 21 23
Smith 107 169 9
Sunflower 56 11 2
Tippah 81 2 41
Tishomingo 35   6
Yallobusha 423 17 102
Total 4,552 1,471 540

        No returns were received from the counties of Adams, Claiborne, Harrison, Issaquena, Tunica, Warren and Washington.


Page 114

        The vote being summed up, the Speaker of the House announced to the convention that Charles Clark, having received a plurality of all the votes cast, is duly and constitutionally elected Governor of the State of Mississippi.

        The convention having accomplished the object of the joint assemblage, the Senate retired.

        The committee on Enrolled Bills made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills have examined a bill entitled "an act to remove the civil disabilities of Walter McDougal, a minor," find the same correctly enrolled, and have submitted it to the Governor for his approval and signature.

        On motion of Mr. Lewers,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

FRIDAY, Nov. 6, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Mr. Neeley.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        Messrs. E. H. Hicks, of Jefferson, and H. Falconer, of Marshall, presented their credentials and were sworn in as members of this House.

        Leave of absence was granted Mr. McElroy.

        Call of counties.

        Mr. Fox introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize Thomas N. Doris, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Choctaw county to practice law in the Probate Court,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Bestor presented the petition of Dr. S. M. Hamilton, of Clark county, which was referred to the committee on Claims.

        Also, the petition of Reese Price, of Clark county, which, with accompanying documents, was referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.


Page 115

        Mr. Tindall introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of William W. Brooks, a minor,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Liddell moved that the bill be referred to the Judiciary committee, which motion was

        On motion of Mr. Eskridge,

        Laid on the table.

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Tindall introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to inerease the salary of the Probate Judge of Monroe county,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules,

        When, with sundry amendments, it was referred to the committee of Ways and Means, with instructions to inquire into the expediency of extending the provisions of this bill to all of the Probate Judges of the State.

        Mr. Cunningham presented the petition of Wm. H. Smith, of Noxubee county, which was read and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Brown introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the Clerk of Probate of Winston county, and others, to aid and assist Executors, Administrators and others to prepare their accounts, pleadings, &c., in the Probate Court of Winston county,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson,

        Referred to the committee on the Judiciary.

        Mr. Barnett introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of destitute families in Yazoo county,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Regan moved the reference of the bill to a select committee of three, with instructions to report a bill authorizing and requiring the several Boards of Police to provide for all destitute families of soldiers, in such manner as they may deem proper, with authority to borrow money or issue scrip.

        Which, on motion of Mr. Lewers,

        Was laid on the table.

        Mr. Regan offered the following amendment:

        Amend by way of additional section--

        SEC.--. Be if further enacted, That the provisions of this bill apply to the county of Claiborne, which

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Was laid on the table.

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The following message was received from the Senate:


Page 116

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate refuses to concur in the joint resolution of the House authorizing the Sergeant-at-Arms to make arrangements with the Postmaster for the mailing of public documents of the Legislature.

        The President of the Senate has appointed the following additional joint standing committees:

        ON THE PENITENTIARY--Messrs. Lowry, Luckett and Quinn.

        ON THE LUNATIC ASYLUM--Messrs. Neeley, Bowles and Mosely.

        ON THE INSTITUTION FOR THE BLIND--Messrs. Yerger, Lowry and Jordan.

        ON THE INSTITUTION FOR THE DEAF AND DUMB--Messrs. Quinn, Mayson and Wilson.

        ON STATE LIBRARY--Messrs. Wilson, Hamilton and Mayson.

        ON PUBLIC BUILDINGS--Messrs. Davis, Griffin and Patton.

        The Speaker announced the following joint standing committee:

        ON SECRETARY OF STATE'S OFFICE--Messrs. Turley, High, Stubbs of Smith, Staples and Daniel.

        The Speaker presented the following communications from the Auditor of Public Accounts:

AUDITOR'S OFFICE,
Columbus, Miss., Nov. 2, 1863.

Hon. L. E. Houston,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

        SIR--I have the honor to transmit herewith my report of the receipts and disbursements of the public moneys from the 4th day of March, 1862, to 31st day of October 1863, both days inclusive, to be laid before the Legislature.

AUDITOR'S OFFICE,
Columbus, Miss., Nov. 6, 1863.

Hon. L. E. Houston,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

        SIR--I have the honor, through you, to state to the House of Representatives that the information asked for in their resolution of yesterday in reference to "the number of soldiers in the State and Confederate service," &c., is fully given in documents I and L, accompanying my report to the Legislature, and is as follows, to-wit:


Page 117


        Mr. Thompson moved that the Auditor's report and accompanying documents be referred to the committee of Ways and Means, that 500 copies of the report and 200 copies of the accompanying documents be printed for the use of this House,

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Powe introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the State Treasurer to receive from the delinquent Tax Collectors of the several counties in this State, the military bonds or notes failing due 1st June 1863 and 1864, in payment of the amounts due from them on account of the military tax of 1861,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee of Ways and Means.

        Mr. Archer offered the following joint resolution:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That the two Houses shall assemble in the Representative Hall on to-morrow at half-past 11 o'clock, A. M., for the purpose of electing a State printer,

        Which was read once.

        Mr. Arnold offered the following joint resolution, which, the rules being suspended, was adopted:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That a committee of----on the part of the Senate, and five on the part of the House, be appointed to wait on his Excellency, Charles Clark, Governor elect, and inform him that he is duly and constitutionally elected Governor of the State of Mississippi for the term of two years from the third Monday in November 1863.

        Committee, Messrs. Arnold, Bradford, Hendon, Evans and Hicks.

        Mr. Watson, from the Judiciary committee made the following report, which was received and agreed to:


Page 118

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee, to whom was referred "an act entitled an act for the relief of certain Tax Collectors, and for other purposes," have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report that they recommend that said bill do not pass, the provisions thereof being, in the opinion of the committee, in direct conflict with the Constitution of the State.

        Mr. Watson, from the same committee, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee to whom was referred the bill entitled an act to authorize the Board of Police of Lowndes county to fix the fees of Jailors, with sundry amendments, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report against the passage of the same, and offer in lieu thereof a a substitute which they pray may pass.

        The bill accompanying said report, entitled

        An act regulating the fees of Jailors in this State in certain cases,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Turley, of city of Vicksburg, appeared and was sworn in, and took his seat.

        Mr. Morehead offered the following resolution, which, the rules being suspended, was adopted:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That a committee of five on the part of the House, and----on the part of the Senate, be appointed, to whom so much of the Governor's message as refers to the subject of salt, and the reports of the various agents appointed "to obtain salt by mining or otherwise," are hereby referred for consideration.

        Committee, Messrs. Morehead, Dillard, McKay, Allen and Owen.

        Mr. Moore offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the committee on Military Affairs be instructed to inquire into the present status of the State troops in Confederate service paroled at Vicksburg. Whether the Confederate government has the right to discharge them before their exchange; and if so, whether they are already discharged; and if discharged by the Confederate authorities whether they are now in the State service and entitled to draw pay until exchanged and discharged, and that the committee be instructed to report to this House.

        Mr. Gowan introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to provide for the payment of costs in certain criminal cases therein mentioned,


Page 119

        Which was read twice, under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Tindall introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to revive and amend an act to extend the time for the collection of the taxes of the current fiscal year, approved Dec. 20th, 1861, and for other purposes,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Tindall introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to provide assessment rolls for the several counties of this State,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Murdock offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the committee on Elections be instructed to inquire and report whether any member of this House holds civil offices under the government of the Confederate States, which are lucrative as contemplated by section 27, article 3, of the Constitution of the State of Mississippi,

        Which, on motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Was laid on the table by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Murdock, Carroll and Arnold, as follows:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Brown, Barnett, Daniel, Dillard, Dale, Evans, Easterling, Eskridge, Fowler, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Gully, Gowan, Gray Hicks, Hooker, Hathorn, Hendon, Isom, Jackson, Johnson of DeSoto, Johnson of Tippah, Johnson of Wilkinson, Kirk, Liddell, Lowry, Marable, McKay of Green, McKay of Neshoba, Powe, Pinson, Rucks, Rogers, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Sutton, Stephens, Taylor, Thompson, Upshaw, Wells and Wier--47.

        NAYS--Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Barton, Buntin, Clark, Cunningham, Carroll, Downs, Deason of Jones, Grace, High, Irby, Lott, Lewers, Morehead, Maxwell, Murdock, McLaurin, McNiel, Owen, Pounds, Prewitt, Regan, Robinson, Sessions, Tindall, Watson and Wynne--28.

        Mr. Eskridge introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to encourage enlistments in the army of the Confederate States, and for other purposes,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on Military Affairs.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        Mr. Moore was added to the committee on Military Affairs.

        Mr. Rucks introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend the law of divorces and alimony,

        Which was read twice under suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.


Page 120

        The committee on Enrolled Bills made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills have examined a bill entitled an act to amend an act incorporating the Mississippi Manufacturing Company, and find the same correctly enrolled.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

SATURDAY, November 7, 1863.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Coleman.

        Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        Leave of absence was granted to Mr. McLaurin.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has passed a bill entitled "An act in relation to overseers of public roads running on the boundary line between two or more owners of land."

        And have adopted a joint resolution granting leave of absence to Hon. Wm. H. Kilpatrick,

        In which the concurrence of the House is desired.

        The Senate have passed the House bill entitled--

        "An act to authorize the Board of Police of Itawamba county to make a certain appropriation therein named."

        And have adopted a substitute to the joint resolution of the House in relation to the increase of the pay of non-commissioned officers and privates,

        In which the House is asked to concur.

        Mr. Barton presented the petition of Wm. H. Keys, which, on his motion, was referred to the Committee on Claims.

        On motion of Mr. Tindall, Messrs. Easterling and Stephens were added to the Special Committee raised on Friday to report a bill for the relief of indigent families of soldiers. On his further motion, the name of Chancellor Dickinson and the Rev. Dr. Neely were added to the names of the gentlemen invited to address the Legislature during the session.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the Secretary of State be requested to furnish for the use of the House all the State Reports, the Revised Code, and all the Acts of the Legislature passed since


Page 121

the adoption of the Code, and all the ordinances of the late State Convention.

        Mr. Morehead offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the Governor be requested to inform this House whether an act entitled an "Act to provide for a guaranty by the State of Mississippi of the Bonds of the Confederate States," passed and approved January 3d, 1863, has been "published three months previous to the next (last) regular election in three newspapers of this State."

        Mr. Watson, from the Judiciary Committee, made the following reports:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary Committee to whom was referred the bill "entitled an act to provide for the payment of costs in certain criminal cases" therein mentioned, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to recommend that it do not pass.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary Committee to whom was referred a bill "entitled an act to authorize the Clerk of Probate of Winston county and others to aid and assist executors, administrators and others to prepare their accounts, pleadings, &c., in the Probate Court of Winston county," have had the same under consideration and recommend that it be not passed; which, on his motion, was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Downs offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the Committee of Ways and Means be instructed to inquire into the expediency and propriety of this State becoming the agent of the Confederate States Government in the collection and paying over of the produce and other taxes, after the present year, and that they report by bill or otherwise.

        Mr. Rucks offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to inquire into the expediency of increasing the salaries of the Governor and other State officers, and report to this house by bill or otherwise.

        The Speaker appointed the following committee:

        Messrs. Rucks, Murdock, Bradford, Powe and Fox.

        On motion of Mr. Arnold, Mr. Thompson was added to the committee on State University.

        On motion of Mr. Tindall, Messrs. Stephens and Clark were added to the Special Committee raised yesterday for relief of indigent families.


Page 122

        Mr. Stephens offered the following resolution, waich was adopted:

        Resolved, That the committee on Elections be instructed to inquire into the constitutionality of old members holding seats in this house from where no elections could be held, and report to this house by bill or otherwise.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Messrs. Watson and Rucks were added to the committee on Elections.

        Mr. Fowler offered the following resolutinn, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the committee on State and Confederate relations be requested to institute an investigation as to the course of impressment practised by the agents of the Confederate States and the State of Mississippi, and report, by biil or otherwise, a means of relief for our much injured citizens.

        Mr. Fort offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the committee on the Judiciary be instructed to inquire into the constitutionality of trying crimes and misdemeanors in the county other than that in which they were committed, and to report thereon by bill or otherwise.

        Mr. Liddell offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the Governor be requested to communicate to this house, at as early a day as practicable, the report or reports made to him by the Medical Commissioners appointed under the act of January 1st, 1863.

        Mr. Rodgers, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of the indigent families of soldiers of the county of Tippah. On his motion the constitutional rule was suspended.

        Bill read a second time by its title, and

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        Referred to a special committee of ten, with instructions to inquire into the destitution and necessities of the wives, widows and children of those counties which are wholly or in part outside the Confederate military lines.

        The Speaker appointed as said committee Messrs. Upshaw, Prewitt, Rodgers, Bradford, Seal of Harrison, Allen, Barnett, Fowler, Hicks and Thompson.

        Mr. Regan, by leave, introduced a bill to be "entitled an act to repeal an act to authorize the appointment of two Medical Commissioners to especially attend to the sick and wounded soldiers from this State from the Confederate army, and for other purposes, approved January 1st, 1863," which,


Page 123

on his motion under a suspension of the rule was read a second time by its title, and,

        On motion of Mr. Liddell,

        Was made the special order for Wednesday next.

        Mr. Arnold, by leave, introduced a bill to be "entitled an act to repeal the law exempting members of the Legislature from military duty," which, on his motion under a suspension of the rules, was read three several times and passed.

        Ordered that title stand as stated.

        Mr. Eskridge, by leave, introduced a bill to be "entitled an act to repeal an act entitled an act to annex a part of Tallahatchie county to the county of Sunflower," and for other purposes. On his motion the constitutional rule was suspended, the bill read a second time by its title, and on his further motion referred to the committee on county boundaries.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Messrs. Clark and Eskridge were added to the special Committee raised yesterday to provide for the relief of indigent families of soldiers.

        Mr. Gowan, by leave, introduced a bill to be "entitled an act to increase the per diem allowance of clerks and inspectors of elections. On his motion the constitutional rule was suspended, the bill read the second time by its title, and,

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        Was referred to the Committee of Ways and Means.

        Mr. Murdock gave notice that on Monday he would introduce a bill to incorporate the Southern College of Medicine and Surgery.

        Mr. Rucks, by leave, introduced a bill to be "entitled an act to remove the civil disabilities of William Rice Hooker;" and on his motion the constitutional rule was suspended, the bill read three several times forth with, and passed with title as stated.

        Mr. Gowan offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the Committee on Ways and Means be instructed to inquire into the expediency and constitutionality of a law to provide for the reduction of the present exorbitant prices of salt, cotton cards, other articles of prime necessity and the necessaries of life, punishment of extortioners, and to report by bill or otherwise.

        Mr. Fowler moved to lay the resolution on the table, which was lost by ayes and nays called for by Messrs. Gowan, Barton and Seal of Harrison.

        AYES--Messrs. Buntin, Barnett, Dale, Fowler, Isom, Owen, Taylor and Thompson--8.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Allen, Arnold, Bradford,


Page 124

Bestor, Boone, Barton, Brown, Clark, Carroll, Deason of Copiah, Downs, Deason of Jones, Daniel, Dillard, Evans, Easterling, Eskridge, Fox, Fort, Gully, Grace, Gowan, Gray, Hooker, Hathorne, High, Hudson, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of De Soto, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Kirk, Liddell, Lowry, Lewers, Moore, Marable, Maxwell, Murdock, McKay of Green, McKay of Neshoba, McNeil, Pounds, Powe, Prewitt, Regan, Rodgers, Robinson, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Sessions, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Tindall, Upshaw, Wells, Wier, Watson and Wynne--63.

        On motion of Mr. Gowan his resolution was adopted.

        Mr. Lewers, by leave introduced a bill to be "entitled an act to change the rule of practice in the Circuit, Chancery, Probate and other courts for this State." On his motion the constitutional rule was suspended, bill read a second time by its title, and, on his further motion, the bill was referred to the committee on Judiciary.

        Leave of absence was granted Messrs. Tindall, Upshaw and Carroll.

        On motion of Mr. Seal of Harrison,

        The House adjourned until Monday morning, at 10 o'clock.

MONDAY, November 9, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Sears.

        Journal of Saturday read and approved.

        Messrs. J. B. Ross, of Hinds, Buntin, Yandell, of Yazoo, and J. G. L. McGehee, of Pike, appeared, presented their credentials, and were sworn in as members of the House.

        The Speaker presented the following communication:

OFFICE SECRETARY OF STATE,
Columbus, Nov. 9th, 1863.

Hon. L. E. Houston,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

        SIR--I have the honor, through you, to say in reply to the resolution of the House of Representatives, adopted on the 7th inst., requesting to be furnished with "copies of State Reports, Revised Code, acts of the Legislature passed since the adoption of the Code, and the Ordinances of the late State Convention," that I have in my office at this place none


Page 125

of the documents designated, except a few copies of the acts of the last regular session of the Legislature, which I this day send to the House.


        Also, a communication from Messrs. Cooper & Kimball, State Printers, which,

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of DeSoto,

        Was referred to a select committee of three.

        The Speaker appointed as said committee Messrs. Johnson, of DeSoto, Falconer and Eskridge.

        Mr. Wells presented the petition of A. W. Herring and other citizens of Attala county, which,

        On his motion,

        Was referred to the committee of Ways and Means.

        The following message was received from the Senate: MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have adopted the following joint resolution, in which the House is asked to concur:

        Resolved, (the House concurring,) That a joint select committee be appointed, consisting of five members on the part of the Senate, and----on the part of House, whose duty it shall be to inquire into the expediency of giving further relief by law, to the indigent or needy families of soldiers, and also to the like families of deceased soldiers, and to report by bill or otherwise at as early a day as practicable.

        Messrs. Terry, Drake, Quinn, Mosely and Lowry are the Senate committee.

        Blank was filled with 10 and resolution concurred in.

        The Senate have passed House bill entitled an act regulating the fees of Jailors in certain cases, with an amendment thereto, in which the House is asked to concur.

        The amendment was concurred in.

        The Senate have concurred in the joint resolution of the House providing for a joint select committee to wait on the Governor elect and inform him of his election, and have appointed as said committee on the part of the Senate, Messrs. Oliver, Moore and Wilson, the blank in the resolution having been filled with three.

        And have also adopted joint resolution of the House providing for a joint select committee to consider the Governor's message in relation to salt, and have filled the blank in the same with the number five. Messrs. Greer, Moore, Griffin, Mosely, Loper and Yerger have been appointed as said committee on the part of the Senate.

        The Senate have passed a joint resolution entitled "joint resolution conferring certain powers on the Governor," in which the concurrence of the House is desired.

        On motion of Mr. Morehead,

        Messrs. Seal, of Harrison, and Murdock were added to the


Page 126

joint select committee to whom so much of the Governor's message as refers to the subject of salt, and the reports of the various agents appointed to obtain salt by mining or otherwise, was referred.

        Mr. Lott introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Augustus H. Ware, a minor,

        And on his motion,

        The constitutional rule was suspended, the bill read three several times forthwith, and passed with title as stated.

        Mr. Murdock introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to enable the counties of Lowndes, Oktibbeha, Noxubee, and the city of Columbus, to sell and dispose of Railroad stock.

        On his motion,

        The constitutional rule was suspended, the bill read twice, and referred to the committee of Ways and Means.

        Mr. Houston introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend an act to incorporate the Bank of Jackson and other Banks, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times, the rules being suspended, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Rucks presented claim of boy Charles, which,

        On his motion,

        Was referred to the committee on Claims.

        Mr. Fowler introduced a bill entitled

        An act for the relief of George R. Fall, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on Claims.

        Mr. Fowler introduced a bill entitled

        An act to change the name of Walter Masonhimer to Walter Mason,

        And on his motion,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read three several time forthwith, and passed with title as stated.

        Mr. Regan called up Senate messages.

        On motion of Mr. Gowan,

        The House concurred in Senate substitute for House resolution in regard to the pay of soldiers in the Confederate army.

        Senate bill entitled an act to compel Railroads to keep light fire and water on their cars, was taken up, and

        On motion of Mr. Houston,

        The rule being suspended, was read twice and referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.

        The following message was received from the Senate:


Page 127

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has adopted the following resolution, in which the concurrence of the House is desired:

        Resolved, (the House concurring,) That the two Houses meet in joint convention on Tuesday, the 10th November, 1863, at 12 o'clock, for the purpose of electing one Reporter of the decisions of the High Court of Errors and Appeals, a State Printer, a Superintendent and Clerk of the Penitentiary, and a Keeper of the Capitol.

        The Senate has concurred in the House resolution appointing Thursday, 12th day of November, 1863, at 12 o'clock, for the election of Confederate Senator.

        A Senate bill entitled an act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Lauderdale county, was

        On motion of Mr. Grace,

        The rules being suspended, read second time, and

        On motion of Mr. Bradford,

        Was referred to the committee of Ways and Means.

        Senate bill entitled "an act in relation to the overseers of public roads running on the boundary line between two or more owners of land,"

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        Was read three several times, and psssed with title as stated.

        Senate joint resolution granting leave of absence to the Hon. Wm. H. Kilpatrick,

        On motion of Mr. Houston,

        Was concurred in.

        The Senate joint resolution appointing a joint select committee in relation to indigent families of soldiers, was

        On motion of Mr. Stephens,

        Concurred in, and the blank filled with ten.

        The Chair appointed the following gentlemen as said committee on the part of the House: Messrs. Watson, Bestor, Tindall, Gully, Johnson of DeSoto, Yandell, Johnson of Wilkinson, High, Brown and Lott.

        On motion of Mr. Fox,

        The Senate amendment to the House bill entitled an act to be entitled an act regulating the fees of Jailors in certain cases, was concurred in.

        On motion of Mr. Gowan,

        The Senate joint resolution conferring certain powers on the Governor, was concurred in.

        Mr. Hicks moved to concur in Senate joint resolution appointing Tuesday, 10th day November, 1863, 12 o'clock, M., for the election of certain officers therein named.

        Mr. Yandell moved to strike out Keeper and Clerk of Penitentiary.


Page 128

        Mr. Moore moved to lay the resolutions and amendments on the table,

        Which was adopted.

        House bill entitled an act supplementary to an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, approved January 3, 1863, was read the second time.

        Mr. Stephens called up the special order of the day, viz: The Governor's message.

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of DeSoto,

        So much of the Governor's message as relates to the Penitentiary was referred to the committee on the Penitentiary.

        On motion of Mr. Regan,

        So much as relates to the Lunatic Asylum, and to the Institutions for the Deaf and Dumb and Blind, was referred to the joint standing committee on said Institutions.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        So much of the Governor's message as relates to the Impressment of Horses, was referred to the committee on State and Confederate Relations.

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of DeSoto,

        So much of the Governor's message as relates to the Ordnance Department, Quartermaster General's Department and Adjutant General's Department, was referred to the committee on Military Affairs.

        On motion of Mr. Irby,

        So much of the Governor's message as relates to the removal of negroes was referred to the committee on Military Affairs.

        On motion of Mr. Stephens,

        So much of the Governor's message as relates to Money, and the salaries of State officers, was referred to the committee of Ways and Means.

        And so much as relates to Wives, Widows and Children of Soldiers, was referred to the select committee heretofore raised on that subject.

        Mr. Murdock introduced a bill entitled

        An act to incorporate the Southern College of Medicine and Surgery,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rule, and referred to the committee on Education.

        Mr. Rodgers moved that the Clerk be instructed to request the return from the Senate of the bill to be entitled an act to repeal the law exempting the members of the Legislature from military duty, and a reconsideration of the vote by which said bill passed this House.

        Pending which,

        On motion of Mr. Barton,

        The House adjourned till 3 o'clock, P. M.


Page 129

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The question pending on adjournment, to-wit: the motion of Mr. Rogers, was taken up and adopted.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        By instruction of the Senate I herewith return to the House of Representatives the House bill entitled an act to repeal the law exempting the members of the Legislature from military duty, in accordance with the request made this day of the Senate by the House.

        The vote by which the bill entitled an act to repeal the laws exempting the members of the Legislature from military duty was passed, was reconsidered.

        The vote by which the bill was read the third time was reconsidered.

        Mr. Bradford offered the following amendment, by adding to section one:

        Provided, That the members of the Legislature shall be exempt from military duty during any regular or called session thereof, and for twenty days before the meeting and twenty days after the adjournment of each session.

        On motion of Mr. Rogers,

        The bill and amendment were laid on the table.

        Mr. Grace gave notice that he would on to-morrow or some future day introduce a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend an act to prohibit the distillation of spirits from corn, rye, or other gran, approved January 3d, 1863.

        Mr. Morehead introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act better to provide for the families of soldiers, amendatory to an act approved January 3, 1863,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the joint select committee on Indigent Families.

        On motion of Mr. Rogers,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

TUESDAY, November 10, 1863.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Lyon.

        The journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        Leave of absence was granted Mr. Pounds.


Page 130

        Mr. Robinson presented a communication from Jarvis Seal, which was referred to the committee on Military Affairs.

        Mr. Bestor from the committee on Education made the following report, which was received and agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Education, to whom was referred an act to authorize the Board of Police of the county of Itawamba to borrow money from the school fund, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report it back to the House, and recommended that it do pass.

        The bill accompanying the report was,

        On motion of Mr. Downs,

        Read the third time.

        Messrs. Bradford, Barton and Maxwell called for the yeas and nays on the passage of the bill and the bill was passed, the title standing as stated:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Allen, Arnold, Bestor, Boon, Barton, Brown, Buntin, Clark, Deason of Copiah, Downs, Deason of Jones, Daniel, Dillard, Dale, Evans, Eskridge, Fowler, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Gully, Graves, Gowan, Gray, Hooker, Hendon, Isom, Jackson, Johnson of DeSoto, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Kirk, Liddell, Lott, Lowry, Lewers, Minter, Moore, Marable, Morehead, Murdock, McKay of Green, McKay of Neshoba, McGehee, McNeil, Owen, Pope, Powe, Pinson, Prewitt, Regan, Rodgers, Ross, Robinson, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Sessions, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Taylor, Thompson, Tindall, Turley, Upshaw, Wells, Wier, Watson, Wynne and Yandell--72.

        NAYS--Messrs. Bradford, Barnett, Easterling, Hicks, Irby and Maxwell--6.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed the following entitled bills, in which the concurrence of the House is desired, to-wit:

        A bill entitled an act for the recovery of personal property wrongfully taken or detained.

        An act to incorporate the Alabama and Mississippi Rivers Railroad Company.

        An act for the relief of G. S. McMillan, District Attorney for the 2d Judicial District of the State of Mississippi.

        An act to extend the time for the assessment of taxes in certain counties threin named.

        Also, the following joint resolution:

        Resolved, (the House concurring,) That the rules in relation to joint standing committees be amended by the addition of another on Agriculture and Mechanics.


Page 131

        The Senate have passed House bill entitled an act to remove the civil disabilities of Wm. Rice Hooker.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, offered the following joint resolution, which, the rules being suspended, was adopted:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That a committee of five on the part of the House, and----on the part of the Senate, be appointed, for the purpose of compiling the Constitution of the State of Mississippi, together with the various amendments made by the Legislature and the State Convention; said compilation when completed to be published in the printed acts of this session, together with the Constitution of the Confederate States.

        The following is the committee on the part of the House:

        Messrs. Seal, of Harrison, Alcorn, Watson, Hicks and Rucks.

        Mr. Grace introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to prevent the distillation of spirits from corn, rye, or other grains, or molasses and sugar, approved January 3d, 1863,

        Which was read twice under suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Tindall gave notice that he would on to-morrow, or some future day, introduce a bill to be entitled

        An act to repeal an act to prevent the distillation of grain and other substances, and for other purposes.

        Mr. Boon offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the committee on Ways and Means be instructed to inquire into the expediency of exempting from taxation all slaves who have been taken off by the Yankees since the first day of May last, and report by bill or otherwise.

        Mr. Rogers introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to repeal an act prohibiting the distillation of spirits, &c.,

        Which was read twice, under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Seal, of Hancock, offered the following resolution, which, the rules being suspended, was adopted:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That our Senators be instructed, and Representatives in Congress be requested, to take into consideration the practicability of using negro men in the Confederate service as teamsters, nurses and pioneer corps.

        On motion of Mr. Tindall,

        Mr. Yandell was added to the committee of Ways and Means.

        Mr. Irby introduced a bill entitled


Page 132

        An act to repeal certain clauses of an act entitled an act to authorize the impressment of slaves and other personal property for military purposes, approved January 3, 1863,

        Was read three several times, the rules being suspended, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Rucks, from a select committee, made the following report, accompanied by a bill:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee appointed to inquire into the expediency of increasing the salaries of the Governor and other State officers, and report by bill or otherwise, would respectfully report that in their opinion the salaries of the State officers should be increased, as, owing to the enhanced price of every necessity of life, the sums at what they are now fixed by law are totally inadequate to their support. These officers are compelled to reside at the seat of Government, wherever the same may be located, as the duties of their offices require their constant attendance. Your committee herewith report a bill fixing the sums to which, in their opinion, the respective salaries should be increased.

        On motion,

        The report was received and the bill read once.

        Mr. Dale moved that the report be agreed to,

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Lewers offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That the Senators in the Confederate States Congress from this State be instructed, and the Representatives from the different districts be requested, to urge before Congress the passage of an act requiring the appointment of an agent or agents on the part of the Confederate States to visit the different portions of the State of Mississippi for the purpose of auditing and adjusting and paying off certificates and receipts given persons therein for provisions and other property impressed and used by order of Confederate States officers.

        Mr. Rodgers offered the following amendment:

        Insert after the words "property impressed" the words "cotton burned," which,

        On motion of Mr. Stephens,

        Was laid on the table.

        The vote was then taken on the passage of the resolution and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. Deason, of Copiah, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize and regulate the voting of elections of the State while in the military service of the State or Confederate States,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on the Judiciary.


Page 133

        Mr. Dillard introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to procure cotton and wool cards for the indigent families of soldiers and the citizens of the State,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On motion of Mr. Fox,

        Referred to the committee of the whole House.

        On motion of Mr. Rodgers,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The question pending on adjournment, to-wit: The consideration in committee of the Whole of the bill to be entitled an act to procure cotton and wool cards for the indigent families of soldiers and the citizens of the State.

        The Speaker called Mr. Seal, of Harrison, to the Chair.

        After sometime spent in committee of the Whole,

        The committee rose, reported the bill back to the House with the recommendation that it do not pass.

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        The report of the committee of the Whole was received.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The bill was referred to a select committee of five.

        The Speaker appointed as said committee Messrs. Dillard, Seal of Harrison, Bestor, Yandell and Hicks.

        Mr. Upshaw obtained leave of absence for the evening on business of the Military committee.

        Mr. Dale offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to wait on Maj. Gen. Gholson and tender him the use of this House to deliver an address on to-morrow evening at 7 o'clock.

        Committee, Messrs. Dale, Yandell and Eskridge.

        Mr. Johnson, of DeSoto, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to provide an assistant to the Quartermaster General of this State,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Eskridge offered the following amendment:

        Provided, Said assistant or clerk shall not be under forty-five years of age,

        Which was adopted.

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        The bill and amendments were referred to the Military committee.

        On motion of Mr. Gowan,

        The joint resolution of the Senate in relation to the election of Reporter of the decisions of the High Court of Errors and Appeals, State Printer, &c., was called from the table.


Page 134

        Mr. Gowan offered the following amendment:

        Strike out "Tuesday, the 10th," and insert "Wednesday, the 11th,"

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Moore moved to strike out "Superintendent and Clerk of the Penitentiary and Keeper of the Capitol."

        Mr. Regan called for a division of the question.

        The vote was first taken on striking out "Keeper and Clerk of the Penitentiary,"

        Which was adopted.

        On motion of Mr. Irby,

        The resolution as amended was concurred in.

        The following message was received from the Governor through his private Secretary, Col. J. H. Rives:

        I am directed by his Excellency, the Governor, to deliver to you the following message in writing:

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Miss., Nov. 10, 1863.

Gentlemen of the House of Representatives:

        In response to your resolution requesting to be informed whether an act entitled an act to provide for a guaranty by the State of Mississippi of the bonds of the Confederate States, passed and approved January 3d, 1863, has been published three months previous to the next regular election, in three newspapers of this State.

        I have to state that about the last of June, I directed my then private Secretary to send a copy of the act to three editors of newspapers of this State, to publish the same for three months. This is my recollection of the matter.--Whether the subject was neglected, or if the letters were mailed and lost in the then disturbed state of transportation, I am not able to state. When my attention was called to the fact that it did not appear in the papers, it was too late, as there was not then three months (the time prescribed) until the election. I can only express my regret and the hope that no irreparable evil will result from the failure to publish the act.

        I herewith send you the report of Dr. A. C. Holt, from Cartersville, Ga., where he was giving his attention to the sick and wounded Mississippi soldiers.

        Dr. E. M. Blackburne, the other commissioner, was in my office a few days since, and reported verbally that he had rendered all the aid in his power to our sick and wounded on the field and in the Hospitals about Chattanooga.

JOHN J. PETTUS.


Page 135

CARTERSVILLE, GA., Oct. 28, 1863.

Gov. J. J. Pettus:

        SIR--Shortly after the date of the last report I had the honor to make to you, the army of Virginia made the movement into Pennsylvania. Failing to procure a horse I was unable to follow the army, and passed the summer in visiting the various Hospitals.

        When Longstreet's corps came to this army I followed it, and have been engaged since the battle of Chickamauga in rendering all the aid in my power to the wounded of that battle. After the field infirmaries were broken up, I took a tour among the Hospitals in this Department, and take pleasure in stating that I found them generally well managed and the patients well cared for. I shall remain with this army until the present campaign is closed.


        The following message was received from the Senate: MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has adopted the following joint resolution, in which the concurrence of the House is desired:

        Resolved, (the House concurring,) That having learned that Major General Gholson has arrived in this city, he is invited and requested to address this Legislature, in the Representative Hall, to-morrow evening at 7 o'clock, and that the Secretary communicate a copy of this resolution to General Gholson.

        On motion of Mr. Johnson,

        The Senate message just received was taken up and the joint resolution concurred in.

        Mr. Tindall offered the following joint resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the committee on the Penitentiary be instructed to inquire into the present condition of that institution, and what disposition should be made of the convicts now in the jails of the several counties of this State, and report to this House.

        The committee on Enrolled Bills made the following report: MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills have examined bills of the following titles, find the same correctly enrolled and have submitted them to the Governor for his approval and signature:

        An act to amend an act incorporating the Mississippi Manufacturing company.

        An act regulating the fees of Jailors in certain cases.

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of William Rice Hooker.

        An act to authorize the Board of Police of Itawamba county to make an appropriation out of the county treasury to pay the tax assessor for taking the number of children between


Page 136

six and eighteen years, in order to an equal dividend of that portion of the school fund appropriated to be laid out annually for the use of common schools.

        On motion of Mr. Fowler,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, Nov. 11, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Mr. Stainback.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        Leave of absence was granted Mr. Pounds until next Monday.

        Mr. S. S. Montgomery, Representative elect from the county of Franklin, presented his credentials and was sworn in as a member of this House.

        On motion of Mr. Tindall,

        Leave of absence was granted Mr. Upshaw, chairman of the Military committee.

        The following communication was received from Messrs. Cooper & Kimball, Public Printers:

OFFICE MISSISSIPPIAN EXTRA,
Columbus, Nov. 7, 1863.

Hon. L. E. Houston,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

        SIR--I have the honor to state, for the information of the House of Representatives, that arrangements have been made by the undersigned, State Printers, with the Southern Republic office of this city for the printing of bills and such other light work as the convenience of the Legislature may require. Heavy jobs are sent to our office in Selma. Those requiring a great number of copies are also sent there. Having only hand-presses here, and a limited supply of material and help, large jobs are forwarded by Express, executed and sent back in less time than it would take to do them here. In fact, with our facilities at this place we cannot execute heavy jobs at all, as there is not material enough. At Selma we have three power presses running by steam, and shall use every effort to execute the work ordered by the Legislature with the least possible delay.


        The following message was received from the Senate: MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed a bill entitled "an act to provide


Page 137

for the examination of the offices of the Auditor of Public Accounts and State Treasurer.

        And have adopted a joint resolution entitled "joint resolution for defraying certain expenses."

        The Senate has adopted the following resolution, in which the concurrence of the House is desired:

        Resolved, (the House concurring,) That a committee of three on the part of the Senate, and----on the part of the House, be appointed, whose duty it shall be to examine the acts of the Legislature since the year 1857, and the ordinances of the Convention, and ascertain what amendments have been made to the Constitution of the State, and have the same annexed to the Constitution and published with all future acts of the Legislature.

        The President has appointed as said committee on the part of the Senate, the following named Senators: Messrs. Hamilton, Mayson and Davis.

        The Senate have passed the following entitled House bills:

        An act to amend an act to incorporate the Bank of Jackson and other Banks.

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Wm. W. Brooks, a minor.

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Augustus H. Ware, with an amendment to the bill and an amendment to the title thereof.

        The Senate have concurred in House amendment to Senate resolution in relation to the election of a State Printer, State Reporter, Keeper of the Capitol, &c.

        The Speaker presented the report of the State Treasurer, which was read. [See Appendix.]

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        The report was referred to the committee of Ways and Means, and 500 copies ordered to be printed for the use of this House.

        Call of counties.

        Mr. Bestor presented the petition of Wm. S. Price, Sr., a citizen of Clark county, which,

        On his motion,

        With the accompanying documents, was referred to the committee on State and Confederate Relations.

        Mr. Seal, of Hancock, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to pay the clerks, inspectors and returning officers of Elections, and to increase the per diem of members of the Board of Police of Hancock county,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson, moved the reference of the bill to the committee of Ways and Means,

        Which motion was lost.


Page 138

        Mr. Arnold presented the memorial of W. C. Tucker, a citizen of Lowndes county, asking the passage of a law authorizing him to sell wine, manufactured by him, by the bottle, which,

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        Was referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.

        Mr. Fort introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to establish the mutilated or destroyed records or deeds, and other instruments, in Marshall county,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On motion of Mr. Eskridge,

        Referred to the Judiciary committee with instructions to report a general bill on the same subject.

        Mr. Gowan introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act amendatory of an act entitled an act to appropriate fines, forfeitures, licenses and moneys arising from the sale of estrays and runaway slaves in Jones county, approved Dec. 4, 1861, and to extend the provisions of the same to the county of Simpson.

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        Referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Barnett introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of Administrators, Guardians, Trustees, &c., in certain cases,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On his motion,

        Referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Watson, from the Judiciary committee, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary Committee to whom was referred a bill entitled "an act to enforce the collection laws of this State," have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to recommend that it be not passed.

        And moved that the report be received and agreed to.

        Mr. Eskridge called for a division of the question.

        The report was received.

        Mr. Rogers moved to lay the bill on the table, which was decided in the negative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Eskridge, Yandell and Tindall, as follows, viz:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Barton, Brown, Clark, Cunningham, Deason of Copiah, Deason of Jones, Easterling, Gully, Hooker, Hathorn, Jackson, Johnson of Tippah, Kirk, Lowry, Moore, Marable, Morehead, Montgomery, McKay of Green, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McGehee, McNiel,


Page 139

Owen, Powe, Pinson, Rogers, Robinson, Seal of Harrison, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Wells and Wier--34.

        NAYS--Messrs. Archer, Alcorn, Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Buntin, Barnett, Carroll, Downs, Dillard, Evans, Eskridge, Fowler, Fox, Falconer, Grace, Gowan, Gray, Hicks, High, Hendon, Isom, Irby, Johnson of DeSoto, Johnson of Wilkinson, Liddell, Lott, Lewers, Minter, Maxwell, Murdock, Prewitt, Regan, Rucks, Ross, Sessions, Stephens, Turley, Taylor, Thompson, Tindall, Watson, Wynne and Yandell--46.

        Mr. Eskridge moved to lay the bill on the table and print 100 copies,

        Which motion was lost.

        Mr. Alcorn moved that the House agree to the report.

        Pending which,

        The House took a recess of five minutes to the end that the two Houses go into joint convention for the purpose of electing a Reporter of the decisions of the High Court of Errors and Appeals, &c.

        Recess having expired, the House was called to order.

        The Senate being announced, entered and took the seats assigned to them.

        The President of the Senate explained the object of the joint convention.

        Mr. Luckett, of the Senate, moved that the convention proceed to the election of Reporter of the decisions of the High Court of Errors and Appeals by ballot.

        The President appointed Messrs. Luckett of the Senate, and Seal, of Harrison, of the House, tellers.

        Mr. Lowry, of the Senate, nominated A. Y. Harper, of Rankin.

        Mr. Eskridge of the House, nominated J. Z. George, of Carroll.

        On summing up the votes it appeared that

        Mr. A. Y. Harper having received a majority of all the votes cast was declared to be duly and constitutionally elected to the office of Reporter of the decisions of the High Court of Errors and Appeals for the term prescribed by law.

        The joint convention then proceeded to the election of State Printer.

        Mr. Yerger, of the Senate, nominated Messrs. Cooper & Kimball.


Page 140

        Mr. Patton, of the Senate, nominated Messrs. J. J. Shannon & Co.

        Mr. Murdock, of the House, nominated Mr. J. D. Williams.

        On summing up the votes it appeared that

        Messrs. J. J. Shannon & Co., having received a majority of all the votes cast, were declared duly elected Public Printers for the term prescribed by law.

        The convention then proceeded to the election of Keeper of the Capitol and Librarian.

        Mr. Ross, of the House, nominated Charles Clayland.

        Mr. Irby, of the House, nominated DeWitt Clinton.

        Mr. Tindall, of the House, nominated Wm. Myatt.

        Mr. Jordan, of the Senate, nominated Jno. F. Dunlap.

        Mr. Yerger, of the Senate, nominated Wm. J. Brown, Jr.

        On summing up the votes it appeared that

        Neither candidate having received a majority of all the votes cast, there was no election.

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        DeWitt Clinton, of Panola, was declared Keeper of the Capitol and Librarian by acclamation.

        The object of the joint convention having been accomplished, the Senate retired to their chamber.

        Mr. Lewers gave notice of his intention to move a reconsideration of the vote by which, on yesterday, the House refused to agree to report of the select committee reporting an act to increase the salaries of the Governor and other State officers.

        Mr. Hendon moved that the House adjourn until 10 o'clock to-morrow morning,

        Which was lost.

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        The House adjourned to three o'clock, P. M.


Page 141

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The question pending on adjournment, to-wit: the motion of Mr. Alcorn to agree to the report of the Judiciary committee on a bill to be entitled "an act to enforce the collection laws of this State," was taken up,

        Mr. Thompson being entitled to the floor.

        Pending the discussion of the question,

        On motion of Mr. Stephens,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

THURSDAY, November 12, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Mr. Adams.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        Mr. Wm. B. Shelley, Representative elect from the County of Itawamba, presented his credintials and was sworn as a member of the House.

        The House resumed to consideration of the question pending on adjournment of the House on yesterday, viz: the motion of Mr. Alcorn to agree to the report of the Judiciary Committee, on a bill to be entitled an act to enforce the collection laws of this State.

        The report was agreed to.

        Mr. Watson, from the Judiciary committee made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled "an act to amend the law of Divorces and Allimony," have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to recommend that it pass.

        Mr. Hicks moved to receive and agree to the report.

        Mr. Watson called for a division of the question.

        The report was received.

        The question then came up on agreeing to the report, and was decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. Stephens. Mr. Yandell was added to the Committee on Military affairs.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has passed the following entitled bills:


Page 142

        An act to extend the powers of the Police Courts of Chickasaw, Noxubee, Winston, Choctaw, Carroll and Sunflower Counties.

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Joseph H. Askew.

        An act to extend the law in reference to overseers of roads.

        And have passed House bill entitled "An act to provide for the reiief of destitute families of Yazoo County.

        The Senate have also passed bills with the following titles:

        An act to increase the salary of the Governor of this State.

        An act to authorize the payment of interest upon common school funds and for other purposes, in which the concurrence of the House is desired.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw the House took a recess of ten minutes, to the end that the Hall of the House be prepared for the reception of the Senate, that the two Houses go into Joint Convention for the election of a Confederate States Senator.

        Recess having expired, the House was called to order and the clerk was instructed to inform the Senate that the Hall of the House was ready for the reception of the Senate, for the purpose of going into Joint Convention for the election of Confederate State Senator.

        The Senate having been announced by the Sergeant-at-Arms, entered and took the seats assigned them.

        The President of the Senate explained the object of the meeting of the Joint Convention to be the election of a Confederate States Senator for six years, after the expiration of the term of the Hon. James Phelan.

        Mr. Hamilton of the Senate moved that the Joint Convention proceed to the election by ballot.

        Mr. Thompson of the House moved to amend by proceeding to the election viva voce, which was lost.

        The motion of Mr. Hamilton was then adopted.

        Nominations being in order,

        Mr. Oliver of the Senate nominated Hon. James Phelan of Monroe County.

        Mr. Moore of the Senate nominated J. W. C. Watson, of Marshall.

        Mr. Luckett of the Senate nominated Fulton Anderson of Hinds.

        Mr. McRae of the Senate nominated Gen. W. S. Featherston of Marshall.

        Mr. Liddell of the House nominated Walker Brooke of Warren.

        Mr. Tindall of the House nominated Gen. S. J. Gholson of Monroe.

        Mr. Dillard of the House nominated Chas. D. Fontaine of Pontotoc.


Page 143

        On motion, Mr. Moore of the Senate and Mr. Brown of the House were appointed tellers.

        On the first ballot,

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to a second ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to the third ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention was proceeding to a fourth ballot, when

        On motion of Mr. Luckett of the Senate, the Convention took a recess until 3 o'clock, P. M.


Page 144

THREE O'CLOCK P. M.

        Recess having expired, the Convention was called to order by the President. On a call of the Convention a quorum appearing, the Convention proceeded to a fourth ballot, the name of C. D. Fontaine of Pontotoc, being withdrawn,

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to a fifth ballot:

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to a sixth ballot:

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to a seventh ballot:

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to the eighth ballot:

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to a ninth ballot.

        Mr. Seal of Harrison, of the House, nominated Gen. Chas. Clark, of Bolivar, when,

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to a tenth ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, on motion of Mr. Rogers of the House, the Convention took a recess until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.


Page 146

FRIDAY, November 13, 1863.

        Recess having expired the Joint Convention re-assembled and was called to order by the President.

        Prayer by the Rev'd Dr. Coleman.

        On a call of the respective rolls of the two Houses a quorum appeared.

        The name of Gen. Charles Clark was withdrawn by Mr. Rogers of the House.

        The Convention then proceeded to the eleventh ballot:

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to the twelfth ballot:

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to a thirteenth ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to the fourteenth ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of


Page 147

all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to a fifteenth ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to a sixteenth ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to a seventeenth ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to the eighteenth ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, Mr. Tindall of the House moved that the Convention take a recess until 3 o'clock, P. M.

        Which motion was lost,

        And the Convention proceeded to a nineteenth ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, on motion of Mr. Brown of the House, the Convention took a recess until 3 o'clock P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK P. M.

        Recess having expired, the Convention was called to order by the President.

        Mr[.] Brown of the House moved that all votes cast for persons not in nomination shall be counted as Scattering.

        Which was lost.

        The Convention then proceeded to the twentieth ballot, when

        Neither of the gentlemen having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to the twenty-first ballot, the name of Walker Brooke being withdrawn by Mr[.] Liddell of the House:


Page 150

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to a twenty second ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to the twenty-third ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to the twenty-fourth ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to the twenty-fifth ballot, when


Page 151

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to the twenty-sixth ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to the twenty-seventh ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, there was no election.

        On motion of Mr[.] Oliver of the Senate, the Joint Convention of the two Houses was dissolved, and the Senate retired to their Chamber.

        The House was called to order by the Speaker, and

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

SATURDAY, November 14, 1863.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Sears.

        Journals of Thursday and Friday were read and approved.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        The rules were suspended, and the Senate bill to be entitled "an act to increase the salary of the Governor of this State," was taken up and read twice under a suspension of the rules, and


Page 152

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on said bill,

        Mr. Hicks in the chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House, and recommended that it do pass.

        The report of the committee of the Whole was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Thompson offered the following amendment:

        Amend Sec. 1--

        Strike out all after the enacting clause, and insert "That the sum of two thousand dollars be annually appropriated out of the Public Treasury for the use of the Governor in addition to his present salary. in lieu of his mansion, so long as he is prevented by the fortunes of war from occupying it."

        Mr. Upshaw moved to lay the amendment on the table, which was decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Thompson, Carroll and Liddell:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Alcorn, Bradford, Barton, Barnett, Clark, Cunningham, Downs, Daniel, Dale, Evans, Eskridge, Fowler, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Hicks, Hooker, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of DeSoto, Johnson of Wilkinson, Kirk, Lott, Lowry, Minter, Montgomery; Maxwell, McGehee, Owen, Powe, Prewitt, Regan, Rucks, Rogers, Ross, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Sessions, Taylor, Turley, Upshaw, Watson, Wynne and Yandell--46.

        NAYS--Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bestor, Boon, Brown, Buntin, Carroll, Deason of Jones, Dillard, Easterling, Foxworth, Gowan, Hathorn, Hendon, Isom, Johnson of Tippah, Liddell, Lewers, Moore, Marable, Murdock, McKay of Green, McKay of Neshoba, McNiel, Pope, Pinson, Robinson, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Thompson, Wells and Wier--33.

        So the amendment was laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Leave of absence was granted Messrs. Tindall, Gulley, High, Gray and Grace.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed bills entitled as follows:

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Thos. M. Smedes.

        An act for the relief of Samuel M. Meek.

        And have adopted the following joint resolutions, in which the concurrence of the House is desired:


Page 153

        Resolved by the Legislature of the State of Mississippi, That the Congress of the Confederate States be requested to repeal that portion of the conscript act authorizing substitution in the army, and that our Senators be instructed and Representatives requested to urge the repeal of that portion of said act at as early a day as possible; and that the Governor transmit a copy of this resolution to Congress at its next session.

        Resolved, (the House concurring,) That the two Houses will meet in joint convention in the House, at 12 o'clock, M., on Tuesday next, 17th inst., for the purpose of electing a Senator to the Confederate States Congress for six years from and after the expiration of the term of the Hon. James Phelan.

        Resolved, (the House concurring,) That a joint committee of three on the part of the Senate, and----on the part of the House of Representatives be appointed to make suitable arrangements for the inauguration of the Governor elect on Monday next.

        The President of the Senate has appointed Messrs. McRae, Quin and Patton as the committee, on the part of the Senate, provided in said last above resolution.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The Senate messages were taken up, and the joint resolution appointing a committee to make suitable arrangements for the inauguration of the Governor elect, on Monday next, concurred in and the blank filled with five.

        The Speaker appointed as a committee on the part of the House to carry out said resolution, Messrs. Seal of Harrison, Dillard, Rucks, Thompson and Lowry.

        Mr. McGehee offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the regular hour of meeting of this House, hereafter, be 9 o'clock, A. M.

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Johnson, from the committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills have examined bills of the following titles, find the same correctly enrolled and have submitted them to the Governor for his approval and signature:

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Wm. W. Brooks, a minor.

        An act to amend an act to incorporate the Bank of Jackson and other Banks.

        An act to provide for the relief of destitute families in Yazoo county.

        On motion of Mr. Minter,

        The House adjourned until Monday morning, at 9 o'clock.


Page 154

MONDAY, November 16, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Mr. Stainback.

        Journal of Saturday read and approved.

        Mr. R. A. Harris, Representative elect from the county of Leake, presented his credentials and was sworn as a member of the House.

        The committee appointed to make arrangements for the inauguration of the Governor elect, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint select committee of both Houses of the Legislature, consisting of Messrs. Jas. B. McRae, Quin and W. S. Patton, on the part of the Senate, and Messrs. Roderick Seal, Dillard, Rucks, Thompson and Lowry, on the part of the House, appointed to make suitable arrangements for the inauguration of Charles Clark, Governor elect, in performance of their duty report the following order of arrangements, to-wit:

        The installation shall take place at 11 o'clock, A. M., on Monday, the 16th inst., and the oath of office shall be administered by Hon. James Drane, President of the Senate, in the presence of the two Houses, in the Hall of the House of Representatives.

        1. The Confederate troops, under command of Col. W. S. Barry, will parade at 10 o'clock, in front of and facing the Court House, in the following order:

        The cavalry under command of Col. T. J. Morton.

        Capt. J. C. Thrall's Arkansas Light Battery.

        Capt. T. W. Rice's Battery of Heavy Artillery.

        Col. W. S. Barry's 35th Regiment Mississippi Voluteers, commanded by Maj. T. F. Holmes, preceded by the Band.

        2. The Governor and Governor elect and escort.

        The Committee of Arrangements.

        Rev. C. K. Marshall, the officiating minister, and other clergymen.

        The State officers, Confederate Senators, Members of Congress and other distinguished persons.

        Officers of the Confederate army and of the State troops.

        Citizens at large.

        The procession will be formed ready to move promptly at half-past ten o'clock.

        On the appearance of the Governor and Governor elect, they will be saluted by the troops of infantry, and as soon as the Governors have joined the procession, the troops will be wheeled into column, infantry by platoons, cavalry by fours, and artillery by sections, and put in march on intimation from the marshal.


Page 155

        The procession will move along the following streets: Washington, Franklin, Monroe, Francis, Franklin, Main, Market and Military.

        On arriving in front of the House of Representatives, the procession, subject to the orders of the Marshal of the day, shall await the announcement of the Sergeant-at-Arms to the Governor elect that the two Houses are convened and ready to receive him.

        The Governor elect, the Governor, the Committee of Arrangements, the Marshal and his staff, and the State officers, preceded by the Sergeant-at-Arms, shall then proceed to the Hall of Representatives. On arriving at the bar of the Hall the Sergeant-at-Arms shall announce the Governor elect, on which announcement the members of the Senate and House shall rise to their feet, and the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House shall descend from the stand and conduct the Governor elect to the Clerk's desk, or in the portico, where the oath of office will be administered.

        After the administration of the oath, a salute of nine guns will be fired by the Light Battery.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        The following messages were received from the Governor through his private Secretary, Col. J. H. Rives:

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Nov. 14th, 1863.

MR. SPEAKER--

        His Excellency, the Governor, has signed and approved the following House bills:

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Wm. W. Brooks, a minor.

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Walter McDougal, a minor.

        An act to amend an act to incorporate the Bank of Jackson and other Banks.

        An act to provide for the relief of destitute families of Yazoo county.

        An act to amend an act incorporating the Mississippi Manufacturing Company.

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of William Rice Hooker.

        An act regulating the fees of Jailors in certain cases.

        An act to authorize the Board of Police of the county of Itawamba to make an appropriation out of the county treasury to pay the Tax Assessor for taking the number of children between the ages of six and eighteen years, in order to an equal dividend of that portion of the school fund appropriated to be laid out annually for the use of common schools.



Page 156

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Miss., Nov. 16, 1863.

MR. SPEAKER--

        I am directed by his Excellency, the Governor, to deliver to you the following message in writing, with accompanying documents:

Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives:

        I herewith transmit to you the report of the Trustees and Superintendent of the Mississippi State Lunatic Asylum, which was not received in time to be sent with my former messages.

        In February 1861 a small amount of property belonging to the United States was captured by State troops on Ship Island. I was directed by the military board to have it sold for the benefit of the State. Captain J. McCabe was charged with this duty, and by my order deposited the proceeds amounting to nine hundred and twenty-two dollars and sixty five cents with Block, McAfee & Co., of New Orleans, for the purchase of powder.

        About the 1st of April 1861, I sent to Major General Chas. Clark, at Mobile, through the house of Winston, Morrison & Co., of New Orleans, twenty-five thousand dollars of the military fund, to pay the expenses and give proper outfit to twenty companies of State troops called for by the President, to be sent to Pensacola. As this money was not sent regularly through the Quartermaster-General's office, the vouchers for its disbursement were left on file in my office by Gen. Clark on his return.

        I also paid out of the military fund, the Maynard Arms Company, through their agent and attorney, Geo. W. Bemis, twenty seven thousand and eight dollars and fifty-two cents. The requisition for this sum would have been drawn on appropriation for arms, but there was not in the Treasury at that time money to pay the debt subject to my requisition on that fund. Maynard Arms Company were pressing for payment. I had bought the arms and amunition on a credit, and the payment was guaranteed by the Hons. Jefferson Davis and Jacob Thompson, and I deemed it my duty to pay it out of any money in the treasury appropriated to military purposes.

        The papers, correspendence and vouchers in regard to this purchase of arms are on file in my office.

        The Convention appropriated first, ten thousand, and afterwards, five thousand, in all, fifteen thousand dollars, to pay the expenses of troops then in active service at Pensacola and Vicksburg. That sum has been expended as directed, and the vouchers are on file in my office.

        On the 29th day of April, 1861, I gave to Brig. Gen. R.


Page 157

Griffith a requisition for fifteen thousand dollars on the military fund to defray the expenses of two regiments of Mississippi troops called for by the President to be sent to Virginia. There was at that time no Confederate Quartermaster to take charge of the troops and provide for them, and no funds sent by the Confederate authorities. Brig. Gen'l. Griffith was ordered to take charge of them and funds given him for that purpose. His estimate for the amount necessary and receipt for requisition on the Auditor for the am't, are on file in my office, and his vouchers for the expenditure, I am informed, were left with J. D. Stewart, in the Banking House of Griffith & Stewart.

        Of these three sums amounting to something over sixty-seven thousand dollars--two amounting to forty thousand dollars were expended in placing the troops at the points to which the President's requisition called on me to place them, and to give them the necessary outfit. The other twenty-seven thousand was expended for Maynard rifles and ammunition, which were turned over to the Confederate authorities with our State troops when they went into Confederate service, and all constitute a just claim on the Confederate government in favor of the State.

        I herewith transmit a copy of the correspondence of the Confederate Treasury Department, showing the amount of money received by the State of Mississippi on claims audited for money expended by the State for the Confederate service, which as will be seen by the report, amounts to one hundred and twenty-five thousand four hundred and four dollars and seventy-seven cents.

        The accompanying report of 2d Auditor, W. H. S. Taylor, to Mr. Memminger, secrntary of the treasury, will show the amount of claims filed by the State for settlement, and the reasons why more of them have not been audited and allowed. I suggest that some competent agent be appointed to put in proper form all these and such other claims as the books of the several State Departments may show to be due the State, and present them for settlement at the Confederate Treasury.

        I herewith transmit such papers relating to the Geological Survey and the Analyses of salts, as have been received from E. W. Hilgard, State Geologist. An additional report of W. C. Turner, salt agent is herewith sent. [See Appendix.]

        The report of Rev. C. K. Marshall is herewith submitted, giving a statement of his operations as hospital agent of the State. [See Appendix.] The utility and necessity of extending the helping hand of the State to our sick and wounded soldiers, in my opinion stili exists, and I recommend the subject to your favorable consideration.

JOHN J. PETTUS.



Page 158

        The message was taken up, and

        On motion of Mr. Irby,

        Two hundred copies of the message and accompanying documents were ordered to be printed for the use of this House.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        The Senate messages were taken up, and the resolution fixing Tuesday, the 17th inst., at 12 o'clock, M., for the election of Confederate States Senator, was concurred in.

        On motion of Mr. Lott,

        The Senate amendment to House bill to be entitled "an act to remove the civil disabilities of Augustus H. Ware," striking out "Augustus" and inserting "Adolphus" in the bill and title, was concurred in by the House.

        On motion of Mr. Barton,

        The House took a recess until half-past 10 o'clock, A. M.

        Recess having expired, the Clerk was instructed to inform the Senate that the Hall of the House of Representatives was in readiness for their reception to the end that the two Houses proceed to the inauguration of the Governor elect.

        The Senate having been informed, entered and took the seats assigned them.

        On motion of Mr. McRae, of the Senate, the two Houses proceeded to the portico of the House to attend the inauguration.

        The Sergeant-at-Arms then announced the Governor elect, who being conducted to the Clerk's desk by the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives, accompanied by Rev. C. K. Marshall, then delivered the following

INAUGURAL ADDRESS.

        FELLOW CITIZENS--It is with no feigned embarrassment that I approach the discharge of the responsible duties to which your too kind partiality has assigned me. In the distressed condition of the State and its people, I may well distrust my ability to meet your expectations in the management of our military and civil affairs. Nothing could have induced me to undertake the task but the fullest confidence that my acts will meet with indulgent criticism, and that I shall be sustained by you in all proper measures and efforts in your service.

        The condition of the State is such as to require the application, for a time, of all our power and resources. We are invaded North, South and West by a vindictive foe, who is desolating our borders, burning our dwellings, insulting our people and inciting our slaves to insurrection. Regiments of the latter have already been embodied and armed to fight against their masters. The evil thus far has been felt only on


Page 159

our borders; but when we contemplate the contingencies of the future, especially the withdrawal from our State of a large portion of the Confederate forces, we shall discover that it is full time for vigorous preparation. Great as has been the draft upon our energies, Mississippi has yet ample resources, both in men and means. The militia being properly organized as a supporting force, a few thousand mounted volunteers will be sufficient to protect the State from the raiding incursions of the enemy, while against the invasion of large armies we shall be supported by the arms of the Confederacy. I doubt not that your Legislature, at its present session, will make provision to meet all possible requirements.

        We have not lightly entered upon the path we are pursuing; and, conscious of the rectitude of our intentions and the justice of our cause, we have neither motive or desire to retrace our steps. There may be those who delude themselves with visions of a reconstructed Union and a restored Constitution. If such there be, let them awake from their dreaming! Between the South and the North there is a great gulf fixed. It is a gulf crimsoned with the blood of our sons and brothers, filled with the bitter hatred of our enemies and the memories of our wrongs. It can be passed only with dishonor, and in reconstruction we shall reach the climax of infamy! Humbly submit yonrselves to our hated foes, and they will offer you a reconstructed Constitution providing for the confiscation of your property, the immediate emancipation of your slaves and the elevation of the black race to a position of equality, aye, of superiority, that will make them your masters and rulers. Rather than such base submission, such ruin and dishonor, let the last of our young men die upon the field of battle, and when none are left to wield a blade or uphold our banner, then let our old men, our women and our children, like the remnant of the heroic Pascagoulas, when their braves were slain, join hands together, march into the sea and perish beneath its waters.

        Whenever it may be necessary to call out the forces of the State, I shall endeavor to make them efficient for the defense of the people. The day of militia play-time has passed.--Such troops as I may be entrusted to command, must expect to yield to the stern necessities which are forced upon us, and do the duty of soldiers. They must repel raids, not make them. Strict inquiry shall be made as to the justice or injustice of the complaints of some portion of our people as to the alleged disorders of the soldiers, both State and Confederate. It will not be permitted them to insult, plunder or oppress those whom they are called to protect, and on the other hand, the honor of the troops requires that they should be vindicated against unjust charges and imputations. To effect this


Page 160

it is necessary that strict discipline should be enforced by the officers, and they themselves held to a rigid accountability. Without this they degenerate into an injurious mob, useless to the State, and a disgrace to the service. Without this the disorderly and vicious cannot be discovered and punished, while their infamy is left to stain the names and the memories of their companions. Having commanded Mississippians in two wars, I think I know the character of the gallant men who march in their battalions. I have commanded thousands of them and have never been compelled to inflict a disgraceful punishment upon a single one. I trust and believe that there are but few who deserve the reproaches which have been cast upon the State troops, and that, upon investigation, it will be found that the complaints against them are groundless.

        There are within our borders no inconsiderable number of men who are now absent from the ranks of your defenders without justification or excuse. To compel them to go to the field of duty, I invoke the voice of an outraged public opinion; I invoke a gentler, higher power, the voice and influence of woman. He is unworthy of her smiles who is not ready to fight and to die in her defense.

        Although military matters may require much of my time, no other interest of the State shall be neglected. My earnest attention will be directed to the fostering of such manufactories, and the procurement of such supplies of the necessaries of life as may be authorized by law.

        Our salt works may not be sufficient for the wants of the people, but they may be made to furnish a larger quantity, and aid to further reduce prices. No effort will be spared to procure cotton and woolen cards, and such other articles as may be required for domestic industry, if the Legislature will make proper appropriations for that purpose. One of the most gratifying indications of the times is the resolute spirit of industry manifested by our women. The spinning wheel is preferred to the harp, and the loom makes a music of loftier patriotism and inspiration than the keys of the piano.

        Among the duties I shall be called upon to perform, is one which will give me peculiar pleasure--that of superintending the distribution of the funds to be provided for the maintenance of the families of our soldiers. This should not be deemed the granting of a charity, but the payment of a debt, the discharge of a high obligation, and for which I doubt not your Legislature will make ample provision. The wives and children of thousands of our gallant men are left to our care. Let them be adopted as the children of the State. Many of them are now widows and orphans bequeathed to us by those who have shed their blood in our defense. Let the sacred legacy be accepted, and the God of the widow and the fatherless will bless your cause.


Page 161

        Fellow Citizens--For the distinguished honor you have conferred upon me, I offer you my grateful thanks; grateful, because I do not deem myself more worthy than many others. I have imperilled my life in your cause, but this I have done with thousands of my countrymen. I have been less fortunate than those who are yet permitted to bear aloft your banners and carry them onward to victory; and if their efforts should fail, and we should be doomed to subjugation, I shall be less fortunate than those who now sleep in honorable but undistinguished graves on the battle-fields of their conntry. But if we are true to our high purpose we cannot fail. Every effort of the enemy must be resisted with renewed energy, and final victory will crown our banners. Let us exert all the powers that God has given us, and humbly, yet confidently, trust to His just Providence for the result. We are but defending the rights and liberties He has given, and if we faithfully employ the strength and means He has bestowed, He will, in his own good time, secure them to us. But this will not be until we have, through all the trials He may impose, shown ourselves worthy. The prayers of our noble and heroic women may avail much, but deeds are also required of men. The Almighty holds the scales of battle with an even hand, and prayer and supplication alone will not avail. The balance will not preponderate in your favor until you cast in your swords.

CHARLES CLARK.


        Hon. James Drane then administered to General Charles Clark, Governor elect, the oath of office.

        The ceremonies of the inauguration having been gone through with, the President of the Senate announced that the two Houses had accomplished the object for which they had convened.

        The Senate retired, and the House of Representatives withdrew to their chamber.

        The House was called to order by the Speaker, when,

        On motion of Mr. Stephens,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

TUESDAY, November 17, 1863.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Lyon.

        The journal of yesterday was read and approved.


Page 162

        On motion of Mr. Regan,

        The vote by which on yesterday the House ordered 200 copies of the Governor's message received on yesterday and accompanying documents to be printed, was reconsidered, and that portion of the message and accompanying documents relating to the Lunatic Asylum be referred to the committee on that Institution.

        Mr. Yandell moved a reconsideration of the vote by which on yesterday the House concurred in the Senate joint resolution to go into the election of Confederate States Senator today at 12 o'clock,

        Which motion was lost.

        On motion, the House proceeded to the call of the counties for the presentation of petitions, memorials, &c.

        Mr. Regan introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of tax payers in certain cases, and for other purposes,

        Was read three several times, the rules being suspended, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Bestor presented the petition of J. S. Terrell, Sr., and W. A. Trotter, Executors of J. S. Terrell, Jr., dec'd, of Clark county,

        Which was read and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Seal, of Hancock, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to repeal an act entitled an act to reduce the taxes of Hancock county, and for other purposes, approved Dec. 16, 1861,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, by leave, introduced a bill entitled

        An act to repeal an act entitled an act to prohibit the distillation of spirits from grain, molasses and sugar, approved January 3d, 1863, and for other purposes,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on the Judiciary.

        Mr. Shelley introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to reimburse Itawamba county,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Referred to the Judiciary committee, with instructions to bring in a general bill on the subject.

        Mr. Barton introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to change the name of Mildred Harris, of Itawamba county,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Robinson presented the petition of E. C. Mosby, of Kemper county, which was referred to the committee on the Judiciary, without reading.


Page 163

        Also, a memorial of sundry citizens of Kemper county, which was referred to the committee of Ways and Means.

        Mr. Isom presented the petition of W. S. McKee, Tax Collector of Lafayette county, and a memorial of the Police Court of said county, which was referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.

        Mr. Murdock introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to amend the charter of the Columbus Life and General Insurance Company, and the Mississippi Mutual Insurance Company, approved January 25th, 1862,

        Which was read twice under suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Murdock introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the Sheriff of Lowndes county to receive Confederate notes in payment for runaway slaves sold under the provisions of law,

        Which was read twice, under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee of Ways and Means, with instructions to report a general bill on the subject.

        Mr. Upshaw offered a joint resolution granting leave of absence to Hon. T. M. Yancey, Probate Judge of Marshall county,

        Which was adopted under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Falconer offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the Rev. C. K. Marshall be invited to address the members of the Legislature and the citizens, in this Hall to-night at 7 o'clock, and that the Clerk of the House notify him of the passage of this resolution.

        Mr. Carroll offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the use of this House be tendered to Hon. Wm. S. Barry, and that he be requested to address the Legislature on the present condition and future prospects of the country, and that the Clerk be requested to furnish Col. Barry with a copy of this resolution.

        Mr. Irby introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of William C. Nickle, Tax Assessor of Panola county,

        Which was read three several times and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. McNiel introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of the destitute families of soldiers of Pontotoc county,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Dillard offered the following resolution:


Page 164

        Resolved, That our Senators in the Congress of the Confederate States be instructed and our Representatives requested to use all honorable means to secure the passage of a law providing for the payment of horses lost in the military service of the Confederate States by unavoidable accident or captured by the enemy.

        Which was adopted.

        The following message was received from the Senate: MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed a bill entitled an act to compel Anderson Bean, ex-Sheriff, to pay over certain money to the Treasurer of Chickasaw county, and for other purposes.

        The Senate has adopted the following joint resolutions, in which the concurrence of the House is desired:

        Resolved, (the House concurring,) That the Governor be respectfully requested to inform the Legislature, at his earliest convenience, whether the 4th section of an act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of this State, approved Jan. 3d, 1863, has been enforced as contemplated and required by law, and if not, to state the reasons if within his knowledge, of the failure to do so.

        Resolved, (the House concurring,) That a committee of three on the part of the Senate, and----on the part of the House, be appointed to examine the Executive Mansion fund, the appropriation made by the convention for the Pensacola expedition and the appropriation by the Legislature for the purpose of buying arms, &c., and report what amount of said appropriations have been expended and in what manner.

        Messrs. Hamilton, Mayson and Patton have been appointed as the committee on the part of the Senate provided for in said resolution.

        Resolved, (the House concurring,) That our Senators be instructed and our Representatives in the Confederate States Congress be requested to pass an act making Confederate notes a legal tender.

        WHEREAS, information has been received that the patients in the State Lunatic Asylum are very much in need of clothing and almost entirely without shoes; also that the efficient Superintendent is very much embarrassed over the means of supplying them, therefore

        Resolved, (the House concurring,) That the committee on the Lunatic Asylum is hereby respectfully instructed to make immediate inquiry into the wants and necessities of the Institution and report at an early day by bill or otherwise.

        Also, have adopted joint resolution entitled "a resolution for the relief of certain counties."

        The Senate have concurred in the House resolution entitled


Page 165

"joint resolution for the purpose of compiling the Constitution of the State of Mississippi and the Confederate States," and have appointed Messrs. Hamilton, Mayson and Davis as the committee on the part of the Senate as provided for in said resolution.

        And have also concurred in joint resolution of the House:

        Joint resolution instructing Senators and requesting Representatives for certain purposes therein named, with an amendment thereto in which the concurrence of the House is desired.

        Mr. Sutton introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Sydney Moore Jackson, a minor of Rankin county.

        Which was read three several times and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Sutton introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend chapter 8, of the Revised Code, establishing the fees of certain officers, so far as it relates to the Clerk of the Probate Court of Rankin county,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson, moved the reference of the bill to the committee of Ways and Means,

        Was laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. Sutton,

        The constitutional rule was suspended, the bill read third time, and passed with title as stated.

        Mr. McGehee offered the following joint resolution, which was read once:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That this Legislature adjourn sine die on Saturday, the 21st day of November, 1863.

        Mr. Hendon introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to change the time of holding the Probate Court of Scott county,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Lowry introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to repair the Mobile and Ohio Railroad, and for other purposes,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On motion of Mr. Turley,

        Referred to the committee on Internal Improvements.

        Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson, offered a resolution asking an appropriation to G. C. Dennis, a soldier of Co. F, 14th Reg't Miss. Vols., captured at Donelson, which, with the accompanying documents was referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.

        Mr. Brown introduced a bill to be entitled


Page 166

        An act to authorize the Board of Police of Winston county to borrow money from the school fund of said county for the use of the destitute families of soldiers in that county,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Also, a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of John W. Cox, of Winston county, and to remove the civil disabilities of said minor,

        Which was read three several times, the rules being suspended, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Buntin, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend the assessment laws of this State,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee of Ways and Means.

        Mr. Yandell, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act granting amnesty to persons accused of crime on certain conditions, which

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On motion of Mr. Fox,

        Referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Barnett, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend the attachment laws of this State, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On his further motion,

        Was referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Barnett offered the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That the use of this House be tendered to the Hon. J. L. Alcorn, on Thursday night next, and that he be requested to address this House and the public on the state of the country, and that the Clerk be requested to inform him of the same.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The House took a recess of five minutes to prepare the Hall for the reception of the Senate, to the end that the two Houses in joint convention proceed to the election of Confederate States Senator.

        The recess having expired, the House was called to order by the Speaker.

        The Clerk was instructed to inform the Senate that the Hall of the House was in readiness for their reception to the end that the two Houses in joint convention proceed to the election of Confederate States Senator.

        The Senate was announced by the Sergeant-at-Arms and took the seats assigned them.

        The President explained the object of the joint convention.


Page 167

        Mr. Moore, of the Senate, moved that the convention proceed to the election of Confederate States Senator by ballot, and that tellers be appointed,

        Which was adopted.

        The President appointed as tellers Messrs. Moore of the Senate, and Dale of the House.

        Nominations being in order,

        Mr. Luckett, of the Senate, nominated Fulton Anderson, of Hinds.

        Mr. Moore, of the Senate, nominated J. W. C. Watson, of Marshall.

        Mr. Oliver, of the Senate, nominated James Phelan, of Monroe.

        Mr. Montgomery, of the House, nominated C. D. Fontaine, of Pontotoc.

        Mr. Wilson, of the Senate, nominated S. J. Gholson, of Monroe.

        Mr. Stephens, of the House, nominated W. S. Featherston, of Marshall.

        There being no other nominations, the convention proceeded to balloting.

        On the first ballot

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to a second ballot, when


Page 168

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to a third ballot.

        Mr. Liddell placed in nomination Hon. Walker Brooke, of Warren county.

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast,

        Mr. Brown, of the House, moved that the Convention take a recess till 3 o'clock,

        Which motion was lost.

        The Convention then proceeded to the fourth ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast,

        On motion of Mr. Moore, of the Senate,

        The Convention took a recess until 3 o'clock P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK P. M.

        Recess having expired, the Convention was called to order by the President.

        The Convention then proceeded to the fifth ballot, when

        No election.

        Mr. Oliver, of the Senate, presented the following communication from the Hon James Phelan, withdrawing his name from before the Convention.

HON SIMEON OLIVER:

        My Esteemed Friend--I authorize you to withdraw my name from before the Convention. In doing so I have not consulted with a single friend; but I cannot consent longer to embarrass the action of the Legislature from merely personal considerations. Elected to the Confederate Senate for two years, for that time I have labored to discharge the responsible duties of that position, and now retire from it, I trust, without having tarnished with a stain the name of Mississippi. But enough of this. Withdraw my name, and for your past kindness accept an assurance of my grateful remembrance.

Your friend,

JAMES PHELAN.


        The Convention then proceeded to a sixth ballot, when

        No election.

        Mr. Montgomery, of the House, withdrew the name of Mr. Fontaine.

        The Convention proceeded to the seventh ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to the eighth ballot, when Mr[.] Liddell, of the House, withdrew the name of Hon. Walker Brooke.

        Mr[.] Alcorn then rose to a point of order, that in balloting each member should deliver his ballot to the tellers, and not by proxy. It was sustained.

        The Convention then proceeded to the ninth ballot, when

        Mr. Stephens, of the House, withdrew the name of Gen. W. S Featherston.

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to the tenth ballot, when

        Neither of the candidates having received a majority of all the votes cast, the Convention proceeded to the eleventh ballot, when


Page 171

        Mr. Watson having received a constitutional majority of all the votes cast, was declared by the President of the Convention to be duly and constitutionally elected Confederate States Senator for the term of six years from the expiration of the term of service of the Hon. James Phelan.

        The object of the joint convention having been accomplished, the Senate retired to their chamber.

        On motion of Mr. Brown,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, Nov. 18, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Mr. Larrabee.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed a bill entitled "an act to authorize the repair of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad between Okolona and Tupelo, in this State, and for other purposes."

        Have also passed a House bill entitled "an act to amend the school laws of the county of Itawamba."

        And concurred in the House joint resolution entitled "joint resolution instructing our Senators and requesting our Representatives therein named."

        On motion the call of the counties was dispensed with.

        Mr. Hicks, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to provide for the redemption of lands sold to the State for taxes at the office of Auditor of Public Accounts.

        Which was read three several times and passed, under a suspension of the rules, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Stubbs, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of J. D. W. Duckworth, Tax collector of Smith county,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.

        Mr. Minter, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to remove the civil and legal disabilities of Samuel B. Jones, of Sunflower county,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Houston, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled


Page 172

        An act to extend the provisions of an act entitled an act to suspend for a limited time certain portions of the Statute of Limitations,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Houston presented the petition of James F. White and others, of Monroe county, accompanied by a bill for their relief entitled "an act for the relief of the devisees and legatees of John T. Fortson,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Houston offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the Judiciary committee be and they are hereby instructed to bring in a bill so changing the Constitution of the State of Mississippi as to allow soldiers in service, whether within or without the limits of the State, to vote for Governor, members of the Legislature, and all other State and county officers, as if they were at the time in the county of their own residence,

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Allen introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to allow the Sheriffs and Tax Collectors additional time to collect the taxes for the year 1862, in certain cases,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Eskridge, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to encourage the manufacture of cotton and wool cards in this State,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee of Ways and Means.

        Mr. Upshaw, by leave, introduced a joint resolution in relation to the illegal impressment of slaves, &c.,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and adopted.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The regular order of business was suspended, and Senate messages taken up, and the Senate joint resolution adding a committee on Agriculture and Mechanics, to the joint standing committees of the Legislature, was concurred in.

        The Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to incorporate the Alabama and Mississippi Rivers Railroad Company, was read once.

        The Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to extend the time of assessing the taxes in counties therein named, was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Rogers offered the following amendment:

        "Strike out the county of Tippah."

        On motion of Mr. Regan,


Page 173

        The bill and amendment were referred to the committee of Ways and Means.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of G. S. McMillan, District Attorney for the 2d Judicial District of the State of Mississippi,

        Was read three several times under suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act for the speedy recovery of personal property, wrongfully taken or detained.

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Johnson, of DeSoto, offered the following amendment.

        SEC.--. Be it further enacted, That 2000 copies of this bill be printed in pamphlet form, and that the Secretary of State be required to distribute the same as equally as may be to the different counties of this State, which,

        On motion of Mr. Seal of Harrison,

        Was laid on the table.

        Mr. Regan offered the following amendment:

        Strike out "three months" wherever it occurs, and insert "twelve months,"

        Which was adopted.

        On motion,

        The rules were suspended, the bill read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The Senate joint resolution for defraying certain expenses, was concurred in by the House.

        Also, Senate joint resolution appointing a joint select committee to revise and compile the Constitution of the State of Mississippi, &c., was taken up.

        On motion of Mr. Lewers,

        The blank was filled with five, and the resolution concurred in by the House.

        Same committee appointed as on a similar resolution passed by the House and concurred in by the Senate.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to provide for the examination of the offices of the Auditor of Public Accounts and State Treasurer,

        Which was read once.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to extend the powers of the Police Courts of Chickasaw, Noxubee, Winston, Choctaw, Carroll and Sunflower counties,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on Indigent Families.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Josiah H. Askew,

        Which was read three several times times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.


Page 174

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to extend the law in reference to overseers of roads,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Minter moved to amend by inserting the county of "Sunflower,"

        Which was adopted.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        The bill was referred to the committee on Internal Improvements, with instructions to bring in a general bill on the same subject.

        The Speaker asked and obtained leave of absence for a few days.

        Leave of absence was granted Mr. Buntin.

        On motion of Mr. Yandell,

        Hon. J. L. Alcorn was chosen by acclamation Speaker pro tem.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9½ o'clock.

THURSDAY, Nov. 19, 1863.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        The committee on Enrolled Bills made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills have examined a bill entitled "an act to remove the civil disabilities of Adolphus H. Ware," find the same correctly enrolled and have submitted it to the Governor for his approval and signature.

        Leave of absence was granted Mr. Johnson, of DeSoto, Mr. McGehee, of Pike, and Mr. Eskridge, of Tallahatchie.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        The House proceeded to the consideration of Senate messages.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the payment of interest upon common school funds, and for other purposes, was read once.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of Samuel M. Meek,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        On motion of Mr. Rucks,

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.


Page 175

        Senate joint resolution instructing our Senators and requesting our Representatives in Congress to urge the repeal of that portion of the conscript act authorizing substitution in the army, was concurred in.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Thomas M. Smedes,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate amendment to House joint resolution inserting after the words "officers" the words "and also pay off the amounts due to the families or legal heirs of deceased soldiers," requesting the passage of an act for the appointment of an agent or agents to settle unsettled accounts and certificates and receipts given persons for provisions, &c., was concurred in by the House.

        Mr. Thompson asked and obtained leave to introduce the following resolution, which was adopted:

        Resolved, That Gen. S. D. Lee, Gen. N. B. Forrest and Gen. S. W. Ferguson be invited to take seats within the bar of this House during their stay in Columbus, and that a committee of three be appointed to inform them of the passage of this resolution.

        The Speaker appointed as committee on above resolution, Messrs. Thompson, Johnson of Wilkinson, and Ross.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to compel Anderson Bean, ex-Sheriff, to pay over certain money to the Treasurer of Chickasaw county, and for other purposes,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Senate joint resolution instructing our Senators and requesting our Representatives in Congress to pass an act making Confederate notes a legal tender, was read once.

        Mr. Powe offered the following amendment by way of substitute:

        Strike out all after the word "resolved" and insert "by the Legislature of the State of Mississippi, That the Confederate States Senators from the State of Mississippi be instructed, and the Representatives in Congress from the different Districts of this State be requested, to use their best endeavors to procure the passage of a law authorizing the issuance of bonds, bearing 6 per cent., for the redemption of the Confederate Treasury notes now in circulation and which may be issued up to the first of January, A. D. 1864, and to procure all things necessary to be done to make the Confederate Treasury notes issued after the first day of January, A. D. 1864, a legal tender in all contracts whatsoever throughout the Confederate States."


Page 176

        Mr. Rogers moved that the substitute be laid on the table.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, moved that the substitute and original resolution be laid on the table.

        Mr. Bradford called for a division of the question.

        The vote was first taken on laying the resolution on the table and decided in the negative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Powe, Stephens and Tindall:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Arnold, Brown, Barnett, Easterling, Fowler, Grace, Gowan, Hicks, Hooker, Liddell, Lewers, Murdock, McKay of Green, McNiel, Owen, Pope, Powe, Pinson, Regan, Rucks, Seal of Harrison, Sessions, Stephens, Tindall, Turley and Yandell--28.

        NAYS--Messrs. Allen, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Barton, Clark, Cunningham, Carroll, Downs, Deason of Jones, Daniel, Dillard, Dale, Evans, Fox, Foxworth, Falconer, Gully, Harris, Hathorn, Hendon, Isom, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Kirk, Lott, Lowry, Minter, Moore, Marable, Morehead, Montgomery, Maxwell, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McGehee, Prewitt, Rogers, Ross, Robinson, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Taylor, Thompson, Upshaw, Wells, Wier and Wynne--53.

        The House refused to lay the resolution on the table.

        The question was then taken on laying the substitute on the table and decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Powe, Stephens and Tindall, as follows, to-wit:

        YEAS--Messrs. Allen, Bradford, Bestor, Barton, Barnett, Clark, Cunningham, Downs, Deason of Jones, Daniel, Dale, Evans, Fowler, Fox, Falconer, Gully, Hicks, Harris, Hathorn, Hendon, Isom, Kirk, Lott, Moore, Marable, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McGehee, Owen, Pinson, Prewitt, Rogers, Ross, Robinson, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Sessions, Shelley, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Taylor, Thompson, Turley, Upshaw, Wells, Wier and Wynne--47.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Arnold, Boon, Brown, Carroll, Deason of Copiah, Dillard, Easterling, Fox-worth, Grace, Gowan, Hooker, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Liddell, Lowry, Lewers, Morehead, Montgomery, Maxwell, Murdock, McKay of Green, McNiel, Pope, Powe, Regan, Rucks, Stephens, Tindall and Yandell--33.

        The substitute was laid on the table.

        Mr. Rogers moved that the resolution be made the special order for Tuesday next,

        Which was lost.

        The following message was received from the Senate:


Page 177

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has passed the following entitled bills:

        An act to change the name of Nancy Delaware Wyatt to that of Nancy Delaware Gibbs, and to enable Joseph Gibbs and wife to adopt her as their child.

        A bill entitled "an act to enable the High Court of Errors and Appeals of this State to prevent injustice to suitors and to correct some of the evils arising from the present use."

        A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of citizens of DeSoto county, whose lands have been illegally sold for taxes of 1862.

        And concurred in the joint resolution of the House entitled joint resolution in relation to the illegal impressment of slaves.

        Pending the motion to concur in the Senate resolution,

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The House resumed the consideration of the question pending on adjournment, to-wit: The Senate resolution instructing our Senators and requesting our Representatives in Congress to pass an act making Confederate notes a legal tender, and the motion that the House concur therein.

        Mr. Thompson offered the following amendment by way of substitute:

        Amend by striking out all after the word "requested" and insert "to urge before Congress the passage of a law that will retire from circulation the present outstanding Treasury notes, and provide for the issuance of Treasury notes, or other evidences of debt, which shall be declared a legal tender in the payment of debts,

        Which was adopted by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Bradford, Stubbs of Smith and Minter:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Allen, Arnold, Boon, Brown, Barnett, Cunningham, Carroll, Deason of Copiah, Deason of Jones, Daniel, Dillard, Evans, Fowler, Foxworth, Grace, Gowan, Hicks, Hooker, Hathorn, Isom, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Kirk, Liddell, Lott, Lowry, Lewers, Minter, Montgomery, Maxwell, Murdock, McKay of Green, McLaurin, McNeil, Pope, Powe, Pinson, Regan, Robinson, Sessions, Sutton, Stephens, Taylor, Thompson, Tindall, Turley, Wells, Wier, Watson, Yandell--54.

        NAYS--Messrs. Bradford, Clark, Downs, Dale, Fox, Falconer, Gully, Harris, Hendon, Moore, Marable, McKay of Neshoba, Prewitt, Rogers, Ross, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith, Upshaw and Wynne--22.


Page 178

        The substitute was adopted.

        Mr. Falconer offered the following amendment:

        Resolved by the Legislature of the State of Mississippi, That it is the sense of this Legislature that the Congress of the Confederate States should adopt some measure making Confederate Treasury notes a legal tender in payment of all debts contracted after such measure becomes a law, and a legal tender in payment of debts before contracted in so far as to bar interest on all debts in which interest is not a part of the written contract after tender of payment shall have been made in said Treasury notes.

        Which was lost.

        The question then recurred on the adoption of the Senate resolution as amended, and was decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Dale, Minter and Bradford:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Allen, Arnold, Bestor, Boon, Brown, Barnett, Cunningham, Carroll, Deason of Copiah, Downs, Deason of Jones, Daniel, Dillard, Evans, Foxworth, Falconer, Grace, Gowan, Hooker, Hathorn, Isom, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Kirk, Liddell, Lowry, Lewers, Minter, Moore, Maxwell, Murdock, McKay of Green, McLaurin, Pope, Powe, Prewitt, Regan, Rucks, Ross, Robinson, Sessions, Shelley, Sutton, Stephens, Taylor, Thompson, Tindall, Upshaw, Wells, Wier and Yandell--55.

        NAYS--Messrs. Bradford, Clark, Dale, Fowler, Fox, Gully, Harris, Hendon, Lott, Marable, Montgomery, McKay of Neshoba, McGehee, McNiel, Pinson, Rogers, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Stubbs of Smith, Turley, Watson and Wynne--23.

        The resolution was concurred in.

        The following message was received from the Governor:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Nov. 19th, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        His Excellency, the Governor, has signed and approved the following House bill:

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Adolphus H. Ware, a minor.

        Mr. Murdock, by leave introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the collection of money loaned to railroad companies from the Chickasaw school fund,

        Which was referred without reading.

        Leave of absence was granted Messrs. Barton and Minter.

        On motion of Mr. Jackson,

        Mr. Dale was added to the committee on Military Affairs.


Page 179

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the repair of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad between Okolona and Tupelo, and for other purposes,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        Referred to the committee of the Whole and made the special order for 12 o'clock to-morrow.

        On motion of Mr. Brown,

        The House adjourned until 9 o'clock to-morrow morning.

FRIDAY, November 20, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Mr. Coleman.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        Leave of absence was granted Messrs. Easterling and Robinson.

        Mr. Wm. C. Staples, Representative elect from the county of Choctaw, presented his credentials and was sworn in as a member of the House.

        Mr. Watson, from the select committee on Indigent Families, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The select committee charged with the duty of reporting a bill for the indigent families of soldiers, have performed the duty assigned them, and herewith report a bill to be entitled "an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers," and recommend its adoption.

        The bill was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on said bill,

        Mr. Regan in the chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House, with a recommendation that it be laid on the table, 200 copies printed, and made the special order for Tuesday next at 11 o'clock.

        Mr. Moore introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of Mississippi State Troops,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on Military Affairs.

        Mr. Falconer made the following report from a select committee.


Page 180

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The special committee to whom was referred the report of Cooper & Kimball, Public Printers, have had the same under consideration and find it correct in every respect. They find that the Laws and Journals of the called session of the Legislature, held in December and January last, were printed as stated in their report, and only required stitching to be ready for delivery;--that the Federals came to Jackson and destroyed all. Your committee are of the opinion that Cooper & Kimball should not be allowed the old price for printing these Laws and Journals, which will not, in consequence of the enhanced price of labor, paper and other material, reimburse them by more than one-half. They therefore recommend the passage of the accompanying bill. They beg leave further to recommend the passage of the accompanying bill establishing the price of printing. In consequence of the depreciation of the currency, the scarcity of material and the difficulty of procuring it, and the enhanced price of labor, it is impossible for the Printers to do the work at the prices now established by law without a very heavy sacrifice. The prices therein stated, we are satisfied, are reasonable. We recommend that the bills be printed on newspaper, as the work can be done for about one-half what it would cost if printed on foolscap.

        The bill entitled "an act for the relief of Cooper & Kimball, State Printers,"

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        On motion of Mr. Bradford,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on said bill,

        Mr. Seal of Harrison, in the Chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported the bill back to the House, and recommended its passage.

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The bill to be entitled "an act to regulate the price of State Printing,"

        Was read three times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Bestor, from the committee on Education, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Education, to whom was referred the bill to be entitled "an act to incorporate the Southern College of Medical Surgery," have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the bill back to the House, and recommend that it do pass.


Page 181

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has passed a bill entitled "an act to authorize the President of the Board of Police of Winston county to bring suits for the collection of notes made payable to the Swamp Land Commissioners of said county, and for other purposes."

        And have adopted the following joint resolutions in which the concurrence of the House is desired, to-wit:

        Resolution in relation to adjournment, and resolution in relation to Executive Mansion Fund.

        The Senate has concurred in House amendment to Senate bill entitled "an act for the speedy recovery of personal property wrongfully taken or detained," with an amendment to House amendment.

        The Senate has passed a substitute for House bill entitled "an act to authorize the Board of Police of the county of Itawamba to borrow money from the school fund." The said substitute is entitled "an act to authorize the Boards of Police of the different counties to borrow money from the school fund."

        The Senate have passed the following House bills:

        An act to change the time of holding the Probate Court of Leake county.

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Sydney Moore Jackson.

        An act to change the name of Mildred Harris, of Itawamba county."

        An act for the relief of John W. Cox, and to remove the civil disabilities of the same.

        And have concurred in the House resolution granting leave of absence to Tryan M. Yancey, with an amendment thereto, in which the concurrence of the House is desired.

        Mr. Wells from the committee on Propositions and Grievances, made the following report which was received and agreed to:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The standing committee on Propositions and Grievances to whom was referred "an act to compel Railroads to keep lights, fire and water on their cars" have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report the said bill back to the House, and recommend that it do pass.

        The bill was read the third time.

        Mr. Murdock moved the following amendment:


Page 182

        Amend by way of engrossed ryder--

        SEC. Be it further enacted, That the said Mobile and Ohio Railroad Company shall not be liable for any penalties provided for in this act for not furnishing lights on the cars should they find it impracticable to procure oil, which

        On motion of Mr. Turley,

        Was laid on the table.

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Wells made the following reports:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The standing committee on Propositions and Grievances to whom was referred the petition of Reese Price, of Clark county, praying relief for a negro man and other property lost while impressed into the service of the State, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report that no legislation is necessary, his remedy being provided for in the impressment act.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The standing committee on Propositions and Grievances to whom was referred the resolution to appropriate pay to G. C. Dennis, an independent soldier in Company F, 14th Regiment Mississippi Volunteers, and who was taken prisoner at the surrender of Fort Donelson, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House and recommend that it do not pass.

        Which were received and agreed to.

        Mr. Wells made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The standing committee on Propositions and Grievances to whom was referred the memorial of W. C. Tucker, of Lowndes county, asking for the passage of a law permitting him to sell wine by the bottle, manufactured by him from the grape, have had said memorial under consideration, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House with a recommendation that no legislation is necessary on the subject.

        Mr. Wells moved that the report be received and agreed to.

        Mr. Hicks called for a division of the question.

        The vote was first taken on receiving the report and decided in the affirmative.

        The question was then taken on agreeing to the report and decided in the negative.

        The petition was then,

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,


Page 183

        Referred to the joint standing committee on Agriculture and Mechanics.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, made the following report, which was received and agreed to:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Elections, to whom was referred a resolution of enquiry as to the constitutionality of members holding over and taking seats in this body, have had the same under consideration for some time, and I am instructed to report that the 6th article of amendment of the Constitution of the State of Mississippi, approved Nov. 19, 1857, which is couched in these words--

        "That the following words be and they are hereby inserted in the Constitution of the State and form a part thereof, to-wit: That the amendment of the Constitution voted for by a majority of the qualified electors of this State at the last general election, known as the tenure of office amendment, and which was added to the Constitution by an act of the Legislature of this State, approved the 6th day of February, 1856, be abrogated so far as it fixes the Tenure of office of members of the Legislature, and in lieu thereof the following section be adopted and inserted in the Constitution:

        "SEC.--. The tenure of office of members of the Legislature shall be for the period now fixed by the Constitution, and shall commence from and after their election and expire at the next general election at which their successors are elected. Approved Nov. 19, 1857."

        This amendment settles this question beyond doubt, and it is the opinion of the committee that members of the Legislature cannot hold over under the Constitution of this State. All of which is submitted.

        The Speaker announced as the committee on Agriculture and Mechanics, Messrs. Tindall, Murdock, Cunningham, Brown, Yandell and Ross.

        Mr. Murdock, by leave, introduced the following preamble and resolution, which was adopted:

        WHEREAS, It was impossible for the citizens of the city of Vicksburg to hold an election for a Representative to this House at the late general election in consequence of the occupation of said city by the forces of the United States; therefore,

        Resolved, That F. R. Turley, Representative from said city in the last Legislature, be invited to take a seat in this House and participate in its discussions, and that he be allowed pay and mileage as other members.

        Mr. Fowler made the following report:


Page 184

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint standing committee on Internal Improvements have had under their consideration House bill entitled "an act to suspend the Levee tax authorized to be assessed by the Boards of Police of the Mississippi River Levee District," and have instructed me to report the same back to the House and recommend its passage.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        The bill was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Upshaw made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Military Affairs have had under consideration a bill to be entitled "an act to provide an assistant to the Quartermaster General of the State," and have instructed me to report said bill back to the House with an amendment, and recommend that it do pass as amended.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Liddell moved to amend the amendment reported by the committee by adding the words "unless such clerk be a disabled soldier,"

        Which was adopted.

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Upshaw, from the committee on Military Affairs, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Military Affairs have had under consideration a bill to be entitled "an act to encourage enlistments in the army of the Confederate States and for other purposes," and have instructed me to report the same back to the House with the recommendation that it do pass.

        Which was received and agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. Regan,

        The bill was laid on the table, 200 copies ordered to be printed, and made the special order for Wednesday next at 12 o'clock.

        Mr. Watson, from the Judiciary committee made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to repeal an act entitled an act to prohibit the distillation of spirits from grain, molasses and sugar, approved January 3d, 1863, and for other purposes, have instructed me to report the same back to the House with a recommendation that it do pass.


Page 185

        Mr. Shelley offered the following amendment:

        Strike out the words "ten dollars" wherever it occurs and insert "five dollars," and strike out "twelve dollars" wherever it occurs and insert "six dollars."

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The amendment was laid on the table.

        The bill was then read a third time, the rules being suspended, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Leave of absence was granted Mr. Gowan.

        The hour for the special order having arrived,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on the bill to be entitled.

        An act to authorize the repair of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad between Okolona and Tupelo, and for other purposes,

        Mr. Bradford in the chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House, and asked leave to sit again at 3 o'clock.

        On motion of Mr. Seal of Harrison,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The committee on Enrolled Bills made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills have examined the following enrolled joint resolutions and bills:

        A joint resolution for the purpose of compiling the Constitution of the State of Mississippi and the Confederate States.

        A joint resolution requesting the Governor to do all things necessary to protect the people from illegal impressments.

        A joint resolution instructing the Senators and requesting the Representatives in Congress for certain purposes therein named.

        Also, an act entitled an act to amend the school laws of the county of Itawamba.

        Found the same correctly enrolled and have submitted them to the Governor for his approval and signature.

        The House then resumed consideration of the question pending on adjournment, and went into committee of the Whole,

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, in the Chair.

        The following message was received from the Governor through his Private Secretary, Mr. Charles C. Farrar:


Page 186

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Nov. 20, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        His Excellency, the Governor, has this day signed and approved the following bill and resolutions, entitled

        An act to amend the school laws of the county of Itawamba.

        Resolution instructing the Senators and requesting the Representatives in Congress for certain purposes therein named.

        Resolution requesting the Governor to do all things necessary to protect the people from illegal impressment.

        Resolution for the purpose of compiling the Constitution of the State of Mississippi and the Constitution of the Confederate States.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported the bill back to the House with sundry amendments, with the recommendation that it do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was then read a third time under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Regan called up the special order for Wednesday last, to-wit: a bill to be entitled an act to repeal an act to authorize the appointment of two medical commissioners to especially attend to the sick and wounded soldiers from this State in the Confederate army, and for other purposes, approved January 1, 1863.

        The rules were suspended, the bill read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Gully, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Kemper county,

        Was read three several times, the rules being suspended, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Lowry offered the following joint resolution:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That the Confederate States Senators from the State of Mississippi be instructed, and the Representatives in Congress from this State be requested to use their best endeavors to procure the removal of Gens. Pemberton and Lovell, so that our army may not hereafter be endangered by their blunders.

        Which was read once.

        Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson, moved that the resolution be rejected, which was decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Lowry, Jackson and Hicks:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Allen, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Barton, Brown, Barnett, Clark, Cunningham, Carroll, Downs, Deason of Jones, Daniel, Dillard, Dale, Evans,


Page 187

Fowler, Fox, Falconer, Gully, Grace, Gray, Hicks, Hooker, Harris, Hathorn, High, Hendon, Isom, Irby, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Kirk, Liddell, Lott, Lewers, Moore, Marable, Maxwell, Murdock, McKay of Neshoba, McKay of Green, McLaurin, McNiel, Owen, Pinson, Prewitt, Regan, Rogers, Staples, Sessions, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Taylor, Thompson, Tindall, Wells, Wier, Watson, Wynne and Yandell--65.

        NAYS--Messrs. Jackson and Lowry.

        Mr. Moore obtained leave of absence until Tuesday.

        Mr. Rogers moved that the House adjourn till 9 o'clock Monday morning,

        Which was lost.

        On motion of Mr. Rogers,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

SATURDAY, November 21, 1863.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Lyon.

        The journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        Mr. Prewitt gave notice that on some future day he would move to reconsider the vote of yesterday on a bill entitled an act to repeal an act entitled an act to prohibit the distillation of spirits from grain, molasses and sugar, approved January 3, 1863, and for other purposes.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has concurred in the House substitute to Senate resolution instructing our Senators and requesting our Representatives in the Confederate Congress to pass an act making Confederate money a legal tender, with an amendment thereto.

        Mr. Yandell, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize Mrs. Maria E. Wadlington, Guardian of the minor children of Douglass S. King, dec'd, to sell slaves, belonging to her wards, and for other purposes,

        Was read once and put on the calendar.

        Leave of absence was granted Messrs. McLaurin, Lowry, and Montgomery.

        Mr. Watson, from the committee on the Judiciary, made the following report, which was received and agreed to:


Page 188

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Judiciary, to whom was referred the petition of Wm. H. Smith, Trustee sixteenth section fund of Noxubee county, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report that the legislation therein prayed for is unnecessary, as sufficient provision for the matter to which it relates is made by an act entitled an act to authorize the investment of trust funds in the securities of the State of Confederate States, approved August 2d, 1861,

        Mr. Watson farther reported from the same committee, which report was received and agreed to:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee, to whom was referred an act entitled an act to extend the provisions of an act entitled an act to suspend for a limited time certain parts of the Statute of Limitations, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report the same back to the House with a recommendation that it do not pass, for the reason that the present legislation on the subject is sufficient.

        Mr. Watson farther reported from the same committee, which report was received and agreed to:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by the Judiciary committee, to whom the bill entitled an act to establish mutilated or destroyed records of deeds and other instruments in Marshall county, was referred, to report as a substitute for said bill a bill entitled an act to authorize the Probate Clerks in this State to record anew any deeds or other instruments required by law to be recorded, when the records have been lost mutilated or destroyed, which bill is herewith reported and we recommend that it pass.

        The bill as a substitute with the foregoing title as given in the report,

        On motion of Mr. Watson,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Watson farther reported as follows from the same committee, which was received and agreed to:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee to whom the bill entitled an act to allow the Sheriffs and Tax Collectors additional time to collect the taxes of the year 1862, in certain cases, was referred, recommend that the same may pass.

        The bill then with title as stated in the foregoing report,

        On motion of Mr. Watson,

        Was read three several times under suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.


Page 189

        Mr. Watson from the same committee made the following report, which was agreed to:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee to whom was referred bill entitled an act granting amnesty to persons accused of crime on certain conditions, have considered the same and recommend that the said bill do not pass.

        Mr. Watson, from the some committee, made the following report, which was received and agreed to:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee to whom was referred a bill entitled an act to revise and amend an act to extend the time for the collection of the taxes of the current fiscal year, approved Dec. 20th, 1861, and for other purposes, and amendments offered thereto, have had the same under consideration and have herewith presented a bill which embodies the said bill and the substitute of the said proposed amendments, which they recommend shall be passed.

        The bill then with the following title, "a bill to be entitled an act to revise and amend an act to extend the time for the collection of the taxes of the current fiscal year, approved Dec. 20th, 1861, and for other purposes,"

        On motion of Mr. Watson,

        Read three several times times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Watson, from the same committee, made the following report, which was received and agreed to:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee, to whom was referred a bill entitled an act amendatory of an act entitled an act to appropriate fines, forfeitures, licenses, monies arising from the sale of estrays and runaway slaves in Jones county, approved Dec. 4, 1861, and to extend the provisions of the same to Simpson county, have had the same under consideration, and as the said bill relates to the subject of the support of the families of our absent soldiers, I am instructed to recommend that it be withdrawn from the Judiciary committee and referred to the select or special committee which this House has appointed on that subject.

        Also, reported adversely to bills in relation to the prohibition of distillation of spirits from grain, &c., which was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Thompson, from the committee on Ways and Means, reported adversely to a bill to increase the per diem allowance of inspectors and clerks of election,

        Which was received and agreed to.

        Also, reported substitute for bill entitled an act to extend


Page 190

the time of assessing the taxes of the counties therein named, with the following title:

        A bill to be entitled an act to extend the time of assessing the taxes in this State for the year 1863, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Also, adversely to a bill to amend the assessment laws of this State,

        Which was received and agreed to.

        Also, reported substitute for bill authorizing the Sheriff of Lowndes county to receive Confederate notes in payment for runaway slaves sold under the provisions of law, said substitute being entitled "an act authorizing the Sheriffs to receive Confederate Treasury notes in payment of runaway slaves sold," which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Also, reported a bill to be entitled "an act to require the destruction of certain bonds, treasury and cotton notes in the Treasury," which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Also, adversely to the expediency and constitutionality of a law to provide for the reduction of the present exorbitant prices of salt, cotton cards and other articles of prime necessity, and for the punishment of extortioners,

        Which was received and agreed to.

        Also, reported a bill entitled "an act to enable the counties of Lowndes, Oktibbeha and Noxubee, and the city of Columbus, to settle up and close their subscriptions to the capital stock of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad Company," which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, with title standing as stated.

        Also, adversely to the petition of sundry citizens of Attala county in reference to the distillation of spirits,

        Which was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Clark, from the joint committee on the Treasurer's office, made the following report, which was received and agreed to:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by the joint committee upon the Treasurer's office to submit the following report:

        The committee find it impossible to make such an examination as the duty to the State requires, owing to the great


Page 191

amount of business accumulated in said office since any examination has been had. There has been no examination made since the year 1858 by the committees of the Legislature. A committee was appointed by the Legislature from its members to examine said office during the vacation of the Legislature in 1862. L. Mims was chairman of said committee; they could never be gotten together and no report was ever made. The cotton issue of $5,000,000 has greatly increased the business of the Treasurer's office, and has, to some extent, complicated the revenue of the State therewith, and the labor and care necessary to bestow upon the examination of that office is too great to be performed by the committee during the session of the Legislature.

        The committee recommends the appointment of a competent business man, or two would answer better, and allow said two commissioners to employ a good book-keeper to assist in the examination, and allow the commissioners and book-keeper such pay as will secure the services of the most competent business men that are to be found.

        The committee would call the special attention of the House to the fact that the Treasurer does not account for any receipts or disbursements for the last two years, thereby leaving us in total ignorance of the state of funds in the State Treasury, giving us no data by which this House can regulate a revenue bill. The committee would call the attention of the House to article 57, section 4 of chapter 6 of the Revised Code, which defines the duties of Treasurer. All of which is most respectfully submitted.

        Also, the following report which was received and agreed to:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint committee appointed to examine the office of Treasurer, Commissioner and Executive Contingent Fund, have performed that duty and have instructed me to make the following report:

        The committee have heretofore reported upon the Treasurer's office, and the office of Commissioner being now merged into that office, the same report applies.

        The Executive contingent fund has been examined by the committee from the 26th of Nov. 1859, up to the 14th Nov. 1863, embracing the two terms of the present Executive. The amount allowed by law to the Executive for contingent expenses, is four thousand dollars per annum. This would amount to sixteen thousand for the time embraced in this report. Upon examination of the vouchers appertaining to this fund, it is found that only eight thousand, eight hundred and sixty-three dollars and twenty-one cents of said amount has been drawn. It appears that the greatest frugality has


Page 192

been used in the expenditure of this fund by the Executive. The appropriation has heretofore, as appears from the books in the Executive office, been annually used, and in some instances exceeded. Notwithstanding the increased expenses of removing the archives of the State from Jackson to different points, and the rent of suitable rooms for offices &c., there is a balance unexpended of $7,136 79.

        The committee would call the attention of the Legislature to the fact that there are other appropriations made by law and expended by the Executive, for the examination of which there has been no committee appointed. The Executive Mansion fund, the appropriation of $15,000 by the Convention for the Pensacola expedition, and the appropriation of $150,000 by the Legislature for the purpose of buying arms, &c. The committee deemed it proper to direct the attention of the Legislature to these expenditures and recommend the appointment of a special committee for the examination of the same.

        Mr. Murdock, from the committee on Claims reported in favor of a bill entitled "an act for the relief of M. D. Files, Sheriff of Itawamba county,"

        Which was received and agreed to.

        And on his motion,

        The bill was read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Also, reported adversely to a bill entitled an act for the relief of George R. Fall,

        Which was received and agreed to.

        And submit a substitute bill to be entitled an act for the relief of George R. Fall, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Bradford, from the committee on State and Confederate Relations, to whom the petition of Dr. Wm. S. Price was referred, reported ample remedy at law for all the injuries complained of.

        The report was received but not agreed to.

        Mr. Regan moved to recommit the petition to the committee on State and Confederate Relations. Lost.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, moved to lay the whole subject on the table,

        Which was agreed to.

        Mr. Dillard, from a select committee, reported adversely to a bill entitled an act to procure cotton and wool cards for the indigent families of soldiers and the citizens of the State;

        But offer a bill entitled an act to procure cotton and wool cards for the indigent families of soldiers and the citizens of the State and for other purposes, which,


Page 193

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Murdock moved to lay the bill on the table,

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, moved to refer the bill to the committee of the Whole, which was agreed to.

        Mr. Irby in the Chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House, with a recommendation that it pass.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, moved that the report of the committee be agreed to,

        Which was adopted.

        On his further motion,

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Yandell, by leave, called up a bill passed over this morning, entitled an act to authorize Mrs. Maria E. Wadlington, Guardian of the minor children of Douglass S. King, dec'd, to sell slaves belonging to her wards, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Harris, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend chapter 8, of the Revised Code, establishing the fees of certain officers so far as it relates to the Probate Clerks of the counties of Leake and Rankin.

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson, moved to add the county of Wilkinson, which,

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Was laid on the table.

        Mr. Falconer offered the following amendment:

        Be it further enacted, That no person liable to military duty shall be included in the benefit of statutes increasing fees and salaries of county officers, which,

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Was laid on the table.

        On his further motion,

        The constitutional rule was suspended, the bill read third time, and passed with title as stated.

        The following message was received from the Governor:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Nov. 21, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by his Excellency, the Governor, to deliver to you his enclosed message:


Page 194

Gentlemen of the Senate
and House of Representatives:

        I was informed on the 18th inst., that the Confederate authorities were apprehending negro slaves in the Northwestern counties of this State. I immediately telegraphed Gen. Johnston and Brig. Gen. Chalmers, and was informed by the former that "under instructions from the President our troops are ordered to bring off all male negroes of military age, in danger of falling into the hands of the enemy."

        In reply I expressed the hope that the order would be revoked, that it precipitated the evil it was intended to remedy, and that the negroes fearing our troops in their alarm would fly to the enemy.

        Immediately upon the passage of your joint resolution in relation to illegal impressments, I telegraphed the same to President Davis, informing him of the condition of affairs in the border counties, and assured him that the policy pursued would, in my judgment result in disastrous consequences. To this, I received the following reply:

RICHMOND, NOV. 19, 1863.

        Gov. Clark:--Your dispatch of yesterday is received. General instructions are given to remove negro men from localities where they would probably be conscribed by the enemy for service in their army. It was directed that owners should have their option as to whether they would retain control of the negroes so removed, or throw the responsibility and future care and support upon the Government.

        If more has been done than this, it was in violation of orders, and the Secretary of War has been directed to give prompt attention to this matter.

(Signed) JEFFERSON DAVIS.


        I hope that on further consideration of the subject the President will revoke the orders given or so change them as to avoid the dangers arising from their enforcement. Whenever illegal impressments shall be reported to me, I shall use the powers vested in the Executive to punish the offenders. I would respectfully call your attention to the necessity of legislation on this subject, and for providing further penalties for the crime of obtaining goods under false pretenses, and the speedy relief to parties against tresspass upon their property.

CHAS. CLARK.


        On motion of Mr. Rodgers,

        The message was referred to the Judiciary committee, with instructions to bring in a bill upon the subject.

        Mr. Irby offered a joint resolution in regard to the late order of the President removing negroes from exposed localities to the enemy, and that the Governor inform the


Page 195

President of the action of this Legislature by telegraph, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules and adopted.

        Mr. Regan offered a joint resolution in reference to compelling the Judges of this State to hold their courts at the places appointed by law, &c., which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and adopted.

        Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson, offered a joint resolution inviting the Hon. J. W. C. Watson, at an early day, to address the Legislature, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and adopted.

        Mr. Fowler, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend an act for the relief of Judges of the Circuit Courts of this State in certain cases, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Murdock introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend the Probate laws of this State, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Evans offered a joint resolution concurring with Gov. Brown, of Georgia, in setting apart Thursday, the 10th of December next, as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules and adopted.

        Mr. Regan offered a joint resolution instructing our Senators and requesting our Representatives in Congress to do all in their power to pass an act indemnifying citizens of this State for cotton burned, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and adopted.

        Mr. Upshaw, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to levy and collect a tax of thirty-three and one-third per cent. on all persons refusing to receive Confederate Treasury notes in payment of dues, and for other purposes, which,

        On his motion,


Page 196

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on the Judiciary.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The House adjourned until Monday morning, at 10 o'clock.

MONDAY, November 23, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Wm. H. Ellison, of the Alabama Conference.

        Journal of Saturday read and approved.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed a substitute to an act to repeal certain clauses of an act entitled an act to authorize the impressment of slaves and other personal property for military purposes, approved Jan. 3d, 1863. The said substitute is entitled "an act to amend the impressment laws of this State."

        The President of the Senate has appointed Messrs. Davis, Drake and Bradford as a joint committee on Agriculture and Mechanics on the part of the Senate.

        Mr. J. C McLemore, of Carroll county, presented his credentials and was sworn in as a member of this House.

        On motion of Mr. Prewitt,

        The Clerk was requested to send to the Senate for a bill entitled an act to repeal an act entitled an act to prevent the distillation of grain, and for other purposes, passed on Friday last.

        Leave of absence was granted Messrs. Seal of Harrison, Deason of Jones, Carroll and Deason of Copiah.

        Mr. Jackson introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to increase the fees of the Sheriff and Probate Clerk of Amite county, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three times under a suspension of the rules, and was lost on its passage.

        Mr. Jackson also introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Amite county, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee of Ways and Means.


Page 197

        Mr. Jackson asked leave to introduce a resolution, which was refused.

        Mr. Lewers introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of C. E. Murphree, of Calhoun county,

        Which was referred to the committee of Military Affairs without being read.

        Mr. Lewers introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the benefit of the cavalry companies commanded by Capts. Mitchell, Williams and Johnson,

        Which was read once.

        Mr. McKay, of Green, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to repeal section five of an act entitled an act to reduce the county tax of Green county, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Rucks introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend the charter of the city of Jackson, approved August 6, 1861, and an act entitled an act supplemental to an act to amend the charter of the city of Jackson, approved August 6, 1861, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Shelley introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of William Beachum, of Itawamba county, and for other purposes, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances, with accompanying documents.

        Mr. Gulley presented various documents, which were referred to the committee of Ways and Means.

        Mr. Murdock presented the memorial of Thomas M. Cannon, Guardian, which,

        On his motion,

        Was referred to the committee on Claims.

        Mr. Grace introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Anthony D. Gordon, a minor of Lauderdale county, so far as to enable him to make a last will and testament, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Lott introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Henry B. Luckett, a minor, which


Page 198

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Daniel introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of James H. Matthews, a minor of Marshall county, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Cunningham introduced a bill to entitled

        An act in relation to the sixteenth section school fund of Noxubee county, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Rucks moved to refer the bill to the committee on Education,

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Brown moved to amend by adding the county of Winston,

        Which was agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. Fowler,

        The bill was amended by adding the county of Washington.

        On motion of Mr. Cunningham,

        The bill was read the third time under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title amended by inserting after Noxubee, Winston and Washington counties.

        Mr. High introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of T. A. Mitchell, of Pontotoc county, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On his further motion,

        Referred to the committee on Claims.

        Mr. Dillard introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of John A. McNeil, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. McNiel introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of Messrs. Reid and Dickson, of Pontotoc county, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On his further motion,

        Was referred to the committee on Claims.

        Mr. Easterling introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to appropriate fines,


Page 199

and forfeitures in Jones county, approved Dec. 4, 1861, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Gowan introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the Board of Police of Simpson county to make all necessary arrangements for an equal distribution of the common school fund between the different townships of said county, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        On motion of Mr. Liddell,

        The bill was referred to the committee on Education.

        Mr. Gowan introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the Sheriff of Simpson county to sell and dispose of estrays in said county, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        On motion of Mr. Morehead,

        The bill was amended by adding the county of Copiah.

        On motion of Mr. Murdock,

        The bill so amended was referred to the Judiciary committee, with instructions to bring in a general bill.

        Mr. Eskridge asked leave to introduce a bill of a general character, which was refused.

        Mr. Gray presented sundry accounts, which,

        On his motion,

        Were referred to the committee on Claims without being read.

        Mr. Gray introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of E. A. Miller, of Wayne county, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On his further motion,

        Referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson, asked leave to introduce a bill of a general character, which was refused.

        Mr. Brown introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to legalize the sale of lands in Carroll county, with a memorial of John C. Brown, which,

        On his motion,

        Was read three times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Brown introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend the laws in relation to estrays, so far as pertains to Winston county, which,


Page 200

        On his motion,

        Was read three several times, the rules being suspended, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Cunningham called up a bill entitled

        An act supplementary to an act better to provide for the families of soldiers, approved January 3, 1863, and,

        On his motion,

        It was referred to the committee of Ways and Means.

        On motion of Mr. Yandell,

        The Senate messages were called up.

        The Senate joint resolution in relation to the instruction given the committee on the Lunatic Asylum, was read and concurred in.

        The Senate joint resolution in relation to the collection of taxes in certain counties therein named, was taken up, and

        On motion of Mr. Regan,

        Was amended by inserting the counties of Claiborne, Jefferson, Wilkinson and Hinds, to the second series of counties mentioned therein.

        The Senate joint resolution in regard to the examination of certain appropriations therein named, was,

        On motion of Mr. Powe,

        Concurred in, the blank being filled with five.

        The following is the committee on the part of the House:

        Messrs. Regan, Murdock, Thompson, Irby and Bradford.

        The House refused to concur in the Senate joint resolution in reference to inquiries made therein of the Governor in regard to the enforcement of the 4th section of an act to amend an act entitled an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of this State.

        Senate bill entitled an act to change the name of Nancy Delaware Wyatt to that of Nancy Delaware Gibbs, and to enable Joseph Gibbs and wife to adopt her as their child,

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        The bill was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to enable the High Court of Errors and Appeals of this State to prevent injustice to suitors and to correct some of the evils arising from the present state of war, was

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        Read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of citizens of DeSoto county whose lands have been illegally sold for taxes of 1862,

        On motion of Mr. Allen,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.


Page 201

        On motion of Mr. Eskridge,

        The bill was referred to the committee on Ways and Means.

        On motion of Mr. Morehead,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Mr. Gowan asked leave to introduce a bill, which was refused.

        Mr. Gowan asked and obtained leave of absence.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act for the speedy recovery of personal property wrongfully taken or detained, was taken up, and

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        The House amendment was receded from and the Senate amendment concurred in.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        The House refused to concur in Senate amendments to House joint resolution granting leave of absence to the Hon. Tryan M. Yancey.

        Senate substitute bill for House bill entitled "an act to authorize the Board of Police of Itawamba county to borrow money," entitled "an act to authorize the Boards of Police of the different counties to borrow money from the school fund,"

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On motion of Mr. Bradford,

        Was referred to the committee on Education.

        Senate joint resolution in regard to the appointment of a standing committee to be called the committee on the "Executive Mansion Fund," was concurred in, the blank being filled with five.

        The committee on the part of the House are Messrs. Morehead, Bestor, Seal of Hancock, Upshaw and Allen.

        Senate joint resolution in reference to the adjournment of the Legislature on Saturday next,

        On motion of Mr. Fox,

        Was laid on the table to be made the special order of Friday next.

        Senate bill entitled an act to authorize the President of the Board of Police of Winston county to bring suits for the collection of notes made payable to the swamp land commissioners of said county, and for other purposes,

        On motion of Mr. Brown,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.


Page 202

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to amend the impressment laws of this State,

        On motion of Mr. Irby,

        Was read three several times under suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The House refused to concur in Senate amendment to House amendment of Senate joint resolution instructing our Senators and requesting our Representatives in Congress to pass an act making Confederate notes a legal tender.

        The following message was received from the Governor with accompanying documents, through his Private Secretary, Mr. Charles C. Farrar:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by his Excellency, the Governor, to transmit you his message in writing with the accompanying documents:

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Nov. 23, 1863.

Gentlemen of the Senate
and House of Representatives:

        I desire to call your attention to the condition of the State troops and ask your early action. In the message of my predecessor at the commencement of your session, he informs you that there are now in the possession of the State forces, horses, &c., to the amount of $224,910 50, and that by an understanding with the President and Gen. Johnston the whole cavalry force is to be turned over to the Confederate service, the Confederate Government agreeing to pay for the use and risk of the State horses during their term of service, and also to pay the value when any such horse or horses shall be killed or captured by the enemy, "and further that this arrangement is subject to any disposition which the Legislature may deem proper to make in the premises." As the whole matter has thus, according to the agreement, been submitted for your action, I have deemed it improper for me to permit the troops and property to be transferred until your will was consulted. An order having been issued to Col. McGuirk to complete his regiment by taking into it any unattached company in the Northwestern portion of the State and to have his regiment ready to be mustered into the Confederate service by the inspecting officer of Gen. Johnston. I have suspended the execution of that order. Lieut. Col. Perrin informs me that he has reorganized his battalion and has now eight companies ready, and asks an order to transfer them. He says that the term of service of all the companies, except two, of his battalion,


Page 203

has expired, but that there are a number (stated at sixty) of the State horses in the possession of his men, and asks that they may be permitted to retain them upon their giving bonds for the payment to the State of the amount of the actual cost in each case minus the amount of per diem already received for the use and risk of the horses in the past service. I have in this case also declined to give such order unless directed by you to do so. Others of the State troops have also been ordered to be transferred to the Confederacy, but the whole matter is suspended for your decision. They are all now in active service in the Northern part of the State, except Lt. Col. Perrin's battalion which is awaiting orders at Macon. Some of the State troops desire to remain in the State service, but Col. Perrin informs me that all of his battalion desire to be transferred. The whole matter is with you, and I await your action. I earnestly request your early attention to it and that you will, by resolution or otherwise remove the obstacles thus presented to an efficient organization of our cavalry force.

        I concur in the opinion expressed by my immediate predecessor, that a large force of this character is necessary to our defense. It is not to be expected that the Confederate troops will be so disposed as to give protection to all portions of this State. They will occupy certain lines and move for the defense of certain points as exigency may require. I do not for a moment suppose that it is the intention of the Legislatuae to leave a large portion of our people exposed to the tender mercies of their unscrupulous and vindictive foes. No inconsiderable part of the State is now subject to their raids. They come with the sword in one hand and the firebrand in the other. It is but a few days since a messenger informed me that a band of these marauders, landing in the county of Bolivar, were devastating the country for miles in the interior, and the houseless women and children were fleeing before them lighted by the fires of their blazing dwellings. Shall these things be unavenged? Let there be no delay. A few weeks more and you may see your own roofs in flames and your families fugitives or crouching at the feet of an insulting foe. The people look to us for protection. I earnestly recommend such changes in our military laws, and such appropriation of money as may be necessary to enable me to bring into the field and maintain a force of cavalry and artillery of three thousand men, and also to reorganize the militia that they may be called out without delay. It is not expected that the latter


Page 204

will be often needed--but they should be ready as a supporting force. The very fact that they are held in a state of readiness will of itself add strength to our movements. Other States better guarded by the Confederacy than ours, keep their separate armies in the field. Georgia has now an army of about eight thousand, and her patriotic Governor recommends that it be increased. The Legislature of South Carolina has been convened to provide for State defence. Other States have their forces. There is no one that needs them more than Mississippi.

        I respectfully recommend an extension of the period of liability to military duty--that there be few exemptions. Those having substitutes in the Confederate army are liable to State service, but to remove all doubt let them be rendered liable by express statutes. To enable the Commander-in-Chief to bring the troops to proper discipline and service, give him the power to order and detail courts-martial in all cases, and courts of inquiry for the investigation of the conduct of all officers and to remove them from office. Give him such inspectors as may enable him to have knowledge of the condition and discipline of the troops. All Surgeons and Quartermasters should be appointed by and accountable to him. So of all other staff officers, except the personal staff of the General officers. I believe one General officer will be sufficient. Provide for promotion by appointment, even from the ranks, for meritorious conduct. This may be constitutionally done in the volunteer forces, for by volunteering under the law they waive all supposed right to elect officers, except the law furnish it. The right to elect officers in other cases may be safely given to the volunteers, the power of removal for incompetency and inefficiency being retained. Provision for a draft from the militia, in case a sufficient number of volunteers should not offer, should be made, so that they may be brought out without delay. Surrender these and such other powers as you may see proper in your wisdom to confer, with all necessary restrictions to prevent any abuse of them. Against any abuses of power by myself or my permission of it in others, I can only offer you the guarantee of my humble history in the service.

        I have the honor to transmit to you an address of a committee of the House of Delegates of Virginia "inviting an interchange of views with the respective States of the Confederacy upon the subject of our general currency." I recommend it to your serious attention.


Page 205

        I also send you a communication from the Rev. C. K. Marshall, Hospital Agent, recommending the establishment of a soldier's home, and an appropriation for that purpose. The object is a noble one and worthy of its philanthropic and christian author. I recommend it to your favorable consideration.

CHAS. CLARK,
Governor.


RICHMOND, VA., Nov. 4, 1863.

        DEAR SIR:--The undersigned, a committee of the House of Delegates of Virginia, have been charged with the duty, during a short recess of the General Assembly, of inviting such interchange of views with the respective States of the Confederacy upon the subject of our general currency, its disorders and necessities, as may probably induce some concert of action or of sentiment, designed to effect relief from the present evils in connection with this most vital subject. In part discharge of this duty, we have the honor to address you this communication.

        The General Assembly, and especially that branch of it which we represent, entertaining a painful sense of the present and prospective dangers resulting from the disorders referred to, have entered upon the consideration of the subject with the hope that an interest commensurate with the issues involved might be awakened, and result in such coaction by the States, or in the creation of a wholesome public sentiment favorable to such action by Congress as may eventuate in active remedies and efficient relief. Want of time and the paramount claims of other great questions of exclusive State concern, have prevented, during the recent session, the full maturiy of, and the definitive action of the Legislature upon, any special line of policy, in reference to this deeply interesting question. The Legislature has also felt the restraints imposed by the want of an original and comprehensive jurisdiction over the subject, superadded to the intrinsic difficulties always and inseparably connected with its salutary control and judicious management--difficulties now indefinitely multiplied by the anamolous and morbid condition into which it is falling with a fearful acceleration. They have not been deterred, however, by these difficulties, from a sincere purpose and an earnest endeavor, though unfavorably and imperfectly executed as yet, to initiate or invoke some policy on which the country might stand with a well founded confidence, and demonstrate to itself and to the world, that to achieve its financial, no less than its military success, needs but the concerted purpose and combined energies of a united people.


Page 206

        Whence such policy shall originate, whether with the States or the Congress, how it shall be executed, whether by Confederate agencies alone, or by the co-operative action of the States, are to be regarded as secondary questions, important only as means to accomplish the first great necessary fact of its early institution and successful prosecution. This latter they feel to be an absolute necessity for the general weal; and whatever relation may be assigned to the States in its execution, the moral power of their concerted movement in its support, deserves to be regarded as an object of the highest moment.

        To this concert of movement Virginia invites her sister States, with an earnestness akin to that devotion which she feels to the great cause in which we are engaged. She does not doubt that their governments and people justly perceive and appreciate, in like manner with her government and people, the difficulties and dangers to which we are subjected and exposed, and the unhappy consequences that await us in the future, unless existing tendencies in our currency are speedily arrested and adequately remedied by a discreet and vigorous treatment. Despoiled of much of her richest territory, torn and mutilated by the ravages of contending armies, and threatened with scarcity and suffering on account of an unwonted draft upon the productive resources that yet remain to her, her unconquered people will withhold no aid or effort, to the limit of their utmost ability, that the public exigencies may require in the aceievement of Southern independence. In this she does not doubt she has the unmeasured sympathy of the governments and people of the noble States allied to her in the bonds of a confederation sealed and cemented by the blood of the noblest sons of each. And in the presence of these sacred memories, she now sends to them greeting, with an invitation to counsel, to movement, to harmonious action upon a great question, in which the stability of the government, the issue of battles and the happiness of individals so largely depend.

        That the immense issue of treasury notes, as the chief source of supply to the Confederate fisc, must be speedily abandoned as a policy, may be assumed as a conceded fact. What means shall be substituted therefor is a question within the primary jurisdiction of Congress. But that the respective State governments, leading their respective populations, may be powerful coadjutors, if not original authors of a systematic policy of amelioration, will not be questioned. And in whatever direction State movement may be


Page 207

made, concert and co-operation are indispensable to efficiency and success--concert in legislation, if legislation be needed--unity of sentiment inspired by common motives and directed to common ends.

        We forbear to indicate opinions upon any special policy, as unauthorized by the extent to which enquiry on the subject has proceeded in the General Assembly, the further consideration of the subject having been postponed until the 7th December proximo. Meanwhile, however, the Legislature of your State will have convened. The importance of the subject can hardly fail, in greater or less degree to engage its attention. Its united wisdom and patriotism in the rapidly progressing stages of discussion on the subject, may discover some readier solution of so difficult a problem than the Virginia Assembly have been able to attain, under the very brief and embarrassed opportunities which were afforded during its recent session. When its consideration shall be resumed at the period referred to, the light of the intelligent counsel of your statesmen and the cheer of their manly encouragement and sympathy will aid to wiser conclusions, and inspire a still more resolute purpose never to despair of the republic.

        In further performance of the duties imposed on us, we respectfully request your Excellency to submit this communication to the General Assembly of your State (if it be early convened,) and invite such responsive action thereon as the importance and character of the subject may seem to demand.

With sentiments of high regard,
We have the honor to be,
Your obedient servants,

HUGH W. SHEFFEY,

A. S. BUFORD,

JAMES L. WILSON,

F. B. DEANE, JR.

D. I. BURR,

SAMUEL L. WILSON,

THOMAS A. EDWARDS,
Committee of House of Delegates of Virginia.

His Excellency, JOHN J. PETTUS,
Governor of Mississippi.



Page 208

COLUMBUS, MISS.
November 17th, 1863.

His Excellency Chas. Clark, Gov. State Mississippi.

        SIR: By the fortunes of war several thousand brave soldiers, from nearly every State in the Confederacy, have been disabled for future service in the field during the continuance of the war, and many of them for life. It is the duty of the people to consider their condition, and make such arrangements for their comfort as will relieve them from the necessity of lingering in hospitals, or wandering about homeless, destitute and suffering. With a view to their relief I have been urging the importance of establishing a "Soldiers Home" where they could be collected and rendered comfortable, and realize the grateful regards of their countrymen whom they have faithfully served on the bloody fields of battle.

        In the hope of final success, I have deemed it proper to call your attention to the subject, and pray you to present the matter to the consideration of the Legislature--an appropriation of fifty thousand dollars could scarcely be made to a more deserving or important measure for the relief of our countrymen.

Truly yours,

C. K. MARSHALL.


        On motion of Mr. Rogers,

        So much of the Governor's message as refers to Military matters was referred to the committee on Military Affairs, and so much of the message as refers to finance was referred to the committee on Ways and Means.

        On motion of Mr. Stephens,

        So much of the Governor's message as refers to the impressment of horses was referred to the committee on State and Confederate Relations.

        Mr. Rogers offered a joint resolution which read as follows:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring) That after Wednesday, the 25th inst., no bill of a local nature, and after Saturday, the 28th inst., no bill whatsoever, shall be introduced into either House as new business. Read once.

        Mr. Rogers, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of the first Battalion of the Mississippi State troops, commanded when in service, by Major Harper, and

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee of the Whole House, and to be made the special order of Thursday next.

        Mr. Irby, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of owners of slaves impressed under an act entitled an act to authorize the impressment of slaves and other personal property for military purposes, approved January 3d, 1863, which,


Page 209

        On his motion,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and

        On his further motion,

        The House resolved itself into the committee of the Whole.

        Mr. Bradford in the chair.

        After sometime spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House with the recommendation that it be referred to the Judiciary committee.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        The report of the committe was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Regan, by leave introduced the following joint resolution, which under a suspension of the rules was adopted:

        Resolved by the Legislature of the State of Mississippi, That it is the sense of this Legislature that no appointments, either in civil or military departments of the State, should be made from any person within conscription age, provided that this resolution do not apply to disabled soldiers under this age.

        On motion of Mr. Rogers,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

TUESDAY, Nov. 24, 1863.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Mr. Speaker Houston in the Chair.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Lyon.

        Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        Mr. J. C. McElroy, Representative elect from the county of Newton, presented his credentials and was sworn as a member of the House.

        The following report was made by Mr. Irby from the committee on Enrolled Bills.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined bills of the following titles and find them correctly enrolled, and have submitted them to his Excellency the Governor, for his signature, to wit:

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Sydney Moore Jackson, of Rankin county.

        An act to change the time of holding the Probate Court of Scott county.


Page 210

        An act for the relief of John W. Cox, of Winston county, and to remove the civil disabilities of said minor.

        An act to change the name of Mildred Harris, of Itawamba county.

        The following message was received from the Senate: MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed the following House bills, to wit:

        A bill entitled an act to suspend the Levee Tax authorized to be assessed by the Board of Police of the Mississippi river Levee district.

        A bill entitled an act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Kemper county.

        A bill entitled an act, to repeal an act, entitled act, to authorize the appointment of two medical commissioners to especially attend to the sick and wounded soldiers from this State in the Confederate army, and for other purposes. Approved January 1st, 1863.

        Have adopted the following House, joint resolution with an amendment, to wit:

        Joint resolution setting apart Thursday the 10th day of December, as a day of fasting humiliation and prayer.

        A House bill entitled an act to remove the civil and legal disabilities of Samuel B. Jones, of Sunflower county, with an amendment thereto.

        The Senate have passed bills of the following titles:

        A bill entitled an act to change the time of holding the Probate Court of Lawrence county.

        A bill entitled an act to pay clerks, inspectors and returning officers of elections of Hancock county, and to increase per diem of the members of Board of Police.

        A bill entitled an act relative to the establishment of a temporary Penitentiary.

        A bill entitled an act to punish parties making illegal seizures and impressments in this State.

        A bill entitled an act to authorize, and require the Governor to cause to be prepared and printed, a sufficient amount of bonds, bearing eight per cent interest, for the purpose of calling in, and taking up the Treasury notes issued by law for military defense of the State.

        The Senate have passed the following resolutions, to wit.

        Resolution in regard to Railroads.

        Resolution to donate clothing to the Herndon Rangers, and for other purposes.

        Resolution of confidence, &c.

        The Senate have concurred in House amendment to Senate bill entitled an act to authorize the repair of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad between Okolona and Tupelo in this State, and for other purposes.


Page 211

        Mr. Murdock presented the memorial of James W. Harris, which was referred to the committee on Claims.

        Mr. Folconer presented the memorial of D. O. Merwin, Maj. and A. A. G. comandant of conscripts for State of Mississippi, which was referred to the Judiciary committee.

        The speaker presented a communication from the Auditor of Public Accounts, which was read and referred to the committee on the Auditor's office.

        Mr. Watson, from the Judiciary committee, made the following reports,

        Which were received and agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee, to whom was referred a bill entitled an act for the relief of E. A. Miller, of Wayne county, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to recommend that the same do not pass.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee, to whom was referred an act to authorize the Sheriffs of Simpson and Copiah counties to sell and dispose of estrays in sad counties with instructions to report a general bill upon the subject, have considered the same and report a general bill, and recommend that it do pass.

        The substitute bill accompanying the report entitled an act to amend chapter thirty-two of the Revised Code, so far as the same provides for the registration and sale of estrays,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee, to whom was referred two bills, each entitled an act for the relief of the owners of slaves impressed under an act entitled an act to authorize the impressment of slaves and other personal property for military purposes, approved January 3d, 1863, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report that they recommend that the same do not pass. In the opinion of the committee the State is bound to indemnify all citizens who have lost property under the said impressment law, and also to pay for the temporary use of all property so impressed which was restored to the owner, but in view of the present condition of the State Treasury, and of the very large appropriations which it is absolutely necessary should be made therefrom for purposes of pressing emmergency, the committee do not believe that it is practicable for the State at this time to meet or provide for said liabilities.

        Mr. Watson moved that the report be received and ageed to.

        Mr. Irby called for a division of the question.


Page 212

        The report was received.

        On motion of Mr. Regan,

        The bill was recommitted to the Judiciary committe with instructions to report a plan for perpetuating testimony in regard to such claims.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee to whom was referred Senate bill entitled an act to compel Anderson Bean, ex Sheriff, to pay over certain monies to the Treasurer of Chickasaw county, and for other purposes, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report that the same do pass.

        On motion of Mr. Watson the report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee, to whom was referred an act to amend the Probate laws of this State, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to recommend that said bill do pass.

        On motion of Mr. Lewers the report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Thompson, from the committee on Ways and Means, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred Ssnate bill to be entitled an act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Lauderdale county, and the petition of sundry citizens of Kemper county praying the increase of the salary of the Probate Judge of Kemper county--a bill increasing the salary of Probate Judge of Amite county, and House bill to be entitled an act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Monroe county, with two amendments, proposing an increase of salary of the Probate Judges of Lowndes and Scott counties respectively within structions to enquire into the expediency of extending the provisions of the House bill to all the Probate Judges of the State, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report a substitute bill for the whole of them and recommend its adoption. In the Revised Code of 1857, the Legislature fixed the annual salaries of the Probate Judges of the State, and required them to be paid out of the Treasury of the respective counties. It was manifestly unjust to allow each Probate Judge the same amount of salary. Therefore the Legislature discriminated allowing to


Page 213

each what was deemed just. Since then your pamphlet statutes are filled with changes, sometimes increasing and sometimes diminishing the salary. The information in possession of the Legislature is not sufficient to enable it to reach a satisfactory conclusion in each case, and as the people of the county pay the salary, the Board of Police of the county directly responsible to the Tax payers, would more likely do justice in each case, than the Legislature could. The substitute bill proceeds on this principle, and your committee believe that its adoption is better calculated to do justice and give satisfaction than the present system, and therefore recommend its passage.

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The substitute bill read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to encourage the manufacture of cotton and wool cards in this State, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report a bill as a substitute for the same and recommend that the substitute do pass.

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The substitute bill accompanying the report was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Eskridge moved that the bill and substitute be referred to a select committee of five,

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Lewers offered the following amendment:

        Amend 1st section by adding "provided that said cards shall not be sold at a price exceeding 50 per cent upon the cost of manufacturing the same."

        On motion of Mr. Hicks,

        The amendment was laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Thompson from the committee of Ways and Means made the following reports.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred the bill to be entitled an act to authorize the State to receive from the delinquent Tax collectors of the several counties in this State, the military bonds or notes falling due June 1st, 1863 and 1864, in payment of the amounts due from them on account of the military Tax for the year 1861,


Page 214

have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to recommend that the same do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill read the third time under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to which was referred the bill of this House entitled an act to amend chapter 8th of the Revised Code, entitled an act establishing the fees of certain officers so far as relates to the clerks of the Chancery Courts of Wilkinson county, have had the same under consideration and beg leave to report.

        The bill proposes to authorize the clerks of Chancery and Probate Courts of Wilkinson county, to charge for all copies from the records of their respective courts, fifteen instead of ten cents, for every hundred words. It this authority is given to the clerks of Wilkinson county, it should be given to all the clerks of the State, as the work to be paid for is the same everywhere. The committee do not think this increased compensation should be made of universal application at this time, therefore, the committee recommend that the bill do not pass.

        Report was received and agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee to whom was referred the bill to be entitled an act to authorize the collection of monies loaned by this State to Railroad companies from the Chickasaw School Fund, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to recommend that the same do pass.

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to which was referred a resolution of this House, instructing them to enquire into the expendiency and propriety of this State becoming the agent of the Confederate States Government in the collection and paying over of the produce and other taxes after the present year, have had the same under consideration and report, that to prevent the multiplication of Confederate officers and to curtail executive patronage within the limits of the State of Mississippi, would, in the opinion of the committee, strongly recommend the policy indicated in the resolution. The officers of the State could collect and pay over the produce and other direct taxes with as great promptness and fidelity as the Confederate officers, and with more acceptableness to the people. But until the legislation of the


Page 215

Confederate Congress should signify as willingness to accept such an agency, any enactment looking to that end on the part of the Legislature would be premature and inoperative. The committee therefore ask to be discharged from the further consideration of the resolution.

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        The report was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Upshaw, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to organize the army of Mississippi,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        The bill was laid on the table, 200 copies ordered to be printed, and the bill made the special order for Friday next at 11 o'clock.

        Leave of absence was granted Mr. Sessions.

        Leave of absence was granted Mr. Alcorn after Friday next.

        The following message was received from the Governor through his private Secretary:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Nov. 24, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        In am directed by the Governor to inform you that he did, on the 23d inst., sign and approve the following House bills: entitled

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Sidney Moore Jackson, a minor of the county of Rankin.

        An act to change the name of Mildred Harris, of Itawamba county.

        An act to change the time of holding the Probate Court of Scott county.

        An act for the relief of John W. Cox, of Winston county, and to remove the civil disabilities of said minor.

        The House then proceeded to the consideration of the special order of the day, to wit: A bill to be entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, and resolved itself into committee of the whole,

        Mr. Alcorn in the Chair.

        After some time spent therein the committee rose and reported the bill back to the house, and asked leave to sit again at 3 o'clock P. M.

        On motion of Mr. Stephens,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Mr. Rogers moved to reconsider the vote by which the


Page 216

House passed this morning a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the collection of monies loaned by this State to Railroad companies from the Chickasaw School Fund.

        Mr. Hicks moved a reconsideration of the vote by which, the House this morning passed a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the State Treasurer, to receive from the delinquent tax collectors of the several counties in this State, the military bonds, or notes, falling due the 1st of June 1863 and 1864, in payment of the amounts due from them on account of the military Tax for the year 1861.

        Which was adopted.

        Leave of absence was granted Mr. Fort after Friday next.

        Mr. Harris by leave introduced the following joint resolution:

        Resolved, (the Senate concuring,) The Legislature take a recess from Saturday 28th inst., 4 o'clock P. M., until Monday 11th January 1864,

        Which was read once.

        Mr. Upshaw offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the clerk be instructed to ask the Secretary of the Senate to return a resolution adopted by the House on yesterday, in relation to the employment of parties liable to conscript duty in the civil or military departments of the State, that the same may be reconsidered by this House.

        The House then resumed the consideration of the question pending on adjournment, to wit:

        A bill to be entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, and resolved itself into committee of the whole.

        Mr. Alcorn in the chair.

        After some time spent therein the committee reported the bill back to the House and asked leave to sit again to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

        The Speaker presented the following communication, which was read.

COLUMBUS, MISS., November 23d, 1863.

To the Legislature of the State of Mississippi now in session.

        I desire to withdraw a report made by me as salt agent, to His Excellency Gov. John J. Pettus, which your Honorable body has ordered printed, and which, as I learn, has been sent to Selma. The ground upon which I ask this is that in examining the duplicates which I have, I discovered that I made some serious errors which I desire to correct. The report was made huridly, and hence the mistakes. I hope then that you will allow me to withdraw the report and submit a corrected one.

Respectfully yours,

W. C. TURNER, Salt Agent.



Page 217

        On motion of Mr. Bestor,

        The clerk was instructed to hand over said papers to Gen. A. M. West Quartermaster General.

        On motion of Mr. Regan,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, Nov. 25, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Sears.

        Mr. Speaker Houston having been called home by sickness in his family, Hon. James L. Alcorn, of Coahoma county, was elected Speaker pro tem by acclamation.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, by leave, introduced the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the committee of Ways and Means be and they are hereby requested to fix a schedule of prices on all freight carried on the Railroads in this State, and also fix the prices for passengers.

        Be it further resolved, That they report a bill on this subject at an early day, making it a misdemeanor on the part of the Railroad companies, their agents or employees, who may charge more than the rates fixed by law, to be punished by both fine and imprisonment, and giving the party aggrieved a remedy at law for all damages sustained by any violation of said act.

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Regan offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the Treasurer be and he is hereby requested to furnish the House with the amount of expenditures for the fiscal year, 1862, and the probable amount of expenditures for the year 1863, and amount of money that may come into the Treasury subject to appropriation for the fiscal year 1863; also, the specific amount of receipts and disbursements for the past two years, stating the source from which received and to what sources the amounts have been paid, also the amount now in the Treasury, together with a statement of the amount and kind of funds now on hand, and should there appear to be a deficiency for the current expenses of the State then he be requested to suggest such subjects of taxation as in his judgment ought to be taxed to receive sufficient revenue for the current expenses of the State.

        Which was adopted.


Page 218

        On motion of Mr. Isom,

        The following resolution was adopted:

        Resolved, That the committee on the State University be instructed to report to this House, as soon as practicable, if there are not vacancies in the Board of Trustees of that Institution.

        Mr. Carroll offered a joint resolution entitled

        Resolution for the benefit of our soldiers' families,

        Which was read once.

        Leave of absence was granted Messrs. Downs and Daniel after Friday next.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed the following entitled bills:

        A Senate bill entitled an act to amend the attachment laws.

        A Senate bill entitled an act to amend the law of divorce and alimony.

        A House bill entitled an act authorizing Sheriffs of the State to receive Confederate Treasury notes in payment of runaway slaves sold, and for other purposes.

        A House bill entitled an act to allow the Sheriffs and Tax Collectors additional time to collect the taxes for the year 1862, in certain cases.

        A House bill entitled an act to authorize Mrs. Maria E. Wadlington, Guardian of the minor children of Douglass S. King, dec'd, to sell slaves belonging to her wards, and for other purposes.

        A House bill entitled an act for the relief of Geo. R. Fall, with an amendment thereto.

        A House bill entitled an act to extend the time of assessing the taxes in this State for the year 1863.

        A House bill entitled an act to amend chapter 8, of the Revised Code, establishing the fees of certain offieers so far as it relates to the Probate Clerks of the counties of Leake and Rankin.

        Also concurred in a House joint resolution inviting the Hon. J. W. C. Watson to address the Legislature at some early day, with an amendment thereto.

        The Senate receded from their amendment to House resolution granting leave of absence to Hon. Tryan M. Yancey.

        The Senate insist on their amendment to House substitute for Senate resolution instructing our Senators and requesting our Representatives in the Confederate States Congress to pass an act making Confederate notes a legal tender.

        And passed a Senate bill entitled an act to legalize the removal of personal property from this State by guardians, executors, administrators, and other trustees, under certain circumstances, and for other purposes."


Page 219

        A Senate bill entitled an act to provide for obtaining jurors in the Circuit Courts of this State.

        The President of the Senate has appointed the following named Senators as the joint committee on the Executive Mansion Fund, to-wit: Messrs. Quin, Mayson and Lowry.

        The House then called up the resolution introduced on yesterday in relation to a recess after Saturday next.

        Mr. Lewers moved to lay the resolution on the table, which was decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Seal of Harrison, Stephens and Rogers, as follows, to-wit:

        YEAS--Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Boon, Barton, Brown, Clark, Cunningham, Carroll, Downs, Daniel, Eskridge, Fowler, Fox, Foxworth, Falconer, Fort, High, Irby, Kirk, Liddell, Lowry, Lewers, Minter, Moore, Marable, Morehead, Maxwell, Murdock, McLemore, McNiel, Pounds, Prewitt, Rogers, Ross, Seal of Harrison, Shelley, Taylor, Upshaw, Wells and Wynne--41.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Bestor, Barnett, Dillard, Evans, Easterling, Gully, Grace, Gray, Hicks, Hooker, Harris, Hathorn, Hendon, Isom, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Lott, McKay of Green, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McElroy, Owen, Pope, Powe, Pinson, Regan, Rucks, Robinson, Staples, Seal of Hancock, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Thompson, Wier and Yandell--39.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by the Senate to return to the House of Representatives a joint resolution of the House expressing the sense of the Legislature in regard to the appointment of persons under conscript age to a civil or military office in this State, and in accordance with a request made of the Senate on yesterday by the House.

        I am also instructed to inform the House, in answer to their request for the Senate to return to them a House bill entitled "an act to repeal an act entitled an act to prohiblt the distillation of spirits from grain, molasses and sugar, approved January 3d, 1863, and for other purposes," that said bill has been finally disposed of by the Senate and is not in their possession.

        Mr. Irby, from the committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined the following enrolled joint resolution


Page 220

and bills, and find the same correctly enrolled and have submitted them to the Governor for his approval and signature:

        Joint resolution instructing our Senators and requesting our Representatives, adopted by the House of Representatives Nov. 9th, 1863, concurred in by the Senate Nov. 17th, 1863.

        An act entitled an act to repeal an act entitled an act to authorize the appointment of two medical commissioners to especially attend to the sick and wounded soldiers from this State in the Confederate army, and for other purposes, approved January 1st, 1863.

        An act entitled an act to suspend the levee tax authorized to be assessed by the Board of Police of the Mississippi River Levee District.

        An act entitled an act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Kemper county.

        The House then proceeded to the consideration of the question pending on adjournment on yesterday, "an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers," and, on motion,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on said bill,

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, in the chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported progress, and asked leave to sit again at 3 o'clock, P. M.

        Leave of absence was granted Mr. Hooker.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The House adjourned till 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        On a call of the roll, no quorum appearing,

        On motion of Mr. Irby,

        The Door-keeper was directed to close the doors.

        The Sergeant-at-Arms was sent for and excused, a number of gentlemen appearing a quorum was present, and the House proceeded to business.

        Mr. Ross moved a reconsideration of the vote by which the resolution for a recess was laid on the table.

        Leave of absence was granted Mr. McElroy.

        The House then resumed the consideration of the question pending on adjournment, and resolved itself into committee of the Whole on an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers,

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, in the chair.

        After som etime spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported the bill back to the House, with sundry amendments, and recommended its passage.


Page 221

        The report was received and agreed to.

        Leave of absence was granted Mr. Easterling after December 1st.

        On motion of Mr. Ross,

        The vote was then taken on his motion to reconsider the vote by which the House this morning laid on the table the motion to take a recess from Saturday, 28th inst., to 11th January, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. Upshaw offered the following amendment by way of substitute:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That the Legislature adjourn sine die on Saturday, the 5th day of December,

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Regan offered the following amendment:

        Strike out all after the word "concurring," and insert "that this Legislature take a recess after Saturday, the 28th inst., to meet again on the last Monday of January, 1864, in the city of Jackson, Mississippi; Provided, that in case of there being danger from any cause, the Governor shall, by proclamation indicate the place for the meeting of the Legislature."

        Which was lost.

        The question was then taken on the adoption of the original resolution, and decided in the negative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Upshaw, Rogers and Liddell, as follows, to-wit:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Bestor, Barnett, Dillard, Evans, Easterling, Foxworth, Gully, Grace, Gray, Hicks, Hooker, Harris, Hathorn, High, Hendon, Jackson, Lott, Lowry, Marable, McKay of Green, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McElroy, Owen, Pope, Powe, Pinson, Regan, Rucks, Robinson, Seal of Hancock, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Thompson and Yandell--38.

        NAYS--Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Boon, Barton, Brown, Clark, Cunningham, Carroll, Downs, Daniel, Eskridge Fowler, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Isom, Irby, Johnson of Wilkinson, Kirk, Liddell Lewers, Minter, Morehead, Maxwell, Murdock, McLemore, McNeil, Pounds, Prewitt, Rogers, Ross, Staples, Seal of Harrison, Shelley, Upshaw, Wells, Wier and Wynne--39.

        The resolution was lost.

        On motion of Mr. Rogers,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.


Page 222

THURSDAY, November 26, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        Mr. Liddell by leave introduced the following report from the committee on the Lunatic Asylum: MR. SPEAKER--

        Your committee in compliance with the duty imposed upon them, proceed to make the following report on the condition of the Lunatic Asylum:

        We of course, as a committee, have not had the opportunity of visiting the institution, but one of the body did so, and we shall report on information thus obtained, and feel happy to state that it fully sustains the report of the Superintendent. When the Federal forces occupied Jackson in July last, one corps was encamped entirely around the Asylum. Those lawless invaders, as is their custom, made free with every thing which came in their way. The enclosure was utterly destroyed; the garden stripped of every vegetable in season; the hogs and cows carried off, and much damage done otherwise by the thousands who roamed over the grounds like ravenous wolves. Only one spot remained untouched by the sacrilegious hand of Yankee vandalism. We mean the beautiful flower garden in front of the building. planted and cultivated tastefully by the fair hands of the Superintendent's accomplished wife and her maniac band. Not a plant was touched nor a bud was injured. How, or why not, we cannot tell--perhaps a guardian spirit kept constant vigil over the enchanted scene and awed even Yankee depravity into temporary decency. The building itself was injured slightly by our own guns, and as a matter of history, we deem it proper to mention the circumstances. The Federals occupied the cupalo with their signal corps. This was soon perceived by our own men, and at the same time a report reached our commanders that the inmates had been turned out by the enemy and that the building was fully occupied by them. Our guns were at once turned upon it. Three shots took effect, when the superintendent thinking that he perceived the cause of the affair, called on the Federal commander, told him of the state of things, when he promptly withdrew the signal corps, and the firing ceased. The injury was slight and has already been repaired by the Superintendent. The interior of the building was found to be a perfect specimen of neatness, from kitchen to parlor, and from


Page 223

basement to cupalo, and the patients give every evidence of a wise and just system of government. They were uniformly neat and clean, though their clothing, in many instances, gave visable marks of dilapidation. The system of government among them is of the paternal character, kind and conciliatory, yet firm and decided, when occasion seemed to demand it. A larger bill of mortality is shown than usual, which is clearly owing to the causes mentioned by the Superintendent in his report, but the most influential. in the opinion of your committee was the battle. The effects of a bombardment of six days on a household of poor, reasonless, demented creatures with weakened constitutions, and just enough of understanding to feel the perfection of fear, may well be imagined.

        Great economy has been observed in the management and expenditure of the institution. The Superintendent as a wise physician early found the injury to his patients from the use of too much meat, and reduced the amount by degrees to half the army supply, filling up the deficiency from his large and well cultivated gardens. This change has benefitted the health of the patients and brought a saving to the establishment of at least five thousand dollars per annum. Much attention is given to a regular system of employment, and the cheerful hum of the spinning wheel is at all times heard in the female part of the house, making all the thread for sewing as also for knitting. All the stockings and socks are made in the institution, as well as every other article of clothing for male and female. The gardens also are cultivated (almost entirely) by the lunatics, and so successful have they been the present year, that the sum of $2600 was realized from the sale of vegetables, and but for the destruction of the Federals, it would have reached the sum of $6000, an amount sufficient to pay the whole negro hire of the establishment. The heart of the Superintendent seems fully in the management of this institution, as he has cheerfully performed the duties of physician, assistant physician and stuart, thus saving about $2,000 in the salaries, board &c., of the two last officers. The Trustees, at the suggestion of the Superintendent, purchased a tract of wood land for the sum of $7,000. This purchase is deemed a judicious one by your committee, as it is known that wood is one of the heaviest items of expense in the vicinity of Jackson, the current price being $20 per cord. The wood on the land would now bring fully double what the tract cost. The institution is sadly in want of clothing and shoes, and but for fortunate purchase made before


Page 224

the fall of New Orleans, there would have been much suffering. In regard to the suggestion of the Superintendent that a purchase of cotton be allowed and a trade opened with the enemy, your committee feel much doubt and could scarcely agree with him, as it is a matter in which great abuses would be liable to occur. They rather suggest that the President of the Board of Trustees be requested to open negotiations with some tanner for shoes, and some factory for cloth, and thus do the best we can on our own borders. Your committee think it would be better to make what might seem to be a large appropriation, than to enter into any arrangement with our detested and faithless enemy. Your committee were much pleased with an invention made by the Superintendent for treating a class of patients called "night walkers." It is called a crib bed. It is like a child's crib with a laticed top to shut down on the part containing the bed, so that it can lock. This class of patients suffer much from cold as they sometimes will wander around their rooms all night. This arrangement fully protects them from such suffering, as they cannot, in any way get out of bed.

        In view of the heavy expenses of supplying the necessaries of life, and the fact that heavy purchases will have to be made for clothing &c., your committee are of opinion, that if it is expected to keep up the institution on a respectable footing, it cannot be done for a less sum than $50,000. The amount asked for by the Superintendent is based on the idea of making contraband purchases, and without that arrangement a much larger sum is necessary. For the last two years the sum of $32,000 has just been enough to keep the institution out of debt, with a contingent fund of $5,000, and since that appropriation was made, prices have much more than doubled. Bacon sold at 50 cents per pound, flour at $40 per barrel, beef at 15 to 18 cents per pound. Now bacon is $2,00, flour $100 and beef 40 cents. This shows clearly that a less sum than $50,000 would not be sufficient to supply the establishment at the present exorbitant prices. Your committee recommend that the plan of paying the quarterly allowance in advance, be continued, as cash payments have much reduced the price of every article needed by the institution. We are also of opinion that a contingent fund of $25,000 ought to be created and left at the discretion of the Governor, as was the last. Your committee think that the thanks of the Legislature are due to the Trustees, Secretary, Treasurer and Superintendent for the


Page 225

faithful manner in which they have performed their several duties.

        In conclusion, we trust that the good will of this Legislature will ever hang around those unfortunate creatures like a mantle of charity, "God tempers the wind to the shorn lamb," and since we cannot restore the fleece or temper the wind, let us at least be ever willing to interpose a broad shield against its chilling influences.

        Accompanied by a bill to be entitled an act for the benefit of the Lunatic Asylum.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        On motion of Mr. Bradford,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the whole on said bill, Mr. Bradford in the chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose reported the bill back to the House with recommendation that it do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was then read a third time under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Irby by leave introduced a bill to be entitled,

        An act to amend an act to aid in strengthening the army of the Confederate States.

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The following message was received from the Senate: MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed a substitute to House bill entitled an act for the relief of Tax payers in certain cases, and for other purposes. The said substitute is entitled an act for the relief of Tax payers in certain cases, and for other purposes.

        Have passed a bill entitled an act to punish the offense of harboring or concealing deserters from the Confederate and State service, and for other purposes.

        The Senate passed a House bill entitled an act for the relief of Circuit Judges of this State in certain cases.

        The House then proceeded to the consideration of the bill entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers with the amendments reported by the committee of the whole. Amendments:

        In the 2d sec., 5th line, strike out after the words "in which" "the appropriation of five hundred thousand dollars, made by an act entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, approved January 3d, 1863, was distributed," and inserting "the military relief tax of 1862, was distributed on the 1st August, 1863."


Page 226

        Which was adopted.

        Amend sec. 3, by striking out in 4th line after word "purchase," and insert "supplies and provisions at any place they can be procured on the best terms, and distribute the same."

        Which was adopted.

        Amend sec. 3, insert word "or" after "necessities," add after the word "same," in the amendment just adopted, the words, "as to the commissioner may seem most advantageous to the beneficiaries under this act."

        Which was adopted.

        Amend sec. 10, by striking out in the 8th line, from the word "however," to the word "at" in the 9th line, and insert "that the Boards of Police of the several counties, may within thirty days, or as soon thereafter as practicable, after the passage of this act, hold a meeting and determine thereat, what per centum of the tax herein directed to be levied and collected, may be paid in supplies and provisions needed to meet the current wants of those intended to be benefitted by this law, and in such cases, said Boards shall designate the kinds and quantities of such supplies and provisions into which the per centum fixed upon may be commuted, and shall cause each Tax Collector, and the Commissioners of the several Police Districts, to be furnished with a schedule thereof, and any Tax payer may thereupon, at his election, pay the percentum of his tax determined by the Board of Police as aforesaid in supplies and provisions, provided, that the tax in kind so collected, shall not exceed the distributive share to which each county is entitled under this act.

        Which was adopted.

        Amend sec. 10, by adding after the word "aforesaid," in 8th line, the words, for which services the Auditor shall be allowed the sum of one eighth of one per centum on said tax, payable out of any money in the Treasury, not otherwise appropriated.

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Fort offered the following amendment:

        Amend sec. 10, 2d line, by inserting the words, "except in the county of Marshall," in which the special tax, levied and collected, shall not exceed fifty per centum on the regular State tax.

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Irby offered the following amendment:

        Amend sec. 10, line 1st, by striking out the words "and fifty," so that it may read one hundred per cent, which was lost by yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Irby, Gully and Allen.


Page 227

        YEAS--Messrs. Allen, Boon, Clark, Daniel, Foxworth, Falconer, Fort, Gray, Hathorn, Irby, Johnson of Wilkinson, Kirk, Lott, Maxwell, McKay of Green, McLaurin, Owen, Pope, Powe, Pinson, Rucks and Ross--22.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Arnold, Bradford, Bestor, Barton, Brown, Barnett, Cunningham, Carroll, Downs, Dillard, Evans, Easterling, Eskridge, Fowler, Fox, Gully, Grace, Hicks, Harris, High, Hendon, Isom, Johnson of Tippah, Liddell, Lowry, Lewers, Minter, Moore, Marable, Morehead, Murdock, McLemore, McElroy, McNiel, Pounds, Prewitt, Regan, Rogers, Robinson, Staples, Seal of Harrison, Shelley, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Upshaw, Wells, Wier, Watson, Wynne and Yandell--53.

        Amend sec. 11, by adding after the word "State" in last line, the words, "and for the collection of said tax the Sheriffs of the several counties shall receive the sum of two per cent. on the amount of said tax to be retained out of the same.

        Which was adopted.

        Amend sec. 11, line 2d, after the words "upon the," insert the words "collected of the."

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Murdock offered the following amendment:

        Amend sec. 11, by adding at end of section: "Provided that county warrants shall not be received for a greater amount than the proportion due said county from the fund."

        Which was adopted.

        Amend sec. 12, by adding after the word "year," in 3d line, "except the counties of Tallahatchie, Jackson, Hinds, Rankin, Scott, Wilkinson, Newton, Calhoun, Leake and Kemper, wherein the Boards of Police are authorized to levy a tax not exceeding three hundred per centum on the State tax."

        Which was adopted.

        Amend sec. 13, by striking out "two and a half," and insert "two." Adopted.

        Strike out sec. (14,) fourteen.

        Which was lost.

        Amend sec. 14, by striking out in 16th line after the word "property," to the word "provided" in the 18th line, and insert the words, "the market price for all articles so impressed."

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Morehead offered the following amendment.

        Amend sec. 14, by striking out the words "their county," after the words "Board of Police of" in 3d line, and insert the county in which they were unable to make such purchases, which,

        On motion of Mr. Stephens,


Page 228

        Was laid on the table.

        Mr. Regan offered the following amendment:

        Amend sec. 14: strike out all after the word "county" in the 3d line.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, moved to lay the amendment on the table, which was decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Regan, Carroll and Daniel:

        YEAS--Messrs. Archer, Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Barton, Brown, Cunningham, Dillard, Evans, Eskridge, Fox, Falconer, Gulley, Grace, Harris, Hendon, Isom, Jackson, Johnson of Tippah, Lowry, Lewers, Marable, Morehead, McLaurin, McKay of Green, McLaurin, McElroy, McNiel, Pounds, Powe, Robinson, Staples, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Upshaw, Wier and Watson--43.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Barnett, Clark, Carroll, Daniel, Dale, Easterling, Fowler, Foxworth, Fort, Gray, Hicks, Hathorn, Irby, Johnson of Wilkinson, Kirk, Liddell, Lott, Minter, Moore, Maxwell, Murdock, Owen, Pope, Prewitt, Regan, Rucks, Rogers, Ross, Sutton, Taylor, Thompson, Wells, Wynne and Yandell--35.

        The question was then taken on the adoption of the section 14, and decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Regan, Carroll and Fort:

        YEAS--Messrs. Archer, Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Barton, Brown, Cunningham, Downs, Dillard, Evans, Eskridge, Fox, Falconer, Gulley, Grace, Harris, High, Hendon, Isom, Jackson, Johnson of Tippah, Lowry, Lewers, Marable, Morehead, McLemore, McKay of Green, McLaurin, McElroy, McNiel, Pounds, Powe, Robinson, Staples, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Upshaw, Wier and Watson--44.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Barnett, Clark, Carroll, Dale, Daniel, Easterling, Fowler, Foxworth, Fort, Gray, Hicks, Hathorn, Irby, Johnson of Wilkinson, Kirk, Liddell, Lott, Minter, Moore, Maxwell, Murdock, Owen, Pope, Pinson, Prewitt, Regan, Rucks, Rogers, Ross, Sutton, Taylor, Thompson, Wells, Wynne and Yandell--36.

        Amend by additional section:

        SEC. 15. Be it further enacted, That in addition to the foregoing appropriation there be and is hereby appropriated an additional sum of two hundred and eighty-nine thousand dollars, out of any money in the Treasury of the State not otherwise appropriated, to be distributed in accordance with the foregoing provisions of this act to the counties hereinafter named, and said appropriation shall be divided between said counties as follows, viz:


Page 229

        To the county of Tishomingo, fifty thousand dollars.

        To the county of Tippah, forty thousand dollars.

        To the county of Itawamba, twenty-five thousand dollars.

        To the county of Pontotoc, twenty thousand dollars.

        To the county of Marshall, twenty-five thousand dollars.

        To the county of Lafayette, fifteen thousand dollars.

        To the county of DeSoto, ten thousand dollars.

        To the county of Panola, five thousand dollars.

        To the county of Warren, twenty thousand dollars.

        To the county of Claiborne, twelve thousand dollars.

        To the county of Yazoo, twelve thousand dollars.

        To the county of Hinds, fifteen thousand dollars.

        To the county of Wilkinson, ten thousand dollars.

        To the county of Harrison, five thousand dollars.

        To the county of Jackson, five thousand dollars.

        To the county of Hancock, five thousand dollars.

        To the county of Adams, ten thousand dollars.

        To the county of Calhoun, seven thousand dollars.

        To the county of Washington, three thousand dollars.

        Mr. Liddell offered the following substitute:

        SEC. 15. Be it further enacted, That the Governor is hereby authorized to appoint immediately the commissioners for the counties of Tippah and Tishomingo, as provided for in this act, whose duty it shall be to procure at once the number of indigent persons in said counties, their condition and necessities, and the propable amount which will be required to relieve them over and above their distributive share of the fund created by this act, and report the same without delay to the Auditor of Public Accounts.

        SEC. 16. Be it further enacted, That the sum of seventy-five thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be found to be necessary, is hereby appropriated and placed at the disposal of the Governor, for the benefit of such indigent persons, to be drawn by said commissioners in such sums as may be found to be necessary, upon the warrant of the Governor upon the Treasurer.

        Leave of absence was granted Messrs. Kirk and Hathorn after Friday.

        The following message was received from the Governor through his Private Secretary:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Nov. 26th, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        His Excellency, the Governor, has signed and approved the following House bills and resolution entitled:

        An act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Kemper county.

        An act to suspend the Levee tax authorized to be assessed


Page 230

by the Boards of Police of the Mississippi River Levee District.

        An act to repeal an act entitled an act to authorize the appointment of two medical commissioners to especially attend to the sick and wounded soldiers from the State in the Confederate army, and for other purposes, approved January 1st, 1863.

        Resolution instructing our Senators and requesting our Representatives.

        On motion of Mr. Brown,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The House resumed the consideration of the question pending on adjournment, to-wit: the substitute offered by Mr. Liddell for the additional section 15 reported by the committee of the Whole.

        Mr. Rucks offered the following substitute for the substitute:

        SEC. 15. Be it further enacted, That an additional sum of two hundred and eighty-nine thousand dollars ($289,000) be and the same is hereby appropriated, payable out of the treasury notes issued under the provisions of an act entitled an act authorizing the issuance of treasury notes on behalf of the State, approved January 29th, 1862, the whole of which sum shall be immediately distributed as provided for in the second section of this act.

        Mr. Barnett moved to lay the substitute, and the substitute for the substitute on the table.

        Mr. Stephens called for a division of the question.

        The vote was first taken on laying the substitute for the substitute on the table, and decided in the affirmative.

        The vote was then taken on laying the substitute on the table, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. Regan moved that the county of Claiborne be stricken out of the section,

        Which was adopted.

        On motion of Mr. Fowler,

        The county of Washington was stricken out of the section.

        Mr. Cunningham offered the following substitute for section 15:

        SEC.--. Be it further enacted, That any sum in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, not exceeding the sum of three hundred thousand dollars, be and the same is hereby placed at the disposal of the Governor for the relief of the destitute families in such counties as are not sufficiently provided for


Page 231

by the general distribution contemplated in this act; and that the Governor is hereby authorized and requested to appoint and employ competent agents to obtain all the necessary information at as early a day as practicable of the wants of such counties, and that the Governor draw his warrant on the Auditor for such sum as he in his judgment may deem just and equal to such counties.

        Be it further enacted, That the Governor may employ a sufficient number of agents to disburse and distribute the same according to the provisions of this act, and the said agents be required to give bond and sufficient security for the faithful performance of their duties, the Governor allowing and paying just compensation for the same, and that the Governor be requested to make a full report to the next Legislature.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The substitute was laid on the table.

        Mr. Eskridge offered the following substitute, which,

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Was laid on the table.

        SEC. 15. Be it further enacted, That the further sum of three hundred thousand dollars be and the same is hereby appropriated for the relief of the indigent families in the border counties of this State, to be drawn from the Treasury of the State upon the warrant of the Governor, in such sums as he may see proper from time to time, as he may require the same, to avoid the suffering which this appropriation is intended to prevent; and that the money herein appropriated may be applied appropriately and according to the necessities of the different counties, the Governor is authorized and required, without delay, in such manner as will most certainly and speedily secure the proper data, proceed to ascertain the relative wants of the several counties, the capacity of said counties to make payment of taxes, and shall apply the appropriation made by this section in such way as in his judgment is most expedient and proper to arrest suffering.

        Mr. Barnett offered to amend the amendment sec. 15, by adding, "to the county of Issaquena, three thousand dollars,"

        Which was adopted.

        On motion,

        The counties of Claiborne and Washington were reinserted in section 15.

        Mr. Watson offered the following substitute:

        SEC. 15. Be it further enacted, That the sum of two hundred thousand dollars be, and is hereby appropriated out of any moneys in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, to be placed at the disposal of the Governor for the benefit of such of indigent persons hereinbefore provided for, whose wants


Page 232

may not be sufficiently met by the appropriations made by the previous sections of this bill; and the Governor is hereby authorized and requested to adopt such measures as he may deem best calculated to ascertain the counties or persons who may be entitled to relief out of the appropriation made by this section, and in his discretion he is authorized immediately out of this fund to purchase such supplies and provisions as he may think will be needed.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, moved to lay the substitute on the table,

        Which motion was lost.

        Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson, moved to lay the section 15 and the substitute on the table.

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Eskridge offered the following amendment to the substitute:

        Provided, Said sum be appropriated to the counties of Tishomingo, Tippah, Marshall, DeSoto, Warren, Yazoo, Hinds, Washington, Claiborne, Adams, Issaquena and Lafayette,

        Which was lost.

        The vote was then taken on the adoption of the substitute and decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Evans, Gully, and Seal, of Harrison:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Bestor, Boon, Brown, Clark, Cunningham, Downs, Daniel, Easterling, Fox, Foxworth, Fort, Grace, Gray, Hicks, Harris, Hendon, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Kirk, Liddell, Lott, Moore, Marable, Morehead, Maxwell, McLemore, McKay of Green, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McElroy, Owen, Pope, Powe, Ross, Robinson, Staples, Sutton, Wells, Watson and Wynne--42.

        NAYS--Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Barton, Barnett, Carroll, Dillard, Dale, Evans, Eskridge, Fowler, Gully, High, Isom, Johnson of Tippah, Lowry, Lewers, Minter, Murdock, McNeil, Pounds, Pinson, Prewitt, Regan, Rucks, Rogers, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Stephens, Thompson, Upshaw, Wier and Yandell--34.

        Amendment from the committee of the Whole:

        Be it further enacted, That whenever the commissioners appointed under this act shall be in doubt as to the right of any applicant to be a beneficiary, he shall consult the Board of Police, if in session, or the President thereof in vacation, and said Board or President shall determine the question; and in all cases, where a party has been declared by the commissioners as not entitled to the benefit of this act, an appeal to the Board of Police may be taken and the decision of said Board shall be conclusive.

        Which was adopted.


Page 233

        Mr. Regan offered the following amendment, which was laid on the table:

        Amend by way of additional section--

        SEC. Be it further enacted, That the benefits of this act shall not apply to the families of such soldiers as have deserted, or may hereafter desert from the State or Confederate service, or have fled or may hereafter fly within the Federal lines to avoid service due from them in the present war; Provided, That the families of such soldiers as have been captured as deserters and executed by the military law of the land shall not be included in the provisions of this section.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, offered the following amendment by way of additional section:

        Be it further enacted, That when the Governor shall ascertain the number of persons from each county entitled to an appropriation under this act, he may pay over, the amount to the President of the Board of Police in such county, or to the person appointed by the Board of Police to receive the same, so that said sum may be disposed of by the Board of Police as in their opinion they may deem most expedient.

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Rogers withdrew his motion made on the 24th instant, to reconsider the vote by which the House on that day passed a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the collection of monies loaned by this State to Railroad companies from the Chickasaw School Fund.

        Mr. Irby, from the committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined the following enrolled bills, and found the same correctly enrolled and have submitted them to his Excellency, the Governor, for his approval and signature, to-wit:

        A House bill entitled an act to allow the Sheriffs and Tax Collectors additional time to collect the taxes for the year 1862, in certain cases.

        A House bill entitled an act authorizing Sheriffs of the State to receive Confederate Treasury notes in payment of runaway slaves sold, and for other purposes.

        A House bill entitled an act to authorize Mrs. Maria E. Wadlington, Guardian of the minor children of Douglass S. King, dec'd, to sell slaves belonging to her wards, and for other purposes.

        A House bill entitled an act to amend chapter 8, of the Revised Code, establishing the fees of certain offieers so far as it relates to the Probate Clerks of the counties of Leake and Rankin.


Page 234

        A House bill entitled an act to extend the time of assessing the taxes in this State for the year 1863.

        On motion of Mr. Fowler,

        The House adjourned until 10 o'clock to-morrow morning.

FRIDAY, November 27, 1863.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Lyon.

        Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        On motion of Mr. Regan,

        The rules were suspended and Senate messages taken up, and the Senate substitute for House bill entitled an act for the relief of tax payers in certain cases, was taken up,

        And read three several times, the rules being suspended, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Watson moved to recommit the bill under consideration on yesterday, to wit: An act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, to a select committee of five.

        Which was lost.

        On motion of Mr. Fox,

        The House reconsidered the vote by which on yesterday it adopted, the amendment offered by Mr. Watson as a substitute for amendment sec. 15, recommended by the committee of the whole.

        Mr. Upshaw moved a reconsideration of the vote by which on yesterday evening the House adopted the amendment, by way of additional section offered by Mr. Seal of Harrison.

        Which was decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. Upshaw moved that the subject matter of sec. 15, amendment reported by committee of the whole, and the substitutes thereto, be referred to a select committee of five.

        The Speaker appointed Messrs. Watson, Regan, McLaurin, Weir and Murdock

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The bill under consideration was ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow at 10 o'clock.

        Mr. Regan called up the resolution upon which the motion for a reconsideration was made on the 24th inst., to wit:

        The resolution in relation to the employment of persons under conscript age in the military or civil service of the State.

        The House reconsidered the vote by which said resolution was adopted.


Page 235

        Mr. Eskridge moved to amend by adding, nor to those exempt from military service.

        The House then refused to adopt the resolution.

        Mr. Rucks called from the orders of the day, a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Alabama and Mississippi Rivers Railroad Company.

        Which was read the second time.

        On motion of Mr. Rucks,

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Downs, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to indemnify the present session of the Legislature, which was read once, and

        On motion of Mr. Isom,

        Was laid on the table.

        Mr. Powe by leave, introduced a joint resolution inviting the Hon. R. W. Walker, Senator elect from the State of Alabama, to address the Legislature and the public, at an early day in this House.

        The rules was suspended and the resolution adopted.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed the following bills, to wit:

        A bill entitled an act to compensate soldiers in the State service in certain cases.

        A bill entitled an act to repeal an act reducing the salary of the Probate Judge of Rankin county.

        Have also passed House bill entitled an act to incorporate the Southern College of Medical Surgery.

        And have adopted House joint resolution in reference to the President's order removing slaves.

        Mr. Bestor, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend chapter 59, article 36, of the Revised Code relating to patrols.

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Yandell offered the following amendment:

        "Except Ministers of the Gospel."

        Which was lost.

        The rules were suspended, the bill read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Rogers by leave, called up the special order of Wednesday last, to wit:

        A bill to be entitled an act to encourage enlistments in the army of the Confederate States, and for other purposes.

        Mr. Shelly moved to lay the bill on the table.

        Which was decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Bradford, Rogers and Brown.


Page 236

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bestor, Barton, Brown, Barnett, Carroll, Downs, Evans, Gray, Harris, High, Hendon, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Kirk, Lott, Moore, Marable, McKay of Green, McKay of Neshoba, McNeil, Pownds, Powe, Pinson, Rogers, Ross, Robinson, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Wells, Wier and Yandell--36.

        NAYS--Messrs. Archer, Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Boone, Clark, Cunningham, Daniel, Dillard, Eskridge, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Grace, Isom, Irby, Liddell. Lewers, Minter, Maxwell, Murdock, McLemore, McLaurin, McElroy, Prewit, Regan, Rucks, Staples, Stephens, Thompson, Upshaw, Watson and Wynne--33.

        The bill was laid on the table

        Mr. Murdock moved a reconsideration of the vote by which the House this morning passed a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Alabama and Mississippi Rivers Railroad Company.

        Mr. Irby, from the committee on Enroled Bills, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined the following enrolled joint resolution and bill, found the same correctly enrolled, and have submitted them to his Excellency the Governor, for his approval and signature, to-wit:

        Joint resolution in reference to the President's order removing slaves.

        An act entitled an act, to amend an act, for the relief of Judges of the Circuit Courts of this State in certain cases.

        The following message was received from the Governor through his Private Secretary:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am directed by his Excellency the Governor, to transmit to you his message in writing.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Nov. 27, 1863.

Gentlemen of the Senate
and House of Representatives:

        I have this day signed a bill entitled an act to authorize the repair of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad between Okalona and Saltillo in this State, and for other purposes.

        I approved the bill, not only on account of the great importance of the proposed extension in a military point of view to the State and the Confederacy, but because of its necessity in conveying provisions and other necessaries for a large number of our people in the Northern and Eastern part of the State, whose property has been destroyed and


Page 237

whose fields have been desolated by the enemy. I shall immediately communicate with the President of the road as to the best means of repairing the road and placing it in running order. I believe it is the duty of the Directory to do this without any assistance or guarantee from the State. Railroads are not chartered for the purpose of granting privlieges and monopolies to a few individuals for their exclusive advantage, but for the benefit of the people, and however few the restraints contained in their charters, they are under obligations and conditions imposed by the common law of the land, which they should not be permitted to disregard. The grant of power to build a Railroad includes the obligation to keep it in repair and use it, and any unreasonable neglect or refusal to do this, as to any part of the road, works a forfeiture of their charters. The danger to the road from the public enemy or any excuse which may be given, are questions to be determined by the courts of the State on the facts as they may be found by a jury. I cannot conceive that the supposed danger of injury from the troops of the State, or of the Confederacy, can affect the question.

        I desire in this connection to call your attention to the complaints which are made against this Railroad of alleged exorbitant charges, both for freight and passengers, and to their recent refusal to transport freight, except upon terms as to risks which they have no right as common carriers to impose. You have the power to investigate these alleged grievances, and if you find them to exist, to provide the proper remedy.

        It is admitted that under the present high prices of labor, of materials and of increased liability on account of the increased value of the property transported, a reasonable advance should be made in their freights, but exorbitant and extortionate charges cannot be permitted. It is an abuse of the franchise, and works a forfeiture of their charter. I have also been informed that some of the Railroads which have issued notes to circulate as money, refuse to take the notes of other Railroads in the State as payment for freight. If such refusing roads, accepted the provisions of the acts of December 1861, and January 1862, such refusal works a forfeiture of their charters. If they did not accept them, the issuance of such notes by them, not only subjects the officers to the penalties against unauthorized banking, but is a misuser, and also works a forfeiture.

        I respectfully recommend that an enquiry be made into the alleged abuses, and that suitable remedies be provided by statutes. I especially call your attention to the proceedings by scire facius and information in nature of quo warranto,


Page 238

that you may declare in what cases they may be issued, and provide for the very probable contingency of a judgement by forfeiture by such statutes as will vest the forfeited property, and privileges in trustees, with power to continue the benefits of the roads to the public. It would be advisable also to give the power to the courts upon the issuance of the writ upon a proper hearing after notice, or at any stage of the proceeding before the final judgement to place the road in the hands of trustees, such disposition to be made by subsequent legislation as justice and the public interest may demand.

CHAS. CLARK,
Governor.


        On motion of Mr. Minter,

        The House adjourned till 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        On a call of the roll a quorum appeared.

        On motion of Mr. Eskridge,

        The House took up the Governor's message transmitted to the House this morning.

        The message was read, and

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Was referred to the Judiciary committee.

        The House then proceeded to the consideration of the Senate messages.

        The House concurred in the Senate amendment to House joint resolution setting apart Thursday, 10th December, as a day of fasting humiliation and prayer.

        The House concurred in the Senate amendment to House bill, entitled an act to remove the civil and legal disabilities of Sam B. Jones.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize and require the Governor to cause to be printed, a sufficient amount of bonds bearing eight per cent. interest, for the purpose of calling in and taking up the Treasury notes, issued by law, for the military defense of the State.

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee of Ways and Means.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to punish parties making illegal seizures and impressments in this State.

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act relative to the establishment of a temporary penitentiary.

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on the Penitentiary.


Page 239

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to pay Clerks, Inspectors and returning officers of elections of Hancock county, and to increase the per diem of the members of the Board of Police.

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Grace moved to insert the county of Lauderdale in title and body of bill.

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. McElroy moved to insert the county of Newton in title and body of bill.

        Which was adopted.

        The bill read the third time under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the time of holding the Probate Court of Lawrence county.

        The bill read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate joint resolutions of confidence &c., were concurred in by the House.

        Senate joint resolution to donate clothing to Herndon Rangers &c., was concurred in by the House.

        Senate joint resolution in regard to Railroads &c., was concurred in by the House.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the attachement laws &c., was read twice under a suspension of the rules and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide for obtaining jurors in the Circuit Courts of this State.

        Was read twice under suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to legalize the removal of personal property from this State, by Guardians, Executors, Administrators and other Trustees under certain circumstances, and for other purposes.

        Was read twice under suspension of the rules and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the law of divorces and alimony,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. McElroy offered an amendment by way of substitute, entitled an act to amend article 11 of sec. 4, of chapter 40 of the Revised Code of the State of Mississippi.

        Which was laid on the table.

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate amendment to House amendment to Senate joint resolution in relation to making Confederate notes a legal tender, in which the House refused to concur.

        The House insisted on its refusal to concur.


Page 240

        The House concurred in the Senate amendment to House joint resolution inviting the Hon. J. W. C. Watson to address the Legislature.

        The House concurred in the Senate amendment to House bill to be entitled an act for the relief of George R. Fall.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to punish the offense of harboring or concealing deserters from the Confederate States service, and for other purposes,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, moved the indefinite postponement of the bill, which was decided in the negative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Bradford, Allen and Stephens:

        YEAS--Messrs. Foxworth, Pope, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, and Yandell--5.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Barton, Brown, Barnett, Clark, Cunningham, Carroll, Downs, Deason of Jones, Daniel, Dillard, Dale, Evans, Easterling, Eskridge, Fowler, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Grace, Gray, Hicks, Harris, High, Hendon, Isom, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Kirk, Liddell, Lowry, Lewers, Minter, Moore, Marable, Morehead, Murdock, McLemore, McLaurin, McElroy, Owen, Pounds, Pinson, Prewitt, Regan, Rucks, Ross, Robinson, Staples, Shelley, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Taylor, Thompson, Upshaw, Wells, Wier, Watson and Wynne--69.

        Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson, offered an amendment by way of substitute entitled "an act to encourage enlistments in the army of the Confederate States, and for other purposes,"

        Which was read.

        Pending which,

        Leave of absence was granted Messrs. Gully and Upshaw.

        The Speaker presented the following communication:

JACKSON, MISS.,
November 21, 1863.

Hon. L. E. Houston,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

        SIR--I have the honor herewith to submit to the House the biennial report of the Trustees of the State Institution for the Blind, and am, sir,

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN DUNCAN,
President of the Board of Trustees Miss. State Inst. for the
Blind.


        On motion,

        The report was referred to the committee on the Institution for the Blind.

        On motion of Mr. Isom,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.


Page 241

SATURDAY, November 28, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Sears.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        Mr. Morehead presented the petition of Wm. M. Haley, Sheriff of Copiah county, which was referred to the committee on Claims without reading.

        Mr. Regan, by leave, called from the orders of the day a Senate bill to be entitled an act for the examination of the offices of the Auditor of Public Accounts and State Treasurer.

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Regan moved a reconsideration of the vote by which on yesterday the House concurred in the "resolutions of confidence, &c.," from the Senate, and,

        On motion of Mr. Eskridge,

        Was made the special order for Monday morning at 10 o'clock.

        Mr. Stephens presented the petition of W. D. McCulloch, Chaplain of the 23d Miss. Regiment, which was referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances with instructions to report by bill or otherwise.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed the following entitled bills:

        A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the removal of the records, books and papers belonging to any Court of Record, and for other purposes.

        A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of D. H. Maury.

        A bill to be entitled an act to supply soldiers of the State of Mississippi, either in the State or Confederate service, with shoes and clothing.

        A bill to be entitled an act to amend section 7, Revised Code of the State of Mississippi, so far as the same provides compensation for the State Printer, and for other purposes.

        Also passed a House bill entitled an act to repeal section 5 of an act entitled an act to reduce the county tax of Greene county, approved Dec. 5, 1861.

        The Senate have passed sundry amendments to House bill entitled an act to procure cotton and wool cards, and other articles, for indigent families of soldiers and citizens of the State. There was also an amendment to the title.

        The Senate have also passed a Senate bill entitled an act to to procure salt for the indigent families of soldiers, and for other purposes, approved January 1, 1863.

        The House then proceeded to the consideration of the special order, to-wit:


Page 242

        A bill to be entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers.

        On motion of Mr. Watson.

        The bill was recommitted to the select committee of five to which on yesterday was referred the sec. 15 reported by the committee of the Whole and the amendment by way of additional section offered by Mr. Seal of Harrison.

        That committee, through its chairman, Mr. Watson, forthwith reported the bill back to the House with the following amendment by way of additional section:

        SEC.--. Be it further enacted, That the sum of eighty-five thousand dollars, in addition to the appropriations made by the previous sections of this act, be and the same is hereby set apart out of any monies in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, for the benefit and relief of the persons for whom this act is intended to provide in the counties of Tippah, Tishmingo, Hancock, Harrison and Jackson, the said sum of eighty-five thousand dollars to be divided among the said five mentioned counties in the manner following to-wit:

        To the county of Tippah, thirty thousand dollars.

        To the county of Tishomingo, forty thousand dollars.

        And to the said counties of Harrison, Hancock, and Jackson, the sum of five thousand dollars each, which said amounts shall be immediately drawn out of the Treasury and disbursed in the manner and for the purposes of the said counties respectively, that the appropriations made by the previous section of this act, are to be drawn and disbursed; Provided, however, Should it hereafter appear to the Governor that the said counties of Tippah, Tishomingo, Hancock, Harrison and Jackson will not require for the proper support of the persons therein respectively intended to be aided by this act, their full shares of all the appropriations made to them therein, then and in that event he shall notify in writing the Auditor of Public Accounts of the precise sum which he may be satisfied can be withheld from the said counties respectively, or one or more of them, as unnecessary for the purposes of this act; and thereupon it shall be the duty of the Auditor not to issue his warrant or warrants upon the Treasury for the sum or sums so designated, but the same shall be retained in the Treasury out of the shares respectively to which the said five counties are entitled out of the proceeds of the special tax of one hundred and fifty per cent. by this act hereinbefore imposed; Provided further, That the tax authorized by the 4th section of an act entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, approved January 3d, 1863, be and is hereby abolished for the future, and that none of the provisions of the said act shall apply to the money appropriated or the tax collected by virtue of this act.


Page 243

        Which amendments were adopted.

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        On motion of Mr. Rogers,

        The House proceeded to the consideration of the special order of Thursday last, and,

        On his motion,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on the bill to be entitled an act for the relief of the 1st Battalion of Mississippi State Troops, commanded when in service by Maj. Harper,

        Mr. Bradford in the chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported the bill back to the House with the recommendation that the bill be referred to the committee on Military Affairs.

        The report of the committe was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Murdock, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the protection of the persons and property of the citizens of the State of Mississippi,

        Which, without reading, was referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Rucks introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend the law in relation to the writ of habeas corpus,

        Which, without reading, was referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Falconer, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to create the office of Historian to the University of Mississippi,

        Which, without reading, was refered to the committee on the State University.

        Mr. Lewers called from the orders of the day an act to be entitled an act for the benefit of the cavalry companies commanded by Capts. Mitchell, Williams and Johnson, which,

        On his motion,

        Was referred to the committee on Military Affairs.

        The joint resolution of the Senate in relation to adjournment on Saturday, 28th inst., was taken up.

        Mr. Allen moved to amend by striking out "Saturday, 28th inst.," and insert "Saturday, 5th inst., next."

        Mr. Liddell moved the indefinite postponement of the resolution and amendment,

        Which was lost.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The resolution and amendment were laid on the table.

        The House then resumed the consideration of the question pending on adjournment yesterday, to-wit:


Page 244

        The substitute offered by Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson, for the Senate bill to be entitled an act to punish the offense of harboring or concealing deserters from the Confederate and State service, and for other purposes.

        Mr. Johnson, offered the following amendment by way of substitute:

        Amend section 1 by striking out the words "any citizen of this State," and insert the words "any person," in 2d line.

        Amend section 1 by inserting after the word "Mississippi" in the 5th line, the words "or who shall belong to the army of the Confederate States or the State of Mississippi."

        Amend section 3 by inserting after the word "lines," in the 5th line, the words "for the purpose of remaining therein or giving him aid or information."

        Which were adopted.

        Mr. Maxwell offered the following amendment:

        Add at end of section 3 the words "except mothers, wives and sisters,"

        Was laid on the table.

        The vote was then taken on the adoption of the substitute bill as amended, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. Rogers offered a substitute for the bill under consideration, which,

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson,

        Was laid on the table.

        The bill was then read the third time under a suspension of the rules, and passed by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Maxwell, Stephens and Jackson.

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Archer, Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Brown, Barnett, Clark, Cunningham, Carroll, Deason of Copiah, Daniel, Dillard, Evans, Easterling, Eskridge, Fowler, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Grace, Harris, High, Hendon, Isom, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Liddell, Lott, Lowry, Lewers, Minter, Marable, Morehead, Murdock, McLemore, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McElroy, Owen, Prewitt, Regan, Rucks, Ross, Robinson, Staples, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Taylor, Thompson, Wells, Wier, Watson, Wynne and Yandell--60.

        NAYS--Messrs. Barton, Gray, Moore, Maxwell, McKay of Green, McNiel, Pounds, Powe, Pinson, Rogers, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, and Shelley--13.

        Mr. Irby, from the committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined the following enrolled joint resolutions and bills, found the same correctly enrolled and have sub


Page 245

them to his Excellency, the Governor, for his approval and signature, to-wit:

        Joint resolution appointing a day of fasting and prayer.

        Joint resolution granting leave of absence to the Hon. Tryan M. Yancey.

        An act entitled an act to incorporate the Southern College of Medical Surgery.

        An act entitled an act to remove the civil and legal disabilities of Samuel B. Jones, of Sunflower county.

        The following message was received from the Governor through his Private Secretary:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Nov. 26th, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        His Excellency, the Governor, did, on the 26th inst., sign and approve the following House bills, entitled:

        A House bill entitled an act to extend the time of assessing the taxes in this State for the year 1863.

        A House bill entitled an act to allow the Sheriffs and Tax Collectors additional time to collect the taxes for the year 1862, in certain cases.

        A House bill entitled an act to amend chapter 8, of the Revised Code, establishing the fees of certain offieers so far as it relates to the Probate Clerks of the counties of Leake and Rankin.

        A House bill entitled an act authorizing Sheriffs of the State to receive Confederate Treasury notes in payment of runaway slaves sold, and for other purposes.

        A House bill entitled an act to authorize Mrs. Maria E. Wadlington, Guardian of the minor children of Douglass S. King, dec'd, to sell slaves belonging to her wards, and for other purposes.

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Nov. 28, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by his Excellency, the Governor, to inform the House that he did, on the 27th inst., sign and approve the House bill and resolution entitled:

        An act entitled an act to amend an act for the relief of Judges of the Circuit Courts of this State in certain cases.

        Joint resolution in reference to the President's order removing slaves.

        The said joint resolution was immediately telegraphed to the President.

        On motion of Mr. Murdock,

        The House adjourned until Monday morning, at 10 o'clock.


Page 246

MONDAY, November 30th, 1863.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Mr. Evans of the House.

        Journal of Saturday read and approved.

        On motion

        The call of counties was dispensed with.

        Mr. Upshaw gave notice that he would, on to-morrow, introduce a bill to be entitled an act to enable the Police Court of Monroe county to levy a tax for the support of the dependents of soldiers &c. from said county.

        The House then proceeded to the consideration of the special order, to wit.

        The resolutions of confidence &c. from the Senate.

        Mr. Upshaw offered the following substitute:

        Resolved, That we have full confidence in the capacity of the President of the Confederate States, and in his fidelity to our cause, and we pledge ourselves to do all things in our power to further the interest of our bleeding country by upholding the hands of our Chief Executive.

        Mr. Watson moved that the resolution and substitue be referred to a select committee of five.

        Mr. Liddell called for the previous question which was not sustained.

        The vote was then taken on the reference of the resolutions and substitute to a committee of five and decided in the affirmative.

        The Speaker appointed as committee, Messrs. Watson, Thompson, Regan, Liddell and Isom.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed the following House bills:

        A bill entitled an act for the relief of Cooper & Kimball, State Printers.

        A bill entitled an act to revise and amend an act to extend the time for the collection of taxes of the current fiscal year, approved December 20th, 1861, and for other purposes.

        A bill entitled an act to enable the counties of Lowndes, Oktibbeha and Noxubee, and the city of Columbes, to settle up and close their subscription to the capital stock of the Mobile & Ohio Railroad Company.

        A bill entitled an act to better provide for the familes of our soldiers.

        Passed with amendment.

        The following message was received from the Governor:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, November 30th, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        His Excellency the Governor, did on the 28th inst, s


Page 247

and approve the following House bills and resolutions, entitled,

        An act to remove the civil and legal disabilities of Samuel B. Jones, of Sunflower county.

        An act to incorporate the Southern College of Medicine and Surgery.

        Joint resolution setting apart Thursday, the 10th of December, as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer.

        Joint resolution granting leave of absence to the Hon. Tryan M. Yancey, of Marshall county.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        The bill to be entitled an act to organize the army of Mississippi was called up and made the special order for 3 o'clock P. M.

        On motion of Mr. Isom,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The House resolved itself into committee of the whole on the bill to be entitled an act to organize the army of Mississippi.

        Mr. Seal of Harrison, in the chair.

        After sometime spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported the bill back to the House, and asked leave to sit again to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The following message was received from the Governor through his private Secretary:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by the Governor to deliver to you his message in writing.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, November 30th, 1863.

Gentlemen of the Senate
and House of Representatives:

        I have the honor to communicate to you the following telegram from the President of the Confederate States, in reply to the resolution passed by you:

RICHMOND, VA., Nov. 28th.

Gov. Chas. Clark, Columbus, Miss.

        Your telegram of yesterday received, Mine to you of the 18th inst., explained the policy and instructiohs of the Government in relation to negro men about to be conscribed by the enemy for service in their army. The action of the Legislature, which you communicated, viewed with the deference, which I feel for that body, leads me to revoke the


Page 248

instructions given, and as we concur in the object to be attained, I have to ask that such action be taken by the State Government, as will better secure the end intended by the instructions I had given.

JEFFERSON DAVIS.


        I respectfully recommend the request contained in it to your earnest consideration.

CHAS. CLARK.


        On motion of Mr. Watson,

        The Senate amendment to House bill to be entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers.

        Was concurred in.

        On motion of Mr. Rogers,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock.

TUESDAY, Dec. 1, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Sears.

        The journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        On motion of Mr. Brown,

        The regular order of business was suspended in order to allow him to introduce the following joint resolution:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring) That one thousand copies of the act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, be printed in pamphlet form as soon as signed by the Governor for destribution among the several counties of the State.

        The House then went into committee of the Whole on an act to organize the army of Mississippi.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, in the chair.

        After sometime spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill and pending amendments, be referred to a select committee of five, with instructions &c.

        Report was received and agreed to.

        The Speaker appointed as said committee,

        Messrs. Regan, Arnold, Upshaw, Eskridge and Ross.

        On motion of Mr. Watson,

        The regular order of business was suspended.

        Mr. Watson, from the Judiciary committee, made the following reports,

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee to whom the Senate bill was referred entitled an act to enable the High Court of Errors


Page 249

and Appeals of this State to prevent injustice to suitors, and to correct some of the evils of the present war, have had the same under consideration, and do report in favor of said bill and recommend its passage.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred House bill entitled a bill for the relief of Administrators, Guardians, Trustees &c., in certain cases, and also Senate bill entitled an act to legalize the removal of personal property from this State by Guardians, Executors, Administrators and other Trustees, under certain circumstances, and for other purposes, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House, with a recommendation that the Senate bill be substituted for that of the House and passed.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The Senate bill reported as a substitute, was read the third time under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee, to whom was referred the petition of J. S. Terrel, Sr., and W. A. Trotter, Executors of the last will and testament of J. S. Terrel, Jr., dec'd, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report a bill for the relief of the heirs and distributees of J. S. Terrel, Jr., dec'd, with a recommendation that said bill do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary beg leave to report a bill entitled an act amendatory of article 6, chapter 3, page 292, of the Revised Code, and for other purposes, and recommend that the same do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was then read three times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the petition of E. C. Mosby, of Kemper county, asking permission to distil eighty gallons of whiskey for the use of a sick son, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House, with a request that they be discharged from the further consideration thereof.


Page 250

        The report was received and agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the message of the Governor on the subject of slave impressments in the border counties, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House, with a request that they be discharged from the further consideration thereof. The action already taken upon the subject by this Legislature, together with the prompt and energetic protest of Governor Charles Clark, has had the desired effect, and the impressments have been discontinued. Your committee is of opinion, therefore, that no further consideration of the subject is needed.

        Which report was received and agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the House resolution instructing them to enquire into the constitutionality of allowing soldiers in the field, whether in or out of the State, to vote in all State or county elections, and also the House resolution instructing them to prepare and report to the House, an amendment to the Constitution, authorizing soldiers from this State, in the Confederate or State service, who are qualified electors, to vote in all State elections wherever they may be, have had the same under consideration, and beg leave to submit the following report:

        The elective franchise, being conferred and regulated by the Constitution, can only be exercised at the places and in the manner therein prescribed. The 1st section of the 3d article of the Constitution of the State is as follows:

        "Every free white male person of the age of twenty-one years or upwards, who shall be a citizen of the Confederate States of America and shall have resided in this State one year next preceding an election, and the last four months within the county, city or town in which he offers to vote, shall be deemed a qualified elector. And such qualified elector, who may happen to be in any county, city or town other than that of his residence at the time of an election, or who shall have removed to any county, city or town within five months preceding the election, from any county, city or town, in which he would have been a qualified elector, had he not so removed, may vote for any State or district officer or member of Congress, for whom he could have voted in the county of his residence, or the county, city or town from which he may have so removed."

        From the Constitutional provision, it is most manifest that the Legislature has no power to authorize an election to be held for any office, whether county, district or State, beyond the limits over which the jurisdiction of such officer is to extend.


Page 251

        A qualified elector can only vote for a county, city or town officer, when he is within the county, city or town; for members of Congress, State Senators, Circuit Judges, District Attorneys, when he is within the district for which the election is to be made, and for Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, Treasurer and Auditor when he is within the State. When beyond the limits of the the State therefore, all citizens, as the Constitution now stands, must be denied the right of sufferage.

        In obedience to the instructions given the committee on that subject, they have prepared, and herewith report an amendment to the Constitution, which, if adopted, will authorize the Legislature to provide for the voting of qualified electors of the State, who may out of the State, be in the military service of the Confederate States, or of the State at the time of any election, to wit:

        AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION.

        All soldiers, who may be in the army of this State, or in that of the Confederate States, and who shall be absent from this State at the time of holding any general election therein, if qualified electors in this State, shall be entitled to vote for any State or Confederate officers for whom they could have voted in the county of their residence. The mode and manner of holding the polls to enable them to vote to be prescribed by law. All of which is respectfully submitted.

        The House then proceeded to the consideration of the Senate messages.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to compensate soldiers in the State service in certain cases.

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to repeal an act reducing the salary of the Probate Judge of Rankin county.

        The bill read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to supply soldiers of the State of Mississippi, either in the State or Confederate service, with shoes and clothing,

        Was read three several times, the rules being suspended, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend sec. 7, of the Revised Code of the State of Mississippi so far as the same provides compensation for the State printer, and for other purposes.

        The rules were suspended, the bill read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The committee on Enrolled Bills made the following report:


Page 252

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined the following enrolled bills, found the same correctly enrolled and have presented them to his Excellency the Governor for his signature, to wit:

        An act entitled an act to revive and amend an act to extend the time for the collection of the taxes of the current fiscal year, approved December 20th, 1861, and for other purposes.

        An act entitled an act to repeal the fifth section of an act entitled an act to reduce the taxes of Green county, approved December 5th, 1861.

        An act entitled an act for the relief of George R. Fall.

        An act entitled an act for the relief of Cooper & Kimball, State printers.

        Ar act entitled an act to enable the counties of Lowndes, Oktibbeha and Noxubee and the city of Columbus, to settle up and close their subscription to the capital stock of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad Company.

        The following message was received from the Senate through their Secretary, Mr. Porter.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate adhere to their amendment to House substitute to Senate resolution intsructing our Senators, and requesting our Representatives in the Confederate Congress to pass a law, making Confederate notes a legal tender, and ask a committee of conference thereon.

        Messrs. Simonton, Wilson and Oliver, have been appointed as said committee of conference on the part of the Senate.

        The Senate have concurred in House resolution inviting the Hon. R. W. Walker, of Alabama, to address the Legislature, &c.

        And have concurred in House amendment to Senate resolution entitled a resolution for the relief of certain counties,

        Also, have concurred in House amendment to Senate bill entitled an act to pay Clerks, Inspectors and returning officers of elections of Hancock county, and to increase the per diem of the members of the Board of Police.

        The Senate refuses to concur in the House substitute for Senate bill entitled an act to punish the offense of harboring or concealing deserters from the Confederate and State service, and for other purposes.

        The Senate have passed bills of the following titles:

        An act to enable the Railroad Companies of this State to pay the monies borrowed by them.

        An act to authorize the Treasurer to use the three per cent funds in payment of current expenses of the State.

        An act for the relief of Thomas Harris and James L. Burks of Scott county.


Page 253

        Have also passed the following House bills:

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Henry B. Luckett, a minor.

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of James H. Matthews, a minor of Marshall county.

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to appropriate fines, forfeitures, licenses and runaway slaves in the county of Jones, approved December 4th, 1861.

        An act for the relief of William C. Nickle, Tax Assessor of Panola county.

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to amend the charter of the city of Jackson, approved August 6, 1861, and an act entitled an act supplemental to an act to amend the charter of the city of Jackson, approved August 6, 1861.

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Anthony D. Gordon, a minor of Lauderdale county, so far as to render him legally qualified to make a last will and testament.

        An act for the relief of John A. McNiel.

        An act to repeal an act entitled an act to reduce the taxes of Hancock county, and for other purposes, approved December 16, 1861.

        A bill for the relief of the Lunatic Asylum.

        On motion of Mr. Isom,

        The House adjourned till 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Mr. Irby moved a reconsideration of the vote by which the House this morning passed the bill entitled an act to amend sec. 7, Revised Code of the State of Mississippi, so far as the same provides compensation for the State Printer, and for other purposes,

        Which was adopted.

        The House then reconsidered the vote by which said bill was read the third time.

        Mr. Falconer offered the following amendment:

        Insert in title after "section 7," the words "chapter 6,"

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Rogers moved the reference of the bill to the committee on Printing,

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Isom moved its reference to a select committee of five,

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Minter moved to amend by inserting after the words "documents" the words "in a public newspaper,"

        Which was lost.


Page 254

        Mr. Falconer moved that the rules be suspended and the bill read the third time,

        Which was lost.

        The House then resumed the consideration of the Senate messages.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of D. H. Maury,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, moved that the bill be referred to the Judiciary committee,

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, offered the following amendment:

        SEC.--. Be it further enacted, That hereafter the person whose slave is executed shall receive pay whether that person be a citizen of this State or not, which,

        On motion,

        Was laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The bill was laid on the table.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the removal of the records, books and papers belonging to any Court of Record, and for other purposes,

        Was read twice under suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on Claims.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to procure salt for the indigent families of our soldiers, and for other purposes, approved January 1, 1863,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        On motion,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on said bill,

        Mr. Bradford in the chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House with the recommendation that it do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, with title standing as stated.

        On motion of Mr. Lewers,

        Mr. Eskridge was added to the committee on the Judiciary.

        The following message was received from the Governor:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Dec. 1, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        His Excellency, the Governor, has this day signed and approved the following House bills entitled:

        An act for the relief of Messrs. Cooper & Kimball, State Printers.


Page 255

        An act to enable the counties of Lowndes, Oktibbeha and Noxubee, and the city of Columbus to settle up and close their subscription to the capital stock of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad Company.

        An act for the relief of George R. Eall.

        An act to repeal section 5 of an act entitled an act to reduce the county taxes of Greene county, approved December 5, 1861.

        An act to revise and amend an act to extend the time for the collection of the taxes of the current fiscal year, approved Dec. 20th, 1861, and for other purposes.

        On motion of Mr. Fox,

        The House adjourned until 9 o'clock to-morrow morning.

WEDNESDAY, Dec. 2, 1863.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        On a call of the roll a quorum appeared.

        Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        The special committee on the military bill were granted leave to sit during the sessions of the House.

        Call of counties.

        Mr. Upshaw introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to enable the Police Court of Monroe county to levy a tax for the support of the dependents of soldiers, &c., from said county,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Wells introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act further to provide for soldiers' and other families in the county of Attala,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Bestor introduced a bill to entitled

        An act to incorporate the Meridian Manufacturing Company,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Bestor presented a letter from L. A. Kidd, of Clark county, which was referred, without reading to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.

        Mr. Rucks presented a claim of the Mississippi Lunatic Asylum, &c.,

        Which was referred to the committee on Claims.


Page 256

        Mr. Murdock presented a claim of E. C. Eggleston, Sheriff of Lowndes county,

        Which was referred to the committee on Claims.

        Mr. Watson, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to repeal articles 55 and 56 of section 10, of chapter 35 of Revised Code, which makes void devises and bequests for religious or charitable purposes,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Fort, by leave, introduced a joint resolution of thanks to the soldiers of Mississippi, &c.,

        Which was read once.

        Mr. Falconer offered the following amendment:

        Resolved further, That the State pledges herself to her soldiers that those dear ones they have left behind them shall not want whilst Mississippi has it in her power to assist them:

        Which was adopted.

        The rules were then suspended and the resolution adopted.

        Mr. McElroy introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to appoint general administrators for Lauderdale and Newton counties,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. McElroy introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of the Probate Clerk of Newton county,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Carroll called up from the orders of the day a joint resolution for the benefit of the families of our soldiers.

        The question was then taken on the adoption of the resolution, and decided in the negative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Carroll, Prewitt and Evans.

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Barton, Brown, Clark, Cunningham, Carroll, Daniel, Dillard, Evans, Fox, Gulley, Grace, Gowan, Harris, Hendon, Irby, Jackson, Lowry, Lewers, Marable, Maxwell, McElroy, Pounds, Prewitt, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens and Yandell--30.

        NAYS--Messrs. Allen, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Barnett, Deason of Copiah, Fowler, Foxworth, Falconer, Fort, Gray, High, Isom, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Minter, Morehead, Murdock, McLemore, McKay of Green, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McNiel, Owen, Pinson, Rucks, Rogers, Robinson, Staples, Seal of Harrison, Thompson, Wier and Watson--32.

        The resolution was lost.

        Mr. Lowry, by leave, introduced a joint resolution:


Page 257

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That the Confederate States Senators from the State of Mississippi be instructed, and the Representatives in Congress from this State be requested, to use their best endeavors to have removed all commissaries, paymasters, quartermasters and commandants of posts, and their subalterns, railroad conductors, baggage-masters, express agents, station agents, division and section masters, that are able-bodied men under the age of forty-five years, to be placed into the army in the field, and their places filled with disabled soldiers, or men over the age of forty-five years.

        Which was read once.

        Mr. Gray introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the members of the Police Court in Wayne county to discharge the duties of School Commissioners, and for other purposes,

        Which was read three several times, under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson, by leave, introduced a joint resolution in relation to the publication of the several acts removing civil disabilities,

        Which was read twice and adopted, the rules being suspended.

        Mr. Grace introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Lauderdale county,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Stephens, by leave, introduced a joint resolution in relation to mothers, wives and sisters of our soldiers,

        Which was read once.

        The rules being suspended, the resolution was read the second time and adopted.

        Mr. Powe, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the Board of Police of Jasper county to correct the levy of the poor tax of said county,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed the following bills and resolutions:

        A bill entitled an act to amend the law relative to sueing out the writ of habeas corpus.

        Resolution to reply to the circular of Hon. Hugh W. Sheffey and others.

        Have also adopted the following House bills:

        A House bill entitled an act to amend chapter 32 of the Revised Code so far as the same provides for the registration and sale of estrays.


Page 258

        A House bill entitled an act to encourage the manufacture of cotton and wool cards in this State.

        A House bill entitled an act to provide for the redemption of lands sold for taxes, at the office of the Auditor of Public Accounts.

        Mr. Thompson, from the committee of Ways and Means, made the following reports:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of citizens of DeSoto county whose lands have been illegally sold for taxes for the year 1862, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report that in their judgment there is no necessity for the passage of the law, as the existing laws furnish ample remedies for all the grievances complained of, and therefore they recommend that the bill do not pass.

        Report received and agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred copies of the various fees allowed to Sheriffs and to Clerks of the Circuit and Probate Courts and the Chancery Court, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report that inasmuch as they do not think any change should be made in their fee bills, to report no bill on that subject and to ask that the committee be discharged from the further consideration of the same.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred a resolution of this House instructing them to bring in a bill fixing a schedule of prices on all freights carried on the Railroads in this State and also fix the prices for passengers, have instructed me to report the same back to this House with a recommendation that the same be referred to the Judiciary committee to whom has been referred the Governor's message relating to this subject.

        The report was received and agreed to, and the subject referred to the Judiciary committee.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred Senate bill entitled an act to authorize and require the Governor to cause to be prepared and printed a sufficient amount of bonds bearing eight per cent. interest for the purpose of calling in and taking up the treasury notes issued by law for military defense of this State, have had the same under consideration and recommend the same do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.


Page 259

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred the report of the Auditor of Public Accounts, have instructed me, in response to a recommendation in said report in relation to salaries of Clerks, &c., to report a bill entitled an act to fix the salary of the Auditor of Public Accounts and other officers, and to recommend that the same do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill reported by the committee was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        On motion,

        The rules were suspended and the bill read the third time.

        The yeas and nays were called for by Messrs. Bradford, Rucks and Brown on the passage of the bill:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Bestor, Boon, Barnett, Cunningham, Deason of Copiah, Daniel, Dillard, Evans, Falconer, Fort, Gully, Gray, High, Isom, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Morehead, Maxwell, Murdock, McLemore, McLaurin, McElroy, McNeil, Owen, Pounds, Powe, Pinson, Prewitt, Robinson, Seal of Harrison, Sutton, Thompson, Watson and Yandell--36.

        NAYS--Messrs. Bradford, Barton, Brown, Clark, Carroll, Fowler, Fox, Gowan, Harris, Hendon, Irby, Jackson, Lott, Lowry, Minter, Moore, Marable, McKay of Neshoba, Rucks, Rogers, Staples, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Wells and Wier--27.

        The bill passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred the report of the Auditor of Public Accounts in relation to the revenues of the State, have instructed me to report a bill entitled an act amendatory of the revenue laws of this State and to recommend that the same do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        On motion of Mr. Isom,

        The bill was laid on the table, 200 copies ordered to be printed, and made the special order for three o'clock, P. M. on Friday next in committee of the Whole.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred the report of the Auditor of Public Accounts, have had the same under consideration, and in response to that portion of said report which urges upon the Legislature the necessity of of some alteration in the present law for enforcing the collection of taxes on delinquent lands, have instructed me to report a bill to be entitled an act to secure the collection of taxes on delinquent lands and for other purposes, and to recommend that the same do pass.


Page 260

        Received and agreed to.

        The bill was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        The bill was read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Fox, from the committee on the Institution for the Blind, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint standing committee on the institution for the Blind direct me to report that in consequence of the Legislature not being held at Jackson, the committee have been unable to visit the institution for the Blind, and to present to the Legislature their own observations of its condition. The regret arising from this circumstance is very much lessened by the full and accurate reports submitted to the committee by the Superintendent and by the Board of Trustees, which reports are herewith submitted to the Legislature as containing a minute and satisfactory statement of affairs, showing great ability and earnestness on the part of the Superintendent, and faithful and competent guardianship by the Board of Trustees.

        The financial condition of the institution merits the approval of the committee. Notwithstanding the diminished value of the currency, and the largely increased price of all commodities, besides some extraordinary expenses to which the committee will hereafter refer. It appears that by strict economy the expenses of the institution have kept within the income, and this, too, without in any great degree impairing the usefulness of the institution or lessening the number of pupils to whom the State has extended the kindly hand of protecting and parental care. At the date of the last biennial report of the Board of Trustees, there was a cash balance on hand of $2,882 27. At the date of the present report the cash balance on hand is $2,506 20, showing a very slight reduction in amount.

        It appears from the reports laid before the committee that since the last biennial report made to the Legislature, the institution was broken up at Jackson, and the pupils had to be removed temporarily to a new asylum. This new home they were enabled to find at Monticello, in Lawrence county where they are at present situated. The committee regret the necessity of their removal, and still more regret the cause which induced it. It appears from the reports laid before the committee, as well as from facts known to several members of the committee, that in the month of May, 1862, the Confederate authorities at Jackson impressed the asylum


Page 261

at Jackson, and many of the articles of furniture belonging to it, for a Hospital, and under orders received, the Superintendent and pupils were compelled to remove or else enter into a conflict with the military authorities who issued the orders. They adopted the first alternative and did remove, with many regrets at being compelled to leave their home in so summary a manner. This seizure and impressment was entirely arbitrary, and without warrant of law, and the committee feel bound to protest, in the name of the State, against such an illegal exercise of power. The consequence of breaking up the asylum at Jackson, and the necessity of seeking a new home elsewhere, has been a considerable increase in the expenses of the institution, with diminished comforts and conveniences on the part of the unfortunate blind, the recipients of the donations of the State.

        The Confederate States have paid for the use of the buildings of the institute at Jackson the sum of $1983 38. But as yet no payment has been made for the articles of personal property which were seized, although the Trustees express the belief, that the amount claimed for them will be ultimately paid. The building at Jackson was injured during the bombardment of that place by being struck with shot and shell. But the injuries so sustained were not of a very serious character, and as the Confederate authorities have abandoned the use of it as a hospital, the Trustees in their report announce their intention to remove the pupils back to Jackson, to refit the asylum, and to remain there permanently in the future. The committee respectfully approve their purpose as they believe the pecuniary interests of the State will be promoted by the protection which the occupancy of the building will afford to it, while the comforts of the pupils and the usefulness of the institution will be considerably increased. The Board of Trustees ask a special appropriation of $2,000 to repair and put in proper order the buildings and grounds of the institution, to procure the necessary articles of furniture &c., in lieu of those which were taken, and to defray the expenses of removal. In view of the greatly enhanced price of everything, the committee think the amount asked for is very reasonable, and they recommend its appropriation. The Board of Trustees also ask that the annual appropriation of $6,000 be increased to $8,000. The committee are of opinion that the increase should be made, and believe that the sum will not be more than adequate to the wants of the school, and they accordingly recommend it. In view of the interesting


Page 262

facts contained in the reports of the Board of Trustees and of the Superintendent, the committee recommend that five hundred copies of each be printed for the use of the Legislature. The committee have prepared the appropriate bills necessary to carry out the views expressed by them, and recommend that the same do pass. In conclusion the committee beg leave to express the conviction that the Legislature of Mississippi will not permit the desolating war which surrounds the State to lessen their sympathy for the interesting, but unfortunate class, whose dreary and melancholly life, enlightened and christian philanthropy in Europe and America, has assayed, and not in vain, to render hopeful and happy, by cultivating the intellect and opening to their view the beauties of science and literature, while they were shut out from enjoying the beauties and grandure of the natural world, the principal inheritance of their more fortunate brothers, all of which is respectfully submitted.

        Which report was received and agreed to.

        The bill read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        On motion of Mr. Falconer,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole.

        Mr. Seal of Harrison in the Chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose and recommended its passage.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The joint resolution reported by said committe recommending that 500 copies of report of Trustees of institution for the blind be printed,

        Was read once.

        The Speaker presented a report from the State Treasurer in reply to a resolution of this House asking for information,

        Which was read.

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        The report was laid on the table, and 200 copies ordered to be printed.

        Mr. Rucks from the commistee on the Penitentiary made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Penitentiary to whom was referred the Senate bill entitled an act relative to the establishment of a temporary Penitentiary, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report in favor of said bill and to recommend its passage, as being the best course that can be adopted under the circumstances.

        The report was received and agreed to.


Page 263

        On motion of Mr. Rucks,

        The house resolved itself into a committee of the Whole.

        Mr. Bestor in the chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House with the recommendation that it do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was then read a third time under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Watson moved a reconsideration of the vote by which the House passed this morning a bill to be entitled an act to secure the collection of taxes on delinquent lands, and for other purposes.

        Mr. Wells from the committee on Propositions and Grievances made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The standing committee on Propositions and Grievances to whom was referred the petition of W. S. McKee, Sheriff and Tax Collector of Lafayette county, asking for further time to make his final settlement, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report that a general bill has already passed this House on this subject, they therefore ask to be discharged from the further consideration of this subject.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The standing committee on Propositions and Grievances to whom was referred an act to be entitled an act for the relief of J. D. W. Duckworth, Sheriff and Tax Collector of Smith county, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report said bill back to the House with the accompanying amendments, and recommend that the bill as amended by the committee do pass.

        Amend 1st section by striking out $990, and inserting in lieu thereof, $1190 28.

        Amend sec. 2, by adding, provided that the said Duckworth shall not be entitled to receive commission on the amount of 3830.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The amendments were adopted,

        The bill read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Upshaw from the committee on military Affairs made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on military Affairs to whom was referred a bill entitled an act for the relief of the Mississippi State troops captured and paroled at Vicksburg, have had the


Page 264

same under consideration and have instructed me to recommend that it do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The committee on Enrolled Bills, through Mr. Irby, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined the following enrolled bills, found the same correctly enrolled, and have submitted them to his Excellency the Governor, for his approval and signature to wit:

        An act entitled an act to better provide for the families of our soldiers.

        An act entitled an act for the relief of William C. Nickle, Tax Assessor of Panola county.

        An act entitled an act for the relief of John A. McNeil.

        An act entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to appropriate fines, forfeitures, licences and runaway slaves in the county of Jones, approved December 4th, 1861.

        An act entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to amend the charter of the City of Jackson, approved August 6th, 1861, and an act entitled an act supplemental to an act to amend the charter of the City of Jackson, approved August 6th, 1861.

        An act entitled an act to repeal an act entitled an act to reduce the taxes of Hancock county, and for other purposes, approved December 16th, 1861.

        An act entitled an act to remove the civil disabilities of Anthony D. Gordon, a minor of Lauderdale county so far as to render him legally qualified to make a last will and testament.

        An act entitled an act to remove the civil disabilities of Henry B. Luckett, a minor.

        An act entitled an act to remove the civil disabilities of James H. Matthews, a minor of Marshall county:

        An act entitled an act for the relief of the Lunatic Asylum.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        On a call of the roll no quorum appeared.

        On motion a call of the House was ordered

        The Sergeant-at-arms was instructed to bring in the absent members.


Page 265

        The doorkeeper to close the doors.

        Several gentlemen were brought in and excused.

        The call was suspended.

        Mr. High asked leave to make a report from the committee on County Boundaries

        Which was referred

        The House proceeded to the consideration of Senate messages

        The House refused to concur in the Senate amendment to House bill entitled an act to procure cotton and wool cards for the indigent families of soldiers and the citizens of this State, and for other purposes.

        The House refused to concur in the Senate amendment to the House bill to encourage the manufacture of cotton and wool cards in this State.

        The House concurred in Senate amendments to House bill to be entitled an act to provide for the redemption of lands sold to the State for taxes at the office of the Auditor of Public Accounts, said amendments being to the third, and refused to concur in the amendment to the 4th section.

        The House concurred in Senate joint resolution appointing a select committee to prepare a reply to Hon. Hugh W. Sheffey and others.

        The blank was filed with five and the Speaker appointed as a committee on the part of the House Messrs. Yandell, Watson, Barnett, Thompson and Bradford.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the law relative to sueing out the writ of habeas corpus, was read twice under a suspension of the rules and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        The Speaker appointed as a committee of Confidence on the part of the House, on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses in relation to joint resolution in reference to instruction to our Senators, and request to our Representatives to pass a law making Confederate notes a legal tender, Messrs. Thompson, Rucks, Murdock, Johnson of Wilkinson and Irby.

        The House concurred in the Senate amendment substituting a new bill for House bill entitled an act to require the destruction of certain bonds, Treasury and cotton notes in the Treasury, entitled an act to provide for the destruction of certain bonds and Treasury notes in the Auditor's and Treasurer's offices and for the registering and destruction of cotton notes,

        The bill was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The House insisted on its amendment to the Senate bill to be entitled an act to punish the offence of harboring or


Page 266

concealing deserters from the Confederate and State service, and for other purposes.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Thomas Harris and James L. Burks, of Scott county.

        The bill was then read three times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Treasurer to use the three per cent. fund in payment of the current expenses of the State.

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The House then proceeded to the orders of the day, and laid on the table a resolution in relation to making Confederate notes a legal tender, also laid on the table a resolution in relation to adjournment.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to enable the Railroad Companies of this State to pay the monies borrowed by them.

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        A House bill entitled an act to pay clerks, inspectors and returning officers of elections, and to increase the per diem of members of the Board of Police of Hancock county.

        Was laid on the table.

        House bill to be entitled an act for the relief of the devisees and legatees of John T. Fortson,

        Was taken up and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        A letter was read from the Hon. R. W. Walker declining the invitation to address the Legislature on account of the state of his health and the press of official duties.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend sec. 7, Revised Code of the State of Mississippi so far as the same provides eompensation for the State printer, and for other purposes, was taken from the calendar and,

        On motion of Mr. Gowan,

        Referred to a select committee of five.

        The Speaker appointed as said committee, Messrs. Gowan, Minter, Seal of Harrison, Powe and Morehead.

INTRODUCTION OF BILLS.

        By Mr. Maxwell,

        A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of M. D. Haynes Treasurer of this State.

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee of the Whole.

        Mr. Bradford in the chair.

        After sometime spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House, with the recommendation that the bill be referred to the committee on Claims.


Page 267

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was referred to the committee on Claims.

        Mr. Lewers introduced a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of soldiers in service of this State or Confederate States,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Fowler moved to lay the bill on the table.

        Which was lost.

        The bill was then referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Mr. Murdock withdrew his motion to reconsider the vote by which, on the 27th ult., the House passed a bill to incorporate the Alabama and Mississippi rivers Railroad Company.

        Mr[.] Rucks introduced a bill to be entitled an act supplimental to an act entitled an act to incorporate the Alabama and Mississippi rivers Railroad Company.

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        On motion of Mr. Morehead,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock.

THURSDAY, December 3, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Lyon.

        Journal of yesterday read and approved.

        Mr. Watson, from the Judiciary committee, made the following reports:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary Committee to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to provide for obtaining jurors in the Circuit Court, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House, and also a substitute therefor, with the recommendation that the substitute do pass.

        Report was received and agreed to.

        The substitute bill reported by the committee was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee, to whom was referred a Senate bill to be entitled an act to enable the Railroad Companies of this State to pay the monies borrowed by them, have had the


Page 268

same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House with a recommendation that it do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was then read the third time under a suspension of the rules.

        Messrs. McNiel, Lewers and Stephens called for the yeas and nays on the passage of the bill:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bradford, Brown, Barnett, Cunningham, Daniel, Fowler, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Gully, Harris, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Liddell, Lott, Minter, Maxwell, Murdock, McLemore, Owen, Pope, Pounds, Powe, Rucks, Staples, Seal of Hancock, Wells, Watson and Yandell--31.

        NAYS--Messrs. Allen, Bestor, Boon, Barton, Clark, Carroll, Deason of Copiah, Dillard, Evans, Foxworth, Grace, Gowan, Gray, High, Hendon, Johnson of Tippah, Lowry, Lewers, Moore, Morehead, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McElroy, McNiel, Pinson, Prewitt, Rogers, Robinson, Shelley, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens and Wier--33.

        The bill was lost on its final passage.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to repeal articles 55 and 56, of section 10, of chapter 35, of the revised Code, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to recommend that it do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was read the third time.

        Messrs. Bestor, Bradford and Barton called for the yeas and nays on the final passage of the bill:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Bestor, Boon, Clark, Deason of Copiah, Daniel, Dillard, Evans, Eskridge, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Gowan, Harris, Hendon, Isom, Johnson of Tippah, Lott, Morehead, Maxwell, Murdock, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, Owen, Pounds, Powe, Seal of Harrison, Stephens, Thompson, Wells, Wier and Watson--33.

        NAYS--Messrs. Bradford, Barton, Brown, Barnett, Carroll, Fowler, Foxworth, Gulley, Gray, High, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Liddell, Lowry, Lewers, Minter, Moore, McLemore, McElroy, Pope, Pinson, Prewitt, Rucks, Rogers, Ross, Robinson, Staples, Shelley, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, and Yandell--32.

        The bill passed.

        Mr. Irby, from the committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that


Page 269

        they have examined the enrolled bill entitled an act to amend chapter thirty-two of the Revised Code so far as the same provides for the registration and sale of estrays, found the same correctly enrolled and have submitted it to his Excellency, the Governor, for his approval and signature.

        The following message was received from the Governor through his private Secretary:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, December 3d, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        His Excellency, the Governor, did, on the 2d inst., sign and approve the following House bills, entitled:

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to amend the charter of the city of Jackson, approved August 6, 1861, and an act entitled an act supplemental to an act to amend the charter of the city of Jackson, approved August 6, 1861.

        An act to repeal an act entitled an act to reduce the taxes of Hancock county, and for other purposes, approved December 16, 1861.

        An act for the benefit of the Lunatic Asylum.

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of James H. Matthews, a minor of Marshall county.

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Henry B. Luckett, a minor.

        An act for the relief of John A. McNiel.

        An act for the relief of William C. Nickle. Tax Assessor of Panola county.

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to appropriate fines, forfeitures, licenses and runaway slaves in the county of Jones, approved December 4th, 1861.

        An act better to provide for the families of our soldiers.

        An act to remove the civil disabilities of Anthony D. Gordon, a minor of Lauderdale county, so far as to render him legally qualified to make a last will and testament.

        Mr. Watson, from the Judiciary committee, made the following reports:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee to whom was referred the Senate bill entitled an act to amend the law relative to sueing out the writ of Habeas Corpus, and also a House bill entitled an act to amend the law in relation to the writ of Habeas Corpus, have had the same under consideration and report herewith a substitute for both of said bills, and recommend its passage.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The substitute bill reported by the committee was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.


Page 270

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a Senate bill to be entitled an act to punish parties making illegal seizures and impressments in this State, have had the same under consideration and they instruct me to report the same back to the House, with accompanying amendments, and recommend that the bill as amended do pass.

        Amend section 4, lines 5 and 6, by striking out the words "or the Confederate States."

        Amend section 5, line 3, by inserting after the word "impressment," the words "under or by virtue of the laws of the State."

        Which was received and agreed to.

        The first amendment striking out the words "or the Confederate States," was adopted.

        Mr. Rucks moved a reconsideration of the vote just taken.

        Pending the discussion of the amendments,

        On motion of Mr. Watson,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The House resumed the consideration of the question pending on adjournment, to-wit: the motion to reconsider the vote adopting the amendments to 4th section reported by the Judiciary committee to a Senate bill to be entitled an act to punish parties making illegal impressments in this State, Mr. Watson being entitled to the floor.

        The question being taken on the reconsideration was decided in the affirmative.

        The question was then taken on the adoption of the amendment to sec. 4, and decided in the negative by yeas and nays as follows:

        YEAS--Messrs. Evans, Eskridge, Falconer, Grace, Harris, High, Hendon, Lewers, Moore, McLaurin, Owen, Powe, Seal of Harrison, Stephens, Upshaw and Watson--16.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Barton, Brown, Barnett, Clark, Cunningham, Carroll, Daniel, Dillard, Fowler, Fox, Foxworth, Fort, Gulley, Gowan, Gray, Isom, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Lowry, Lott, Minter, Morehead, Maxwell, Murdock, McLemore, McKay of Neshoba, McElroy, McNiel, Pope, Pounds, Pinson, Prewitt, Regan, Rucks, Rogers, Ross, Robinson, Staples, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Thompson, Wells, Wier and Yandell--54.

        The vote was then taken on the amendment to sec. 5, and decided in the negative.


Page 271

        The bill read the third time under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        The rules were suspended and Mr. Watson made a report from the special committee appointed on the resolutions of confidence, &c., as a substitute for the resolutions of the Senate entitled resolutions of confidence, &c.

        Mr. Rogers offered a substitute for the resolutions, which,

        On motion of Mr. Bestor,

        Was laid on the table by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Rucks, Ross and Hendon:

        YEAS--Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Brown, Clark, Carroll, Deason of Copiah, Daniel, Dillard, Evans, Fowler, Fox, Foxworth, Falconer, Fort, Gully, Grace, Gowan, Gray, Harris, Hendon, Isom, Jackson, Johnson of Tippah, Liddell, Lowry, Lewers, Minter, Moore, Morehead, Maxwell, Murdock, McLemore, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McElroy, McNiel, Owen, Pounds, Powe, Pinson, Robinson, Staples, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Thompson, Upshaw, Wier and Watson.--55

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Barton, Barnett, Eskridge, Irby, Johnson of Wilkinson, Lott, Pope, Prewitt, Rucks, Rogers, Ross and Yandell--13.

        The substitute of Mr. Rogers was laid on the table, which is as follows:

        Resolved by the Legislature of the State of Mississippi, That the State of Mississippi considers the Federal Union, upon the terms and for the purposes specified in the Constitution of the Confederate States, as conducive to the liberty and happiness of the several States. That she does now unequivocally declare her attachment to that Union and its compact agreeable to its obvious and real intention, and will be among the last to disturb its harmony or seek its dissolution, and this Legislature now declares renewed assurances of the faith of the people of Mississippi in the justice of their cause and their determination unabated to sustain to the uttermost the principles that led to their separation from the United States and the establishment of the Confederate Government.

        2. That although in the pending gigantic war the brilliant success of our arms have not been without reverses, yet we repose full confidence in the patriotism, integrity and ability of President Davis to preside at the helm of State, and with the blessing of Heaven, as our chosen leader to conduct us eventually to the triumph of the principles of constitutional liberty for which we are contending.


Page 272

        3. That the confidence reposed by Mississippi in the President and the Confederate Government, is accompanied, nevertheless, with a jealous watchfulness for the preservation of her own constitutional rights, and in this view now enunciates some of the fundamental principles of the compact, with a brief reference to enactments by the Confederate Congress, and the exercise of authority by the President and those acting under his appointment, which, if followed up and become fixed as precedents, will lead inevitably to the annihilation of the State Governments, and the creation, upon their ruins, of a general consolidated Government.

        4. That the several States composing the Confederate States of America, are not united on the principle of unlimited submission to their general Government, but that by compact under the style and title of a Constitution for the Confederate States, they constitute a general government for special purposes, delegated to that government certain definite powers, reserving, each State to itself, the residuary mass of right to their own self-government; and whenever the Confederate Government assumes undelegated powers, its acts are unauthoritative, void and of no force; and to this compact each State acceded as a State, and is an integral party; that this government, created by this compact, was not made the exclusive or final judge of the extent of the powers delegated to itself, since that would have made its discretion, and not the Constitution, the measure of its power; but that as in all other cases of compact among parties having no common judge, each party, by the terms of the compact, has a right to judge for itself, as well of infractions as of the mode and manner of redress.

        5. That the Constitution of the Confederate States having delegated to Congress the "power to raise and support armies," did not by this intend the exercise of that power without limit, or so taken as to destroy the force and efficacy of any of the checks and balances provided in the compact, and while that instrument declares the power of Congress to "raise and support armies" it also declares as a distinct proposition "a well regulated militia necessary to the security of a free State," and any law of Congress which practically abrogates an essential power of the State, a power declared by its compact to be essential to its security, is not law but is altogether void and of no force; and while Mississippi, on account of the imperilled condition of the government of her choice, has yielded an acquiescence in the various conscript laws passed by Congress, and thereby


Page 273

made it the duty of her people to obey those laws until exonerated by the sovereign power of the State. She protests, nevertheless, that these laws shall not, after the present struggle is ended, be taken as precedents against her, or the power of Congress measured by her acquiescence thereto; and while she yields this assent, she at the same time protests against the exercise of certain implied, other and further powers foreshadowed in said acts, and more particularly those implied in an act entitled "an act to exempt certain persons from military duty," and to repeal an act entitled "an act to exempt certain persons from enrollment for service in the army of the Confederate States," approved October 11, 1862. By the provisions of the act referred to, Congress has exempted from conscription the Judicial and Executive officers of the State government, as also members of the Legislature of the State. Having by direct enactment exercised the power to conscribe the entire military force of the State, Congress in the act referred to has implied the power of conscribing the Executive, Legislative and Judicial power of the State, a construction which goes to the destruction of all the limits prescribed to their power by the Constitution; and the Legislature takes this occasion to express the deliberate opinion that no such constitutional power has been conferred on Congress, nor was there any necessity for the exemption of the Legislative, Executive and Judicial members of the State government from the operations of those laws, because they could never be constitutionally subject to them.

        6. That while the people of the State of Mississippi, for the sake of the ultimate triumph of our arms, will acquiesce in many invasions of their rights and infractions of the Constitution, yet they deem it necessary to put upon record a protest against such acquiescence being considered a precedent for the future action of the Confederate Government or its agents, and accordingly the Legislature feels bound to declare that the tax commonly called a "tax in kind," being a direct tax, palpably violates the provision of the Constitution which declares that no "direct tax shall be laid unless in proportion to the census or enumeration" provided in the constitution; that is, according to the population of the several States, to be enumerated in the census; whereas the direct tax of one-tenth of the produce raised, is a tax not in proportion to the number of inhabitants, but in proportion to the productive industry of the State, whereby it may, and often will happen, that one State will be called on to bear


Page 274

more than her relative share of the burdens of the Government.

        7. That the Legislature likewise protest against the acquiescence of the State in the power of impressment claimed by the Confederate Government being used as a precedent in future. The Constitution of the Confederate States provides that "private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation," and any law which gives the power to the officers of the Confederate Government to impress the property of the citizen without making provision for the payment of just compensation, is unconstitutional and void. It has been repeatedly decided by the Courts of this State, and the law is indisputable, that just compensation means a payment in money of the value of the property seized, and it is contrary to every principle of right that the party seizing the property should be made the judge of its value.

        8. That it is the very essence of free government that the military authority should at all times be held in subjection to the civil power, and accordingly the State of Mississippi, in the Constitution which is binding upon her people and was binding upon her delegates in Congress at the time she became a member of the Confederate States, provides that "the military shall in all cases, and at all times, be in strict subordination to the civil power," and it is the highest duty of a people jealous of their rights to guard against the slightest infraction of a principle so essential to civil liberty and the rights of the people; accordingly this Legislature declares that it is the duty of every officer in the army of the State or Confederate States, abiding in this State, to yield obedience to all process issuing from the courts of this State, and a refusal to do so is an arbitrary and dangerous resistance to the civil power which the Legislature of the State feels called upon to rebuke, and to demand of her Executive to use, if necessary, the whole power of the State to prevent.

        9. That after long years of struggle with the crown of Great Britain, our ancestors wrung from an unwilling monarch the right of themselves and their posterity to the great writ of Habeas Corpus as a shield against arbitrary imprisonment and lawless oppression, and so careful were the framers of our Constitution to guard this right against infraction that they have declared by the terms of the compact that the privilege of the writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended unless when in case of "rebellion or invasion


Page 275

the public safety may require it." This power is delegated exclusively to Congress, and it is contrary to the fundamental theory of the compact that a legislative power conferred on Congress can be by it delegated to the President or any other agent; for if Congress can thus delegate its powers it could concentrate in the hands of the Executive all legislative and executive power, and thus create an imperial despotism instead of a regulated constitutional government. The State of Mississippi, therefore, protests against the laws heretofore passed by Congress delegating this power, and against any future laws of Congress conferring upon the President any of the powers vested in Congress, and particularly against conferring upon him the power to suspend the writ of Habeas Corpus at his discretion.

        10. That it would be a dangerous delusion were a confidence in the men of our choice to silence our fears for the safety of our rights; that confidence is everywhere the parent of despotism; free government is founded in jealousy and not in confidence; it is jealousy and not confidence which prescribes limited constitutions to bind down those whom we are obliged to trust with power; that our Constitution has accordingly fixed the limits to which, and no farther, our confidence may go; and let the honest advocate of confidence regard the intrusion of authority upon the rights of our people and say if the Constitution has not been wise in fixing limits to the government it created, and whether the representatives of the people would not be faithless to their trust were they to stand by and see those limits broken down.

        11. That a copy of these resolutions be forwarded to each of our Senators and Representatives in Congress, and that the former be instructed, and the latter requested, to regard them as a basis of future action upon the points suggested.

        The vote was then taken on the adoption of the resolutions reported by the committee and decided in the affirmative.

        The following message was received from the Senate: MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed bills of the following titles:

        A bill to be entitled an act for the disposition of aliens residing within the limits of the State.

        A bill to be entitled an act better to provide for security in criminal offenses.

        Also, a resolution in relation to the Trustees of the Lunatic Asylum, the Institutions of the Blind and Deaf and Dumb.


Page 276

        And have passed a house bill entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to aid in strengthening the army of the Confederate States.

        Mr. Regan, from the select committee to whom the various military bills were referred, made the following report: MR. SPEAKER--

        The special committee to whom was referred the bill entitled an act to organize the army of Mississippi, and the substitutes therefor, and instructions, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report a new bill as a substitute, with a recommendation that it do pass.

        The report of the committe was received and agreed to.

        The substitute bill entitled an act to organize the army of Mississippi, was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and made the special order for 12 o'clock to-morrow in committee of the Whole.

        Mr. Carroll moved a reconsideration of the vote by which the Senate bill to be entitled an act to enable the Railroad companies of this State to pay the monies borrowed by them, was lost this morning.

        Mr. Cunningham presented a claim of V. M. Humphrey, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Noxubee county, which was referred to the committee on Claims.

        Mr. McElroy, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of Isham Dansby, which, without reading, was referred to the committee on Public Lands.

        Mr. Yandell introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to appropriate money for the Soldiers' Home at Lauderdale Springs in this State,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules and referred to the committee of Ways and Means.

        Mr. Gowan, from a select committee, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The special select committee to whom was referred a bill entitled an act to repeal section 7, of chap. 6, of the Revised Code, so far as the same provides compensation for the State Printer, and for other purposes, have had the same under consideration and have adopted sundry amendments thereto, and have instructed me to recommend that the same do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The amendments reported by the committee: Inserting after "section 7," in title, the words "chapter 6;" and inserting the words "under oath" after the word "out," in thirteenth line from top,

        Which were adopted.

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.


Page 277

        Mr. Murdock, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize Narcissa L. Barksdale to emancipate her slave John,

        Which was read three several times, under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Jackson, from the committee on the Deaf and Dumb, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Deaf and Dumb Asylum have had under consideration the report of the Trustees of that Institution, with the documents accompanying the same, and have instructed me to submit the following report:

        From the report of the Trustees the committee were advised

        1st. That in May, 1862, the buildings, furniture, &c., were seized by the officers of the Confederate Government for Hospital purposes, at which time the Institution was progressing with benefit to its pupils.

        2d. That during the occupation of the Institution as a Hospital, and the occupation of Jackson by the enemy, the buildings, grounds, &c., were much injured; windows and window blinds all gone, doors broken down and destroyed, fencing all burned, much of the weather-boarding torn off, and with the exception of the frames, the buildings were almost entirely destroyed.

        3d. The report of the Trustees also show that the Confederate authorities have been frequently applied to for the rent of the buildings, and pay for furniture, &c., seized and belonging to the Institution, but without success. The Trustees estimate the amount of rent and cost of furniture at near $7,000.

        4th. The report of the Trustees further shows that the sale of property by order of Trustees, after closing the Institution, amount to the sum of $571, which, upon an examination of the vouchers accompanying the report, the committee ascertained to be correct.

        5th. The amount of disbursements on account of the Institution, as shown by the report of the Trustees, and sustained by proper vouchers, from Nov. 1st, 1861, to Oct. 1st, 1863, is $6,727 38, and the amount of receipts in that behalf is also correctly shown to be $7,263 27, leaving a balance in favor of the Institution of receipts over imbursements of $535 89, while the outstanding debts of the Institution, due and unpaid, amount to $1,575 05.

        6th. After the buildings of the Institution were occupied as above stated, the Trustees informed your committee that they sent the pupils to their respective homes, with the exception of three who were orphans and dependent on the charity of the State for their education and support. The


Page 278

Trustees ask that the Legislature advise them of the disposition to be made of these three orphans. The committee, in consideration thereof, have instructed me to suggest that the annual appropriation of seven thousand dollars be placed at the disposal of the Trustees, under the direction of the Governor, for the maintenance and education of the orphans mentioned in this report, and others of this State similarly situated, and for such repairs of the buildings as they may deem necessary and proper, and your committee report a bill for these purposes. Your committee would also recommend that that portion of this report which relates to the occupation of the buildings and use of furniture by the Confederate authorities, be referred to the committee on State and Confederate Relations, with instructions to them to report what action, if any, this Legislature should now take in regard thereto. All of which is respectfully submitted.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        Leave of absence was granted Messrs. Liddell, Evans, Eskridge and Robinson.

        On motion of Mr. Brown,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock.

FRIDAY, December 4, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Coleman.

        Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        Leave of absence was granted Messrs. Gray, Lowry and Dillard.

        On motion of Mr. Regan,

        The House reconsidered the vote by which on yesterday, the bill to be entitled an act to organize the army of Mississippi, was laid on the table and made the special order for 12 o'clock, and the bill was forthwith taken from the table, and the House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on said bill.

        Mr. Falconer in the chair.

        After sometime spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported progress and asked leave to sit again at 3 o'clock.

        The committee on Enrolled Bills made the following report through Mr. Irby:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that


Page 279

they have examined an enrolled bill entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to aid in strengthenlng the army of the Confederate States, found the same correctly enrolled and have submitted it to his Excellency the Governor, for his approval and signature.

        The following message was received from the Governor

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Dec. 4, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by his Excelleny the Governor, to inform the House that he did, on the 3d inst., sign and approve the following House bill, entitled

        An act to amend chapter thirty-two of the Revised Code, so far as the same provides for the registrations and sale of estrays.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        A bill entitled an act further to provide for soldiers and other familes in the county of Attala.

        And concurred in the following resolutions, to wit:

        Joint resolution to have public printing done.

        A resolution of thanks to the mothers, wives and daughters of Mississippi.

        A resolution of thanks to the officers and privates of Mississippi.

        The Senate have passed House substitute for Senate bill entitled an act to provide for obtaining jurors in the Circuit Courts of this State.

        The Senate have passed House substitute to Senate bill entitled an act to amend the law relative to suing out the writ of habeas corpus.

        The Senate insists on their amendment to House bill entitled an act to procure cotton and wool cards and other articles for indigent families of soldiers and citizens of the State.

        Also insist on their amendment to House bill entitled an act to encourage the manufacture of cotton and wool cards in this State.

        Also insist on their amendment to House bill entitled an act to provide for the redemption of lands sold to the State for taxes at the office of Public Accounts.

        The Senate refuse to concur in House amendment to Senate bill entitled an act to amend an act to procure salt for the indigent families of soldiers, and for other purposes, approved January 1st, 1863.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed the following bills and adopted resolutions, to wit:


Page 280

        A bill entitled an act for the relief of James Reedy, Sheriff and Tax collector of Holmes county.

        A bill entitled an act to amend the law in relation to the Institution for the Deaf and Dumb.

        A resolution entitled preamble and resolution in relation to the State University.

        Also have passed the following House bills and concurred in the following resolutions, to wit:

        A bill entitled an act making certain appropriations for the State Institution for the Blind.

        A bill entitled an act to authorize the Board of Police of Jasper county to collect the levy of the poor tax of said county.

        A bill entitled an act to enable the Police Court of Monroe county to levy a tax for the support of the dependants of soldiers &c., from said county.

        A bill entitled an act to authorize the members of the Police Court of Wayne county to discharge the duties of School Commissioners, and for other purposes.

        A bill entitled an act to incorporate the Meridian Manufacturing company.

        A bill entitled an act for the relief of the heirs and distributees of J. S. Terrel, Jr., dec'd.

        A bill entitled an act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Lauderdale county.

        A bill entitled an act for the relief of the Probate clerk of Newton county.

        The Senate adhere to their refusal to concur to House substitute to Senate bill entitled,

        An act to punish the offense of harboring or concealing deserters from the Confederate and State service, and for other purposes, and ask a committee of conference thereon, and the Senate have appointed, Messrs. Griffin, Hamilton and Quin as said committee on part of the Senate.

        On motion of Mr. Ross,

        The House adjourned till 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Mr. Murdock by leave, introduced the following resolutions:

        Resolved, That it is the duty of this Legislature to provide for the organization and discipling of the militia.

        Resolved, That the present system has proven errenous to the people and inefficient in its beneficial results.

        A division being called for, the vote was first taken on the first of said resolutions and decided in the affirmative, yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Regan, Eskridge and Harris.


Page 281

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Bestor, Boone, Brown, Barnett, Clark, Cunningham, Deason of Copiah, Daniel, Eskridge, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Grace, Harris, Isom, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Lott, Lowry, Lewers, Minter, Morehead, Maxwell, Murdock, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McElroy, McNeil, Owen, Pownds, Powe, Prewit, Regan, Rucks, Staples, Shelley, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Upshaw, Wells and Watson.--47.

        NAYS--Messrs. Arnold, Barton, Dillard, Evans, Fowler, Foxworth, Gully, Gray, High, Pope, Pinson, Ross, Robinson, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock and Wier--17.

        The second resolution was then withdrawn.

        Mr. Bradford offered the following resolution.

        Resolved, That the times require a more efficient organization of the militia system than the one now in force.

        Pending the discussion the House granted leave of absence to Messrs. Regan, Rucks, Yandell, Stephens and Prewitt.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        The House adjourned until 9 o'clock to-morrow morning.

SATURDAY, December 5, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Sears.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The reading of the journal was dispensed with.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That hereafter no member shall be allowed to speak longer than five minutes on any subject.

        Which was adopted.

        Leave of absence was granted Mr. Lott on account of sickness.

        Mr. Speaker Houston, having returned, Mr. Alcorn, the Speaker pro tem, thanking the House for their kindness and indulgence retired from the chair.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The thanks of the House were tendered Mr. Alcorn, Speaker pro tem, for, the ability and impartiality with which he has presided over the deliberations of this House.

        Mr. Cunningham by leave, introduced a joint resolution in relation to tax in kind.

        Which was read once.


Page 282

        On motion

        The rules were suspended, the resolution read the second time and passed.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        The House proceeded to the consideration of Senate messages.

        Senate resolution in relation to the Trustees of the State Lunatic Asylum, the Institutions of the Blind and Deaf and Dumb.

        Were taken up and concurred in.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act for the disposition of aliens residing within the limits of the State of Mississippi,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Senate bill to better provide for security in criminal offences, was read twice under a suspension of the rules and

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,

        Referred to the Judiciary committee.

        Senate preamble and resolutions in relation to the State University, was read once, and

        On motion of Mr. Falconer,

        The rules were suspended and the resolutions concurred in.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the law in relation to the Institution for the Deaf and Dumb,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of James Reedy, Sheriff and Tax Collector of Holmes county,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules and referred to the committee on Propositions and Grievances.

        The following message was received from the Senate: MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed the following entitled bills:

        A bill entitled an act to authorize the Board of Police of Jackson county to employ the free negroes of said county in certain cases.

        A bill entitled an act to amend art. 32, sec. 8, of the Revised Code, also,

        A House bill entitled an act for the relief of J. D. W. Duckworth, Sheriff and Tax Collector of Smith county.

        A House bill entitled an act amendatory of article 6, chapter 3, page 292 of the Revised Code, and for other purposes, passed with an amendment

        Messrs. Simonton and Oliver have been excused from acting on the committee of conference on the disagreement of the two Houses on Senate amendment to House substitute to Senate resolution in relation to petitioning Congress to make Confederate money a legal tender, and appointed Messrs. Denis and Luckett in their stead.


Page 283

        The House adhere to their refusal to concur in the Senate substitute for House bill to be entitled an act to procure cotton and wool cards &c., and asked for a committee of conference thereon.

        The Speaker appointed as said committee, Messrs. Seal of Harrison, Eskridge, Johnson of Wilkinson, Barnett and Owens.

        The House adhere to their refusal to concur in the Senate amendments to House bill to be entitled an act to encourage the manufacture of cotton and wool cards.

        The House receded from its refusal to concur in Senate amendment to House bill to be entitled an act to provide for the redemption of lands sold to the State for taxes at the office of the Auditor of Public accounts, and concurred in said amendment.

        The House receded from its amendment to Senate bill to he entitled an act to amend an act to procure salt for the indigent families of soldiers, and for other purposes, approved January 1st, 1863.

        The Speaker appointed as a committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses, on House substitute for Senate bill to be entitled an act to prevent the offense of harboring or concealing deserters from the Confederate and State service, and for other purposes,

        Messrs. Johnson of Wilkinson, Moore, Irby, Weir and Prewitt.

        The committee on Enrolled Bills made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined the following enrolled bills, found the same correctly enrolled, and have submitted them to his Excellency the Governor, for his approval and signature, to wit:

        An act entitled an act making certain appropriations for the State Institution for the Blind.

        An act entitled an act to amend the law relative to sueing out the writ of habeas corpus.

        An act entitled an act to enable the Police Court of Monree county to levy a tax for the support of the dependants of soldiers &c., from said county.

        An act entitled an act to provide for obtaining jurors in the Circuit Courts of this State.

        An act entitled an act for the relief of the Probate Clerks of Newton county.

        An act entitled an act to authorize the members of the Board of Police of Wayne county to discharge the duties of School Commissioners, and for other purposes.

        An act entitled an act to incorporate the Meridian Manufacturing Company.


Page 284

        An act entitled an act for the relief of the heirs and distributees of J. S. Terrell, Jr., dec'd.

        An act entitled an act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Lauderdale county.

        An act entitled an act to authorize the Board of Police of Jasper county to collect the levy of the Poor Tax of said county.

        An act entitled an act further to provide for soldiers and their families in the county of Attala.

        Also the following joint resolutions, to wit:

        A resolution of thanks to the mothers, wives, sisters and daughters of the State.

        A resolution of thanks &c., and a joint resolution to print a certain act.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Board or Police of Jackson county to employ the free negroes of said county in certain eases.

        Was read three several times, the rules being suspended, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend article 32, sec. 8, of the Revised Code.

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the Judiciary committee.

        A petition of sundry citizens of Chickasaw county was presented by Mr. Moore, on the same subject, referred to the same committee.

        The House concurred in Senate amendment to House bill to be entitled an act amendatory of article 6, chapter 3 page 292, of the Revised Code, and for other purposes.

        On motion of Mr. Thompson,

        The House took up a bill to be entitled an act to secure the collection of taxes on delinquent lands, and for other purposes.

        The vote was reconsidered by which said bill was read the third time and passed, and several amendments there to adopted.

        The rules were suspended, the bill read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Carroll called up the motion to reconsider the vote by which the House failed to pass a bill to be entitled an act to enable the Railroad Companies of this State to pay the monies borrowed by them.

        The motion to reconsider was decided in the affirmative.

        The question was taken on the passage of the bill and decided in the affirmative, by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Rogers, Weir and Sutton.

        YEAS--Messrs. Alcorn, Bradford, Brown, Barnett, Cunningham, Deason of Copiah, Daniel, Eskridge, Fowler, Fox,


Page 285

Falconer, Fort, Gully, Harris, Isom, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Lott, Lowry, Minter, Morehead, Maxwell, Murdock, McLemore, McLaurin, Owen, Pounds, Powe, Rucks, Ross, Robinson, Staples, Shelley, Thompson, Upshaw, Watson and Yandell.--38

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bestor, Boon, Barton, Clark, Carroll, Evans, Foxworth, Gowan, High, Hendon, Johnson of Tippah, Lewers, Moore, McKay of Neshoba, McElroy, McNeil, Pope, Pinson, Prewit, Rogers, Seal of Haancock, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens and Weir.--28

        The following message was received from the Governor through his Private Secretary:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Dec. 5th, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by his Excellency the Governor, to deliver to you his message in writing.

Gentlemen of the Senate
and House of Representatives:

        I respectfully call your attention to the condition of the University of Mississippi. All collegiate exercises have been suspended; the Board of Trustees have not been convened since the passage of the act entitled an act to amend the laws in relation to the State University, approved December 19th, 1861, and in the present state of the country a quorum cannot be conviently assembled. The classification of the Trustees, as required by that act, has not been made, and cannot now be made according to its terms. In the meantime there is no Executive committee or other officer who has legal charge of the property and the cabinets, laboratory and libraries,and the astronimical and philosophical apparatus, all of which are of the most valuable and costly character, are liable to destruction. The exercises of the college will not probably be resumed during the war, and I recommend that the President of the Board be authorized to appoint from the Trustees, an Executive committee to manage the affairs of the University and provide for the preservation of its property, or that the number of Trustees necessary to constitute a quorum be reduced to three, so that a meeting may be had.

        The act of December 19, 1861, should be amended so as to continue the whole board in office, or a new board should be elected.

        Since the adjournment of the last Legislature, a vacancy has been created in the Board of Trustees, by the death of


Page 286

the Hon. Cotesworth Pinckney Smith, so long and so honorably connected with that Institution. Sad as have been the inroads which death has made upon our State in the last twelve months, the demise of none of her sons has caused a wider or more heartfelt sorrow. Born upon the soil of Mississippi, devoted heart and soul to her interest, and watching with jealous care over her honor, Judge Smith spent a long and laborous life in her service. In the forum, in the Senate Chamber, and upon the bench he labored with a zeal that knew no weariness, and with a purity of patriotism and a loftiness of purpose that has had few parallels. In every position he occupied, his great talents, his profound erudition, his extensive legal attainments and the unquestioned purity of his character, shed unfading lustre upon the annals of his native State, and when death called him hence, he left none behind him whose names will live longer or be more gratefully enshrined in the hearts of the people.

CHAS. CLARK.


        Mr. Minter offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That this Legislature adjourn sine die on Wednesday the 9th inst., at 12 o'clock M.

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Lowry called up his resolution in relation to Quartermasters, Commissaries &c.

        Mr. Gowan moved to amend by adding postmasters, mail contractors and mail carriers.

        Mr. Bradford moved to amend by inserting the word supernumeraries, before the word commissaries.

        Which was adopted.

        On motion of Mr. Falconer,

        The resolutions and amendments were referred to the committee on Military Affairs.

        Mr. Falconer, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to provide for the punishment of persons falsely representing themselves as Government Agents.

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Rucks introduced a joint resolution to allow time to the Clerk of the House and Secretary of the Senate to bring up the business of the session.

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and adopted.

        Mr. Gowan by leave introduced a bill to entitled

        An act to repeal an act to prevent hawking and peddling, approved January 23, 1863.

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules and referred to the committee of Ways and Means.


Page 287

        Mr. Upshaw from the committee on Military Affairs made the following reports:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Military Affairs, to whom was referred an act to be entitled an act for the benefit of the Cavalry companies commanded by Captains Mitchell, Williams and Johnson, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to recommend that it do not pass.

        Which report was received and agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Military Affairs to whom was referred an act to be entitled an act for the relief of C. E. Murphree, of Coahoma county, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to recommend that the same do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill read twice under a suspension of the rules and referred to the committee of the Whole.

        Mr. Thompson in the chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House with the recommendation that it do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was then read a third time under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Arnold by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to commute the pay of Registers and Receivers of the several Land Offices in this State.

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules and referred to the committee on Public Lands.

        On motion of Mr. Downs,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, moved to take from the table a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of D. H. Maury.

        Which was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. Falconor,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on said bill.

        Mr. Seal of Harrison, in the chair.

        After sometime spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House, with the recommendation that the bill do not pass.

        Mr. Johnson of Wilkinson, moved that the report be received and agreed to.

        Mr. Seal, of Harison, called for a division of the question.

        The report was received.


Page 288

        Mr. Rucks moved that the report be agreed to, which was decided in the negative.

        The bill read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Eskridge by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to repeal part of article 4, chapter 9, of the Revised Code.

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Upshaw from the committee on military Affairs made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Military Affairs, to whom was referred an act for the relief of the first battalion of Mississippi State troops, commanded while in service by Major Harper, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to present a substitute bill and recommend its passage.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The substitute bill reported by the committee,

        Was read twice under suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee of the Whole.

        Mr. Brown in the chair

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House with the recommendation that it do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr[.] Rucks moved a reconsideration of the vote by which the House this morning passed a Senate bill to be entitled an act to enable the Railroad Companies of this State to pay the monies borrowed by them, and

        On motion of Mr. Rogers,

        The Clerk was instructed to send to the Senate for said bill.

        Mr. Shelley moved that the House adjourn until 7 1-2 o'clock to-night.

        Mr. Rogers moved that the House adjourn until Monday morning.

        Which was lost.

        The question was then taken on the motion to adjourn until 7 1-2 o'clock this evening.

        A division being called for, no quorum appearing, a call of the House was ordered.

        On a call of the roll no quorum appeared.

        On motion,

        The House adjourned until Monday morning, at 9 o'clock.


Page 289

MONDAY, December 7th, 1863.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        On motion of Mr. Prewitt,

        The reading of the journal was dispensed with.

        On a call of the roll a quorum appeared.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the Hon. F. R. Turley, late a Representative from the city of Vicksburg, who now occupies a seat upon this floor, by the unanimous consent of the House, is hereby invested with all the rights and privileges as a member of the House from Vicksburg, so far as the same can be done under the laws and Constitution of the the State, until the general election in October 1865, unless a member is sooner elected from that city, as now prescribed by law.

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Owen offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That hereafter no member be allowed to speak more than once on any subject, and that he speak to the subject.

        Mr. Seal, of Harison, moved that the rule requiring one day's notice of motion to change a standing rule of the House be suspended.

        Which was lost.

        On motion of Mr. Rucks,

        The call of the counties was dispensed with.

        Mr. Watson, from the committee on the Judiciary, made the following reports.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee, to whom was referred a bill entitled an act for the relief of the families of soldiers of Pontotoc county, and also other bills of a similar character, have had the same under consideration, and herewith report a substitute for all of said bills, and recommend that it do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The substitute bill to be entitled an act for the relief of the families of soldiers in the counties therein mentioned, and for other purposes,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Allen moved to amend by inserting, to the county of DeSoto four thousand dollars, (4,000.)

        Which was adopted.

        On motion of Mr. Watson,

        The bill read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee to whom was referred a bill


Page 290

entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to amend the charter of the Columbus Life and General Insurance Company, and the Mississippi Mutual Insurance Company, approved January 25th, 1862, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report it back to the House together with a substitute therefore, with the recommendation that the substitute do pass.

        Which report was received and agreed to.

        The substitute bill was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The Judiciary committee to whom was referred a Senate bill entitled an act to amend art. 32, sec. 8, of the Revised Code, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report favorably on said bill, and recommend its passage.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was then read third time under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee have had under consideration a Senate bill to be entitled an act for the disposition of aliens residing within the limits of the State of Mississippi, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House with recommendation that it do pass.

        Report received and agreed to.

        The bill was read third time under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee have considered a Senate bill to be entitled an act to better provide for security in criminal offences, and have instructed me to report the same back to the House, with the recommendation that it do not pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of soldiers in the service of the State or Confederate State, has considered the same, and instructed me to return the bill to the House with a recommendation that it do not pass.

        Mr. Watson moved that the report be received and agreed to.

        Mr. Stephens called for a division of the question.

        The report was received.

        Question on agreeing. The report was agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Judiciary committee to whom was referred several bills entitled an act to amend the attachment laws, have had


Page 291

the same under consideration, and herewith report a substitute therefor, with the recommendation that the same do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The substitute bill was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Watson moved the indefinite postponement of the bill, which was decided in the affirmative, by yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Seal of Harrison, Falconer and Gully.

        YEAS--Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bestor, Boon, Brown, Clark, Cunningham, Daniel, Eskridge, Fowler, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Gully, Grace, High, Hendon, Isom, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Tippah, Moore, Morehead, Murdock, McLemore, McLaurin, Pounds, Powe, Pinson, Prewitt, Rogers, Staples, Shelley, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Thompson, Upshaw, Wells, Wier and Watson.--40.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Barton, Barnett, Deason of Copiah, Foxworth, Gowan, Johnson of Wilkinson, Lewers, Minter, Maxwell, McKay of Neshoba, McElroy, McNiel, Ross, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock and Stephens.--17.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to appoint general administrators for Lauderdale and Newton counties, have considered the same, and instructed me to report the same back to the House, with a recommendation that it do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Thompson from the committee of Ways and Means made the following reports:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred a House bill to be entitled an act supplimentary to an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, approved January 3d, 1863, have had the same under consideration, and instructed me to report the same back to the House with a recommendation that the same do not pass.

        Mr. Thompson moved that the report be received and agreed to.

        Mr. Eskridge called for a division of the question.

        The report was received, question on agreeing.

        On motion of Mr. Murdock,

        The bill was recommitted to the committe of Ways and Means with instructions to report a bill prohibiting the production of cotton beyond a fixed amount.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred House bill to be entitled an act to repeal an act to prevent


Page 292

hawking and peddling, approved January 29th, 1863, have had the same under consideration, and recommend that the same do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Seal, of Harison, moved the indefinate postponement of the bill, which was decided in the affirmative, by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Seal, of Harison, Fowler and Gully.

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Barton, Brown, Barnett, Clark, Daniel, Eskridge, Fowler, Foxworth, Falconer, Fort, Isom, Irby, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Minter, Morehead, Maxwell, McLemore, McElroy, Owen, Pounds, Powe, Rucks, Rogers, Ross, Seal of Harrison, Wells and Watson--29.

        NAYS--Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bestor, Boon, Cunningham, Deason of Copiah, Fox, Gulley, Gray, Gowan, High, Hendon, Lewers, Murdock, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McNeil, Pope, Pinson, Prewitt, Staples, Shelley, Sutton, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens, Thompson, Upshaw and Wier.--28.

        Mr. Bestor from the committee on education reported a bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws in relation to the State University.

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. High, from the committee on County Boundaries made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on County Boundaries to whom was referred the bill entitled an act to repeal an act to annex a part of Talahatchie county to the county of Sunflower, and for other purposes, have had the same under consideration, and recommend that it do not pass.

        Mr. High moved that the report be received and agreed to.

        Mr. Eskridge called for a division of the question.

        The report was received.

        Question on agreeing. The report was agreed to.

        The following communications were read to the House:

QUARTESMASTER GEN'LS DEP'T. S. M. Columbus, Miss., Dec. 7, 1863.

Hon. L. E. Houston,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

        DEAR SIR: Major L. Mims, Chief Quartermater for this State, is desirous of securing the active co-operation of the members of the Legislature in his laudable efforts to shield our faithful and gallant soldiers against suffering from cold and inclement weather.


Page 293

        You will therefore please have read for the information of the members the enclosed communication.

I am sir, very respectfully,

A. M. WEST,
Q. M. Gen'l State Mississippi.

OFFICE CHIEF Q. M. FOR MISSISSIPPI,
Enterprise, Miss., Dec. 3d, 1863.

        The members of the Mississippi Legislature are hereby appointed agents of this Department for their respective counties, for the purchase of the following articles:

        Blankets, Carpets, Shoes, Socks, Wool and Leather.

        They will pay the prices paid by the Impressment Commissioners of this State They will send or deliver such purchases as they make to either of the following named officers as may be most convenient, when the whole amount due for their purchases, as well as all expenses incurred, will be promptly paid, viz:

Capt. T. C. McMackin,

Capt. F. C. Englesing,

Capt. S. A. Shortridge,

Capt. G. P. Theobald,

Capt. F. Ingate,

Capt. W. B. Lucas,

Maj. J. W. Anderson,

Maj. W. F. Avent,

A. Q. M. Jackson.

A. Q. M. Brookhaven.

A. Q. M. Canton.

A. Q. M. Enterprise.

A. Q. M. Okolona.

A. Q. M. Macon.

Q. M. Columbus.

Q. M. Oxford.

L. MIMS,


        Maj. and Chief Q. M. for Mississippi.

        The committee on Propositions and Grievances made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The standing committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred an act for the relief of William Beachum, of Itawamba county, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report said bill back to the House, with a recommendation that it do pass.

        Which report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred the petition of W. D. McCulloh, Chaplain of the 23d Mississippi Regiment, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report that the case made out by the Petitioner is one of great hardship and gross outrage, and your committee sincerely wish that it was in their power to recommend some plan by which immediate and instantaneous relief might be granted to the petitioner, but the Chancery Courts of the State are the


Page 294

only tribunal, where according to law, the petitioner can have concelled that bond which your committee feel must indeed, under all the circumstances, be now odious and hateful to him. They therefore ask to be discharged from the further consideration of the subject.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The standing committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred the complaint and enqury of Jessee Barnett, of Jasper county, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report that in their judgement the Legislature has no power to interfere in his behalf, they therefore ask to be discharged from the further consideration of the subject.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The standing committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of James Reedy, Sheriff and Tax collector of Holmes county, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the bill back to the House with a recommendation that the same do pass

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was then read the third time under a suspension of the rules and passed,

        The title standing as stated.

        Mr. Fox from the committee on Public Lands mand the following reports:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Public Lands, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to commute the pay of Registers and Receivers of the several land offices, have had the same under consideration and instructed me to report a substitute for the bill, with a recommendation that the substitute be passed.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The substitute bill was read three several times under suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The committee on Public Lands to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Isham Dansby of Newton county, have had the same under consideration and instructed me to report the bill back to the House, with a recommendation that it be passed.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Murdock from the committee on Claims made the following report:


Page 295

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Claims to whom was referred the account of A. S. Harmon, have instructed me to report that in its present shape it should not be allowed, and recommend that the claimant have leave to withdraw his said claim.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The committee on Claims to whom was referred the claim of Thos. Lampley for nine bales of cotton distributed to the poor of Wayne county, have had the same under consideration and recommend that the claimant have leave to withdraw his claim, believing that the Board of Police of said county is the proper party to settle it.

        The committee on Claims to whom was referred the application of William H. Keyes, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report that in the judgment of your committee it is inexpedient to grant the relief asked for.

        The committee on Claims to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to increase the fees of the sheriff and clerk of probate of Amite County, have instructed me to report the same back to the House with the recommendation that it do not pass.

        Which were received and agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. Murdock Mr. Brown was added to the Committee on Claims.

        Mr. Upshaw, by leave introduced a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Thomas J. Fortson,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Upshaw by leave introduced a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of John Vernon, sheriff of Monroe county,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the Committee on Claims.

        Mr. Irby, from the committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined the following enrolled bills and find the same correctly enrolled, and have presented them to His Excellency the Governor for his approval and signature, to-wit:

        An act entitled an act to provide for the redemption of lands sold to the State for taxes, at the office of the Auditor of Public Accounts.

        An act entitled an act for the relief of J. D. W. Duckworth, sheriff and tax collector of Smith county.

        An act entitled an act amendatory of article six, ch. 3, page 292 of the revised code, and for other purposes.

        The following message was received from the Senate:


Page 296

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed a joint resolution granting leave of absence to James S. Hamm, Judge, &c., and S. M. Meek, District Attorney, &c.

        Also House bills entitled and act to repeal articles 55 and 56 of section 10 of chapt. 35 of the revised code, which make void devisees and bequests for religious and charitable purposes.

        A House bill entitled an act to provide for the punishment of persons falsely representing themselves as government agents.

        A House bill entitled an act to aulhorize Mrs. Narcissa L. Barksdale to emancipate her slave John.

        A House resolution allowing the clerk of the House and secretary of the Senate additional time to bring up the business of the session.

        The Senate consent to a committee of conference on the disrgreement of the two Houses on Senate amendments to House bill entitled an act to procure cotton and wool cards and other articles for indigent families of soldiers and citizens of the State.

        The President has appointed Messrs. Wilson, Oliver and Quin on the part of the Senate.

        The Senate adhere to their amendment to House bill entitled an act to encourage the manufacture of cotton and wool cards in this State, and ask a committee of conference thereon.

        The President appointed Messrs. Moore, Jordan and Hamilton as said committee on the part of the Senate.

        The following message was received from the Governor through his private Secretary:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Dec. 7, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by His Excellency the Governor, to inform the House that he did, on the 5th inst., sign and approve the following House bills, entitled:

        An act making certain appropriations for the State Institute for the Blind.

        An act to provide for obtaining Jurors in the circuit courts of this State.

        An act to amend the law relative to sueing out the writ of Habeas Corpus.

        An act for the relief of the heirs and distributees of J. S. Terrell, Jr., deceased.

        An act entitled an act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Lauderdale county.

        An act entitled an act to authorize the Board of Police of Jasper county to correct the levy of the Poor Tax of said county.


Page 297

        An act entitled an act further to provide for soldiers' and other families in the county of Attala.

        An act entitled an act for the relief of the Probate Clerk of Newton county.

        An act entitled an act to authorize the members of the Board of Police of Wayne county to discharge the duties of School Commissioners, and for other purposes.

        An act entitled an act to enable the Police Court of Monroe county to levy a tax for the support of the dependants of soldiers &c., from said county.

        joint resolution to print a certain act.

        A resolution of thanks to the mothers, wives, sisters and daughters of the State.

        Resolution of thanks.

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to aid in strengthening the army of the Confederate States.

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, December 7th, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by His Excellency the Governor, to deliver to you his message in writing with the accompanying Bill:

EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, December 7th, 1863.

Gentlemen of the House of Representatives:

        I return for your consideration a bill entitled an act "to incorporate the Meridian Manufacturing Company." I cannot approve it because it is without limit of time, and is irrepealable by the Legislature. I shall do all in my power to encourage manufactures and the mechanical arts, and on a proper showing will not refuse charters of incorporation under the 35th chapter of the Revised Code "concerning corporations and associations," and while that statute is in force I can see no necessity for encumbering our laws with special acts for incorporations for small companies.

CHAS. CLARK.


        Mr. Bestor introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act compelling Railroad companies to be responsible for freight and baggage,

        Was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Watson introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act in reference to distillation, &c.,

        Which was referred to the Judiciary committee without reading.

        On motion of Mr. Rucks,

        The bill entitled an act amendatory of the Revenue laws of this State, was called from the table and made the special order for 3 o'clock, P. M.


Page 298

        On motion of Mr. Gowan,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        On a call of the roll no quorum appearing, the Sergeant-at-Arms was directed to bring in the absentees.

        The doors being closed, the Sergeant-at-Arms brought in several gentlemen who were severally excused, and the House proceeded to business.

        Mr. Clark introduced the following resolutions:

        WHEREAS, The State Treasurer, in his report of 9th November, failed to make a detailed report such as the law requires, by not giving us the amounts of receipts and disbursements, and the amount of money on hand, and the kinds of funds on hand; and whereas, in said report he acknowledges that there is enough specie on hand to redeem all the military notes due 1st June, 1862; and whereas, this House passed a resolution requesting the Treasurer to report to this House the amount of receipts and disbursements, and the aggregate amount of funds on hand, and especially the amount of each kind of funds; and whereas, in his report in answer to said resolution, he fails to report both the amount and kind of such funds, and says that all the funds on hand is in Confederate, cotton and military notes. Therefore, be it

        Resolved, That the Treasurer be required immediately to report to this House the amount of money that was in the Treasury at the date of his biennial report, dated 9th November, 1863, together with the kinds of money then on hand, showing in detail the amount of Confederate, cotton, State military notes, and coin, making up said aggregate amount.

        The resolutions were adopted.

        Mr. Isom introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to amend an act authorizing the issuance of treasury notes as advances upon cotton,

        Which was read once.

        The House then proceeded to the consideration of the special order for 3 o'clock, to-wit:

        A bill to be entitled an act amendatory of the Revenue laws of this State,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on said bill,

        Mr. Upshaw in the chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported the bill back to the House with sundry amendments, and recommended that the bill as amended do pass.


Page 299

        The report was received.

        Amendments reported by committee of the Whole:

        No. 1. In line 20, after word "exchange," add the words "and 50 cents on every dollar of United States Treasury notes held and owned by any citizen of this State."

        2. Amend line 27 by adding after word "plate," the words "diamonds and jewelry."

        4. In 27th line, after word "plate," strike out the words "kept for use."

        5. In 28th line, after word "piano," strike out the words "kept for use."

        The amendment marked No. 1, was voted on separately and lost.

        The other amendments were adopted.

        The bill was read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The following message was received from the Senate through their private Secretary:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate, in answer to the request this day made by the House for the return of a bill entitled an act to enable the Railroad companies in this State to pay the monies borrowed by them, have adopted the following resolution, to-wit:

        Resolved, That in the opinion of the Senate, the bill asked to be returned to the House of Repretentatives, has become a law so far as the two Houses are concerned, and by the Constitution the Senate has no further control over the bill than to cause it to be enrolled and placed in the hands of the enrollment committee for the signature of the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House, and then presented to the Governor for his signature.

        The Senate have passed a substitute to House bill entitled an act to provide an assistant to the Quartermaster General of the State. Said substitute is entitled as follows: An act to provide for the payment of certain informal claims against the State of Mississippi.

        The Senate has adopted the following resolution, in which the concurrence of the House is desired:

        Resolved, (the House concurring,) That the two Houses meet in joint convention, in the Representative Hall, on tomorrow, the 8th inst., at 12 o'clock M., for the purpose of electing a Superintendent and Clerk of the Penitentiary.

        The committee on Enrolled Bills, through Mr. Irby, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined a resolution and bills of the following titles and found them correctly enrolled, to-wit:


Page 300

        An act to repeal articles 55 and 56, of section 10, of chapter 35, of the Revised Code, which make void devises and bequests to religious and charitable purposes.

        An act to authorize Narcissa L. Barksdale to emancipate her slave John.

        Resolution allowing the Clerk of the House of Representatives and the Secretary of the Senate additional time to bring up the business of the session.

        On motion of Mr. Brown,

        The House took a recess until 7½ o'clock to-night.

7½ O'CLOCK, P. M.

        Recess having expired, the House resumed its session.

        On a call of the roll no quorum appeared.

        The doors were ordered to be closed, and the Sergeant-at-Arms ordered to bring in the absent members.

        No quorum appearing,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock.

TUESDAY, Dec. 8, 1863.

        The House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Lyon.

        The journal of yesterday was read and approved.

        On a call of the roll no quorum appeared.

        A call of the House was ordered.

        A quorum appearing, the call of the House was suspended.

        Mr. Shelley, by leave, introduced joint resolutions in relation to putting negroes in the army as cooks, washers, &c.

        On motion of Mr. Eskridge,

        The resolutions were laid on the table.

        Mr. Watson, from the Judiciary committee, reported a bill to be entitled an act to prohibit the distillation of grain, sugar, molasses, and any other substance, in the State of Mississippi, except under the direction and authority of the Governor.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        On motion of Mr. Houston,

        The report and bill were laid on the table and made the special order for 3 o'clock, P. M.

        On motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison,


Page 301

        The House took up Senate messages.

        House concurred in Senate joint resolution proposing to go into joint convention at 12 o'clock, on the 8th inst., for the purpose of electing a Superintendent and Clerk of the Penitentiary.

        Senate substitute entitled "an act to provide for the payment of certain informal claims against the State of Mississippi," for House bill entitled "an act to provide an assistant to the Quartermaster General of the State,"

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and referred to the committee on Claims.

        Senate joint resolution granting leave of absence to James S. Hamm, Judge of the Circuit Court of the 6th Judicial District, and Samuel M. Meek, District Attorney of said District, was read once.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed bills and resolutions of the following titles:

        A bill entitled an act for the relief of Robert H. Whitley.

        A bill entitled an act for the relief of the Probate Clerk of Lauderdale county.

        A joint resolution in regard to bills and joint resolutions.

        A bill entitled an act to encourage the manufacturing of wine from the native grape.

        A bill entitled an act to aid in supplying the loss of the records and papers in the Circuit and Chancery Courts of Chickasaw county and for other purposes.

        Also passed a House bill entitled an act to authorize the Probate Clerks in this State to record anew any deeds or other instruments required by law to be recorded, when the records have been lost, mutilated or destroyed, passed with amendments thereto.

        A House bill entitled an act for the relief of the Mississippi State Troops captured at Vicksburg, passed with amendments.

        The committee on Enrolled Bills made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined the following enrolled bill, found the same correctly enrolled, and have submitted it to his Excellency the Governor, for his approval and signature, to wit:

        An act to provide for the punishment of persons falsely representing themselves as Government Agents.

        The House agreed to the request of the Senate asking for a committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the


Page 302

two Houses on the bill to be entitled an act to encourage the manufacture of cotton and wool cards.

        The Speaker appointed Messrs. Minter, Rucks, Stephens, Eskridge and Cunningham.

        The following message was received from the Governor through his Private Secretary:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Dec. 8th, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by his Excellency the Governor, to inform the House that he did, on the 7th inst., sign and approve the following House bills and resolutions entitled:

        An act for the relief of J. D. W. Duckworth, Sheriff and Tax Collector of Smith county.

        An act amendatory of article 6, chapter 3, page 292 of the Revised Code, and for other purposes.

        An act to provide for the redemption of lands sold to the State for taxes at the office of the Auditor of Public Accounts.

        An act to authorize Narcissa L. Barksdale to emancipate her slave John.

        Resolution to allow time to the Clerk of the House of Representatives and the Secretary of the Senate to bring up the business of the session.

        The House concurred in the Senate amendment to House bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Probate Clerks in this State to record anew any deeds, or other instruments required by law to be recorded, when the records have been lost, mutilated or destroyed.

        The House then proceeded to the consideration of the Senate amendments to House bill to be entitled an act for the relief of the Mississippi State Troops captured at Vicksburg.

        Mr. Eskridge moved that the further consideration of the bill and amendments be indefinitely postponed, which was decided in the negative by yeas and nays as follows:

        YEAS--Messrs. Allen, Bestor, Barton, Clark, Cunningham, Eskridge, Fowler, Falconer, Grace, Irby, Johnson of Wilkinson, Lewers, Minter, Maxwell, McLemore, McNiel, Prewitt, Staples, Seal of Harrison, Thompson, Wells, Wier and Watson--23.

        NAYS--Messrs. Arnold, Bradford, Boon, Brown, Deason of Jones, Daniel, Fox, Fort, Gully, Gowan, High, Hendon, Isom, Jackson, Johnson of Tippah, Moore, Morehead, Murdock, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McElroy, Pope, Powe, Pounds, Pinson, Rucks, Rogers, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith, Stephens and Upshaw--31.

        The Senate amendments were then concurred in.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to encourage the manufacture of wine from the native grape.


Page 303

        Mr. Bestor moved to amend by inserting the word "pure," before the word wine,

        Which on motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison, was laid on the table.

        Mr. Watson moved to amend by adding the following:

        Provided that not more than ten dollars per gallon, and in that proportion for a smaller quantity, shall be asked or received for any wine sold under the provisions of this act.

        Which, on motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison, was laid on the table.

        The bill was then read a third time under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The Senate joint resolution in relation to bills and joint resolutions,

        Was, on motion of Mr. Seal, of Harrison, laid on the table.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of the Probate clerk of Lauderdale county,

        Was read three several times, the rules being suspended, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Robert H. Whitley,

        Was read three several times under a suspension rea the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate bill to be entitled an act to aid in supplying the loss of the Records and papers in the circuit and chancery courts of Chickasaw county,

        Was read three several times, under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Murdock, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled an act to encourage the introduction of live stock and provisions from within the lines of the enemy,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Isom called from the orders of the day,

        An act to amend an act authorizing the issuance of Treasury Notes as advances on Cotton.

        Was read a second and third time under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        On motion of Mr. Seal of Harrison, the House took a recess of five minutes in order to prepare the House for the reception of the Senate to the end that the two Houses go into joint convention for the purpose of electing a Superintendent and clerk of the Penitentiary.

        Recess having expired the clerk was instructed to inform the Senate that the House was in readiness for their reception, for the purpose of going into joint convention to elect a clerk and superintendent of the Penitentiary.

        The Senate having been informed, entered and took the seats assigned them.


Page 304

        The President of the Senate stated the object of the meeting.

        Mr. Barton of the House moved that the convention proceed to the election of superintendent and clerk of the Penitentiary by ballot.

        Messrs. Griffin of the Senate and Lewers of the House, were appointed Tellers.

        Mr. Rucks of the House, nominated E. P. Russell of Hinds county, as a candidate for superintendent of the Penitentiary.

        There being no other nominations, Mr. E. P. Russell was elected by acclamation, and declared duly elected superintendent of the Penitentiary for the term prescribed by law.

        For Clerk of the Penitentiary, Mr. Wilson of the Senate, nominated C. C. Moore, of Monroe county.

        Mr. Gully, of the House, nominated Thomas J. Eldrige, of Kemper county.

        On the first ballot,

  • C. C. Moore received . . . . . 40 votes.
  • Thos. J. Eldrige . . . . . 35 votes.
  • Whole number of votes cast . . . . . 77
  • Necessary to a choice . . . . . 39
  • Scattering . . . . . 2

        Mr. Moore having received a majority of all the votes cast, was declared duly elected Clerk of the Penitentiary, for the term prescribed by law.

        The Senate retired.

        The House proceeded to business.

        Mr. Morehead by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled an act to provide for the exemption of certain officers from service in the provisional army of the Confederate States,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Bradford by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled an act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Itawamba county.

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Thompson, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to enable the several Boards of Police to compensate the Clerks of the Probate Courts for labor performed by them,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Watson, from the Judiciary committee, made the following report:

        The Judiciary Committee to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to levy and collect a tax of thirty-three


Page 305

and one-third per cent. on all persons refusing to receive Confederate Treasury notes in payment of dues, have had the same under consideration, and ask leave to report the same back to the House, with a substitute recommending that the substitute do pass.

        The report of the committe was received and agreed to.

        The bill read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Eskridge moved a suspension of the rules to the end that the bill be read the third time and passed.

        Pending which,

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The House resumed the consideration of the question pending on adjournment, to-wit:

        The motion to suspend the rules for the third reading of the bill to be entitled an act to raise additional revenue.

        Mr. Eskridge offered the following amendment:

        Add at end of sec. 2: "Provided, Executors, Administrators and Guardians shall be exempt from the provisions of this act."

        Mr. Minter proposed to amend by striking out twenty per cent, and inserting 10 per cent.

        Mr. Irby moved that the House resolve itself into committee of the Whole on the bill,

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, moved the indefinite postponement of the bill, which was decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Bradford, Seal of Harrison, and Johnson of Tippah:

        YEAS--Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Barton, Deason of Jones, Daniel, Fowler, Fox, Foxworth, Fort, Gully, Hendon, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Morehead, McLemore, McKay of Neshoba, McNeil, Owen, Pope, Powe, Pinson, Prewitt, Rucks, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith, Thompson and Wells--28.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Cunningham, Eskridge, Falconer, Grace, Gowan, High, Irby, Lewers, Minter, Moore, Maxwell, McLaurin, McElroy, Rogers, Ross, Staples, Stephens, Upshaw, Wier and Watson--24.

        The bill was indefinitely postponed.

        Mr. Watson called up the special order for 3 o'clock to-day, to-wit:

        The bill entitled an act to prohibit the distillation of grain,


Page 306

sugar and molasses, and any other substances, in the State of Mississippi, except under the direction and authority of the Governor.

        On motion of Mr. Watson,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on said bill.

        Mr. Falconer in the chair.

        After sometime spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported progress and asked leave to sit again immediately.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Watson moved a call of the House.

        The doors being closed the roll was then called, and a quorum appeared.

        The House again resolved itself into committee of the Whole,

        Mr. Falconer in the Chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House with the recommendation that it do not pass.

        Mr. Falconer moved that the report be received and agreed to.

        Mr. Watson called for a division of the question.

        The report was received.

        Question on agreeing.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, moved that the bill and amendments be laid on the table, which was decided in the negative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Rogers, Seal of Harrison, and Stubbs of Smith:

        YEAS--Messrs. Arnold, Bradford, Boon, Barton, Fox, Foxworth, Gully, Gowan, Irby, Jackson, Morehead, Maxwell, McKay of Neshoba, McElroy, Pope, Pinson, Prewit, Rogers, Staples, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith, and Weir--24.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Bestor, Brown, Clark, Cunningham, Deason of Jones, Daniel, Eskridge, Fowler, Falconer, Fort, Grace, High, Hendon, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Lewers, Minter, Moore, Murdock, McLemore, McLaurin, McNeil, Owen, Powe, Rucks, Ross, Stephens, Thompson, Upshaw, Wells and Watson--33.

        The vote was then taken on agreeing to the report of the committee of the Whole that the bill do not pass.

        The report was not agreed to.

        Mr. Watson moved that the rule be suspended and the bill read the third time.

        Which was lost.

        Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson, from the committee of Conference, made the following report:


Page 307

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint committee of Conference of the Senate and House, to whom was referred the subject of the disagreement between the two Houses on the Senate bill entitled an act to punish the offense of harboring or concealing deserters from the Confederate service, and for other purposes, and House substitute for said bill entitled an act to encourage enlistments in the army of the Confederate States, and for other purposes, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report that they have agreed to adopt the House substitute.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Thompson, from a committee of Conference, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Conference appointed on the part of the House to meet the committee on the part of the Senate, on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on the joint resolution instructing our Senators and requesting our Representatives to make Confederate notes a legal tender in the payment of debts, beg leave to report that upon conference it was agreed that the Senate should recede from their amendment to the House amendment of the Senate resolution.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Stephens presented the memorial of S. W. Woolard, Tax Assessor of Coahoma county, which was referred to the committee on Claims without reading.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has passed the following entitled bill:

        An act to provide for organizing and disciplining the militia of this State,

        In which the concurrence of the House is desired.

        Mr. Irby, from the committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined the following enrolled bill and find the same correctly enrolled, and have presented them to His Excellency the Governor for his approval and signature, to-wit:

        An act entitled an act to authorize the Probate Clerks in this State to record anew any deeds, or other instruments required by law to be recorded, when the records have been lost, mutilated or destroyed.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw,

        The House proceeded to the consideration of Senate messages, and took up the Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide for organizing and disciplining the militia of this State,


Page 308

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules and referred to the committee of the Whole,

        Mr. Thompson in the chair.

        After sometime spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House and stated that the committee found itself without a quorum.

        On motion of Mr. Barton,

        The House took a recess until 7½ o'clock to-night.

7½ o'clock, P. M.

        Recess having expired, the House resumed its session.

        On a call of the roll a quorum appeared.

        On motion of Mr. Allen,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole,

        Mr. Thompson in the chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House, with sundry amendments, with the recommendation that the bill as amended do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        Amendments of the committee of the Whole:

        1. Amend sec. 7 by striking out "17" and insert "18."

        Mr. Ross moved to lay the amendment on the table, which proposition was decided in the negative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Bradford, Gulley and Prewitt:

        YEAS--Messrs. Allen, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Brown, Cunningham, Daniel, Eskridge, Fowler, Falconer, Fort, Grace, Isom, Lewers, Minter, Murdock, McLemore, McNiel, Owen, Ross, Staples, Stephens, Thompson, Upshaw and Watson--25.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Arnold, Barton, Clark, Carroll, Deason of Jones, Fox, Foxworth, Gully, Gowan, High, Hendon, Irby, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Moore, Maxwell, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McElroy, Powe, Pinson, Prewitt, Rogers, Seal of Harrison, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith, Wells, Wier and Wynne--30.

        Mr. Irby moved that the amendment be adopted, which was decided in the affirmative.

        Amendment 2: In sec. 29, amend by inserting "also county Treasurers, and the Registers and Receivers of land offices; all operatives employed in cotton and woolen factories, iron foundries and furnaces, and all persons engaged in the manufacture of salt who manufacture twenty bushels per day."

        Which were adopted.

        Mr. Watson offered the following amendment:

        Strike out all after the word "operators" in 4th line of 29th section.


Page 309

        Pending which,

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson,

        The House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, Dec. 9, 1863.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        Prayer by the Rev. Dr. Lyon.

        On motion of Mr. Barton,

        The reading of the journal of yesterday was dispensed with.

        Mr. Thompson by leave, made the following report from the committee on Ways and Means.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act supplimentary to an act entitled an act better to provide for the families of our soldiers, approved January 3d, 1863, with instructions to report a bill prohibiting the production of cotton beyond a fixed amount, have instructed me to report a bill to carry out the instructions of the House, to be entitled an act to encourage the production of grain and provisions, and recommend that the same do pass.

        The bill reported by the committee was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Bradford moved to amend by exempting the counties of Bolivar, Coahoma, Tunica, Washington, Issaquena, Marshall, Simpson, Newton, Harison, Hinds, DeSoto, Tippah and Amite.

        On motion of Mr. Johnson, of Wilkinson,

        The bill and amendments were laid on the table.

        Mr. Irby from the committee on Enrolled Bills made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined the following enrolled bill, found the same correctly enrolled, and have presented it to his Excellency the Governor for his approval and signature, to wit:

        An act entitled an act for the relief of the Mississippi State troops captured at Vicksburg.

        The following communication was presented to the House by the Speaker:


Page 310

TREASURER'S OFFICE,
Columbus December 8th, 1863.

To the House of Representatives:

        In answer to your resolution, adopted on the 7th inst., calling for amount of receipts and disbursements, and the kind of funds on hand, in detail, I respectfully submit the following, viz:

        The reason why I have not given you a detailed statement of the receipts and disbursements of my office for the last two years, is that I have not posted up my books for some time since, owing to the fact that I had no disbursement book, and could not procure one. This I fully explained to the committee on the Treasurer's Office. I ordered a book of Capt. Julienne in March last. I submit his certificate, which will explain itself. The disbursement vouchers are now in my office, and it will take at least sixty days to post them up. In my report of the 9th of November, I said:

        "I regret that I cannot give you a more detailed and elaborate view of the operations of this Department. The want of time to prepare it, and other causes, prevent my doing so.

        Since coming to Columbus I have obtained a temporary book to enter up my receipts and disbursements, and will have it done in time for the examination of your commissioner. In regard to the amount and kind of money on hand, I have to say, that it would take me at least thirty days to count and make a list of it. There is in Montgomery, Ala., twelve boxes of specie and one large box full of paper money, so you will see that it is impossible for me to count the money and give you a list of the kind on hand, and amounts before the adjournment of your session.

        Your commissioner to examine my office will soon be appointed, and I shall urge him to give in his report all the information you desire in your resolution. All I ask is a fair examination by your commissioner.

M. D. HAYNES,
State Treasurer.

        This is to certify that M. D. Haynes, State Treasurer, ordered a disburement book to be made early in the Spring, and upon his order I completed said book and had it ready for delivery, but the Yankees came to the city and destroyed all my books, machinery &c., together with book ordered by Col. Haynes.

Given under my hand this 6 day of November, 1863.

L. JULIENNE.


        Mr. Powe called up the bill to be entitled an act to authorize the State Treasurer to receive from the delinquent Tax


Page 311

collectors of the several counties in this State, the military bonds or notes falling due, 1st January 1863--4, in payment of the amounts due from them on account of the military Tax for the year 1861, the passage of which was reconsidered on the 24th of November last.

        The question then recurred on the passage of the bill, which was decided in the affirmative, by yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Gully, Seal, of Harison, and Stubbs of Smith.

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Arnold, Bradford, Bestor Boon, Cunningham, Deason of Jones, Daniel, Fowler, Fox, Fort, Gowan, Isom, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Lewers, Minter, Moore, Morehead, Maxwell, Murdock, McLemore, McNeil, Owen, Pounds, Powe, Prewitt, Rucks, Ross, Staples, Stephens, Thompson, Upshaw, Wier, Watson and Wynne.--38.

        NAYS--Messrs. Barton, Clark, Eskridge, Foxworth, Falconer, Gully, Gray, High, Hendon, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McElroy, Pope, Pinson, Rogers, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith and Wells--19.

        The bill passed, the title standing as stated.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed the following bills and resolutions, to wit:

        A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the benefit of Moses E. Enochs.

        A bill entitled an act to provide for the payment of the claims of deceased soldiers.

        A bill entitled an act to authorize the Probate Judge of Lowndes county to appoint a receiver for the absent Legatees of Dr. Samuel B. Malone.

        A resolution requiring the Public Printer to publish the acts and journals of the last called session, also passed the following House bills, to wit:

        House bill entitled an act for the relief of Isham Dansby, of Newton county.

        A House bill entitled an act to regulate the pay of Registers and Receivers of the several land offices of the State.

        A House bill entitled an act for the relief of Thomas J. Fortson.

        A House bill entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to amend the laws in relation to the State University.

        A House bill entitled an act for the relief of C. E. Murphree of Calhoun county.

        A House bill entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to amend the charter of the Columbus Life and General


Page 312

Insurance company, and the Mississippi Mutual Insurance Company, approved January 25th, 1862.

        The Senate have agreed to the recommendation of the committee of Conference on the disagreement of the two Houses on the Senate amendment to House substitute for Senate resolution, requesting our Congressmen to have Confederate money made a legal tender, thereby receeding from their said amendment.

        Senate have passed a House bill entitled an act for the relief of William Beacham of Itawamba county, and for other purposes.

        The Senate refuses to concur in the report of the Conference committee on the disagreement of the two Houses on House substitute to Senate bill entitled an act to punish the offense of harboring or concealing deserters from the Confederate and State service, and for other purposes.

        The Senate have passed a House bill entitled a bill compelling Railroads to be responsible for freight and baggage, Passed with amendments.

        A House bill entitled an act to authorize the Board of Police of Winston county to borrow mony &c.

        Passed with amendments.

        The Senate have concurred in House substitute for Senate resolution of confidence.

        Mr. Seal, of Harison, called up the military bill, the question pending on adjournment last night, viz:

        The amendment offered by Mr[.] Thompson, to strike out the word operators in 4th line.

        Mr. Seal, of Harison, offered the following substitute for sec. 29.

        Be it further enacted, That the following named persons, and none others, shall be exempt from military duty in this State, to wit:

        State Treasurer and Clerk, Auditor and Clerk, Secretary of State and Clerk, members of the State Legislature, Judges of the High Court of Errors and Appeals and clerk of said court, Attorney General, Judges and clerks of the Circuit and Probate Courts, District attorneys, Boards of Police, Sheriffs and Assessors, county Treasurer, Telegraphic operators, Railroad Agents and employees, commissioners for the distribution of the indigent fund, ministers of the Gospel who have been following said occupation for the last three years, Registers and Receivers in the land offices, all persons who are actually employed in teaching and have a school of twenty scholars or more, (music teachers are not exempt,) and who have pursued their vocation for five years next before the passage of this act, one Blacksmith for each Police District, provided that they have been engaged as such for


Page 313

the last three years, all Physicians who have been engaged in their regular profession for the last seven years, all Tanners who have five vats, and those employed on behalf of the Confederate Government, all Shoemakers who have been so employed as a trade for the last five years, all employees in the State Asylums, all persons employed in or about the Penitentiary, all persons engaged in the manufacture of cotton and wollen cards and cloth, all persons engaged in the iron foundaries, all persons engaged in making salt when there is produced twenty bushels and upwards, per day, which was.

        On motion of Mr. Falconer,

        Laid on the table, by yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Murdock, Watson and Fort.

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Boon, Barton, Brown, Cunningham, Daniel, Fowler, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Grace, Hendon, Isom, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Lewers, Morehead, Maxwell, McLaurin, McNiel, Pounds, Powe, Rucks, Ross, Staples, Stephens, Thompson, Wells, Wier, Watson and Wynne.--36.

        NAYS--Messrs. Bestor, Deason of Jones, Eskridge, Foxworth, Gowan, High, Minter, Murdock, McKay of Neshoba, McElroy, Owen, Pope, Pinson, Prewitt, Rogers, Seal of Hancock, Seal of Harrison, Stubbs of Smith and Upshaw.--19.

        Mr. Thompson moved to amend the pending amendment by striking out all after the word law.

        Mr. Fox moved to lay the amendments on the table which was decided in the negitative, by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Thompson, Gowan and Seal of Harrison.

        YEAS--Messrs. Barton, Clark, Carroll, Deason of Jones, Eskridge, Fox, Foxworth, Gulley, Gowan, High, Hendon, Irby, Johnson of Tippah, Lewers, Murdock, McKay of Neshoba, McElroy, Owen, Pope, Pinson, Rogers, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith, Wells, Wier and Wynne.--28.

        NAYS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Brown, Cunningham, Daniel, Fowler, Falconer, Fort, Grace, Isom, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Minter, Moore, Morehead, Maxwell, McLemore, McNeil, Pounds, Prewitt, Rucks, Ross, Staples, Stephens, Thompson, Upshaw and Watson.--32.

        Mr. Weir moved a reconsideration of the vote by which the House reconsidered the vote by which it adopted the amendment to sec. 7, striking out 17 and inserting 18, which was decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. Stephens moved a reconsideration of the vote adopting the amendment to sec. 29, exempting county Treasurers


Page 314

and Registers and receivers of the land offices, which was decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. Eskridge moved a reconsideration of the vote adopting the amendment exempting operators in cotton and woolen factories, iron foundaries and furnaces, and all manufacturers of salt who make 20 bushels per day, which was decided in the affirmative, by yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Murdock, Barton and Carroll.

        YEAS--Messrs. Allen, Bestor, Boon, Brown, Cunningham, Daniel, Eskridge, Fowler, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Grace, Isom, Irby, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Lewers, Minter, Morehead, Maxwell, McLaurin, Owen, Rogers, Ross, Staples, Stephens, Thompson, Upshaw, Wier, Watson and Wynne.--31.

        NAYS--Messrs. Arnold, Bradford, Barton, Clark, Carroll, Deason of Jones, Foxworth, Gulley, Gowan, High, Hendon, Jackson, Moore, Murdock, McLemore, McKay of Neshoba, McElroy, McNiel, Pope, Pounds, Powe, Pinson, Prewitt, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith and Wells.--28.

        Mr. Johnson, of Tippah, moved to lay the amendment on the table, striking out 17, and inserting 18, in sec. 9, which was decided in the affirmative, by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Barton, Hendon and Fox.

        YEAS--Messrs. Allen, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Brown, Cunningham, Daniel, Eskridge, Fowler, Falconer, Fort, Grace, Isom, Johnson of Tippah, Lewers, Minter, Maxwell, Murdock, McLemore, MeNeil, Owen, Powe, Rogers, Ross, Staples, Stephens, Thompson, Upshaw, Weir, Watson and Wynne.--31.

        NAYS--Messrs. Arnold, Barton, Clark, Carroll, Deason of Jones, Fox, Foxworth, Gully, Gowan, High, Hendon, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Morehead, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McElroy, Pope, Pounds, Pinson, Prewitt, Seal of Harison, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith and Wells.--29.

        On motion of Mr. Stephens,

        All the other amendments reported by the committe of the Whole,

        Were laid on the table.

        Mr. Arnold offered the following amendment:

        Amend sec. 29, by adding after the word law in the third line, provided that members of the Legislature shall not be exempt.

        Mr. Stephens moved to lay the amendment on the table, which was decided in the affirmative, by yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Barton, Murdock and Carroll.

        YEAS--Messrs. Allen, Bradford. Bestor, Barton, Brown,


Page 315

Clark, Cunningham, Deason of Jones, Eskridge, Foxworth, Grace, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Lewers, Minter, Morehead, Maxwell, McLemore, Owen, Pope, Pinson, Rucks, Rogers, Ross, Seal of Harrison, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith, Weir, Watson and Wynne.--36.

        NAYS--Messrs. Arnold, Boon, Carroll, Daniel, Fowler, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Gulley, Gowan, High, Hendon, Isom, Irby, Jackson, Moore, Murdock, McKay of Neshoba, McLaurin, McElroy, Pounds, Powe, Prewitt, Staples, Stephens, Thompson, Upshaw and Wells.--28.

        The bill was then read the third time and passed by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Gowan, Gulley and Jackson.

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Brown, Daniel Eskridge, Falconer, Fort, Grace Isom, Irby, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Lewers, Minter, Maxwell, McLemore, McLaurin, Owen, Pope, Powe, Rucks, Rogers, Ross, Staples, Stephens, Upshaw, Weir, Watson and Wynne.--32.

        NAYS--Messrs. Arnold, Barton, Clark, Cunningham, Carroll, Deason of Jones, Fowler, Fox, Foxworth, Gulley, Gowan, High, Hendon, Jackson, Moore, Morehead, Murdock, McKay of Neshoba, McElroy, McNeil, Pinson, Prewitt, Seal of Harison, Seal of Hancock, Shelley, Stubbs of Smith, Thompson and Wells.--28.

        The bill passed without amendment.

        On motion of Mr. Rucks,

        The order of business was suspended, and he introduced a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the State Treasurer to employ a clerk,

        The rules were suspended, the bill read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The following message was received from the Governor:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Dec. 9, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by his Excelleny the Governor, to inform the House that he did on the 8th inst., sign and approve the following House bills, entitled

        An act to provide for the punishment of persons falsely representing themselves as Government Agents.

        An act to authorize the Probate Clerks in this State to record anew any deeds or other instruments required by law to be recorded, when the records have been lost, mutilated or destroyed.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        Mr. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have adopted the following joint resoltions in which the concurrence of the House is desired:


Page 316

        Resolution of thanks to the citizens of Columbus.

        Resolution making an appropriation to the Christian Church of Columbus.

        And have passed a bill entitled

        An act to define and regulate the charges hereafter to be made by Railroad Companies in this State for freight and passage, and for other purposes.

        And have passed House bill entitled

        An act for the relief of the 1st battalion of Mississippi State Troops, commanded by Maj. Harper,

        With an amendment by way of additional section, in which the concurrence of the House is desired.

        The House proceeded with Senate messages:

        Senate amendments to House bills entitled

        An act compelling Railroads to be responsible for freight and baggage; and

        An act to authorize the Board of Police of Winston county to borrow money, &c.,

        Were concurred in.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to provide for the payment of the claims of deceased soldiers,

        Was read three several times, the rules being suspended and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate joint resolution in relation to public printing

        Was read twice under suspension of the rules and concurred in by the House.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the judge of the Probate court of Lowndes county to appoint a receiver for the absent legatees of Dr. Samuel B. Malone,

        Was read three several times, under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act for the benefit of Moses E. Enochs,

        Was read three several times under a suspension res the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        On motion of Mr. Deason of Jones,

        The House adjourned until 3 o'clock, P. M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed the following entitled House bills, to-wit:

        A bill to be entitled


Page 317

An act amendatory of the Revenue Laws of this State,

        With amendments thereto, in which the House is asked to concur

        The Senate have agreed to the report of the committee of conference on the disagreement of the two Houses on the Senate substitute for House bill entitled

        An act to procure cotton and wool cards for the indigent families of soldiers and the citizens of this State, and for other purposes.

        And have passed a House bill entitled

        An act for the relief of families of soldiers in the counties therein named, and for other purposes.

        Mr. Seal of Harrison, from the committee of conference, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint committee of conference to whom was referred a bill entitled

        An act to procure cotton and wool cards and other articles, have had the same under consideration and have instructed to report that they have agreed to adopt the Senate amendments to the House bill, and recommend that the same so adopted, and that the report be agreed to, &c.

        Which report was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Falconer introduced the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the cammittee on Claims be instructed to allow the State printer for printing done during the present session of the legislature compensation allowed by the act entitled

        An act to repeal section 9, chapter 6, of the revised code, so far as the same provides compensation for the public printer, for other purposes.

        Which was adopted.

        Senate joint resolution making an appropriation to the Christian Church,

        Was read twice under a suspension of the rules and referred to the committee on Claims.

        Senate joint resolution of thanks to the citizens of Columbus

        Was taken up, the rules suspended, and the resolution concurred in.

        The House concurred in Senate amendment to House bill be entitled

        An act for the relief of the first battalion Mississippi State troops commanded while in service by Maj. Harper.

        Senate bill to be entitled

        An act to define and regulate the charges hereafter to be made by Railroad companies in this State for freight or passage, and for other purposes,


Page 318

        Was read three several times under suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The House proceeded to the consideration of the Senate amendments to the House bill to be entitled

        An act amendatory of the Revenue laws of this State,

        And on motion of Mr. Thompson, the House refused to concur in said amendments.

        Mr. Murdock from the committee on Claims made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint committe on Claims to whom was referred a bill to be entitled

        An act to authorize the removal of the records and papers belonging to any court of record and for other purposes,

        Have had the same under consideration and instructed me to report the bill back to the House, with a recommendation that it be passed.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was then read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The committee on Claims to whom was referred a bill to be entitled

        An act to provide for the payment of certain informal claims against the State of Mississippi,

        Have had same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the bill back to the House with a recommendation that it do pass

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The committee on Enrolled Bills, through Mr. Irby, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined the following enrolled bills, found the same correctly enrolled, and have presented them to his Excellency, the Governor, for his approval and signature, to-wit:

        An act entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to amend the charters of the Columbus Life and General Insurance Company, and the Mississippi Mutual Insurance Company, approved January 25, 1862.

        An act entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to amend the laws in relation to the State University.

        An act entitled an act for the relief of Isham Dansby, of Newton county.

        An act entitled an act for the relief of William Beacham, of Itawamba county, and for other purposes.


Page 319

        An act entitled an act for the relief of Thomas J. Fortson.

        An act entitled an act to regulate the pay of Registers and Receivers of the several land offices of this State.

        Also a joint resolution of confidence in his Excellency, President Davis.

        The Speaker presented the following communication:

        The President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, having been requested by a joint resolution of the two Houses to appoint two commissioners to examine the Auditor's and Treasurer's offices, have performed the duty by the appointment of Wm. H. Brown, of Hinds, and Felix LaBauve, of DeSoto county, and ask the ratification of the two Houses.

        Mr. Murdock, from the committee on Claims, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee on Claims to whom was referred an act for the relief of John Vernon, Sheriff of Monroe county, have considered the same and have instructed me to report it back to the House with the recommendation that it do not pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        Mr. Murdock introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to exempt operatives in cotton and woolen factories and iron foundries, from militia duty,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Minter, from a committee of Conference, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Conference to whom was referred the bill for the encouragement of the manufacture of cotton cards, have instructed me to report that they have agreed to restrict the price at which said cards shall be sold, for no more than $20 per pair, and recommend the concurrence of the House in the Senate amendment.

        Report received and agreed to.

        Mr. Houston, by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Monroe county,

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Rucks introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act to exempt county Treasurers from military duty,

        Which was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Bestor moved to amend by extending the provisions of this bill to Registers and Receivers of Land offices,

        Which was adopted.

        The rule was suspended, the bill read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.


Page 320

        On motion of Mr. Lewers,

        The committee on Claims was instructed to insert in appropriation bill an item giving the Sergeant-at-Arms and Doorkeeper $100 each for their attention at this session of the Legislature.

        Mr. Arnold introduced a joint resolution instructing our Senators and requesting our Representatives in Congress to inquire of the War Department why it is necessary to keep a Brigadier General, with a large staff of able-bodied young men, and two batteries of artillery at Columbus, Miss., while the enemy are more than 100 miles North of said city, and the army requires soldiers in the field.

        Mr. High introduced a bill to be entitled

        An act for the relief of Thomas A. Mitchell, of Pontotoc county,

        Which was read three several times and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Murdock, from the committee on Claims, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint committee on Claims herewith beg leave to report the various claims referred to them, and have included the same in a general appropriation bill with the recommendation that the same do pass.

        Your committee would state that the Governor has advised them that the sum of three millions of dollars will be needed for the purpose of military defense during the ensuing year; but your committee were not until a late hour of this day aware that this appropriation was to come through them, and therefore state the facts for the information of the House.

        The bill accompanying said report entitled an act making certain appropriations therein named, was read twice.

        On motion,

        The House resolved itself into committee of the Whole on said bill,

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, in the chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose, reported the bill back to the House with sundry amendments, and recommended that the bill as amended do pass.

        The amendments of the committee of the Whole making an appropriation of $100 to George Miller, messenger of the House, and $25 to each of the two pages, were concurred in.

        Mr. Lewers offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the thanks of this House are due, and are hereby tendered, to the resident ministers of the various denominations of the city of Columbus, for their punctual attendance and courtesy in opening the daily sessions of this


Page 321

House, during the present session of the Legislature, with prayer. Which was adopted.

        Mr. Powe offered the following resolution:

        Resolved, That the thanks of this House are due, and are hereby tendered to the Hon. L. E. Houston, Speaker of the House, for the able, courteous, dignified and impartial manner in which he has presided over its deliberations.

        Which was adopted.

        Mr. Seal, of Harrison, offered resolutions of thanks to R. C. Miller clerk of the House, &c., to the assistant clerks and pages. On motion of Mr[.] Barton,

        The House adjourned till 7 o'clock, P. M.

7 O'CLOCK P. M.

        House met pursuant to adjournment.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed the following entitled House bills:

        A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the State Treasurer to receive from the delinquent Tax Collectors of the several counties in this State the military bonds or notes falling due 1st January, 1863--4, in payment of the amount due them on account of the military Tax for the year 1861.

        A House bill entitled an act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Itawamba county.

        A House bill entitled an act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Monroe county.

        The Senate insist on their amendments to House bill entitled an act amendatory of the revenue laws of this State.

        A House bill entitled an act to authorize the State Treasurer to employ a clerk.

        The Senate have agreed to the report of the committee of Conference on the disagreeing vote of the two Houses on the Senate amendment to House bill entitled an act to encourage the manufacture of cotton and wool cards &c., the Senate thereby receeding from their said amendments.

        The Senate have this day ratified and confirmed the appointments of Messrs. Wm. H. Brown, of Jackson, and Felix LaBauve, of DeSoto, as commissioners to examine the offices of the Auditor of Public Accounts and State Treasurer, provided for in an act passed by the present Legislature, made by the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House.

        Senate have passed House bill entitled an act to exempt county Treasurers from military duty.

        The Judiciary committee reported favorably on a bill to be entitled an act to provide for the exemption of certain officers from service in the provisional army of the Confederate States.

        The bill was then read third time under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Thompson from the committee of Ways and Means made the following report:


Page 322

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Mens have instructed me to report a bill to be entitled an act making appropriations for military service for the next fiscal year and recommend the same do pass.

        The bill was read twice under a suspension of the rules and referred to the committee of the Whole.

        Mr. Bradford in the chair.

        After some time spent therein,

        The committee rose and reported the bill back to the House and recommended its passage.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill read the third time under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred so much of the Governor's message as relates to the salaries of public officers, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report a bill to be entitled an act to increase the salary of certain officers therein named, and to recommend the same do pass.

        The report was received and agreed to.

        The bill was read three several times under a suspension of the rules, and passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Upshaw by leave, introduced a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the distillation of grain, and for other purposes. Was read twice under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Wier offered to amend by exempting Tippah county from the operations of this act.

        Which was, on motion, laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. Upshaw, the bill was then read a third time under a suspension of the rules.

        Messrs. Barton, Gulley and Stubbs of Smith, called for the yeas and nays on the passage of the bill.

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Bestor, Boon, Brown, Cunningham, Deason of Jones, Daniel, Eskridge, Fox, Falconer, Fort, Grace, High, Hendon, Isom, Irby, Jackson, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Lewers, Murdock, McLemore, McLaurin, Owen, Pounds, Powe, Rucks, Ross, Stephens, Thompson, Upshaw, Wells, Watson and Wynne.--37.

        NAYS--Messrs. Barton, Clark, Carroll, Fowler, Gulley, Gowan, Minter, Moore, Maxwell, McKay of Neshoba, McElroy, Pope, Staples, Stubbs of Smith and Wier.--15.

        The bill passed, the title standing as stated.

        Mr. Fort introduced a bill to be entitled,

        An act to punish persons falsely claiming to be in the army of the Confederate States or of the State.

        Which was read three several times under a suspension of the rules and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The House took up the Senate message in relation to the revenue bill--the Senate insisted on their amendments.

        The House adhered to their refusal to concur in the amendments of the Senate, and asked for a committee of Conference thereon.


Page 323

        The chair appointed Messrs. Thompson, Bestor, Bradford, Shelley and Hendon.

        Mr. Rucks called from the order of the day the Senate joint resolution granting leave of absence to Hon J. S. Hamm Judge, and S. M. Meek District Attorney, of 6th Judicial District. The resolution was concurred in.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have passed a House bill entitled an act for the relief of T. A. Mitchell, of Pontotoc county.

        The House then took up the appropriation bill.

        The bill was read the third time and passed, the title standing as stated.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate has passed the following entitled bill:

        An act to provide for the exemption of certain officers from service in the paovisional army of the Confederate States.

        The Senate agree to a committee of Conference on the disagreement of the two Houses on Senate amendments to House bill entitled an act amendatory of the Revenue laws of this State, and have appointed Messrs. Oliver, Griffin and Hamilton as said committee on the part of the Senate.

        Mr. Murdock introduced a joint resolution to authorize the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives, to sign an act making certain appropriations, and an act amendatory of the Revenue laws of this State, without their being duly enrolled.

        Which was adopted under a suspension of the rules.

        Mr. Falconer introduced the following resolution:

        Resolved, (the Senate concurring.) That the following be adopted as a joint standing rule of the two Houses:

        No motion to re-consider shall be in order, unless made immediately succeeding the reading of the journal on the morning after the day on which the subject matter of the motion was disposed of. Which was read once.

        The Conference committee on an act amendatory of the Revenue laws of the State, made the following report:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The committee of Conference on the part of House on the disagreeing votes on the bill entitled an act amendatory of the Revenue laws of this State, have met the committee of Conference on the part of the Senate, and upon conference have agreed to make the following report, and recomend the adoption of the same:

        The Senate agrees to an amendment to the first amendment by adding at the end of the first amendment, the words, "and which pays three per cent. per annum," and the House committee with this amendment agrees to recede from its disagreement. The Senate agrees to recede from its second amendment. The Senate agrees to insert in the second line of the third amendment, after the word over,


Page 324

the words, "one bale of," and in the same line after the word "pounds of lint," and with this amendment the House committee agrees to recede from its disagreement to the fourth amendment.

        Mr. Thompson moved that the report be received and agreed to. A division being called for. The report was received. Question on agreeing.

        The House agreed to the report of the committee on the 1st and 2d amendments.

        On the 3d amendment, in relation to the tax on cotton, the yeas and nays were called for by Messrs. Seal of Harrison, Gully and Rucks:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Arnold, Bestor, Clark, Deason of Jones, Eskridge, Fox, Falconer, Grace, Gowan, High, Isom, Lewers, Minter, Maxwell, Murdock, McLaurin, McNiel, Pounds, Powe, Staples, Shelley, Stephens, Thompson, Wells and Watson--26.

        NAYS--Messrs. Allen, Bradford, Boon, Barton, Brown, Cunningham, Carroll, Daniel, Fort, Gully, Hendon, Irby, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Moore, McLemore, McKay of Neshoba, McElroy, Owen, Rucks, Ross, Seal of Harrison, Stubbs of Smith, Upshaw, Wier and Wynne--26.

        There being a tie the report was not concurred in as to the 3d amendment.

        The House then concurred in the report as to the 4th amendment.

        The following message was received from the Governor:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Dec. 9, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        I am instructed by his Excelleny the Governor, to inform the House that he has this day signed and approved the following House bills and resolutions, entitled:

        An act for the relief of the Mississippi State Troops captured at Vicksburg.

        An act entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to amend the charters of the Columbus Life and General Insurance Company, and the Mississippi Mutual Insurance Company, approved January 25, 1862.

        An act entitled an act for the relief of Isham Dansby, of Newton county.

        An act entitled an act for the relief of William Beacham, of Itawamba county, and for other purposes.

        An act entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to amend the laws in relation to the State University.

        An act entitled an act to regulate the pay of Registers and Receivers of the several land offices of this State.

        An act entitled an act for the relief of Thomas J. Fortson.

        An act for the relief of families of soldiers in the counties therein mentioned, and for other purposes.

        An act compelling Railroad companies to be responsible for freight and baggage.


Page 325

        An act for the relief of the 1st battalion of Mississippi State Troops, commanded by Maj. Harper.

        Joint resolution of confidence in his Excellency, President Davis.

        An act to authorize the Board of Police of Winston county to borrow money &c.

        An act for the relief of Thomas A. Mitchell, of Pontotoc.

        An act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Monroe county,

        An act to encourage the manufacture of cotton and wool cards in this State.

        An act to authorize the State Treasurer to employ a Clerk.

        An act to exempt county Treasurers from military duty.

        An act to authorize the State Treasurer to receive from the delinquent Tax collectors of the several counties in this State, the military bonds or notes falling due 1st June, 1863-4, in payment of the amounts due from them on account of the military Tax for the year 1861.

        An act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Itawamba county.

        An act to provide for the exemption of certain officers from service in the provisional army of the Confederate States.

        An act to procure cotton and wool cards for indigent families of soldiers and citizens of this State.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--The Senate have passed the following bill:

        An act making appropriations for the military service for the next fiscal year.

        The Senate have concurred and agreed to the report of the committee of Conference on the disagreement of the two Houses on the Senate amendments to House bill entitled an act amendatory of the Revenue laws of this State.

        The Senate have consented to second committee of Conference on the disagreement of the two Houses on the House bill entitled an act amendatory of the Revenue laws of this State. Messrs. Wilson, Griffin and Hamilton are the committee on the part of the Senate.

        The second committee of Conference on the disagreement of the two Houses, made the following report through Mr. Seal, of Harrison:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint committee of Conference appointed upon the three Senate amendments to the House bill entitled an act amendatory of the Revenue laws of the State, have had the same under consideration. The committee have agreed that each planter shall be entitled to raise one bale of cotton, counting five hundred pounds of lint to the hand, and all over that shall pay a tax of four cents per pound in the seed, counting all as hands between the ages of 15 and 55 years.

        The report was received.

        And on motion of Mr. Johnson, of W., laid on the table.

        Mr. Hendon moved the reconsideration of the vote by which


Page 326

the House disagreed to the third amendment of the Senate, which was decided in the affirmative.

        The following message was received from the Senate: MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have agreed to and concurred in the report of the second committee of Conference on the disagreement of the two Houses on the House bill entitled an act amendatory of the Revenue laws of this State.

        The vote was then taken on agreeing to the report of the first committee of Conference, and decided in the affirmative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Seal of Harrison, Barton and Ross:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Allen, Bestor, Boon, Clark, Deason of Jones, Eskridge, Fox, Falconer, Grace, Gowan, High, Hendon, Isom, Irby, Minter, Maxwell, Murdock, McLaurin, McNiel, Pounds, Powe, Staples, Shelley, Stephens, Thompson Wells, Wier, Watson and Wynne.--30.

        NAYS--Messrs. Arnold, Bradford, Barton, Brown, Cunningham, Carroll, Daniel, Fort, Gully, Johnson of Wilkinson, Johnson of Tippah, Moore, McLemore, McKay of Neshoba, McElroy, Owen, Pope, Ross, Seal of Harrison, Stubbs of Smith and Upshaw--21.

        Mr. Watson, from the Judiciary committee, reported back a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of owners of slaves impressed under an act entitled an act to authorize the impressment of slaves and other personal property for military purposes, approved Jan. 3d, 1863.

        Mr. Irby moved a suspension of the rules to the that the bill be read the third time and passed, which was, decided in the negative by yeas and nays called for by Messrs. Irby Barton and Boon:

        YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Boon, Barton, Clark, Cunningham, Carroll, Daniel, Falconer, Gowan, High, Isom, Irby, Johnson of Wilkinson, Moore, Maxwell, McNeil, Powe, Seal of Harrison, Shelley, Upshaw, Watson and Wynne--22.

        NAYS--Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bradford, Bestor, Brown, Deason of Jones, Eskridge, Fox, Gully, Hendon, Johnson of Tippah, Minter, Murdock, McLemore, McKay of Neshoba McLaurin, McElroy, Owen, Pope, Pounds, Ross, Stubbs of Smith, Stehens, Thompson, Wells and Weir--26.

        The following message was received from the Senate: MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have reconsidered their vote agreeing to and concurring in the report of the second committee of Conference on the disagreement of the two Houses on the House bill entitled an act amendatory of the Revenue laws of this State, and have again adopted the report of the first committee of Conference on said bill.

        The Senate have concurred in the House resolution authorizing the Speaker of the House and the President of the Senate to sign the original bills entitled an act making certain appropriations therein named, and an act entitled an act to provide a revenue for this State, without waiting for the enrollment of the same.


Page 327

The following message was received from the Governor:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE,
Columbus, Dec. 9th, 1863

        I am instructed by his Excellency the Governor, to inform House that he did, on the 9th inst., sign and approve the lowing House bills entitled:

        An act making certain appropriations for the military service the next fiscal year.

        An act entitled an act amendatory of the revenue laws of State.

        The following message was received from the Senate: MR. SPEAKER--The Senate have passed House bill entitled an act making certain appropriations, with sundry amendments, in which the concurrence of the House is desired.

        The House concurred in 1st Senate amendment, inserting for John Price for cups furnished the Senate. Disagreed the amendment for striking out the appropriation to S. M. Hamilton, 3d amendment. Striking out W. C. Worrell's account for desks $194, and insert $100, disagreed to. 4th amendment, strike out W. C. Worrell's extra as door-keeper, $100; 5th amendment strike out G. Miller extra as messenger, disagreed to. 6th amend adding $25 to John E. Price, extra as page of the Senate;--concurred in.

        MR. SPEAKER--The Senate recede from their second and third amendments to House bill entitled an act making certain appropriations, and insist on the fourth and fifth amendments to said bill.

        The House receded from their disagreement to 5th and 6th amendments to appropriation bill.

        Mr. Irby, from the committee on Enrolled Bills made the following report:

        SPEAKER--

        The committee on Enrolled Bills beg leave to report that they have examined the following enrolled bill, found the same correctly enrolled, and have submitted them to his Excellency the Governor, for his approval and signature: An act to be entitled an act to encourage the manufacture cotton and wool cards in this State.

        An act to authorize the Board of Police of Winston, Noxubee and Choctaw counties to borrow money, &c.,

        An act to procure cotton and wool cards for the indigent families of soldiers and the citizens of this State, and for other purposes.

        An act for the relief of families of soldiers in the counties therein named, and for other purposes.

        An act compelling Railroads to be responsible for freight and baggage.

        An act for the relief of the first battalion Mississippi State troops, commanded while in service by Maj. Harper.

        An act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Monroe county.

        An act for the relief of Thomas A. Mitchell, of Pontotoc.

        An act amendatory of the Revenue Laws of this State,

        An act to authorize the State Treasurer to receive from the


Page 328

delinquent tax collectors of the several counties in this State the military bonds or notes falling due the 1st of June 1863 and 1864, in payment of the amounts due from them on account of the military tax for the year 1861.

        An act to exempt county Treasurers from military duty.

        An act to authorize the State Treasurer to employ a clerk.

        An act to increase the salary of the Probate Judge of Itawamba county.

        An act to provide for the exemption of certain officers from service in the Provisional Army of the Confederate States.

        An act making appropriations for the military service for the next fiscal year.

        An act making certain appropriations.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--The Senate have adopted the following joint resolution:

        Resolved by the Senate (the House concurring,) that a committee of three on the part of the Senate and--on the part of the House, be appointed to inform His Excellency the Governor, that the two Houses having transacted the business before them, are now ready to adjourn, and to inquire of His Excellency if he has any further communication in connection with the Legislature.

        The above resolution was taken up, the blank filled with 5, and concurred in; and the speaker appointed as committee Messrs[.] Upshaw, Johnson of Wilkinson, Irby, Stephens and Brown.

        The following message was received from the Governor:

        EXECUTIVE OFFICE, Columbus, Dec. 9, 1863.

        MR. SPEAKER--The Governor has approved the following bill:

        An act making certain appropriations.

        The committee appointed to wait on His Excellency the Governor and inform him that the two Houses are ready to adjourn, &c., made the following report,

        Which was received and agreed to.

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The joint committee appointed to wait upon the Governor and inform him that the two houses had acted upon all matters before them, and to ask the Governor if he had any further communication to make to them, have performed that duty. In answer to the inquiry the Governor said he had no other communications to make. He requested the committee to express his gratitude and obligation to the two houses for the great confidence their legislation has manifested in him.

        The following message was received from the Senate:

        MR. SPEAKER--

        The Senate have concurred in the House Resolution to adjourn, sine die, on Wednesday at 12 o'clock M., with the following amendment, to-wit: strike out the words, 12 o'clock M., The Senate amendment to the House resolution of adjournment was concurred in.

        The Speaker in a feeling address thanked the members for their uniform courtesey, and pronounced the House adjourned, sine die.



Page 1

APPENDIX.

AUDITOR'S REPORT.

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
November 2, 1863.

To the Legislature of the State of Mississippi:

        In obedience to law, Code of Mississippi, section 3, article 31, I have the honor to submit a report (with accompanying documents) of the receipts and disbursements of the public monies from March 4th, 1862 to October 31st, 1863, both days inclusive.

        The receipts at the Treasury by warrant for

  • this period (see Document A.) were . . . . . $3,757,851 01
  • To which add amount of Treasury notes countersigned and delivered to the Treasurer under act of January 29, 1862, exclusive or $500.000 00 being appropriated to destitute families of soldiers under act of Jan. 3, 1863 . . . . . 1,110,375 00
  • To which also add amount of Treasury notes on account of cotton loan countersigned and delivered to the Treasurer, $5,000,000 00, less $597,777 20 being amount repaid on account of said loan as shown by Document A . . . . . 4,402,223 80
  • Total receipts from all sources . . . . . $9,270,449 81
  • The disbursements by warrant for same period (see Document B.) were . . . . . $8,144,394 26
  • Excess of receipts over disbursements . . . . . $1,126,055 55

Page 2

        Document C. shows the assessment of lands in the several counties of this State for the years 1861, 1862, 1863 and 1864.

        Document D. shows the assessment of persons and personal property in the several counties for the fiscal year 1861.

        Document E. shows the assessment of persons and personal property in the several counties for the fiscal year 1862, except from the counties of Coahoma, Tippah and Tishomingo, from which no assessments have been received.

        Document F. shows revenue settlement of the State tax of 1861, including additional returns, together with the aggregate amounts of credits allowed; also balances due from the Tax Collectors of the following named counties:

  • Coahoma . . . . . $ 10 00
  • Copiah . . . . . 1,509 52
  • Issaquena . . . . . 2,395 01
  • Jackson . . . . . 405 58
  • Marshall . . . . . 1,971 34
  • Tippah . . . . . 2,981 21
  • Tishomingo . . . . . 3,513 19
  • Washington . . . . . 25,206 04
  • $ 37,991 89

        The balance appearing against the Tax Collector of Copiah county was the result of an error in his settlement and of which he was not apprised until the books of this office were posted, and will doubtless bé settled at an early day.

        The Tax Collectors of Issaquena and Jackson counties will be entitled to credits for lands sold to the State for taxes of 1861, when their accounts are certified in proper form.

        The Tax Collector of Claiborne county, as appears by Document "F.," over paid the sum of $427 89 on account of above named tax, and owes a balance of $384 32 on the State Military Relief Tax of 1861, as shown by Document I., which will be arranged upon settlement of the tax of the present year.

        Document G. shows revenue settlements on account of the Military Tax of 1861, created by the 1st section of an ordinance of the Convention, adopted January 1861, also balances due on account of said tax from the Tax collectors of the following counties, viz:

  • Bolivar . . . . . $ 914 42
  • Coahoma . . . . . 293 14
  • Harrison . . . . . 623 23
  • Holmes . . . . . 1,432 56
  • Issaquena . . . . . 2,964 60
  • Itawamba . . . . . 518 71
  • Jackson . . . . . 947 79
  • Jasper . . . . . 1,012 51
    Page 3

  • Pike . . . . . $ 241 53
  • Simpson . . . . . 290 24
  • Sunflower . . . . . 625 71
  • Tippah . . . . . 627 44
  • Tishomingo . . . . . 1,805 77
  • Washington . . . . . 12,191 76
  • Yazoo . . . . . 1,254 18
  • Total . . . . . $25,743 59

        A pay warrant was issued to the collector of Pike county for the sum of $241 53, being the amount of his indebtedness, and which he has omitted to present to the Treasurer for payment--when presented will balance his account.

        It will be recollected that the above tax was payable in gold and silver or Treasury notes falling due in June, 1962, and owing to the great difficulty in procnring this currency, together with the present conditien of the country, I would respectfully recommend that the Treasurer be authorized to receive Treasury notes falling due in June, 1863, in payment of the above balances, except in the case of Pike county above referred to.

  • The amount of notes issued under the provisions of the above named ordinance and delivered to the Treasurer is . . . . . $ 969,850 00
  • Bonds . . . . . 54,860 00
  • The amount of notes and bonds falling due 1st June, 1862, redeemed and cancelled, and now on file in this office, is . . . . . 304,510 00
  • Redeemed and cancelled of the issues falling due June, 1863 . . . . . 100 00

        Document J. fully exhibits a statement of the distribution of the State military relief tax of 1861, under an act entitled "An act to create a fund for the support of the destitute families of volunteers in this State, and for other purposes," approved December 16, 1861, and also shows balances due by the collectors of the following counties, viz:

  • Jackson . . . . . $ 101 75
  • Issaquena . . . . . 653 73
  • Marshall . . . . . 7,817 21
  • Tishomingo . . . . . 991 34
  • Total . . . . . $ 9,564 03

        Document H. shows a statement of revenue settlements of the State tax of 1862, with additional returns, together with credits allowed to and balances due by collectors of the following counties, viz:


Page 4

  • Bolivar . . . . . $ 14,954 40
  • Carroll . . . . . 1,070 00
  • Claiborne . . . . . 16,786 44
  • DeSoto . . . . . 2,716 24
  • Hancock . . . . . 2,244 00
  • Harrison . . . . . 1,156 97
  • Hinds . . . . . 15,162 07
  • Issaquena . . . . . 14,444 77
  • Itawamba . . . . . 2,339 50
  • Jackson . . . . . 36
  • Jefferson . . . . . 2,389 53
  • Lafayette . . . . . 2,739 61
  • Marshall . . . . . 24,596 26
  • Panola . . . . . 20,047 38
  • Pontotoc . . . . . 4,916 27
  • Smith . . . . . 771 88
  • Sunflower . . . . . 10,847 56
  • Tallahatchie . . . . . 2,298 22
  • Tippah . . . . . 4,872 84
  • Tishomingo . . . . . 7,429 54
  • Warren . . . . . 20,404 70
  • Washington . . . . . 27,971 85
  • Yalobusha . . . . . 1,372 84
  • Yazoo . . . . . 11,602 68
  • Total . . . . . $ 213,136 01

        The Tax Collector of Carroll county, against whom a balance appears of $1,070 00, will be entitled to a credit for tax on State lands on presentation of his account, and to a farther credit for commissions for collecting (on final payment of balance due) which is believed will balance his account. The balances due by Tippah and Tishomingo counties are upon the land assessments only--no personal rolls having been received at this office from those counties.

        The unusually large balances due by collectors on account of the above named tax can be readily accounted for, as most of them are wholly or partially prevented from collecting by extraordinary circumstances of which your honorable body is fully apprised.

        Document I. exhibits statement of settlements of State Military Relief Tax of 1862, levied by virtue of an act approved January 3, 1863, for the support of destitute families of soldiers, together with debits and credits to and balances due by Tax Collectors of the following counties, viz:

  • Bolivar . . . . . $ 3,791 89
  • Carroll . . . . . 560 69
  • Claiborne . . . . . 8,393 22
    Page 5

  • Coahoma, on lands only . . . . . $ 591 06
  • Hancock . . . . . 1,122 00
  • Harrison . . . . . 878 49
  • Hinds . . . . . 17,693 83
  • Holmes . . . . . 9,962 66
  • Issaquena . . . . . 7,272 54
  • Itawamba . . . . . 866 84
  • Jefferson . . . . . 194 76
  • Lafayette . . . . . 5,169 36
  • Marshall . . . . . 12,297 78
  • Panola . . . . . 10,123 75
  • Pontotoc . . . . . 2,377 84
  • Smith . . . . . 422 40
  • Sunflower . . . . . 6,521 98
  • Tallahatchie . . . . . 3,111 69
  • Tippah on lands only . . . . . 2,441 19
  • Tishomingo, on lands only . . . . . 3,714 77
  • Warren . . . . . 10,372 78
  • Washington . . . . . 15,563 51
  • Yazoo . . . . . 6,301 34
  • Total . . . . . $ 129,746 37

        Document K. shows statement of distribution of $500,000 00 appropriated for destitute families of soldiers, under act approved January 3d, 1863, and the further sum of $2,000 00 donated by A. J. Gillespie, Auditor of Public Accounts, and the amounts due and unpaid to the following named counties:

  • DeSoto . . . . . $ 8,414 54
  • Issaquena . . . . . 579 70
  • Sunflower . . . . . 2,714 09
  • Tallahatchie . . . . . 6,534 88
  • Washington . . . . . 2,722 87
  • Total . . . . . $ 20,966 08

        Document L. shows the distribution of State Military Relief Tax 1862 and amounts due and unpaid to the following counties, viz:

  • Adams . . . . . $ 3,517 42
  • Amite . . . . . 2,680 82
  • Carroll . . . . . 5,084 85
  • Claiborne . . . . . 3,100 67
  • Covington . . . . . 1,576 77
  • DeSoto . . . . . 2,979 38
  • Franklin . . . . . 2,214 32
  • Greene . . . . . 435 40
  • Harrison . . . . . 1,340 44
  • Hinds . . . . . 4,251 37
  • Issaquena . . . . . 205 26
    Page 6

  • Jackson . . . . . $ 1,309 34
  • Jefferson . . . . . 2,096 14
  • Lauderdale . . . . . 3,651 14
  • Lawrence . . . . . 2,901 63
  • Leake . . . . . 3,946 59
  • Marshall . . . . . 4,428 64
  • Monroe . . . . . 5,787 74
  • Newton . . . . . 2,805 22
  • Perry . . . . . 388 75
  • Pike . . . . . 2,627 95
  • Sunflower . . . . . 960 99
  • Tallahatchie . . . . . 2,313 84
  • Tunica . . . . . 404 30
  • Warren . . . . . 6,269 76
  • Washington . . . . . 964 10
  • Wilkinson . . . . . 2,488 13
  • Yazoo . . . . . 3,442 77
  • Total . . . . . $ 74,173 73

        The amount distributed on the 1st August, 1863, of the tax above named, was $198,754 19, as will appear by reference to Document L. The amount received at Treasury since above distribution and now on hand is $28,217 48.

        The above amount of $198,754 19 was distributed upon the basis of 63,908 volunteers as per returns from the several counties now on file in this office.

        Having fully reported all balances due upon the taxes of 1861 and 1862, I would state that owing to the unsettled condition of the country, suits have not been instituted against Tax Collectors in arrears, as required by law, and I would respectfully ask of your honorable body instructions in the premises.

        I would respectfully urge upon the Legislature the necessity of some alternative in the present law for enforcing the collection of taxes on delinquent lands, as it is impossible to observe any system under the law as it now stands. Any change would be an improvement.

        I would suggest that the Tax Collector simply make out a statement under oath of all lands upon which the taxes are not paid, and for which he could find no personal property to distrain for the same--present the same to the Auditor and get his credit for the taxes actually assessed on the land; make it the duty of the Collector to certify the same list to the Probate Clerk, and permit the lands to be redeemed either at the Auditor's office or at the office of the Probate Clerk, and if not redeemed in a given length of time, then have them sold under such regulations as will give the purchaser a title; recompensing the Clerk, Collector and Auditor, for their labor--but let the costs be collected from


Page 7

the owner of the land when redeemed, thus avoiding the enormous expense attendant upon the sale of each small subdivision of land sold to the State for taxes, as allowed under the present revenue law. Revised Code, sec. 9, art 37, p[.] 80.

        It frequently happens that the costs of sale amount to ten times as much as the tax assessed.

        The State now holds the title to about two millions of acres of land at an annual cost for taxes of about fifteen thousand dollars. It would be wel! to dispose of them by sale or otherwise, as to your honorable body may seem most fit. But few of these lands are now being redeemed owing to the fact that the time of redemption has been extended on most of them until two years after the close of the present war, under the act of December 31st, 1862.

        Document M. shows statement of semi annual interest due the several Chickasaw counties under act of March 7,1856, together with amounts paid and those still due.

        Documents N., O., P. and Q., show the amounts drawn by the several Railroad Companies in this State on account of Chickasaw School Fund loaned said companies under the act of March 7, 1856, and the acts amendatory thereto.

        Document R. shows the amounts drawn by the several counties on account of loan to purchase corn and supplies of food under the 2nd section of the ordinance of the Convention, adopted March 30, 1861, together with the amounts repaid, and those still due. This ordinance fails to provide for enforcing the collection of the loan by the Auditor, and I respectfully ask the instructions of the Legislature in relation thereto.

        In conclusion, I would respectfully suggest that the duties of this office are arduous, complicated, and of great responsibility. Every citizen of the State is interested in the proper discharge of the duties of the Auditor. The importance of the office cannot be overestimated and demands the very best clerical ability on the part of the assistants. It is of the utmost importance to the State that the Auditor have accomplished clerks. These I have, and I beg leave to suggest to your honorable body that to enable them to live, their salaries must be increased. I would, therefore, recommend that the Deputy Auditor receive a salary of two thousand dollars, and the two Clerks fifteen hundred dollars per annum each; and I take this occasion to express my obligations to Mr. T. T. Swann, Deputy Auditor, and to each of the clerks for the very efficient services rendered.

        My books are posted to the 1st inst., and are ready for the inspection of your committee.

Respectfully submitted,

A. J. GILLESPIE,
Auditor of Public Accounts.


Page 8

[DOCUMENT A.]

        

MONTHLY STATEMENTS OF RECEIPTS BY WARRANT, FROM MARCH 4TH, 1862. TO OCTOBER 31ST, 1863, INCLUS'E.

MONTHS. State Tax, 1860. State Tax, 1861. State Tax, '62. State Tax Refunded. Military T'x 1860. Military Tax, 1861. Military T'x 1862. State Military Relief Tax, 1861. State Military Relief Tax, 1862.
1862.                  
March   $3851 19     $1231 08 $179 40      
April   132,701 98       92,145 55      
May   168,991 90       95,697 43   $8200 00  
June $93 96 128,287 10   $6 13   92,053 43   3005 93  
July   114,369 51       20,717 87   15,713 02  
August   82,347 07       23,714 03   68,502 59  
September   9,629 99       19,778 40   2682 89  
October   1824 52       1463 93   14 181 47  
November   16,460 67       5668 98   3705 16  
December   3342 46           6585 44  
1863.                  
January   654 50              
February   2000 00       1000 00   2401 85  
March   175 61 $11,000 00     267 33   4172 16 $3472 16
April     81,254 95           9500 00
May     108 284 03     50 00 $98 43   48,682 71
June     135,827 63     59 74     85,596 91
July     44,619 49       3 50   22,777 99
August     47,165 57     688 90     39,019 08
September     7230 82     1289 89     7606 10
October     43,826 99     298 49     10,316 72
  $93 96 $664,636 50 $479,209 48 $6 13 $1231 08 $355,073 37 $101 93 $129,150 51 226,971 67


Page 9

        
MONTHS. Interest on Chickasaw School Fund loaned. Internal Improvement Fund. Chickasaw School Fund. Sinking Fund. Executive Contingent Fund. Military Fund Act, January 29, 1862. Expenses of Advance on Cotton. Penitentiary.
1862.                
March $8616 64 $211 23         $3187 47 $13,370 46
April             1011 00 8564 67
May     $239 70 327 00       7808 14
June               16,292 09
July               11,069 68
August 740 72 209 87 238 68         9427 79
September 3759 10 288 57           17,078 50
October 8000 00   722 88         56,189 71
November 8000 00 614 50           7140 73
December   1573 94            
1863.                
January 17,676 92             21,196 44
February   140 30 45,850 00          
March   279 30           29,738 41
April 8000 00     7477 51       21,304 21
May           $71,560 00   83,711 67
June                
July                
August     50,962 88   $500 00      
September                
October $62,793 38 $3317 71 $98,014 14 $7804 51 $500 00 $250,000 00 $24,829 79 $324,127 79


Page 10

        
MONTHS. Tax Sales. Public Lands. Advance on Cotton. County Loan. State Deeds. Appropriat'ns for Destitute Families sol's Appropriation for Salt. TOTAL.
1862.                
March               $30,647 47
April $13 04 1434 55           235,870 79
  May             281,264 17
June 4 97     1104 17       240,847 78
July   136 10     20 46     162,026 64
August 64 30   $24,291 40   695 22     210,231 67
September 3 14   26,961 45         80,182 04
October   1132 78 33,768 35 2062 41       119,346 05
November     22,527 70 930 20       65,047 94
December     62,212 55         73,714 39
1863.                
Jannary   3282 66 47,510 65         90,321 17
February 6 78   42,174 75         93,573 68
March 30 06   51 822 35     502,000 00   602,957 38
April 4 58 838 86 89,971 45         218,351 56
May     25,211 45   817 65     338,415 94
June   2366 14 37,265 40   603 44     261,719 26
July   850 50 23,105 05   55 39     91,411 92
August     24,126 45         162,462 88
September     38,625 00       11,845 91 66,597 72
October   1164 79 48,203 20       743 76 332,860 56
  $126 87 $11,206 38 $597,777 20 $4096 78 $2192 16 $503,000 00 $12,589 67 $3,757,851 01

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
November 2d, 1863.

A. J. GILLESPIE,
Auditor Public Acc's.


Page 11

[DOCUMENT B.]

        

MONTHLY STATEMENTS OF DISBURSEMENTS BY WARRANT, FROM 4TH MARCH, 1802, TO OCT. 31ST, 1868, INCLU'E.

MONTHS. Legislative. Judiciary. Executive. Appropriat's. State Library Militia. Commissions for Assessing. Public Printing.
1862.                
March $468 00 $4322 06 $1600 00 $282 56     $946 86 $99 00
April 114 67 14,269 26 1325 00 135 00 $187 50 $1638 00 1800 00  
May 68 00 5313 33   564 58 62 50 213 89 200 00  
June   8403 88 600 00     636 33 1600 00  
July   14,498 96 1325 00 100 00   944 00 2000 00  
August   8258 64   50 00 187 50 26 00 1614 24  
September   4608 30 3000 00 34 50   1476 00 700 00  
October   10,833 50 1325 00 691 92   10 00    
Novem'r   4767 61   22 50   180 00 3233 17  
December 3243 00 4544 63 1566 66   187 50 16 00 3942 59  
1863.                
January 8607 96 7734 90 1524 98 608 55   10 00 4528 82  
February 100 00 1117 00 1066 66 4228 30 187 50 1150 98 554 67 8529 90
March 72 00 103 35 1966 66     16 00 1113 58  
April   6360 95 2470 20     40 00 2149 44  
May 172 00 4958 10 560 00 10 00 187 50 23 00    
June   7871 75 5920 69     126 00 4297 82  
July   4938 28 500 00     50 00 200 00 8 00
August   4476 95 2325 00       925 67 191 00
September   2222 60 1000 00     28 00 700 00 20 00
October   4920 22 1320 93 5000 00       22 00
  $12,845 63 $124,524 27 $29,396 78 $11,727 91 $1000 00 $6584 20 $30,506 86 $9227 40


Page 12

        
MONTHS. Capitol Expenses Capitol Repairs. Executed Slaves. Recording Tax Titles. Distributing Laws and Journals. Geological Survey. Lunatic Asylum. Executive Contingent Fund.
1862.                
March   8 00 700 00       14,000 00 200 00
April 240 00 9 00       375 00   128 71
May   151 00 460 00       8000 00  
June   40 00 600 00 6 25   312 50    
July   42 75   75       242 12
August   33 00   19 50     8000 00  
September   6 50   1 75        
October   12 00   851 20   312 50    
November   48 50         8000 00  
December   238 50   25 75   312 50    
1863.                
January 240 00 126 75           582 39
February   55 00     76 66   8000 00 100 00
March         31 66 312 50   151 08
April 131 10           5000 00  
May     250 00       8000 00 1000 00
June 30 00 34 00 1600 00          
July                
August           312 50   107 60
September 50 00 59 75       312 50 8000 00  
October               428 35
  691 10 864 75 3610 00 905 20 108 32 2250 00 67000 00 2940 25


Page 13

        
MONTHS Chickasaw School Fund Interest Military Fund Military Fund Act, January 29, 1862. Confederate States Tax Fund. Military Tax of 1861. Military Tax of 1862. Elections. Institution for the Blind.
1862.                
March   12,130 00   4000 00     108 00  
April   28,000 00     69,974 09   736 00 1500 00
May $5992 96 22,110 00   23,936 00 85,546 68   454 00  
June   51,370 00   37,500 00 123,051 09   617 00  
July 2930 60 32,820 00     13 409 53   1774 00 1500 00
August 1169 28 17,500 00     12,907 31   1558 00  
September   15,000 00 37,000 00   7674 61      
October   10,000 00 182,500 00   2413 52   148 00 1500 00
November 3796 84   138,034 00   6034 59      
December 444 41   24,000 00   1245 42      
1863.                
January 4274 35 10,000 00 7000 00   416 17   116 00 1500 00
February 5361 34   33 700 00   148 54      
March     287,785 00   4023 61      
April     3000 00   80 49     1500 00
May     1000 00     113 53    
June 4309 56   810 00   12 00   78 00  
July 2934 96   115,625 00   36 14     1500 00
August 11,574 04   10,000 00   47 49      
September 8697 52   10,000 00   265 76      
October     144,498 66   305 13      
  $51,485 86 198,930 00 994,952 66 65,436 00 326,992 17 113 53 5589 00 9000 00


Page 14

        
MONTHS. Deaf and Dumb Asylum. Expense of Advance on Cotton. State Military Relief Tax, 1861. State Military Relief Tax, 1862. Arresting Deserters. Appropriati'n for Salt. Collecting Arms. Appropriato's for Destitute Families of Soldiers.
1862.                
March   640 00            
April $3000 00              
May   501 00            
June   249 00            
July   210 00            
August   5143 00            
September   651 00            
October   17 50            
November   22,807 50 45,198 73          
December   302 00 22,953 14          
1863.                
January   1131 00 19,919 57   127 35      
February     2151 22     15,000 00 3359 00  
March   270 00 7278 45   47 50 35,000 00 9190 55 82,502 88
April   270 00 8422 86   1099 50     264,051 22
May     366 62   22 50 20,000 00   28,669 15
June     7123 84   1172 90   1150 50 30,996 79
July     2547 02   335 00     28,282 68
August     234 16 36,791 33 140 00 50,000 00   18,410 09
September     3053 60 63,021 08 522 00 602 27   19,253 23
October 500 00   3431 12 24,768 05       8967 90
  $3500 00 32,192 00 122,690 33 124,580 46 3466 75 120,602 27 13,700 05 481,133 94


Page 15

        
MONTHS. Impressmen's Auditor's Contingent Fund. Penitentiary. Advance on Cotton. Paupers. State Library Conting't F'd. TOTAL.
1862.              
March   $339 60 13,370 46 818,239 35     871,453 89
April   52 75 8564 67 1,655,368 83 15 00   1,787,433 48
May   136 10 7808 14 974,902 40   37 50 1,136,458 08
June   36 50 16,292 09 549,249 10     790,563 74
July   20 95 11,069 68 322,771 55     405,659 89
August   357 13 9427 79 162,580 55     228,831 94
September     17,078 50 178,270 25     264,901 41
October   222 13 14,923 35 147,023 10     372,783 72
November   504 50 7140 73 118,403 70     358,172 37
December   323 88   45,992 97     109,696 45
1863.              
January   342 25 11,196 44 150 00     80,137 48
February       360 00     85,246 77
March   260 00 14,738 41 788 70     445,651 93
April   423 00 11,304 21       306,302 97
May   385 00 31,711 67     87 00 97,516 07
June   169 50         65,703 35
July   53 75         157,010 83
August 30,867 50           166,403 33
September 56,442 50 30 00         174,280 81
October 31,866 00 215 60 13935 29     6 50 240,185 75
  119,176 00 3872 64 188,561 43 4,974,100 50 15 00 131 00 8,144,394 26

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, NOV. 2, 1863.

A. J. GILLESPIE, Auditor Public Accs.


Page 16

(DOCUMENT C.)

        

ASSESSMENT OF LANDS IN THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI FOR THE YEARS 1861, 1862, 1863 AND 1864.

COUNTIES. Number of acres now Taxable. Total value of Lands now Taxable. Number of acres held by State for Taxes. Total value. Number of acres belonging to or held in trust by the State.
Adams 223,599 $4,591,780 00      
Amite 414,237 1 413,119 35 1136 $1,420 00  
Attala 424 856 2,230,890 00      
Bolivar 584,888 6,474,331 95      
Calhoun 261,391 1,251,898 93 11 537 13,153 75 976
Carroll 599,093 4,856,190 00 2284 6,057 65 1036
Chickasaw 448,202 2,866,966 25 4000 5,000 00  
Choctaw 510 046 2 260 378 25 2440 3,050 00  
Claiborne 301,280 2,970,049 00      
Clarke 327,301 1,165,506 50      
Coahoma 338,476 4,060,029 27      
Copiah 551,988 3,243,900 65 4022 5,027 00  
Covington 137,141 380,804 00 640 800 00  
DeSoto 540 388 5,433,217 00      
Franklin 289,297 946,701 75 634 634 00  
Greene   53,145 73      
Hancock 131,510 546,775 00   9,333 00  
Harrison 137,594 1,136 749 00      
Hinds   7,455,398 00      
Holmes 481,228 4,365,799 00 38,447 48,058 75 3604
Issaquena 399,884 4,244,770 00 16,308 20,385 00  
Itawamba 562,010 2,242,643 00 6227 8,670 75


Page 17

Jackson 165,291 356,620 00      
Jasper 308,534 1,528,860 00     607
Jefferson 311,603 2,152,172 00      
Jones 166,070 253,211 67      
Kemper 374,018 1,653,311 00   7050 00  
Lafayette 417,709 2,422,006 00   445 00 20
Lauderdale 216,112 1,407,971 50      
Lawrence 317,299 938,506 00 160 640 00  
Leake 368,000 1,724,324 00      
Lowndes   5,300,361 25      
Madison 474,552 4,832,021 00 120 120 00  
Marion 146,283 307,505 05 710 669 00 2785
Marshall   5,215,383 40 560 560 00  
Monroe 479,334 4,679,442 67 4227 5283 75  
Neshoba 312,056 1,075,895 00 975 895 00  
Newton 293,208 1,560,291 50 120 150 00  
Noxubee 386,512 509,545 00      
Oktibbeha 380,223 2,914,383 00 600 1760 00  
Panola 465,472 5,080,716 00   28,008 00 5300
Perry   75,697 20      
Pike 337,412 1,492,785 00      
Pontotoc 568,941 3,320,357 00      
Rankin 455,956 2,303,494 00      
Scott   1,651,571 00 620 800 00  
Simpson 154,820 514,795 00      
Smith 187,880 821,185 50      
Sunflower 557,183 4,321,037 60      
Tallahatchie 459,449 3,517,456 00 7115 8761 61 7709
Tippah 640,794 2,795,149 65      
Tishomingo   3,716.347 00      
Tunica 391,621 3,578,105 00 20,372   3267
Warren 346,834 3,196,219 00 1217 303 50  


Page 18

Washington 701,688 $13,133,908 00 6396 $15,436 50 10
Wayne   144,019 50      
Wilkinson 321,758 2,534,465 00      
Winston 407,646 1,417,263 00 3290 4112 50  
Yallobusha 439,205 2,909,550 00 3090 3862 50 1880
Yazoo 673,629 6,601,359 61 330 1674 96  
Totals 29,891,501 $166,548,332 73 137,577 $252,122 22 27,194


Page 19

        

ASSESSMENT OF LANDS IN THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI FOR THE YEARS 1861, 1862, 1863 AND 1864.

COUNTIES. Total value. No. of acres of School lands not Taxable. Total value. Number of acres of vacant land. Amount of State Tax on Lands now Taxable. Military Tax, fifty per cent. on State Tax.
Adams         $9183 56 $4591 78
Amite $1611 00   $1432 25 60,070 2826 13 1413 18
Attala         4461 78 2230 89
Bolivar   10,088 64,218 00   12,984 66 6474 33
Calhoun 1146 00       2508 86 1253 43
Carroll 1800 31 2273 8393 34 35,213 9712 38 4856 19
Chickasaw         5745 34 2873 17
Choctaw       72,578 4520 76 2260 38
Claiborne   509 33,150 00 1458 5940 09 2970 05
Clarke   2960 2660 00 251,740 2607 17 1303 58
Coahoma   632 2592 60 20,280 8119 97 4059 81
Copiah   5399 42,319 34 12,540 6487 80 3243 90
Covington       223,333 735 72 367 86
DeSoto         10,999 43 5599 77
Franklin   160 200 00 81,894 1893 23 946 62
Greene         106 29 53 14
Hancock     24,000 00   1093 59 546 80
Harrison   6480   63,987 2273 57 1136 79
Hinds         14,961 46 7478 78
Holmes 13,768 00 3468 7312 00 8264 8731 58 4365 79
Issaquena   10,514 28,723 00 21,744 8489 54 4244 47
Itawamba         4485 29 2242 64


Page 20

Jackson   3840 $78,228 00 273,170 $ 889 59 $ 444 80
Jasper $ 1241 00     65,703 3057 72 1528 86
Jefferson         4309 39 2154 70
Jones       304,148 513 65 256 98
Kemper   300   100,300 3303 15 1651 57
Lafayette         4876 51 2438 37
Lauderdale   920   233,321 2815 95 1407 98
Lawrence   4480 8960 00 162,810 2202 64 1101 32
Leake         2548 10 1274 05
Lowndes         10,600 73 5300 37
Madison   74 1370 00 2080 9662 02 4831 01
Marion 7110 37 17,107 1710 70 755,086 615 01 307 50
Marshall         10,621 36 5310 68
Monroe       7196 9358 88 4679 44
Neshoba   1300 1300 00 50,751 2151 79 1071 59
Newton   560 700 00 85,050 3120 59 1560 29
Noxubee         10,190 88 5095 44
Oktibbeha       4000 5844 44 2922 22
Panola 19,275 00 5005 30,031 36 39 10,142 72 5071 36
Perry       238,817 151 36 75 68
Pike   2880 332 00 121,490 2985 56 1492 78
Pontotoc         6643 21 3321 60
Rankin         4606 98 2303 49
Scott   320   61,128 3303 11 1651 56


Page 21

Simpson       130,700 1029 59 514 80
Smith         1672 66 836 33
Sunflower         8642 07 4321 03
Tallahatchie 10,873 84 23,679 24,238 03 19,595 7026 88 3513 34
Tippah         5590 30 2792 15
Tishomingo         7432 69 3716 34
Tunica   5155   160 7155 16 3577 58
Warren   3583 11,185 00 37,553 6392 43 3196 21
Washington 100 00 12,601 77,303 00 5479 26,267 81 13,133 90
Wayne         281 38 140 69
Wilkinson         5064 93 2532 46
Winston   737 1258 25 43,616 2834 58 1417 26
Yallobusha 1860 00 960 2320 00 36,066 5819 10 2909 55
Yazoo   4185 16,777 06 3870 13,166 36 6583 18
Totals $58,785 52 129,169 $470,713 93 3,535,229 $341,759 48 $170,951 81

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
November 2d, 1863.

A. J. GILLESPIE,
Auditor Public Acc's.


Page 22

[DOCUMENT D.]

        

ASSESSMENT OF PERSONS AND PERSONAL PROPERTY, IN THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, FOR THE FISCAL
YEAR, 1861.

COUNTIES. Amount of money loaned at interest, &c., one-fifth of 1 per cent. Amount of Goods, &c., imported, one-fifth of 1 per cent. Amount of Stock in Banks, 3-10ths of one per cent. Amt. sales prov's, &c., by transient vendors, 1 per ct. Goods, wares, &c., imported, and sold by resident Auctioneers, 3 p. cent. Goods, wares, &c., domestic, sold by resident Auctioneers, ½ of 1 p. ct. Amt. merch'ze s'd by pedlers, 3 p. ct. Amount of sales of liquors sold by the gallon, &c., one-fourth of one per cent. Amt. of sale as merchandize, of slaves, horses, &c., by any person, 3-10ths of one p. ct. Number of Pleasure Carriages.
Adams $820,451 1,056,767 00           28,778 00   475
Amite 368,814 69,675 00                
Attala 220,621 82,092 00         300 4622 00   372
Bolivar 75,036 70,946 00               104
Calhoun 39,757 51 587 00           1077 00   118
Carroll 394,854 435,581 00           5161 00   715
Chickasaw 110 801 166,569 00           397 00   443
Choctaw 158,917 88,255 00         1103 8656 00 10,385 00 558
Claiborne 300,557 292,835 00           2526 00 6200 00 358
Clarke 50,774 387,106 00           13,394 00   184
Coahoma                    
Copiah 222,696 320,530 00         965 1325 00 3160 00 572
Covington 31,967 17,413 00   140       147 00   58
DeSoto 630,445 177,179 00     100   400 2666 00 4000 00 765
Franklin 125,213 10,663 00         200 997 75   230
Greene 27,481 3000 00               17
Hancock 30,636 61,043 00   400     200 1863 00    
Harrison 8241 109,419 00               58
Hinds 719,671 664,961 00     495 500 500 11,016 00 90 00 1074
Holmes 277,131 ½ 348,216 00           8765 00   657


Page 23

Issaquena 77,800 00 10,300 00               81
Itawamba 111,915 00 213,880 00           2588 00   250
Jackson 33,983 00 70,873 00               30
Jasper 74,610 63 28,173 00         50     152
Jefferson 350,287 25 197,796 75           4735 00 11,673 50 446
Jones 12,198 00 11,529 00     35     283 00   5
Kemper 10,251 00 33,229 00               235
Lafayette 204,695 00 271,757 00               292
Lauderdale 60,840 00 192,597 00           1150 00   165
Lawrence 108,395 00 177,425 00         1150 5000 00   160
Leake 44,845 00 32,080 00           648 00   230
Lowndes 891,695 00 737,538 00 300,000   546 3800   14,166 00   684
Madison 531,955 00 432,230 00           1400 00   776
Marion 178,875 00 35,598 00           1225 00   17
Marshall 631,278 00 544,550 00           6145 00 8024 00 897
Monroe 519,785 00 309,650 00       2130   6063 00   591
Neshoba 75,475 00 25,729 00           1086 00    
Newton 100,168 00 40,315 00           732 00   166
Noxubee 235,197 00 183,545 00           2599 00   500
Oktibbeha 246,954 00 86,547 00 1500       1227 1382 00 5000 00 457
Panola 499,435 00 199,944 00           2210 00 7000 00 546
Perry 26,289 00 2465 00           100 00   20
Pike 161,621 50 430,201 00         400 4416 00   168
Pontotoc 264,860 00 134,025 00           2770 00   506
Rankin 254,570 00 160,785 00         3100     345
Scott 57,210 00 155,380 00       95   3396 00   120
Simpson 32,540 00 16,300 00           340 00   68
Smith 60,793 00 11,833 00           335 00   86
Sunflower 65,564 00 21,054 00               66
Tallahatchie 14,997 00 41,449 00               151
Tippah 189,343 00 108,731 00           499 00   392
Tishomingo 180,905 00 418,830 00 25,000         4012 00    


Page 24

        
COUNTIES. Amount of money loaned at interest, &c., one-fifth of 1 per cent. Amount of Goods, &c., imported, one-fifth of 1 per cent. Amount of stock in Banks, 3-10ths of 1 per cent. Amt. Sales prov's, &c., by transient vendors, 1 p. cent. Goods, wares, &c., imported and sold by resident Auctioneers, 3 p. cent. Goods, wares, &c., domestic, sold by resident auctioneers, ½ of 1 p. ct. Amt. merch'e sold by pedlers, 3 p. ct. Amount of sales of liquors sold by the gallon, &c., one-fourth of one per cent. Amt. of sale as merchandize, of slaves, horses, &c., by any person, 3-10ths of 1 p. cent. Number of Pleasure Carriages.
Tunica 14,456 00 8800 00               19
Warren 558,728 00 1,601,600 00     1570 7705   15,335 00 13,000 00 356
Washington 307,295 00 66,200 00               156
Wayne 30,410 00 12,101 00               21
Wilkinson 445,865 00 256,720 00           4928 00   365
Winston 106,540 00 63,640 00       20   890 00   160
Yallobusha 315,923 00 523,523 00     100     8013 00 24,576 00 319
Yazoo 703,689 00 588,001 00     620 168   13,473 00   616
  $13,405,298 88 1,282,760 75 326,500 540 3466 14,418 9595 201,309 75 93,108 50 17,382


Page 25

        
COUNTIES. Value of Pleasure Carriages, half of one per cent. No. of Watches. Value of Watches, half of one p. ct. Number of Clocks. Value of Clocks, half of one p. ct. No. ten-pin alleys, or other alley for public play, $25 each. No. of Theatres, $25 each. No. Bowie Knives, $1 each. No. Dirk Knives, $1 each. No. Sword Canes, $1 each. Number of cattle over twenty head, one cent each.
Adams $91,810 00 685 51,310 00 500 8153 00   1 2     7412
Amite 68,603 00   22,522 00   3937 00 2   8 7 2 4419
Attala 38,067 00 384 14,525 00 662 6115 00     23 9 4 1198
Bolivar 12,780 00 226 17,250 00 79 506 00     5 3 1 4247
Calhoun 9,213 00 117 3424 00 373 4927 00     2 15 2 389
Carroll 93,126 00 807 38,288 00 716 6812 00 2   36 17 18 4994
Chickasaw 54,185 00 280 13,345 00 363 2490 00     6   3 1185
Choctaw 35,993 00 267 10,540 00 737 6514 00 2   10 4 5 551
Claiborne 63,485 00 365 25,351 00 254 2773 00       3 3 7753
Clarke 20,475 00 296 15,342 00 225 1376 50     11 5 2 1408
Coahoma                      
Copiah 61,866 00 575 26,359 00 611 4376 00 1   23 12 5 2988
Covington 6872 00 91 3950 00 156 1040 00            
DeSoto 84,342 00 726 19,592 00 493 3554 00     27 18 10 3559
Franklin 29,655 00 211 12,551 00 210 1639 00     18 3 2 2603
Greene 1145 00 18 622 50 42 281 50           4895
Hancock 3895 00   3372 00   576 00     2     9904
Harrison 5490 00 126 5437 00 162 848 00 2   2 1 2 4060
Hinds 150,179 00 1102 63,332 00 779 5720 00     13 9 15 5712
Holmess 76,450 00 596 32,811 50 528 4296 50     11 9 10 4785
Issaquena 10,950 00 143 12,027 50 57 628 00     7 1   4043


Page 26

Itawamba $25,372 00 294 8986 00 803 6278 00 4     4 2 534
Jackson 3272 00 29 1680 00 40 405 00           6289
Jasper 16,613 00 228 10,658 00 246 1646 00       13 9 1063
Jefferson 61,473 00 416 27,577 50 340 3077 00     28 10 5 7216
Jones 390 00 29 766 00 83 546 00     1     1699
Kemper 1606 00 229 10,954 00 384 3425 00     7 3 1 1397
Lafayette 38,780 00 337 14,400 00 432 3328 00     8 1 2 1213
Lauderdale 22,865 00 197 9267 00 284 2103 00       1 1 1125
Lawrence 17,168 00 264 13,016 00 322 2522 00 1   4 2 2 1170
Leake 23,090 00 165 7003 00 224 2028 00     6 3 5 566
Lowndes 105,570 00 668 36,415 00 441 2845 00     23 11 8 1486
Madison 122,835 00 636 40,571 00 317 2962 00     3   2 7134
Marion 1640 00 51 1915 00 166 1510 00     2     6292
Marshall 116,606 00 865 40,196 00 843 5980 00     29 10 9 1688
Monroe 81,540 00 597 28,047 00 615 4654 00     20 14 3 2289
Neshoba 9943 00   4533 00   2840 00     11 2 1 952
Newton 18,845 00 196 7934 00 213 1471 00     9 4 4 1219
Noxubee 64,396 00 387 22,885 00 298 1912 00     6 2 5 1895
Oktibbeha 57,041 00 405 19,133 00 345 2322 00     26 1 1 1567
Panola 75,923 00 648 33,030 00 548 5317 00 1   14 6 7 3659
Perry 2055 00 19 625 00 56 283 00           6400
Pike $34,722 00 309 16,885 50 526 4495 00 2   4 6 3 1832


Page 27

Pontotoc $46,376 00 317 14,228 00 833 6674 00     9 5 1 1411
Rankin 40,550 00 328 17,058 00 209 1470 00     8 2 5 1860
Scott 20,120 00 251 10,557 00 257 1836 00     7 3 5 921
Simpson 8284 00 84 3311 00 160 1313 00           391
Smith 8714 00 102 3707 00 188 1333 00   1 1     906
Sunflower 11,955 00 146 9237 00 37 328 00     6 4   4128
Tallahatchie 21,131 00 235 12,271 00 169 1922 00       7 1 1037
Tippah 47,000 00 400 12,278 00 984 7398 00       16 5 625
Tishomingo 86,380 00   19,769 00   8594 00 4   5 2 5 614
Tunica 2510 00 112 6344 00 42 299 50     5 3 2 3701
Warren 60,135 00 777 53,120 00 344 3371 00     21 4 4 7268
Washington 22,380 00 301 24,675 00 120 1022 00     29 17 7 8966
Wayne 2494 00 32 357 00           4 1 3221
Wilkinson 50,595 00 380 23,699 00 279 2423 00     3 6 5 6806
Winston 23,766 00 214 5276 00 349 2825 00     8 1 1 1206
Yallobusha 52,131 00 655 28,398 00 690 5780 00 2   49 33 8 2628
Yazoo 86,549 00 755 49,158 00 430 4319 00     20 17 13 9436
  $2,412,376 10 19,073 1,031,871 00 19,564 179,419 23 1 576 234 217 18,995


Page 28

        
COUNTIES. No. of race, saddle, carriage or livery stable horses. Three-fourths of 1 p. cent. on the value of the same. Value of gold and silver plate, over $50, half of one p. cent. Number of Pianos. Value of Pianos, one fourth of one p. cent. No of toll-bridges, ferries and turnp's. One-fourth of one p. cent. on annual receipts of each. No. of free male negroes, between 21 and 50, $1.
Adams 867 123,255 00 45,205 00 297 49,250 00   6000 19
Amite   18,095 00 919 00   8875 00     24
Attala 55 7070 00 150 00 34 7177 00 4 8000  
Bolivar 180 22,955 00 2894 00 29 6800 00      
Calhoun 1 200 00   1 200 00      
Carroll 332 56,535 00 7927 00 91 20,630 00     1
Chickasaw 54 7290 00 835 00 38 8825 00 3 1175  
Choctaw 12 1755 00   15 4315 00 1 500  
Claiborne 467 67,095 00 14,458 00 112 21,261 00     4
Clarke 43 5785 00 350 00 30 6225 00 2 1500  
Coahoma                
Copiah 145 19,575 00 1999 00 55 11,230 00 2 900 1
Covington 1 120 00   3 1500 00 1 100  
DeSoto 191 24,930 00 3355 00 108 25,045 00     2
Franklin 88 12,680 00 665 00 25 5575 00     1
Greene 3 375 00   6 1060 00 1 150  
Hancock   1975 00 615 00   1815 00     12
Harrison 38 3275 00 375 00 45 5700 00 1 400 15
Hinds 411 57,487 00 14,973 00 245 51,709 00 4 950  
Holmes 235 33,620 00 3780 00 72 16936 00 2 1156 3
Issaquena 182 25,935 00 2520 00 14 2650 00 1 250  


Page 29

Itawamba 8 826 00   20 4350 00 4 838 2
Jackson 2 225 00 277 00 8 1235 00 5 500 6
Jasper 24 3110 00 37 50 25 6551 00      
Jefferson 422 55,400 00 8037 00 101 18,640 00     9
Jones       1 500 00     2
Kemper 16 2370 00 1330 00 48 10,785 00     5
Lafayette 49 7005 00 2080 00 60 14,005 00 2 340 2
Lauderdale 24 3025 00 735 00 32 7175 00      
Lawrence 32 5320 00 40 00 14 2440 00 1 1000  
Leake 17 2275 00 150 00 22 3890 00 5 1400 2
Lowndes 286 44,835 00 16,952 00 183 37,142 00 3 1500  
Madison 297 42,620 00 25,175 00 136 31,150 00      
Marion 2 375 00 100 00 2 550 00 2 550  
Marshall 115 14,945 00 4746 00 201 42,073 00 1 800 2
Monroe 255 34,245 00 7568 00 124 26,555 00 5 3450 3
Neshoba   2275 00 50 00   2530 00      
Newton 22 3085 00 1500 00 9 2150 00      
Noxubee 109 16,000 00 1823 00 86 19,810 00     1
Oktibbeha 116 16,500 00 940 00 38 8970 00 1 300 4
Panola 203 30,950 00 4418 00 66 15,575 00 4 3397 2
Perry       1 125 00      
Pike 50 7355 00 230 00 36 6730 00     6
Pontotoc 63 8010 00 1365 00 43 8800 00      
Rankin 53 6610 00 1650 00 41 8480 00 3 1210 2
Scott 23 3510 00   8 1575 00      
Simpson       8 2200 00     2
Smith 2 275 00   2 750 00      
Sunflower 112 18,575 00 1985 00 6 1500 00 4 1475  
Tallahatchie 72 10,710 00 455 00 11 2916 00 5 700  
Tippah 20 2775 00 365 00 43 7125 00      
Tishomingo   7540 00 300 00   13,165 00 1 500 1
Tunica 41 5425 00 50 00 6 1195 00 5 4250


Page 30

Warren 467 58,460 00 23,068 00 180 36,355 00     3
Washington 469 63,370 00 10,035 00 57 14,640 00 2 1300 1
Wayne 3 600 00   3 1150 00      
Wilkinson 402 51,926 00 4531 00 84 16,430 00     2
Winston 36 4645 00   29 5225 00     1
Yallobusha 189 26,120 00 2265 00 86 17,430 00 5 2087 1
Yazoo 445 64,805 00 11,670 00 132 30,950 00 2 442  
  7751 1,116,104 00 232,427 00 3172 688,695 00 81 47,120 141


Page 31

        
COUNTIES. No. of slaves under sixty years of age, 75 cents each. No. of free white polls, between 21 and 50 years, 40c. each. Amount of State Tax. Fifty per cent. on State Tax for Military Fund. Amount of money employed out of State, &c., three-tenths of one per cent. for Military Fund. TOTAL MILITARY TAX.
Adams 12,790 480 $15,773 92 7886 96 376,764 00 9017 25
Amite 7656 692 7644 74 3822 54 43,301 00 3952 44
Attala 5198 1403 5525 25 2762 68 15,535 00 2809 27
Bolivar 9337 317 8025 55 4012 88 44,750 00 4064 77
Calhoun 1905 1006 2091 11 1045 47 340 00 1046 49
Carroll 13,471 1540 13,659 46 6829 73 50,350 00 6829 73
Chickasaw 8365 981 7812 59 3906 29 49,000 00 4053 29
Choctaw 4474 1866 5046 98 2522 49 20,957 00 2586 36
Claiborne 11,862 477 11,473 26 5736 63 47,374 00 5878 75
Clarke 5077   5295 59 2647 79 3350 00 2657 94
Coahoma     4873 89 2437 99   2437 99
Copiah 9206 1356 9321 38 4660 69 60,210 00 4841 32
Covington 1498 350 1419 12 710 06 6634 27 730 25
DeSoto 13,327 1395 13,097 14 6553 42 54,741 00 6740 60
Franklin 4672 567 4397 41 2198 71   2198 71
Greene 640 189 680 48 340 24   340 24
Hancock 1079 422 1366 47 683 23 28,543 00 774 27
Harrison 1020 498 1438 29 719 15 57,700 00 891 24
Hinds 20,523 1133 20,587 06 10,293 53 24,550 00 10,370 38
Holmes 12,769 1114 12,253 22 6126 61 16,136 00 6175 01
Issaquena 7141 179 5984 37 2992 19 41,150 00 3115 63


Page 32

Itawamba 3656 1996 4534 14 2267 07 28,768 00 2362 96
Jackson 1060 399 1316 02 658 01   658 01
Jasper 4172 861 4152 87 2076 43 3153 00 2085 88
Jefferson 11,278 439 9882 03 4941 01 42,158 66 5067 48
Jones 390 317 498 00 249 00   249 00
Kemper 5992 1001 5220 01 2610 00 31,357 00 2667 07
Lafayette 6946 1089 7011 30 3505 65 34,412 00 3648 82
Lauderdale 4880 834 4732 13 2366 07 41,317 00 2490 01
Lawrence 3721 895 3973 81 1986 92   1986 92
Leake 2858 843 2849 45 1424 75   1424 75
Lowndes 15,783 829 17,696 74 8848 37 18,395 00 8893 55
Madison 16,754 764 16,234 59 13,117 30 253,010 00 13,876 33
Marion 2083 382 2243 45 1121 73   1121 73
Marshall 15,906 1575 16,176 15 8088 07 143,670 00 8519 09
Monroe 12,954 1262 12,908 75 6454 38 427,642 00 7737 30
Neshoba 2163 852 2301 89 1150 94 13,300 00 1190 84
Newton 3477 932 3470 56 1735 28 37,135 75 1846 69
Noxubee 14,448 762 12,635 88 6317 94 47,482 00 6560 08
Oktibbeha 7652 920 7426 35 3712 67   3712 67
Panola 10,713 1079 10,855 21 5427 60 42,024 00 5553 68
Perry 725 186 801 62 400 81   400 81


Page 33

Pike 4836 1005 5676 54 2838 27   2838 27
Pontotoc 7370 1888 7671 69 3835 84 13,375 00 3875 87
Rankin 7065 865 6980 50 3490 25   3490 25
Scott 3259 773 3404 63 1702 31 10,100 00 1732 61
Simpson 2245 432 2031 10 1015 55 1980 00 1021 49
Smith 2228 722 2190 16 1095 08 2567 50 1102 73
Sunflower 4636 280 4092 48 2046 24 47,200 00 2096 59
Tallahatchie 4951 467 4411 14 2255 40 16,905 92 2191 51
Tippah 5916 2166 6293 14 3146 05 35,333 00 3252 04
Tishomingo 4751 2852 6544 32 3272 16 30,513 00 3363 70
Tunica 4144 238 3376 26 1688 13   1688 13
Warren 13 507 1041 16,360 75 8180 37 254,421 00 8943 63
Washington 14,615 339 12,793 19 6396 59 283,020 00 7245 65
Wayne 2153 196 1842 50 921 25   921 25
Wilkinson 13,093 532 12,370 86 6185 43 58,550 00 6360 96
Winston 3943 709 3832 16 1916 08 22,115 00 1983 87
Yallobusha 8992 1234 9733 19 4866 59 110,838 00 5199 11
Yazoo 16,656 1129 17,048 16 8524 08 109,216 00 8864 62
  413,981 51,050 431,341 00 222,560 95 3,101,344 10 229,737 87

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
November 2d, 1863.

A. J. GILLESPIE, Auditor Public Accs.


Page 34

[DOCUMENT E.]

        

ASSESSMENT OF PERSONS AND PERSONAL PROPERTY, IN THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, FOR THE FISCAL
YEAR, 1862.

COUNTIES. Amount of money loaned at interest, &c., one-fifth of 1 per cent. Amount of Goods, &c., imported, one-fifth of 1 per cent. Amount of Stock in Banks, 3-10ths of one per cent. Amount of sales of liquors sold by the gallon, &c., one-fourth of one per cent. Amt. of sale as merchandize, of slaves, horses, &c., by any person, 3-10ths of one p. ct. Number of Pleasure Carriages.
Adams $986,879 105,027 00   10,677 00   448
Amite 334,886 4531 00        
Attala 263,174 10,060 00   700 00   277
Bolivar 78,764         85
Calhoun 27,461 160 00   370 00   103
Carroll 172,518 59,319 00       526
Chickasaw 120 667 21,830 00   225 00   389
Choctaw 145,786 5574 00   3984 00   325
Claiborne 277,606 41,407 00     2000 00 337
Clarke 30,795 104,800 00   15,000 00   153
Coahoma            
Copiah 203,424 47,450 00   621 00   517
Covington 37,995 300 00       52
DeSoto 529,532 25,989 00   2206 00   697
Franklin 149,400 300 00   320 00   207
Greene 27,513         19
Hancock 45,144 31,796 00        
Harrison 1625 33,750 00   150 00   18
Hinds 802,380 224,903 00   5980 00   1093
Holmes 265,232 43,645 00   3775 00   608


Page 35

Issaquena 276,365 00 800 00       70
Itawamba 80,565 00 16,020 00   944 00   192
Jackson 21,513 00 18,355 00       24
Jasper 80,893 00 2852 00       148
Jefferson 308 887 00 22,525 00   1650 00   405
Jones 10,939 00         8
Kemper 75,528 00 300 00       229
Lafayette 245,102 00 14,337 00       212
Lauderdale 68,083 00 50,210 00       157
Lawrence 90,600 00 36 200 00   1400 00   121
Leake 36,700 00         173
Lowndes 811,375 00 95,880 00   2277 00   633
Marshall 560,781 00 57,505 00   1800 00   785
Marion 180,869 00 250 00   2000 00   16
Madison 565 915 00 114 660 00       729
Monroe 584,145 00 22,552 00   895 00   596
Neshoba 70,754 00         105
Newton 99,635 00 5577 00       165
Noxubee 224,977 00         427
Oktibbeha 209,670 00 6501 00 4500 2109 00   381
Pano'a 404,311 00 30,466 00   200 00   500
Perry 36,030 00 500 00       14
Pike 167,847 00 100,854 00       253
Pontotoc 239,159 00 11,740 00 15,000 400 00   422
Rankin 248,985 00 33,435 00       328
Scott 47,770 00 27,415 00   325 00   204
Simpson 29,550 00         23
Smith 56,340 00         59
Sunflower 69,937 00         78
Tallahatchie 27,920 00 175 00 750 400 00   158
Tippah            
Tishomingo          


Page 36

Tunica 21,620 00 2000 00       26
Warren 316,680 00 78,730 00       303
Washington 341,285 00          
Wayne 26,903 00          
Wilkinson 454,930 00 13,005 00   1466 00   332
Winston 104,670 00 32,475 00   1432 00   249
Yallobusha 448,154 00 58,306 00 1975 1953 00   417
Yazoo 696,280 00 238,535 00   9813 00    
  $8,791,745 00 1,853,001 00 22,225 73,072 00 2000 00 14,796


Page 37

        
COUNTIES. Value of Pleasure Carriages, half of one per cent. No of Watches. Value of Watches, half of one p. ct. Number of Clocks. Value of Clocks, half of one p. ct. Number of cattle over twenty head, one cent each.
Adams $80,765 00 670 47,095 00 484 7405 00 7184
Amite 51,536 00   19,409 00   3504 00 4865
Attala 26,035 00 204 8688 00 446 3969 00 978
Bolivar 9680 00 183 13,385 00 65 459 00 4318
Calhoun 7215 00 66 2315 00 272 2281 00 102
Carroll 65,425 00 448 25,784 00 496 4846 00 3769
Chickasaw 43,940 00 215 11,072 00 270 1836 00 1037
Choctaw 29,705 00 227 10,134 00 605 5172 00 605
Claiborne 54,505 00 289 20,275 00 205 2318 00 7482
Clarke 16,145 00 226 12,296 00 146 1053 00 1391
Coahoma            
Copiah 48,770 00 438 21,311 00 517 3737 00 3144
Covington 5040 00 60 2624 00 103 732 00 1335
DeSoto 78,330 00 529 25,465 00 544 4178 00 2691
Franklin 23,325 00 177 11,998 00 182 1012 00 2592
Greene 1105 00 15 571 00 33 257 00 4507
Hancock 2999 00   2540 00   503 00 12,863
Harrison 1225 00 50 2145 00 43 240 00 3447
Hinds 139,407 00 1032 63,746 00 767 5846 00 5977
Holmess 59,890 00 495 27,911 00 460 3612 00 4382
Issaquena 9750 00 100 8789 00 45 496 00 3268


Page 38

Itawamba $18,140 00 162 5490 00 565 4422 00 317
Jackson 2002 00 33 1651 00 45 793 00 5768
Jasper 13,362 00 170 7415 00 204 1391 00 885
Jefferson 49,400 00 387 25,269 00 312 2645 00 7259
Jones 485 00 23 768 00 78 480 00 1676
Kemper 25,306 00 162 7797 00 337 2650 00 1164
Lafayette 47,850 00 299 13,670 00 399 3232 00 914
Lauderdale 20,350 00 131 6470 00 202 1502 00 730
Lawrence 12,494 00 156 9094 00 215 1782 00 1078
Leake 13,595 00 91 4071 00 127 959 00 339
Lowndes 90,890 00 599 33,203 00 381 2616 00 1384
Marshall 95,952 00 5 99 30,265 00 741 5389 00 1338
Marion 1675 00 31 1100 00 127 1302 00 5156
Madison 105,960 00 578 37,315 00 282 2693 00 7100
Monroe 65,750 00 428 24,562 00 483 3536 00 1686
Neshoba 8805 00 133 4628 00 309 2535 00 815
Newton 15,437 00 157 6437 00 207 1494 00 840
Noxubee 51,020 00 272 17,052 00 213 1477 00 1704
Oktibbeha 43,738 00 316 13,465 00 300 1896 00 1382
Panola 60,230 00 450 23,275 00 473 4306 00 3126
Perry 1315 00 20 680 00 26 190 00 7047
Pike 28,445 00 263 15,091 00 373 3485 00 1493


Page 39

Pontotoc $44,825 00 248 12,606 00 612 5098 00 946
Rankin 38,600 00 280 15,600 00 207 1466 00 2051
Scott 17,795 00 167 7634 00 181 1381 00 789
Simpson 3688 00 55 2236 00 92 752 00 531
Smith 6625 00 53 2950 00 146 976 00 677
Sunflower 12,490 00 124 8799 00 31 262 00 3906
Tallahatchie 19,720 00 159 7215 00 142 1160 00 2454
Tippah            
Tishomingo            
Tunica 3045 00 99 5849 00 48 325 00 3663
Warren 47,230 00 602 34,255 00 227 2648 00 5750
Washington 21,465 00   20,005 00   1106 00 8587
Wayne 750 00   2845 00   689 00 2745
Wilkinson 43,960 00 312 19,989 00 259 2239 00 6436
Winston 19,673 00 172 6580 00 360 3035 00 879
Yallobusha 48,320 00 545 27,158 00 592 5355 00 2793
Yazoo 69,139 00   40,764 00   3284 00 8093
  $1,804,318 00 13,700 840,806 00 14,979 134,007 00 179,438


Page 40

        
COUNTIES. No. of race, saddle carriage or livery stable horses. Three-fourths of 1 p. cent. on the value of the same. Value of gold and silver plate, over $50, half of one p. cent. Number of Pianos. Value of Pianos, one fourth of one p. cent. No of toll-bridges, ferries and turnp's One-fourth of one p. cent. on annual receipts of each. No. of free male negroes, between 21 and 50, $1.
Adams 788 102,315 00 44,722 00 290 43,815 00     20
Amite   11,905 00 894 00   9700 00      
Attala 17 2375 00 150 00 22 5975 00 3 4050  
Bolivar 123 17,545 00 3635 00 32 5125 00      
Calhoun       1 150 00      
Carroll 116 21,975 00 7245 00 85 20,735 00     7
Chickasaw 11 1950 00 850 00 42 8605 00 2 575  
Choctaw 14 2100 00 120 00 11 2725 00 1 1000  
Claiborne 338 52,325 00 16,116 00 118 20,865 00     3
Clarke 30 4050 00 900 00 36 6855 00 3 1850  
Coahoma                
Copiah 73 11,205 00 1893 00 53 9435 00 2 55  
Covington       4 1200 00 1 75  
DeSoto 83 13,115 00 3595 00 116 23,944 00 2   2
Franklin 74 11 587 00 550 00 25 5150 00      
Greene 2 300 00   7 1685 00 2 175  
Hancock   1760 00 265 00   2930 00     9
Harrison 1 100 00 650 00 11 2250 00 1 200 8
Hinds 349 55,913 00 18,120 00 269 53,961 00 3 195  
Holmes 132 20,630 00 3873 00 73 16,275 00 2 940 3
Issaquena 112 17,475 00 3100 00 14 2435 00 2 600  


Page 41

Itawamba 3 340 00   22 4454 00 1 100 3
Jackson     327 00 6 1150 00 6 500 4
Jasper 12 1690 00 225 50 21 5450 00     4
Jefferson 339 48,170 00 9377 00 95 16,170 00     5
Jones       1 250 00 1 25  
Kemper 5 775 00 1175 00 54 10,850 00     4
Lafayette 43 6485 00 2875 00 73 15,805 00 1 200  
Lauderdale 21 2835 00 850 00 23 4850 00      
Lawrence 29 4580 00 140 00 17 2720 00 1 1000  
Leake       23 3220 00 3 700 2
Lowndes 207 33,430 00 15,787 00 193 35,830 00 3 1000  
Marshall 70 11,490 00 7198 00 212 42,230 00     5
Marion 1 300 00 100 00 3 760 00 2 250  
Madison 201 31,935 00 28,400 00 150 30,530 00 1 300  
Monroe 138 22 702 00 7095 00 112 22,530 00 3 2750 2
Neshoba 14 2150 00 50 00 10 2225 00      
Newton 14 1975 00 1750 00 12 2725 00      
Noxubee 48 7650 00 1668 00 89 18,200 00      
Oktibbeha 47 6616 00 440 00 38 8895 00     3
Panola 98 16,160 00 5470 00 70 14,925 00 4 1950 1
Perry 2 473 00            
Pike 14 4865 00 1315 00 44 7710 00     5
Pontotoc 24 3875 00 1765 00 44 8675 00      
Rankin 47 7520 00 1780 00 46 8500 00     1
Scott 8 90 00 150 00 7 865 00      
Simpson       7 1350 00     1
Smith 1 150 00   8 1890 00      
Sunflower 75 12,985 00 2260 00 10 2050 00 3 1050  
Tallahatchie 24 3310 00 855 00 17 3095 00 2 800  
Tippah                
Tishomingo                
Tunica 24 3975 00 190 00 5 800 00 3 2450  


Page 42

Warren 247 31,470 00 21,380 00 141 26,175 00     1
Washington   44,210 00 10,300 00   12,640 00      
Wayne   575 00 1180 00   2086 00      
Wilkinson 333 43,960 00 5065 00 88 16,680 00     2
Winston 12 1630 00 100 00 27 4826 00      
Yallobusha 118 17,850 00 4235 00 92 19,450 00 5 3071  
Yazoo   41,935 00 16,345 00   29,600 00   1685  
  4482 771,781 00 256,525 00 2969 673,956 00 63 27,546 95


Page 43

        
COUNTIES. No. of slaves under sixty years of age, 75 cents each. No. of free white polls, between 21 and 50 years, 40c. each. Amount of State Tax. Fifty per cent. on State Tax for Military Fund. Amount of money employed out of State, &c., three-tenths of one per cent. for Military Fund. TOTAL MILITARY TAX
Adams 12,695 376 $13,750 87 6874 50 235,216 00 7580 14
Amite 7866 549 7337 29 3668 65 55,175 00 3834 24
Attala 5264 740 5041 38 2520 69   2520 69
Bolivar 10,332 230 8326 40 4163 20 24,400 00 4326 40
Calhoun 2013 991 2003 21 1001 60 2627 00 1009 49
Carroll 13,128 762 11,392 83 5699 31   5699 31
Chickasaw 8297 409 7009 16 3504 52 71,304 00 3718 43
Choctaw 4608 992 4422 24 2211 12 34,614 83 2366 67
Claiborne 12,123 319 10,846 34 5423 17 37,400 00 5535 37
Clarke 5365 477 4655 79 2327 89 2720 00 2334 40
Coahoma            
Copiah 9414 769 8384 17 4192 08 14,352 00 4235 13
Covington 1472 201 1319 30 659 75 5706 00 676 86
DeSoto 13,615 858 12,444 81 6222 40 11,700 00 6234 28
Franklin 4887 388 4433 79 2216 88   2216 88
Greene 674 103 664 92 332 46 21,120 00 411 14
Hancock 964 242 1150 42 575 20 28,028 00 626 89
Harrison 604 226 683 39 341 67   341 67
Hinds 21,669 980 20,461 87 10,230 93 42,090 00 10,357 20
Holmes 13,030 508 11,323 96 5661 98 9700 00 5691 08
Issaquena 6904 103 6055 54 3027 77 56260 00 3178 55


Page 44

Itawamba 3649 919 3457 99 1778 50 29,937 00 1818 84
Jackson 843 189 871 10 435 55   435 55
Jasper 505 465 3686 30 1843 15   1843 45
Jefferson 11,223 298 10,115 81 5057 91 32,517 00 5155 45
Jones 456 373 537 56 268 77   268 77
Kemper 6236 399 5176 43 2588 21 21,076 00 2651 44
Lafayette 6723 587 6232 83 3116 42 46,453 00 3256 19
Lauderdale 4885 379 4238 62 2119 31 13,280 00 2218 53
Lawrence 3902 489 3522 13 1761 06 52,680 00 1919 10
Leake 2842 325 2448 48 1224 24   1224 24
Lowndes 16,333 491 15,335 60 7667 80   7667 80
Marshall 15,380 763 13,974 20 6987 10 112,995 00 7326 08
Marion 2144 174 2122 06 1061 02   1061 02
Madison 17,182 670 15,775 11 7887 56 207,895 00 8511 23
Monroe 12,542 629 11,598 33 5799 76 158,515 00 6275 85
Neshoba 2278 490 2155 94 1077 96 19,310 00 1135 89
Newton 3526 688 3223 85 1611 92   1611 92
Noxubee 15,193 357 12,609 80 6304 90 17,350 00 6356 95
Oktibbeha 7881 616 6994 37 3497 18   3497 18
Panola 11,152 481 10,089 25 5044 63 23,916 00 5116 38
Perry 790 83 781 33 390 66   390 66


Page 45

Pike 4841 619 4733 02 2366 51   2366 51
Pontotoc 7735 838 7075 98 3537 99 42,209 00 3644 61
Rankin 7318 520 6648 73 3324 36   3324 36
Scott 3463 376 3051 22 1525 61 7160 00 1547 09
Simpson 2363 216 1957 07 978 53 1460 00 982 92
Smith 2402 347 2118 13 1059 06 1060 00 1062 21
Sunflower 5014 237 4260 72 2130 36 43,000 00 2258 78
Tallahatchie 5371 282 4237 91 2118 95 19,213 09 2176 59
Tippah            
Tishomingo            
Tunica 4423 180 3183 02 1591 51   1591 51
Warren 13,127 354 10,832 72 5416 35 60,020 00 5596 41
Washington 14,979 192 12,704 05 6352 02 6100 00 6370 32
Wayne 2119 190 1780 32 890 16 26,091 00 968 43
Wilkinson 13,488 380 12,001 56 6000 78 37,650 00 6113 73
Winston 4030 456 3661 07 1830 53 3800 10 1842 93
Yallobusha 9447 716 9063 17 4531 58 47,348 00 4673 63
Yazoo 16,239 604 15,436 32 7718 16 88,207 37 7894 57
  418,948 26,595 379,399 78 189,751 84 1,765,655 39 195,071 64

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
November 2d, 1863.

A. J. GILLESPIE,
Auditor Public Acc's.


Page 46

[DOCUMENT F.]

        

REVENUE SETTLEMENTS--STATE TAX 1861.

COUNTIES. Tax Collectors. State Tax 1861. Additional Assessments. Insolvencies Collected. Amounts Transferred. Total Debits. Insolvencies. Erroneous Assessments. Lands sold for Taxes.
Adams O. Metcalfe $24,956 48 $ 31 23 80 $208 65 $25,197 16 $ 91 95 $238 65 $954 23
Amite J. G. Morgan 10.453 87 35 08     10,488 95 42 94    
Attala J. C. Lucas 9987 03       9987 03 477 46 66 21  
Bolivar Wm. Wilson 20,974 21 475 42     21,449 63 128 99 274 61 763 97
Calhoun C. E. Murphree 4597 97       4597 97 193 35   1004 29
Carroll F. P. Pleasants 23,371 84 376 32     23,748 16 634 19 36 26 490 42
Chickasaw J. L. Flanikin 13,557 94 308 20 56 52   13,922 66 330 11 2 20 579 03
Choctaw W. C. Staples 9567 74 37 66     9605 40 520 05   705 81
Claiborne Daniel Willis 17,402 56       17,402 56 193 74    
Clarke W. H. Cherry 7902 76       7902 76 174 35    
Coahoma J. N. Allen 12,993 86       12,993 86     2202 34
Copiah W. M. Haley 15,809 18 155 36     15,914 54 350 73 68 10 141 57
Covington H. A. McLeod 2198 56       2198 56 14 21    
DeSoto G. B. Wright 24,091 68       24,091 68 471 86   849 35
Franklin A. Brown 6266 72       6266 72 47 00    
Greene W. Harrison 800 98       800 98 12 63    
Hancock N. Monet 2460 06 27 00     2487 06 80 57   627 42
Harrison C. L. Quave 3711 86       3711 86 275 40   2259 30
Hinds W. H. Taylor 35,457 83 1182 64     36,640 47 347 98 470 80 1101 53
Holmes J. W. Rogers 20,984 80       20,984 80 270 38    
Issaquena J. L. Mayfield 14,473 90 31 65     14,505 55 110 54    
Itawamba B. F. Toomer 9019 40       9019 40 415 97   1315 50


Page 47

Jackson A. F. Ramsey $ 2205 58       $ 2205 58      
Jasper L. B. Lassiter 7210 59 $40 46     7251 05 $ 64 78 $161 22  
Jefferson D. McCormick 14,191 42       14,191 42 52 76    
Jones E. M. Devall 1029 98       1029 98 35 18    
Kemper J. W. Gully 8523 16       8523 16 287 73   $68 70
Lafayette W. S. McKee 11,887 81       11,887 81 292 64   424 92
Lauderdale W. F. Alford 7548 07       7548 07 119 77    
Lawrence A. D. Dixon 6176 45 39 74     6216 19 160 82   197 87
Leake F. Burnett 5397 55 76 42     5473 97 94 32 13 46  
Lowndes E. C. Eggleston 28,297 47       28,297 47 141 94 21 76  
Madison W. J. Taylor 17,674 72       17,674 72 123 25    
Madison Jno Handy, Adm'r 7221 88       7221 88      
Marion H. Pope 2858 46 14 67     2873 13 32 39   2 31
Marshall J. R. McCarroll 26,797 51 12 74     26,810 25 754 52   136 07
Monroe J. H. Anderson 22,267 64 174 50     22,442 14 296 71   458 81
Neshoba L. C. Franklin 4453 68 15 71     4469 39 80 86 17 09  
Newton J. H. Wells 3406 98       3406 98 106 11    
Noxubee W. M. Conner 22,826 76       22,826 76 277 83 122 12 224 00
Oktibbeha W. S. James 13,270 79       13,270 79 220 60    
Panola J. H. Jones 20,997 93 141 07   $738 49 21,877 49 287 90   712 36
Perry G. W. Bradley 952 98 7 59     960 57 18 48   6 88
Pike L. C. Bickham 8662 10       8662 10 185 47    
Pontotoc A. Y. Donaldson 14,314 90 86 27     14,401 17 248 45   866 05
Rankin L. D. Rhodes $11,587 48 $ 14 83     $11,602 31 $262 74    
Scott W. H. Rodgers 6707 74 38 23     6745 97 343 21    
Simpson G. Walker 3060 69       3060 69 45 00    
Smith Wm. Watkins 3862 82 30 64     3893 46 129 98    
Sunflower Eli Waites 12,734 54 141 18     12,875 72 59 61   $5724 11
Tallahatchie J A. Hall 11,438 02       11,438 02 84 47   1827 20
Tippah Noah Vernor 11,883 44       11,883 44      
Tishomingo J. G. Barton 13 973 86       13,973 86      
Tunica T. B. Turner 10,531 42 41 75     10,573 17 108 76 $103 36 20 21


Page 48

Warren Wm. McRae 26 273 58 244 13     26,517 71 857 51   1146 96
Washington A. B. Carson 39,060 99       39,060 99 154 95    
Wayne Angus Taylor 2123 89       2123 89 15 20    
Wilkinson Wm. Stamps 17,435 79 58 74 $38 83   17,533 36 143 96    
Winston M. A. Metts 6666 75       6666 75 37 73 61 01 46 74
Yallobusha Jno Powell 15,544 25       15,544 25 1165 04    
Yazoo W. H. Mangum 30 214 52 133 39     30,347 91 336 99 29 17 234 61
    $772,315 42 $3922 62 $95 65 $947 14 $777,281 33 $12,812 06 $1686 02 $25,092 56


Page 49

        
COUNTIES. Tax on Lands held by State for Taxes. Taxes Suspended. Taxes Enjoined. Amounts Transferred. Commissions for Collecting. Amounts paid State Treasurer. Total Credits. Balance due State. Amounts Over Paid.
Adams         $800 25 $23,112 08 $25,197 16    
Amite         373 38 10,072 63 10,488 95    
Attala         343 30 9100 00 9987 03    
Bolivar $7300 34       691 38 12,290 34 21,449 63    
Calhoun         192 14 3208 19 4597 97    
Carroll 448 38   $21 00   752 33 21,365 58 28,748 16    
Chickasaw 546 49       467 71 11,997 12 13,922 66    
Choctaw         332 56 8046 98 9605 40    
Claiborne         576 20 17,060 45 17,830 45   427 89
Clarke         291 85 7436 56 7902 76    
Coahoma 2422 14       383 75 7975 63 12,983 86 $ 10 00  
Copiah         524 87 13,319 75 14,405 02 1509 52  
Covington         109 21 2075 14 2198 56    
DeSoto         743 11 22,027 36 24,091 68    
Franklin         246 59 5973 13 6266 72    
Greene         39 42 748 93 800 98    
Hancock 32 16       120 32 1626 59 2487 06    
Harrison         163 09 1014 07 3711 86    
Hinds         1134 65 33,585 51 36,640 47    
Holmes         671 43 20 042 99 20 984 80    
Issaquena           12,000 00 12,110 54 2395 01  
Itawamba         318 10 6969 83 9019 40    
Jackson           1800 00 1800 00 405 58  


Page 50

Jaspar         270 75 6754 30 7251 05    
Jefferson         484 16 13,654 50 14,191 42    
Jones         49 74 945 06 1029 98    
Kemper         307 06 7859 67 8523 16    
Lafayette         417 85 10,752 40 11,887 81    
Lauderdale         282 85 7145 45 7548 07    
Lawrence         241 66 5615 84 6216 19    
Leake         220 98 5145 21 5473 97    
Lowndes         903 01 27,230 76 28,297 47    
Madison         526 54 17,024 93 17,674 72    
Madison         350 15 6871 73 7221 88    
Marion         140 23 2698 20 2873 13    
Marshall           23,948 32 24,838 91 1971 34  
Monroe         724 36 20,962 26 22,442 14    
Neshoba         191 14 4180 30 4469 39    
Newton         99 03 3201 84 3406 98    
Noxubee         732 80 21,470 01 22,826 76    
Oktibbeha         451 50 12,598 69 13,270 79    
Panola         685 53 20,191 70 21,877 49    
Perry         47 10 888 11 960 57    
Pike         314 29 8162 34 8662 10    
Pontotoc         484 58 12,802 09 14,401 17    


Page 51

Rankin         400 19 10939 38 11,602 31    
Scott       738 49 262 35 5401 92 6745 97    
Simpson         151 80 2863 89 3060 69    
Smith         172 90 3590 58 3893 46    
Sunflower   354 79     433 84 6303 37 12,875 72    
Tallahatchie 1803 35       400 60 7322 40 11,438 02    
Tippah           8902 23 8902 23 2981 21  
Tishomingo           10,460 67 10,460 67 3513 19  
Tunica 2191 02 726 82     349 03 7073 97 10,573 17    
Warren 278 36       829 81 23,405 07 26,517 71    
Washington           $13,700 00 $13,854 95 $25,206 04  
Wayne         $105 43 2003 26 2123 89    
Wilkinson         581 68 16,807 72 17,533 36    
Winston 250 09       257 04 6014 14 6666 75    
Yallobusha         491 38 13,887 83 15,544 25    
Yazoo   184 00   208 65 959 93 28,394 56 30 347 91    
  $15,272 33 $1265 61 $21 00 $947 14 $22,596 99 $660,023 62 $739,717 33 $37,991 89 $427 89

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS, Nov. 2, 1863.

A. J. GILLESPIE, Auditor Public Accs.


Page 52

(DOCUMENT G.)

        

SETTLEMENT OF MILITARY TAX 1861.

COUNTIES. Tax Collectors. Military Tax 1861. Additional Assessments. Amounts Transferred. Total Debits. nsolvencies. Erroneous Assessments. Lands sold for Taxes.
Adams O. Metcalfe $13,608 53 $9 50   $13,618 03 $90 19 $135 20  
Amite J. G. Morgan 5365 62 17 55   5,383 17 34 26    
At ala J. G. Lucas 5040 16     5,040 16 146 49 33 05 $122 83
Bolivar Wm. Wilson 10,539 10 238 20   10,777 30 58 60 137 98 1139 07
Calhoun C. E. Murphree 2299 92     2299 92 96 87    
Carroll F. P. Pleasants 11,835 96 188 16   12,024 12 309 56 18 13 122 13
Chickasaw J. L. Flanikin 6925 46 182 36   7107 82 147 67 1 10  
Choctaw W. C. Staples 4846 73 10 20   4856 93 167 70   139 91
Claiborne Daniel Willis 8848 80     8848 80 77 44    
Clarke W. H. Cherry 3961 52     3961 52 37 17    
Coahoma J. N. Allen 6487 80     6487 80 67 84   410 57
Copiah W. M. Haley 8138 01     8138 01 133 76 42 21 249 83
Covington H. A. McLeod 1098 10 22 06   1120 16 7 10    
DeSoto G. B. Wright 12,237 92     12,237 92 235 88    
Franklin A. Brown 3112 16   $29 01 3141 17 23 50    
Greene Wm. Harrison 400 49     400 49 6 31    
Hancock N. Monet 1321 06 13 50   1334 56 64 28    
Harrison C. L. Quave 2028 03     2028 03 154 80    
Hinds W. H. Taylor 17,805 76 591 32   18,397 08 175 05 235 40  
Holmes J. W. Rogers 10,540 80     10,540 80      
Issaquena J. L. Mayfield 7376 24     7376 24 55 27    


Page 53

Itawamba B. F. Toomer 4505 68     4505 59 207 98    
Jackson A. F. Ramsey 1102 79     1102 79      
Jasper L. B. Lassiter 3634 97     3634 97 32 39 380 61  
Jefferson D. McCormick 7658 94     7658 94 26 38    
Jones E. M. Devall 505 98 9 41   515 39 17 59    
Kemper J. W. Gully 4261 57     4261 57 143 87    
Lafayette W. S. McKee 6087 07     6087 07 121 40    
Lauderdale W. F. Alford 3897 98     3897 98 59 89    
Lawrence A. D. Dixon 3088 22 19 87   3108 09 81 99    
Leake F. Burnett 2698 83 38 21   2737 04 47 16 6 73  
Lowndes E. C. Eggleston 14,167 79     14,167 79 70 97 10 88  
Madison Jno Handy, Adm'r 6573 87     6573 87      
Marion H. Pope 1429 24 7 51   1436 75 16 06    
Marshall J. R. McCarroll 13,829 77 6 37   13,836 14 377 26    
Monroe J. H. Anderson 12,416 74 87 25   12,503 99 148 35    
Neshoba L C. Franklin 2266 74 7 85   2274 59 40 43 8 54  
Newton John H. Wells 3406 98     3406 98 106 11    
Noxubee W. M. Connor 11,555 52     11,555 52 138 92 61 06  
Madison W. J. Taylor 7133 56     7133 56 154 00    
Oktibbeha W. S. James 6635 10     6635 10 109 90    
Panola J. H. Jones 10,625 04 70 53   10,695 57 143 95    
Perry G. W. Bradley 480 29     480 29 9 24    
Pike L. C. Bickham 4331 05     4331 05 92 16    
Pontotoc A. Y. Donaldson 7197 48     7197 48 102 51    
Rankin L. D. Rhodes 5793 74 7 42   5801 16 157 52    
Scott W. H. Rodgers 3384 16 19 11   3403 27 44 27   182 27
Simpson German Walker 1536 29     1536 29 18 37    
Smith Wm. Watkins 1939 06 15 32   1954 23 72 05    
Sunflower Eli Waites 6437 36     6437 36 29 80    
Tallahatchie J. A. Hall 5704 96     5704 96 50 60   401 60
Tippah Noah Vernor 6044 19     6044 19      
Tishomingo J. G. Barton 7078 48     7078 48      


Page 54

Tunica T. B. Turner $5265 71     $5265 71 $54 38 $50 40 $512 39
Warren Wm. McRae 13,900 04 $122 07   14,022 11 433 82   96 17
Washington A. B. Carson 20,379 55     20,379 55      
Wayne Angus Taylor 1061 95     1061 95 7 70    
Wilkinson Wm Stamps 8893 42 29 37   8922 79 109 33    
Winston M. A. Metts 3401 13     3401 13 18 50 37 12 175 08
Yallobusha John Powell 7772 12     7772 12 271 08   309 93
Yazoo W. H. Mangum 15,447 80 66 69   15,514 49 118 59 31 67 62 28
    $397,449 24 $1779 83 $29 01 $399,258 08 $5724 26 $804 08 $3924 06


Page 55

        
COUNTIES. Tax on State Lands. Taxes Enjoined. Taxes Suspended. Commissions for Collecting. Amounts Transferred. Amounts paid State Treasurer. Total Credits. Balance due State.
Adams       $401 78   $12,990 86 $13,618 03  
Amite       160 47   5188 44 5383 17  
Attala $14 87     145 81   4577 11 5040 16  
Bolivar           8527 23 9862 88 $914 42
Calhoun       66 09   2136 96 2299 92  
Carroll   $10 50   350 58   11,213 22 12,024 12  
Chickasaw 97 72     198 77   6662 56 7107 82  
Choctaw       140 68   4408 64 4856 93  
Claiborne       263 14   8508 22 8848 80  
Clarke       116 23   3758 12 3961 52  
Coahoma           5716 25 6194 66 293 14
Copiah       238 86   7473 35 8138 01  
Covington       33 39   1079 67 1120 16  
DeSoto       360 05   11,641 99 12,237 92  
Franklin       92 66   3025 01 3141 17  
Greene       11 82   382 36 400 49  
Hancock       38 10   1232 18 1334 56  
Harrison           1250 00 1404 80 623 23
Hinds       539 59   17,447 04 18,397 08  
Holmes           9108 24 9108 24 1432 56
Issaquena           4356 37 4411 64 2964 60
Itawamba           3878 90 4086 88 518 71
Jackson           155 00 155 00 947 79


Page 56

Jasper           $2509 46 $2622 46 $1012 51
Jefferson       $228 98   7403 58 7658 94  
Jones       14 93   482 87 515 39  
Kemper       123 53   3994 17 4261 57  
Lafayette       178 97   5786 70 6087 07  
Lauderdale       115 14   3722 95 3897 98  
Lawrence       90 78   2935 32 3108 09  
Leake       80 49   2602 68 2737 04  
Lowndes       422 58   13,663 36 14,167 79  
Madison       197 21   6376 66 6573 87  
Marion       42 62   1878 07 1436 75  
Marshall       406 76   13,055 12 13,836 14  
Monroe       870 67 $29 01 11,955 96 12,503 99  
Neshoba       68 77   2158 85 2274 59  
Newton       99 03   3201 84 3406 98  
Noxubee       340 70   11,014 84 11,555 52  
Madison       209 39   6770 17 7133 56  
Oktibbeha       195 75   6329 45 6635 10  
Panola       316 55   10,235 07 10,695 57  
Perry       14 13   456 92 480 29  
Pike       127 17   3870 19 4089 52 241 53
Pontotoc       212 67   6882 30 7197 48  
Rankin       169 31   5474 33 5801 16  


Page 57

Scott       100 77   $3075 96 3403 27  
Simpson           1227 68 1246 05 $290 24
Smith       56 47   1825 86 1954 38  
Sunflower           5781 85 5811 65 625 71
Tallahatchie       169 63   5083 13 5704 96  
Tippah           5416 75 5416 75 627 44
Tishomingo           5272 71 5272 71 1805 77
Tunica     363 41 143 93   4141 20 5265 71  
Warren       407 65   13,084 47 14,022 11  
Washington           8187 79 8187 79 12,191 76
Wayne       31 62   1022 63 1061 95  
Wilkinson       264 40   8549 06 8922 79  
Winston 8 38     100 36   3061 69 3401 13  
Yallobusha       225 03   6966 08 7772 12  
Yazoo           14,047 77 14,260 31 1254 18
  $120 97 $10 50 $363 41 $8679 01 $29 01 $353,723 19 $373,514 49 $25,743 59

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
November 2d, 1863.

A. J. GILLESPIE, Auditor Public Accs.


Page 58

[DOCUMENT H.]

        

REVENUE SETTLEMENTS--STATE TAX 1862.

COUNTIES. Tax Collectors. State Tax 1862. Additional Assessments. Total Debits. Insolvencies. Erroneous Assessm'ts. Lands sold for Taxes.
Adams O. Metcalfe $22,933 44 $264 98 $23,198 42 $237 75 $200 14 $3539 13
Amite J. G. Morgan 10.163 42   10,163 42 52 46    
Attala A. G. Noah 9503 16 110 37 9613 53 76 42 13 38 35 84
Bolivar D. Bell 21,193 78   21,193 78      
Calhoun C. E. Murphree 4510 07 23 80 4533 87 185 36 5 37 513 15
Carroll F. P. Pleasants 21,136 92 551 62 21,688 54 464 74 36 24 117 56
Chickasaw F. M. James 12,754 50 154 29 12,908 79 377 78 11 20 1307 12
Choctaw S. C. Platner 8943 00 109 27 9052 27 225 17    
Claiborne Daniel Willis 16,786 44   16,786 44      
Clarke W. H. Cherry 7262 96   7262 96 52 92 19 15  
* Coahoma J. N. Allen 8119 97 196 67 8316 64 479 23 80 96  
Copiah W. M. Haley 14,899 76 53 84 14,953 60 188 64 23 27  
Covington H. A. McLeod 2067 76 39 43 2107 19      
Desoto J. C. Riley 23,444 24   23,444 24 590 28    
Franklin W. M. Wentworth 6326 11   6326 11 57 96   310 01
Greene W. Harrison 772 59 32 19 804 78 1 01 75  
Hancock N. Monet 2244 00   2244 00      
Harrison B. E. Walden 2956 97   2956 97      
Hinds J. B. Fairchild 35,387 66   35,387 66      
Holmes James Reedy 20,055 54   20,055 54 110 96 19 16  
Issaquena J. L. Mayfield 14,545 07   14,545 07      
Itawamba M. D. Files 7943 28   7943 28 209 60    

        *Personal roll 1862 not received--over-paid on land $138 24.



Page 59

Jackson W. P. Davis $ 1760 69   $1760 69 $16 32    
Jasper L. B. Lassiter 6771 22 399 84 7171 06 41 47 148 23  
Jefferson D. McCormick 14,425 20   14,425 20 35 67    
Jones E. M. Devall 1057 75 11 51 1069 26 46 58    
Kemper J. W. Gullv 8479 58   8479 58 118 00    
Lafayette W. S. McKee 11,109 34   11,109 34 770 62    
Lauderdale W. F. Alford 7104 57   7104 57 123 23    
Lawrence A. O. Cox 5764 51 40 92 5805 43 33 97    
Leake F. Burnett 4953 09 124 62 5077 71 44 72 22 92  
Lowndes E. C. Eggleston 25 936 33   25 936 33 113 74 23 96  
Madison W. J. Taylor 25 437 13   25,437 13 127 59    
Marion J. H. Black 2739 83 5 15 2744 98 7 20    
Marshall J. R. McCarroll 24,596 56   24,596 56      
Monroe John Vernon 20,957 21 161 09 21,118 30 264 66 149 67  
Neshoba J. C. Gully 4314 09 8 34 4322 43      
Newton J. H. Wells 6344 44   6344 44      
Noxubee W. M. Connor 22,678 56   22,678 56 388 38 19 29 11 60
Oktibbeha W. S. James 12,838 81 19 33 12,858 13 144 39    
Panola W. S. Olin on 20,247 49   20,247 49      
Perry G. W. Bradley 932 69   932 69 2 42    
Pike R. H. Felder 7718 58 30 02 7748 60 63 64 11 20  
Pontotoc A. Y. Donaldson 13,719 19   13,719 19      
Rankin T. D. Harris 11,255 71 6 73 11,262 44 113 03 28 08  
Scott W. H. Rodgers 6354 33 24 27 6378 60 102 26    
Simpson J. H. Thompson 2986 66   2986 66 17 54    
Smith J. D. W. Duckworth 3821 43 23 37 3844 80     72 92
Sunflower Eli Waites 13,043 97   13,043 97      
Tallahatchie P. B. McDaniel 11,264 79   11,264 79 41 40    
* Tippah W. L. Davis 5590 30   5590 30 707 92    
* Tishomingo   7429 54   7429 54      
Tunica J. F. Sample 10,335 62   10,335 62 144 12   2172 47

        * No personal roll received.


        * No personal roll received.



Page 60

Warren J. C. Bland 20,745 55   20,745 55      
Washington A. B. Carson 38,971 85   38,971 85      
Wayne Angus Taylor 2062 70   2062 70 19 10    
Wilkinson Wm. Stamps 17,060 83 135 10 17,201 93 31 98 4 04  
Winston M. A. Metts 6495 06   6495 66 40 04 45 49 194 13
Yallobusha L. R. Wilson 14,874 23 33 68 14,907 91 615 99   761 82
Yazoo W. H. Mangum 28,602 68   28,602 68      
    $724,739 35 2560 42 727,299 77 7486 26 862 50 9035 75


Page 61

        
COUNTIES. Tax on Lands held by State for Taxes Commissions for Collecting. Amounts paid State Treasurer. Total Credits. Balance due State
Adams 285 45 742 82 18,193 13 23,198 42  
Amite   363 33 9747 63 10,163 42  
Attala 93 10 345 71 9049 08 9613 53  
Bolivar     6239 38 6239 38 14,954 40
Calhoun 685 73 190 29 2953 97 4533 87  
Carroll     20,000 00 20,618 54 1070 00
Chickasaw 265 65 435 59 10,511 45 12,908 79  
Choctaw 666 74 324 81 7835 55 9052 27  
Claiborne         16,786 44
Clarke   275 73 6915 16 7262 96  
* Coahoma 73 47   7821 22 8454 88  
Copiah 368 79 502 24 13,870 66 14,953 60  
Covington   105 35 2001 84 2107 19  
DeSoto     20,137 72 20,728 00 2716 24
Franklin   248 04 5710 10 6326 11  
Greene   40 15 762 87 804 78  
Hancock         2244 00
Harrison     1800 00 1800 00 1156 97
Hinds     20,225 59 20,225 59 15,162 07
Holmes   657 76 19,267 66 20,055 54  
Issaquena     100 30 100 30 14,444 77
Itawamba     5394 18 5603 78 2339 50

        * Personal roll 1862 not received--over-paid on Lands, $138 24.



Page 62

Jackson 156 80 87 21 1500 00 1760 33 36
Jasper   269 44 6711 92 7171 06  
Jefferson     12,000 00 12,035 67 2389 53
Jones   51 13 971 55 1069 26  
Kemper   310 85 8050 73 8479 58  
Lafayette 227 11   7372 00 8369 73 2739 61
Lauderdale   269 44 6711 90 7104 57  
Lawrence 12 69 233 14 5525 63 5805 43  
Leake   210 30 4799 77 5077 71  
Lowndes   833 95 24,964 68 25,936 33  
Madison   819 28 24,490 26 25,437 13  
Marion   136 90 2600 88 2744 98  
Marshall     20 20 24,596 36
Monroe 290 98 681 12 19,731 87 21,118 30  
Neshoba   189 67 4132 76 4322 43  
Newton   250 32 6094 12 6344 44  
Noxubee 131 09 728 12 21,400 08 22,678 56  
Oktibbeha   441 41 12,272 33 12,858 13  
Panola     200 11 200 11 20,047 38
Perry   46 51 883 76 932 69  
Pike   289 91 7383 85 7748 60  
Pontotoc     8802 92 8802 92 4916 27


Page 63

Rankin   393 60 10,727 73 11,262 44  
Scott 547 77 248 28 5480 29 6378 60  
Simpson   148 45 2820 67 2986 66  
Smith     3000 00 3072 92 771 88
Sunflower     2196 41 2196 41 10,847 56
Tallahatchie     8925 17 8966 57 2298 22
* Tippah     9 54 717 46 4872 84
** Tishomingo         7429 54
Tunica 1068 48 365 75 6584 80 10,335 62  
Warren     340 85 340 85 20,404 70
Washington     11,000 00 11,000 00 27,971 85
Wayne   102 78 1940 82 2062 70  
Wilkinson   574 97 16,590 94 17,201 93  
Winston 252 88 252 30 5710 82 6495 66  
Yallobusha 414 54   11,742 72 13,535 07 1372 84
Yazoo     17,000 00 17,000 00 11,602 68
  $5541 27 12,166 65 479,209 57 514,302 00 213,136 01

        *No personal roll received.


        ** No personal roll received.


AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
November 2d, 1863.

A. J. GILLESPIE,
Auditor Public Acc's.


Page 64

[DOCUMENT I.]

        

STATEMENT OF SETTLEMENTS--STATE MILITARY RELIEF TAX 1862.

COUNTIES. Tax Collectors. State Military Relief Tax. Additional Asssments. Total Debits.
Adams O. Metcalfe $11,599 21   $11,599 21
Amite J. G. Morgan 5081 71   5081 71
Attala A. G. Noah 4751 58 $55 19 4806 77
Bolivar Dick Bell 10,596 89   10,596 89
Calhoun C. E. Murphree 2266 93   2266 93
Carroll F. P. Pleasants 10,810 59   10,810 59
Chickasaw F. M. James 6377 25 77 14 6454 39
Choctaw S. C. Platner 4471 50 54 63 4526 13
Claiborne Daniel Willis 8393 22   8393 22
Clarke W. H. Cherry 3631 48   3631 48
Coahoma J. N. Allen--on lands 4158 32   4158 32
Copiah W. M Haley 7449 88 26 92 7476 80
Covington H. A. McLeod 1033 88   1033 88
DeSoto J. C. Riley 11,722 12   11,722 12
Franklin W. M. Wentworth 3163 05   3163 05
Greene W. Harrison 386 30 16 10 402 40
Hancock N. Monet 1122 00   1122 00
Harrison B. E. Walden 1478 49   1478 49
Hinds J B. Fairchild 17,693 83   17,693 83
Holmess James Reedy 10,027 77   10,027 77
Issaquena J. L. Mayfield 7272 54   7272 54
Itawamba M. D. Files 3971 64   3971 64
Jackson W. P. Davis 880 35   880 35


Page 65

Jasper L. B. Lassiter 3385 61 199 97 $3585 58
Jefferson D. McCormick 7212 60   7212 60
Jones E. M. Devall 528 88 5 75 534 63
Kemper John W. Gully 4239 79   4239 79
Lafayette W. S. McKee 5554 67   5554 67
Lauderdale W. F. Alford 3552 28   3552 28
Lawrence A. O. Cox 2902 71   2902 71
Leake F. Burnett 2476 54 62 31 2538 85
Lowndes E. C Eggleston 12,968 16   12,968 16
Madison W J. Taylor 12,718 57   12,718 57
Marion J. H. Black 1369 91 2 58 1372 49
Marshall J. R. McCarroll 12,297 78   12,297 78
Monroe John Vernon 10 478 60 80 55 10,559 15
Neshoba J. C. Gully 2457 05 4 17 2161 22
Newton John H. Wells 3172 22   3172 22
Noxubee W M. Connor 11,339 28   11,339 28
Oktibbeha W. S. James 6419 40 9 66 6429 06
Panola W. S. Clinton 10,123 75   10,123 75
Perry George W. Bradley 461 35   461 35
Pike R. H. Felder 3874 30 15 01 3889 31
Pontotoc A. Y. Donaldson 6859 59   6859 59
Rankin T. D. Harris 5627 85 3 37 5631 22
Scott W. H. Rodgers 3177 17 12 13 3189 30
Simpson J. H. Thompson 1493 33   1493 33
Smith J. D. W. Duckworth 1922 40   1922 40
Sunflower Eli Waites 6521 98   6521 98
Tallahatchie P. B. McDaniel 5632 39   5632 39
Tippah W. L. Davis--on lands 2795 15   2795 15
Tishomingo ------on lands 3714 77   3714 77
Tunica J. F. Sample 5167 81   5167 81
Warren John C. Bland 10,372 78   10,372 78
Washington A. B. Carson 19,485 93   19,485 93


Page 66

Wayne Angus Taylor $1031 35   $1031 35
Wilkinson Wm. Stamps 8533 41 $17 59 8551 00
Winston M. A. Metts 3247 83   3247 83
Yallobusha L. R. Wilson 7437 12 16 84 7453 96
Yazoo W. H. Mangum 14,301 34   14,301 34
    $362,896 18 $659 91 $363,556 09


Page 67

        
COUNTIES. Insolvencies. Erroneous Assessments Commissions for Collecting. Amounts paid State Treasurer. Total Credits. Amount due State. Amount Over Paid.
Adams $119 25 $101 06 $170 68 $11,208 22 $11,599 21    
Amite 26 23   75 83 4979 65 5081 71    
Attala 38 21 6 69 71 43 4690 44 4806 77    
Bolivar       6805 00 6805 00 $3791 89  
Calhoun 92 68 2 68 32 56 2139 01 2266 93    
Carroll 232 40 17 50   10,000 00 10,249 90 560 69  
Chickasaw 188 89 5 60 93 89 6166 01 6454 39    
Choctaw 112 58   66 20 4347 35 4526 13    
Claiborne           8393 22  
Clarke 26 46 9 57 53 93 3541 52 3631 48    
Coahoma 239 62 40 48   3287 16 3567 26 591 06  
Copiah 94 32 11 64 110 55 7260 29 7476 80    
Covington     15 51 1018 37 1033 88    
DeSoto 296 13   171 38 11,254 61 11,722 12    
Franklin 28 98   45 51 3088 56 3163 05    
Greene 50 38 6 01 395 51 402 40    
Hancock           1122 00  
Harrison       600 00 600 00 878 49  
Hinds           17,693 83  
Holmes 55 53 9 58     65 11 9962 66  
Issaquena           7272 54  
Itawamba 104 80     3000 00 3104 80 866 84  
Jackson 8 16   18 08 873 73 894 97   14 62


Page 68

Jasper $20 73 $74 11 $52 36 3438 38 $3585 58    
Jefferson 17 84     7000 00 7017 84 $194 76  
Jones 23 26   7 67 503 70 534 63    
Kemper 59 00   62 70 4118 09 4239 79    
Lafayette 385 31       385 31 5169 36  
Lauderdale 61 62   52 35 3438 31 3552 28    
Lawrence 16 98   43 28 2842 45 2902 71    
Leake 22 36 11 46 37 58 2467 45 2538 85    
Lowndes 56 87 11 93 193 46 12,705 85 12,968 16    
Madison 63 97   189 81 12,464 79 12,718 57    
Marion 3 60   20 53 1348 36 1372 49    
Marshall           12,297 78  
Monroe 132 33 74 83 155 28 10,196 71 10,559 15    
Neshoba     32 41 2128 81 2161 22    
Newton     47 58 3124 64 3172 22    
Noxubee 194 19 9 65 167 02 10,968 42 11,339 28    
Oktibbeha 72 19   95 35 6261 52 6429 06    
Panola           10,123 75  
Perry 1 21   6 90 453 24 461 35    
Pike 31 82 5 60 57 77 3794 12 3889 31    
Pontotoc       4481 75 4481 75 2377 84  
Rankin 56 52 14 04 83 40 5477 26 5631 29    
Scott 51 13   47 07 3091 10 3189 30    


Page 69

Sunflower 8 77   22 20 1402 30 1493 38    
Smith       1500 00 1500 00 422 40  
Sunflower           6521 98  
Tallahatchie 20 70     2500 00 2520 70 3111 69  
Tippah 353 96       353 96 2441 19  
Tishomingo           3714 77  
Tunica 72 06   76 43 5019 32 5167 81    
Warren           10,372 78  
Washington       3922 42 3922 42 15,563 51  
Wayne 9 55   15 32 1606 48 1031 35    
Wilkinson 15 99 2 02 127 98 8405 01 8551 00    
Winston 20 02 22 75 48 08 3156 98 3247 83    
Yallobusha 308 00   107 18 7038 78 7453 96    
Yazoo       8000 00 8000 00 6301 34  
  $3744 72 $431 62 $2676 33 $226,971 67 $233,824 34 $129,746 37 $14 62

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
November 2d, 1863.

A. J. GILLESPIE, Auditor Public Accs.


Page 70

[DOCUMENT J.]

        

STATEMENT OF DISTRIBUTION OF STATE MILITARY RELIEF TAX OF 1861,
Under act entitled "An act to create a Fund for the support of destitute families of Volunteers in this State, and for other purposes," approved December 16, 1861.

COUNTIES. Nett Tax. Paid State Treasurer. Paid County Treasurer. No. of Volunteers. Distributive Share. Excess Paid County Treasurer. Balance Paid from State Treasury. Balance due by Tax Collectors.
Adams $7288 99 7288 99   367 1753 79   1753 79  
Amite 3086 81 86 61 3000 00 584 2790 77 209 23    
Attala 2814 23   2814 23 1132 5409 51   2595 28  
Bolivar 6219 12 6219 12   243 1161 23   1161 23  
Calhoun 1301 48   1301 48 10 57 5051 11   3749 63  
Carroll 6813 06   6813 06 1635 7813 21   1050 15  
Chickasaw 3999 25 999 25 3000 00 828 3956 78   956 78  
Choctaw 2684 73 998 65 1686 08 1882 8993 55   7307 47  
Claiborne 5084 32     299 1428 84   1428 84 384 32
Clarke 2240 81   2240 81 1175 5614 99   3374 18  
Coahoma 3839 69 3839 69   49 234 16   234 16  
Copiah 4580 62   4580 62 1141 5452 52   871 90  
Covington 645 49   645 49 407 1944 94   1299 45  
DeSoto 6979 86   6979 86 958 4578 01 2401 85    
Franklin 1837 93 393 93 1444 00 336 1605 65   161 65  
Greene 235 70   235 70 140 669 02   433 32  
Hancock 711 12 711 12   251 1199 46   1199 46  
Harrison 1015 48   1015 48 117 559 11 456 37    
Hinds 10,585 32 9091 82 1493 50 1053 5031 99   3538 49  
Holmes 6121 12 6121 12   1116 5333 05   5333 05


Page 71

Issaquena 4253 73 3600 00   60 315 40   315 40 653 73
Itawamba 2542 32   2542 32 1065 5089 34   2547 02  
Jackson 651 75 550 00   314 1500 52   1500 52 101 75
Jasper 2075 90   2075 90 528 2523 16   447 26  
Jefferson 4178 00 4178 00   320 1529 19   1529 19  
Jones 276 06   276 06 450 2150 42   1874 36  
Kemper 2433 57 183 57 2250 00 870 4157 49   1907 49  
Lafayette 3426 38 3426 38   836 3995 01   3995 01  
Lauderdale 2195 07 2195 07   892 4262 62   4263 62  
Lawrence 1789 37 1789 37   512 2446 71   2446 71  
Leake 1684 20   1684 20 896 4281 73   2597 53  
Lowndes 7380 02 7380 02   794 3794 30   3794 30  
Madison 7320 55 7320 55   873 4171 82   4171 82  
Marion 843 78 343 78 500 00 213 1017 87   517 87  
Marshall 7817 21     1424 6804 90   6894 90 7817 21
Monroe 6543 98   6543 98 1594 7617 28   1073 30  
Neshoba 1291 75   1291 75 466 2226 88   935 13  
Newton 1884 59 234 59 1650 00 422 2016 62   366 62  
Noxubee 6641 89 2341 89 4300 00 1182 5648 45   1348 45  
Oktibbeha 3856 33 3856 33   454 2169 54   2169 54  
Panola 6161 50 6161 50   639 3053 60   3053 60  
Perry 278 40   278 49 125 597 34   318 94  
Pike 2504 86 1004 86 1500 00 401 1916 27   416 27  
Pontotoc 4182 14 1182 14 3000 00 1509 7211 09   4211 09  
Rankin 3350 85   3350 85 1043 4984 20   1633 35  
Scott 1876 67 1876 67   455 2174 32   2174 32  
Simpson 890 94 890 94   326 1557 86   1557 86  
Smith 1112 10 13 10 1099 00 622 2972 36   1873 36  
Sunflower 3787 17 3787 17   309 1476 63   1476 63  
Tallahatchie 3354 98 3354 98   367 1753 79   1753 79  
Tippah 3288 34   3288 34 1401 6694 99   3406 65  
Tishomingo 4129 28     1826 8725 94   8725 94 4129 28


Page 72

Tunica 2627 83 2627 83   130 621 24   621 24  
Warren 7593 73     716 3421 57   3421 57 7593 73
Washington 11,496 29 11,496 29   310 1481 40   1481 40  
Wayne 623 01 623 01   187 893 62   893 62  
Wilkinson 4759 25   4759 25 622 2972 36 1786 89    
Winston 1940 85   1940 85 542 2590 07   649 22  
Yallobusha 4433 12 4433 12   718 3431 12   3431 12  
Yazoo 8803 24 1684 24 7119 00 451 2155 20 4963 80    
  $224,366 13 112,285 70 86,700 21 41,640 198,985 91 9818 14 122,003 84 20,680 02

        All the counties in the foregoing statement have been paid from the State Treasury, except the counties of Pike and Washington. The amounts for Excess paid County Treasurers have been paid into the State Treasury since the distribution, except from the counties of Harrison and Yazoo. There are balances due from the following counties, viz: Jackson, Issaquena and Marshall.--Tishomingo has paid the sum of $3137 94 since the distribution, which leaves a balance due from that county of $991 34.

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS., Oct. 30, 1863.

A. J. GILLESPIE, Auditor Public Accs.


Page 73

[DOCUMENT K.]

        

STATEMENT OF DISTRIBUTION OF $500,000 TO DESTITUTE Families of soldiers, under act approved January 3d, 1863, and donation of $2000 by A. J. Gillespie, Auditor of Public Accounts.

COUNTIES. Number of Volunteers. Pro-rata Share. Remarks.
Adams 367 3323 53 Paid.
Amite 862 7571 32 Paid.
Attala 1326 11,646 85 Paid.
Bolivar 243 2134 38 Paid.
Calhoun 1057 9284 10 Paid.
Carroll 1635 14 360 93 Paid.
Chickasaw 1445 12,692 08 Paid.
Choctaw 2521 22,143 06 Paid.
Claiborne 997 8757 09 Paid.
Clarke 1324 11,629 28 Paid.
Coahoma 49 430 39 Paid.
Copiah 1608 14,123 77 Paid.
Covington 507 4453 21 Paid.
DeSoto 958 8414 54 Due.
Franklin 712 6253 81 Paid.
Greene 140 1229 68 Paid.
Hancock 503 4418 00 Paid.
Harrison 117 1027 66 Paid.
Hinds 1367 12,006 96 Paid.
Holmes 1470 12,911 66 Paid.
Issaquena 66 579 70 Due.
Itawamba 1065 9354 36 Paid.
Jackson 421 3697 82 Paid.
Jasper 1053 9248 96 Paid.
Jefferson 674 5920 04 Paid.
Jones 521 4576 17 Paid.
Kemper 1342 11,787 38 Paid.
Lafayette 836 7342 96 Paid.
Lauderdale 1174 10,311 76 Paid.
Lawrence 933 8194 95 Paid.
Leake 1269 11,146 19 Paid.
Lowndes 1387 12,182 63 Paid.
Madison 1088 9556 38 Paid.
Marion 474 4163 35 Paid.
Marshall 1424 12,507 62 Paid.
Monroe 1594 14,000 81 Paid.
Neshoba 1123 9863 80 Paid.
Newton 902 7922 67 Paid.
Noxubee 1471 12,920 44 Paid.
Oktibbeha 1008 8853 71 Paid.
Panola 1689 14,835 23 Paid.
Perry 125 1097 93 Paid.
Pike 845 7422 01 Paid.
Pontotoc 1509 13,254 21 Paid.
Rankin 1272 11,172 54 Paid.
Scott 805 7070 67 Paid.


Page 74

Simpson 326 2863 40 Paid.
Smith 857 7527 41 Paid.
Sunflower 309 2714 09 Due.
Tallahatchie 744 6534 88 Due.
Tippah 2136 18,761 44 Paid.
Tishomingo 2047 17,979 70 Paid.
Tunica 130 1141 85 Paid.
Warren 1192 10,469 86 Paid.
Washington 310 2722 87 Due.
Wayne 405 3557 30 Paid.
Wilkinson 800 7026 76 Paid.
Winston 542 4760 63 Paid.
Yallobusha 1021 8967 90 Paid.
Yazoo 1056 9275 32 Paid.
  57,153 $502,000 00  

A. J. GILLESPIE, Auditor Public Accs.

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
Nov. 2d, 1863.


Page 75

[DOCUMENT L.]

        

STATEMENT OF DISTRIBUTION OF MILITARY RELIEF TAX OF 1862, made August 1, 1863, under act approved January 3d, 1863.

COUNTIES. No. Volunteers. Pro-rata Share. Remarks.
Adams 1131 $3517 42 Due.
Amite 862 2680 82 Due.
Attala 1326 4123 86 Paid.
Bolivar 243 755 73 Paid.
Calhoun 1057 3287 27 Paid.
Carroll 1635 5084 85 Due.
Chickasaw 1445 4493 95 Paid.
Choctaw 2521 7840 34 Paid.
Claiborne 997 3100 67 Due.
Clarke 1324 4117 64 Paid.
Coahoma 49 152 39 Paid.
Copiah 1608 5000 88 Paid.
Covington 507 1576 77 Due.
Desoto 958 2979 38 Due.
Franklin 712 2214 32 Due.
Greene 140 435 40 Due.
Hancock 503 1564 33 Paid.
Harrison 431 1340 44 Due.
Hinds 1367 4251 37 Due.
Holmes 1470 4571 70 Paid.
Issaquena 66 205 26 Due.
Itawamba 1967 6117 37 Paid.
Jackson 421 1309 34 Due.
Jasper 1053 3274 83 Paid.
Jefferson 674 2096 14 Due.
Jones 521 1620 32 Paid.
Kemper 1342 4173 62 Paid.
Lafayette 1845 5737 95 Paid.
Lauderdale 1174 3631 14 Due.
Lawrence 933 2901 63 Due.
Leake 1269 3946 59 Due.
Lowndes 1387 4313 57 Paid.
Madison 1088 3383 68 Paid.
Marion 474 1474 14 Paid.
Marshall 1424 4428 64 Due.
Monroe 1861 5787 74 Due.
Neshoba 1123 3492 53 Paid.
Newton 902 2805 22 Due.
Noxubee 1471 4574 84 Paid.
Oktibbeha 1008 3134 88 Paid.
Panola 1689 5252 79 Paid.
Perry 125 388 75 Due.
Pike 845 2627 95 Due.
Pontotoc 3164 9840 04 Paid.
Rankin 1272 3955 92 Paid.
Scott 805 2503 55 Paid.
Simpson 719 2236 09 Paid.


Page 76

Smith 857 2665 27 Paid.
Sunflower 309 960 99 Due.
Tallahatchie 744 2313 84 Due.
Tippah 2162 6723 82 Paid.
Tishomingo 2047 6366 17 Paid.
Tunica 130 404 30 Due.
Warren 2016 6269 76 Due.
Washington 310 964 10 Due.
Wayne 405 1259 55 Paid.
Wilkinson 800 2488 13 Due.
Winston 1092 3396 12 Paid.
Yallobusha 1021 3175 32 Paid.
Yazoo 1107 3442 77 Due.
  63,908 $198,754 19  

A. J. GILLESPIE, Auditor Public Accs.

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
Nov. 2, 1863.


Page 77

[DOCUMENT M.]

        

STATEMENT OF SEMI-ANNUAL INTEREST DUE THE SEVERAL CHICKASAW COUNTIES UNDER THE THIRD SECTION of an act entitled "An act to provide for the payment of interest on the Chickasaw School Fund, and other purposes," approved March 7th, 1856.

COUNTIES. Due 1st May, 1856. Due 1st November 1856. Due 1st May, 1857. Due 1st November 1857. Due 1st May, 1858.
Pontotoc $551 06¼ paid $704 27½ paid $941 91 paid $1698 28 paid $2545 66 paid
Itawamba 545 68½ paid 697 40½ paid 932 72 paid 1681 71 paid 2520 82 paid
Lafayette 437 41¼ paid 559 02½ paid 747 65 paid 1348 03 paid 2020 64 paid
DeSoto 587 07½ paid 750 30 paid 1003 47 paid 1809 26 paid 2712 01 paid
Tunica 328 19½ paid 419 44¼ paid 560 98 paid 1011 44 paid 1516 11 paid
Panola 404 75 paid 517 28½ paid 691 83 paid 1247 38 paid 1869 76 paid
Yallobusha 139 82 paid 178 69¼ paid 238 99 paid 430 90 paid 645 90 paid
Oktibbeha 35 18 due 44 95¼ due 60 12 due 108 40 due 162 48 due
Lowndes 55 10 ¾ paid 70 43 paid 94 19 paid 169 83 paid 254 57 paid
Choctaw 16 71¼ paid 21 36 paid 28 57 paid 51 50 paid 77 20 paid
Tallahatchie 1 89¾ paid 2 40½ paid 3 21 paid 5 80 paid 8 69 paid
Tishomingo 706 97¾ paid 903 54 paid 1208 41 paid 2178 79 paid 3265 91 paid
Tippah 653 37¼ paid 835 03 paid 1116 79 paid 2013 58 paid 3018 28 paid
Marshall 560 77¼ paid 716 68¼ paid 958 51 paid 1728 20 paid 2590 51 paid
Chickasaw 425 25½ paid 543 49 paid 726 88 paid 1310 56 paid 1964 48 paid
Monroe 250 21 paid 319 78 paid 427 68 paid 771 10 paid 1155 85 paid
Calhoun 314 65½ paid 402 15½ paid 537 85 paid 969 74 paid 1453 61 paid
  $6014 14 $7686 25 $10,279 76 $18,534 50 $27,782 48


Page 78

        
COUNTIES. Due 1st November 1858. Due 1st May, 1859. Due 1st November 1859. Due 1st May, 1860. Due 1st November 1860.
Pontotoc $2621 73 paid $2647 95 paid $2723 58 paid $2761 36 paid $2856 05 paid
Itawamba 2596 14 paid 2622 11 paid 2696 99 paid 2734 41 paid 2828 15 paid
Lafayette 2081 02 paid 2101 83 paid 2161 87 paid 2191 85 due 2267 00 due
DeSoto 2793 05 paid 2820 98 paid 2901 55 paid 2941 80 paid 3042 65 paid
Tunica 1561 41 paid 1577 03 paid 1622 07 paid 1644 57 paid 1700 95 paid
Panola 1925 64 paid 1944 89 paid 2000 45 paid 2028 20 paid 2097 75 paid
Yallobusha 665 20 paid 671 86 paid 691 04 paid 700 63 due 724 65 due
Oktibbeha 167 33 due 169 01 due 173 84 due 176 25 due 182 30 due
Lowndes 262 17 paid 264 79 paid 272 36 paid 276 14 paid 285 60 paid
Choctaw 79 52 paid 80 31 paid 82 60 paid 83 74 paid 86 60 paid
Tallahatchie 8 95 paid 9 04 paid 9 30 due 9 43 due 9 75 due
Tishomingo 3363 50 paid 3397 14 paid 3494 16 paid 3542 64 paid 3664 15 paid
Tippah 3108 47 paid 3139 56 paid 3229 24 paid 3274 02 paid 3386 25 paid
Marshall 2667 91 paid 2694 59 paid 2771 56 paid 2809 99 paid 2906 35 paid
Chickasaw 2023 19 paid 2043 43 paid 2101 79 paid 2130 94 paid 2204 00 paid
Monroe 1190 39 paid 1202 29 paid 1236 64 paid 1253 79 paid 1296 75 paid
Calhoun 1497 05 paid 1512 02 paid 1555 21 paid 1576 78 paid 1630 85 paid
  $28,612 67 $28,898 83 $29,724 25 $30, 136 54 $31,169 80


Page 79

        
COUNTIES. Due 1st May, 1861. Due 1st November 1861. Due 1st May, 1862 Due 1st November 1862. Due 1st May, 1863.
Pontotoc $2918 70 Paid $2958 67 paid 2959 49 paid $2959 49 paid $2963 81 paid
Itawamba 2890 20 paid 2929 79 paid 2930 60 paid 2930 60 paid 2934 96 paid
Lafayette 2316 75 due 2348 47 paid 2349 12 due 2349 12 due 2352 63 due
DeSoto 3109 41 paid 3152 01 paid 3152 88 due 3152 88 due 3157 57 due
Tunica 1738 30 paid 1762 09 paid 1762 57 due 1762 57 due 1765 20 due
Panola 2143 75 paid 2173 12 paid 2173 72 paid 2173 72 paid 2176 96 due
Yallobusha 740 55 paid 750 70 due 750 91 due 750 91 due 752 04 due
Oktibbeha 186 15 due 188 84 due 188 89 due 188 89 due 189 18 due
Lowndes 291 86 paid 295 87 paid 295 95 paid 295 95 due 296 40 paid
Choctaw 88 55 paid 89 74 paid 89 76 paid 89 76 paid 89 90 due
Tallahatchie 9 96 due 10 11 due 10 12 due 10 12 due 10 13 due
Tishomingo 3744 50 paid 3795 78 paid 3796 84 paid 3796 84 due 3802 49 paid
Tippah 3460 60 paid 3507 97 due 3508 94 paid 3508 94 due 3514 16 due
Marshall 2970 10 paid 3010 79 due 3011 63 paid 3011 63 due 3016 11 due
Chickasaw 2252 35 paid 2283 20 due 2283 83 paid 2283 83 due 2287 24 due
Monroe 1325 25 paid 1343 38 paid 1343 75 paid 1343 75 paid 1345 75 paid
Calhoun 1666 65 paid 1689 45 paid 1689 92 paid 1689 92 paid 1692 44 paid
  $31,853 63 $32,289 98 $32,289 92 $32,298 92 $32,346 97

        

        

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
November 2d, 1863.

A. J. GILLESPIE,
Auditor Public Acc's.


Page 80

[DOCUMENT N.]

        

STATEMENT OF AMOUNTS DRAWN BY THE MISSISSIPPI CENtral Railroad Company on account of Chickasaw School Fund loaned said Company, under act of March, 1856.

Date of Warrants. Number. Amounts. Remarks.
1856--March 21 1079 45,850 00 Re-pd. Feb. 18; '63.
May 7 15, 16, 17, 18 50,000 00 Re-pd. Aug. 19, '63.
November 6 445 10,000 00 Due Nov. 6, '63.
December 18 651 27,000 00 Due Dec. 18, '63.
1857--January 26 899 30,000 00 Due Jan. 26, '64.
January 900 10,000 00 Due Jan. 26, '64.
February 28 1162 5000 00 Due Feb. 28, '64.
February 1163 4000 00 Due Feb. 28, '64.
1859--July 5 220 4150 00 Due July 5, '66.
1860--June 14 128 9000 00 Due June 14, '67.
November 28 528 4000 00 Due Nov. 28 '67.
    $199,000 00  

A. J. GILLESPIE, Auditor Public Accs.

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS,
November 2d, 1863.


Page 81

[DOCUMENT O.]

        

STATEMENT OF AMOUNTS DRAWN BY THE MOBILE AND OHIO Railroad Company on account of Chickasaw School Fund loaned said Company, under act of March, 1856.

Date of Warrant. Number. Amounts. REMARKS.
1857--May 4 9 25,000 00 Due May 4, 1864.
May 18 43 20,000 00 Due May 18, 1864.
June 2 102 10,000 00 Due June 2, 1864.
June 17 140 20,000 00 Due June 17, 1864.
July 13 278 30,000 00 Due July 13, 1864.
September 2 355 15,000 00 Due Sept. 2, 1864.
September 18 382 15,000 00 Due Sept. 18, 1864.
1858--April 1 1296 & 1302 25,000 00 Due April 1, 1865.
June 24 175 2900 00 Due June 24, 1865.
June 18 129 10,000 00 Due June 18, 1865.
December 4 817 & 818 7100 00 Due Dec. 4, 1865.
1859--May 18 36 5000 00 Due May 18, 1866.
May 31 63 1000 00 Due May 31, 1866.
1860--May 29 60, 61, & 62 14,000 00 Due May 29, 1867.
    $200,000 00  

A. J. GILLESPIE, Auditor Public Accs.

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
November 2d, 1863.


Page 82

[DOCUMENT P.]

        

STATEMENT OF AMOUNTS DRAWN BY THE MISSISSIPPI AND Tennessee Railroad Company on account of Chickasaw School Fund loaned said Company, under act of March, 1856.

Date of Warrants. Number. Amounts. Remarks.
1856--April 8 1112 45,850 00 Due April 8, 1863.
May 10 35 50,000 00 Due May 10, 1863.
September 29 361 10,000 00 Due Sept. 29, 1863.
December 6 563 36,000 00 Due Dec. 6, 1863.
1857--January 1 756 30,000 00 Due Jan. 1, 1864.
January 7 795 1000 00 Due Jan. 7, 1864.
January 22 877 9000 00 Due Jan. 22, 1864.
1859--June 17 120 4150 00 Due June 17, 1866.
December 23 898 4000 00 Due Dec. 23, 1866.
1860--May 30 78 9200 00 Due May 30, 1867.
November 1 456 800 00 Due Nov. 1, 1867.
    $200,000 00  

A. J. GILLESPIE, Auditor Public Accs.

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
November 2d, 1863.


Page 83

[DOCUMENT Q]

        

STATEMENT OF WARRANTS ISSUED TO THE NEW ORLEANS, Jackson and Great Northern Railroad Company on account of Chickasaw School Fund, under act of March, 1856.

Date of Warrants. Number. Amounts. Remarks.
1857--March 25 1191 25,000 00 Due March 25, 1864.
May 11 22 25,000 00 Due May 11, 1864.
June 10 118 25,000 00 Due June 10, 1864.
September 7 365 30,000 00 Due Sept. 7, 1864.
October 1 397 30,000 00 Due Oct. 1, 1864.
October 31 470 33,000 00 Due Oct. 31, 1864.
October 31 471 17,000 00 Due Oct. 31, 1864.
1861--February 16 1308 & '9 10,000 00 Due Feb. 16, 1868.
August 16 567 5000 00 Due Aug. 16, 1868.
    $200,000 00  

A. J. GILLESPIE, Auditor Public Accs.

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
November 2d, 1863.


Page 84

[DOCUMENT R.]

        

STATEMENT OF WARRANTS ISSUED ON ACCOUNT OF LOAN TO PURCHASE CORN AND SUPPLIES OF FOOD UNder second section of an Ordinance of the Convention, entitled "An Ordinance for the relief of certain counties of this State," adopted March 30th, 1861.

Date. No. of Warrant. COUNTIES. Amount. Remarks.
1861        
April 3 1602 Rankin 1000 00 Due and unpaid.
April 15 1652 Simpson 800 00 Principal and Interest paid Nov. 27, 1862.
April 22 1687 Smith 1000 00 Due and unpaid.
April 22 1688 Smith 1000 00 Due and unpaid.
April 22 1689 Smith 1000 00 Due and unpaid.
April 29 1718 Newton 3000 00 Due and unpaid.
May 7 29 Scott 800 00 Principal and Interest paid Oct. 14, 1862.
May 18 54 Copiah 1000 00 Principal and Interest paid Oct. 18, 1862.
May 23 77 Leake 1000 00 Due and unpaid.
May 24 81 Winston 1000 00 Principal and Interest paid June 6, 1862.
June 10 128 Leake 1000 00 Due and unpaid.
June 19 173 Leake 1000 00 Due and unpaid.
September 18 644 Smith 600 00 Due and unpaid.
    Total $14,200 00  

AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS, MISS.,
November 2d, 1863.

A. J. GILLESPIE,
Auditor Public Acc's.


Page 85

AUDITOR'S REPORT NO. 2.

AUDITOR'S OFFICE,
COLUMBUS, MISS., October 29, 1863.

To His Excellency John J. Pettus, Governor, &c.,

        SIR--In answer to your communication of this date, I have the honor to report as follows:

        The amount of Cotton Notes issued pursuant to a bill to be entitled "An act authorizing the issuance of Treasury Notes as advances upon cotton," approved Dec. 19, 1861, to be five millions of dollars. The amount refunded on account of said loan to this date is five hundred and seventy-seven thousand seven hundred and nine dollars.

        The amount of warrants issued upon your requisitions on account of Military Fund under act entitled "An act authorizing the issuance of Treasury Notes on behalf of the State," approved January 29, 1862, and the act entitled "An act to procure salt for the indigent families of soldiers, and for other purposes," approved January 1st, 1863, is one million one hundred and fifteen thousand five hundred and fifty-four dollars and ninety-three cents; of which the sum of one hundred and twenty thousand six hundred and two dollars and twenty-seven cents was drawn on account of appropriation for salt. The amount refunded on account said military fund is two hundred and sixty-two thousand five hundred and eighty nine dollars and sixty-seven cents; of which twelve thousand five hundred and eighty-nine dollurs and sixty seven cents was for sales of salt.

        The amount of Treasury notes countersigned and delivered to the State Treasurer under an ordinance of the Convention to raise means for the defense of the State, adopted January, 1861, is nine hundred and sixty-nine thousand eight hundred and fifty dollars. The amount of said notes redeemed and cancelled is three hundred and four thousand five hundred and ten dollars and sixty-two cents, of the issues payable in June, 1862, and one hundred dollars of the issues


Page 86

payable in June, 1863. The amount of tax collected under the first section of said ordinance and paid into the State Treasury by the several tax collectors to date, is three hundred and fifty-five thousand four hundred and forty-three dollars and ninety-seven cents.

        The amount drawn upon your requisition on account of appropriation for arms under act approved Dec. 15, 1859, is seventy-two thousand seven hundred forty-five dollars and twelve cents.

        The amount of warrants issued upon your requisitions for repairs of Executive Mansion under act approved December 11, 1861, is fifty-nine dollars.

All of which is respectfully submitted by
Your obedient servant,

A. J. GILLESPIE,
Auditor of Public Acconts.


Page 87

TREASURER'S REPORT.

TREASURER'S OFFICE.
COLUMBUS, MISS., November 9, 1863.

To the Legislature of the State of Mississippi:

        I have the honor to submit the following report: Before the fall of Jackson, in May last, I was ordered to pack up the books, papers and money then on hand. I did so. The same was removed to Enterprise, Mississippi. Fearing a raid upon that place, I took the valuables of the office to Mobile, Alabama, and placed them in the Bank of Mobile. After the fall of Vicksburg, an attack upon Mobile was apprehended, and I again removed them to Montgomery, Alabama, and deposited them in the Central Bank of Alabama, where the most of them are now. The cost of removal and travelling expenses, was $412 00, for which I ask an appropriation by the Legislature.

        The following is a list of the Treasury notes issued in pursuance of an ordinance of the Convention of the State:

  • 1 Bond . . . . . $ 360
  • 109 Bonds, $500 each . . . . . 54,500
  • 5459 Treasury Notes, $100 each . . . . . 545,900
  • 5458 Treasury Notes, $50 each . . . . . 272,900
  • 5035 Treasury Notes, $20 each . . . . . 100,700
  • 5035 Treasury Notes, $10 each . . . . . 50,350
  • $1,02,710
  • Of this amount there is on hand . . . . . 32,990
  • Amounts issued . . . . . 991,720

        The amount on hand was signed by the late Col. E. R. Burt, Auditor, etc., and I declined issuing them after his death. These Bonds and Notes ought to be destroyed. There is enough of coin in the Treasury to pay all outstanding Treasury Notes, due June 1st 1862.


Page 88

        The following is a statement of the Treasury Notes, issued by an act of the Legislature, 29th January, 1862:

  • 8798 Notes, $50 each . . . . . $439,900
  • 9824 Notes, $20 each . . . . . 196,480
  • 64,933 Notes, $10 each . . . . . 649,330
  • 64,933 Notes, $5 each . . . . . 324,665
  • 1,610,375

        This includes $500,000 appropriated by the Legislature to the destitute families.

        There is in the Treasury $407, 33 02, subject to the payment of general warrants.

        There is in the Treasury $8,134 50 of the Cotton Loan yet unpaid. Auditor's warrants have been issued but have never been presented for payment.

        There has been $600,000 00 of the Cotton Notes paid back into the Treasury. These notes ought to be destroyed.

        The last Legislature appointed a special committee to examine the Treasurer's Office. Major L. Mims, the chairman of the committee, at my request, called it together for the purpose of making the examination; the committee failed to meet, hence no examination has taken place.

        I respectfully urge upon the Legislature the propriety of appointing a special commissioner to examine the Treasurer's Office. It will take three or four month's time to make the necessary examination. It is hardly possible to get a committee of the Legislature to remain that length of time. This is the reason why I ask for the appointment of a special commissioner.

        Owing to the issuance of such large amounts of Treasury Notes, the duties of this office have become very onerous. The clerical force in the office is entirely inadequate to the discharge of its duties efficiently. I therefore request the appointment of an additional clerk.

        I regret that I cannot give you a more detailed and elaborate view of the operations of this Department. The want of time to prepare it, and other causes, prevent my doing so. The examination proposed to be made, and the report of the same will, to some extent, obviate the necessity of it at the present time.

        This partial report is respectfully submitted.

M. D. HAYNES,
State Treasurer.


Page 89

Memoranda Concerning the Geological Survey.

        By the act, approved August 7, 1861, (Extra Session) the previous act appropriating $4,800 per annum for the purposes of the survey, was suspended "during the war, and for twelve months thereafter;" and the annual sum of $1,250 was allowed as a salary to the State Geologist, and for the further prosecution of the office work of the Survey, and the prosecution of the collections; the field-work being, of course, suspended.

        Shortly after the passage of the above act, and during a portion of the winter 1861-62, the chemical labors (analyses of soils, etc..) which had until then progressed as usual, were suspended, in order to complete the arrangement, labelling and cataloguing of the collection; now consisting of about 3,000 specimens, among which about 400 soils and marls, representing the agricultural resources of the State; outside of the Mississippi bottom, not yet explored. To the respectable aspect of the collections so arranged, their preservation during the subsequent Federal occupation, is chiefly owing.

        In spring, 1862, at the request of Dr. Lemman, Chief of the Nitre District including this State, I undertook a special examination of the caves existing in this State, with reference to the production of saltpetre. The result, as anticipated, was unfavorable, these caves being too wet for the accumulation of nitre, though it is constantly forming in them.

        About the same time, I was directed by the Governor to examine, and report on, the resources of the State in reference to the production of salt. The subject having occupied my earnest attention before, during field work, but little further examination in loco was required; I nevertheless visited a number of reputed salt-springs and licks in Rankin and Hinds counties, finding confirmed in all cases, my previously acquired views on the subject, viz: That no natural brines sufficiently strong, or deposits of salt, seem to exist in the State; and that the salt licks so frequently found, are a merely superficial accumulation, resulting from the evaporation,


Page 90

on the surface of a porous soil, of very weak, and mostly impure, brines drawn up from underlying deposits impregnated with the same. In no instance has the sinking of a well on such a spot, led to any useful discovery.

        With the approbation of the Governor, I published in circular form for distribution, general directions for making salt, explaining also, the mode of occurrence, and manner of utilizing these salt licks by leaching the top earth, where indications justified the attempt. I at the same time invited the sending of specimens of salt or earth to me for examination. Numerous specimens and communications were, in consequence, received and as promptly attended to as single-handed labor would permit; the results of analyses, or directions, as the case might be, being forwarded by mail to the persons concerned. In a number of cases (especially in Rankin, Hinds and Panola counties,) the brines, or salt obtained therefrom, were of good, and even superior quality; in others, their impurity was found to be corrected by the use of quicklime; while in others still, the amount of other salts (especially Glauber's and Epsom Salt) was found too great to allow of purification or other useful application for the present. These examinations have been continued, with more or less interruption in consequence of the operations of the armies, up to the present time. It is believed that not a few persons have thereby been enabled to manufacture their own supply of salt; while a good many more have been prevented from using a noxious article, or incurring serious expense where no good result could be realized.

        I have also taken the opportunity of examining the relative value of the various kinds of salt now used; the result being, that the purest of all is the Louisiana Rock Salt; next to it the Salt made at Lake Bisteneau, in Northwestern Louisiana; while the least pure of all, containing three to five per cent. of impurities, is the salt made in Southern Alabama.

        Other substances also have been examined, such as copperas ores from various parts of the State; numerous specimens supposed to be, or contain, saltpetre, but mostly containing only Epsom or Glauber's Salt. A fine specimen of alum (or rather Sulphate of Alumina) more than equal in value, weight for weight, to the best Alum of commerce, has been received from Holmes county, where, as well as in the adjoining portions of Madison, (Artesian springs, Camden, etc.) alum earth of good quality occurs.

        I have also, at the request of the District Superintendent of the Nitre Bureau, rendered advisory assistance, in the


Page 91

construction, and management of the nitre beds established at Jackson, but since destroyed by the enemy.

        At the retreat of the army from Abbeville, I remained at Oxford, in order, if possible, to prevent the waton destruction of the collections, which were in a dormitory building, apart from the University collections. I obtained from the Federal Provost Marshal an order protecting the collections, laboratory, etc., but it was only by unceasing personal vigilance that I could prevent serious injury to both. After the occupation of the University buildings as a federal hospital, the collections were ordered to be removed, to make room for the sick. I succeeded, however, in so far interesting the Post Surgeon in their preservation, that a detail of carpenters was furnished me, by whose assistance I effected the removal to the Observatory building, to which the shelves, also, had been removed. Thus, on the whole, but very little damage has been sustained; although, but for my presence, the greater part of the specimens would have been lost. They are now fully re-arranged, and I have packed away ready for transmission, the duplicates designed for the State collection at Jackson.

        In February last, I was detailed by the Governor, upon the request of General Pemberton, to establish Drummond lights on the bluffs at Vicksburg. Owing to the great difficulty of procuring intelligent workmen, and materials, the arrangements were not completed until about three weeks before the interruption of railroad communication by the enemy; and subsequently, in consequence of the most important ingredient for the generation of the light having been re-shipped upon requisition of the ordnance laboratory at Selma, no adequate supply for a permanent maintenance of the light could be procured before the intervention of the enemy. While on my way to bring on the deficient material myself, I was taken severely ill at Jackson, being confined to bed during the first federal occupation of that place, and for some time thereafter; when, finding communication with Vicksburg closed, and being forbidden all kind of exertion, I returned to Oxford, where, after a tedious convalescence, I have continued as heretofore, partly the regular chemical work of the survey, partly such examinations as, from time to time have been called for.

        That with the limited means at my disposal, and under the necessity of preparing, myself, all the re-agents, materials, and even apparatus required in the laboratory, which ordinarily are purchased ready-made, the progress of the


Page 92

regular work cannot be rapid, will not be surprising. Everything however, is kept in working order, and ready for anything that may be required to be done.

        As to the report made by myself in 1860, and printed by Mr. Barksdale at the Mississippian Office, which had to be sent to St. Louis to be bound within the limits of the appropriation, I have information that it was safe up to March of the current year, and have reason to hope it will continue so to be for any reasonable length of time, inasmuch as the binder would be unable to reimburse the outlay for 1000 copies bound already, by the sale of the edition in any manner whatsoever, it being of interest chiefly to this State only.

E. W. HILGARD.

ANALYSIS OF SALTS.

        The following analyses, selected from those made by me during the past two years, may prove interesting to the public, as showing the great variety of composition, and the necessity for chemical examination of salts made from the natural licks occurring in this State.

        

I. Brines or Salts of good quality for Salt-boiling.

  Brine from Mr[.] Triggs' near Brandon, Rankin county. Salt from Dr. Hibbler, Sardis, Panola county. Salt from T. J. McDonald's near Raymond, Hinds county.
Chloride of Sodium (Com'n Salt) 78 32 94.69 Contains about 2 per cent. of impurities, chiefly Glaubers Salt.
Do of Magnesium ("Bittern") 7 30 1.87  
Do of Calcium 11.59 3 29  
Sulphate of Lime (Gypsum) 2.96 0.95  
  100.17 100.80  


Page 93

        

II. Indifferent Brines, making impure Salt, or but very little.

  Poindexter, Pike co'nty E. H. Anderson. Kirkw'd. J. D. Fondren, R'ymond. J. Griggs Sharon.
Ch'oride of Sodium 30.09 37 35 25 48 48.13
Sulphate of Soda (Glaubers Salt). 61 07 51.24 40.98 39.28
Do of Lime (Gypsum) 3 79 2.08 1.48 7.54
Chloride of Magnesium 4.76 10 86 32.26 5.05
  99.71 100.53 100.20 100.00

        

III. Brines altogether unfit for Salt-boiling.

  Dr. H. G. Evans, Monterey. Dr. Cowden, Oakland, Yallabusha. A. B Smith, Hillsboro', Scott County.
Chloride of Sodium (Salt) 13.45   6.93
Sulphate of Soda (Glaubers Salt) 71.14 85.721 88 41
Sulphate of Lime (Gypsum) 6.37 4.92 2.00
Chloride of Magnesium (Bittern) 9.04 1.64 2.43
  100.00   99.77
Sulphate of Magnesia (Eps'm Salt)   7.14  
Alumina, Oxid's of Iron & Manga'e   0.59  
    100.00  

        

IV. Examples of the benefit arising from the treatment of impure brines with lime.

  Mrs. Ayres' Brine, Marshall county.   A. B. Harris, Acona, Holmes Co.  
  Fresh. Boiled with lime. Fresh. Boiled with Lime.
Chloride of Sodium (Salt) 20.65 51.42   25.67
Sulphate of Soda (Glaubers' Salt 39.11 1.73 68.00 44 84
Sulphate of Lime (Gypsum) 15 33 15.33 3 08 3.08
Chloride of Magnesium 24 91   20.79  
Sulphate of Magnesia (Epsom Salt)     8 14  
  100.00 68.48 100.01 73.59


Page 94

        I subjoin the analyses of the three kinds of salt now used in this State:

        
  Alabama Salt. Bisteneau S't. Rock Salt.
Chloride of Sodium 97.162 99.684 99.886
Chloride of Magnesium 1.181 0.103  
Chloride of Calcium 1.746 0.168  
Sulphate of Lime 0.033 0.045 0.114
Total 100.122 100.000 100.000

        The Louisiana Salts are, therefore, purer than most other Salts of commerce. Alabama Salt may be purified by leaching it with some water or brine, or by re-boiling.

        A specimen of Alum from Holmes county, (sent by Dr. W. D. Barry, Durant) showed the following composition:

  • Tersulphate of Alumina. ("Alum") . . . . . 73.13
  • Sulphate of Magnesia (Epsom Salt) . . . . . 23.41
  • Sulphate of Lime (Gypsum) . . . . . 0.90
  • Sulphate of Soda (Glauber's Salt) . . . . . 2.41
  • Chloride of Magnesium (Bittern) . . . . . 0.15
  • 100.00

        Weight for weight, this substance in its dry state, is equal to twice its amount of the best alum; or, if obtained merely by boiling down to a syrup, without drying, it will be equal to the same weight of Alum; the Epsom Salt. contained in it, nowise interferes with any of its usual applications.


Page 95

PENITENTIARY REPORT.

COLUMBUS, MISS., Nov. 20, 1863.

To J. C. NAPIER, C. R. DICKSON, AND C. H. MANSHIP--
Board of the Mississippi Penitentiary:

        GENTLEMEN--It again becomes my duty to report to you the condition of the Mississippi Penitentiary, over which I was called by the honorable Legislature of Mississippi to preside as an executive officer.

        It pains me greatly to be compelled to report to you the almost total destruction of that Institution by the Federal army on the 17th of May last.

        The Cotton Factory was a very superior brick building, 206 feet long, 66 feet broad and two stories high. It contained twenty-four (24) cotton cards, two sets of wool machinery, two thousand three hundred and four (2304) cotton spindles, seventy-six (76) Osnaburg looms and four twill looms, with all the other necessary machinery for the manufacture of Linseys, Osnaburgs, yarns and cotton bats. We had also in this building seven sets of carpenter's and cabinet tools, one set of cooper's tools, two wood lathes, one large iron lathe, one gear cutting machine, one sixty-horse power engine and three boilers, with all the tools and factory findings necessary for the successful prosecution of our work. All of these with the building were destroyed. The building is materially injured; so much so that I think it doubtful whether it can ever be repaired for the purposes originally intended. The machinery is entirely destroyed, and is valuless, except as old iron. The engine and boilers are not materially injured.

        This building was fired by a Lieutenant of Gen. Grant's army. The devouring flames were soon extended to the shoe and tailor's shop, which stood contiguous thereto, completely destroying that building. It was, however, a part of the old building first erected for the use of the inmates of that institution, and was not very valuable. It contained all the


Page 96

shoe-maker's tools, leather, etc., necessary for the prosecution of the labors of that shop. The flames soon thereafter reached a cotten shed, containing about three hundred bales of cotton, which were destroyed. The prison building and front building were also burnt down. The prison building contained two hundred cells, with the furniture necessary for their occupation by convicts. It also contained twelve room used by the guards as bed-rooms, also the hospital and drug shop, all of which were entirely consumed. The front building was used for offices, store rooms, and the private residence of the Sergeant of the guard. We had on hand at the time of the conflagration about 10 000 pounds of bacon, 3 hogsheads of sugar, a supply of salt, some 200 bushels of corn, potatoes, etc.; in other words, we had a full supply of all the necessary articles of food, except a sufficiency of corn and potatoes, for many months to come. Most of the officers in the building and in the guard rooms of the prison lost a considerable part of their private effects. The Federal guard placed at the Institution would not permit the officers and guards to remove their private property. The greatest sufferer was the Sergeant of the guard. Mr[.] W. C. Harrell, who lost nearly all of his furniture and much of his family supplies.

        We had on hand at the time of the destruction of the Institution but a small quantity of manufactured goods, say 1000 yards Lowells, and fifty bundles of cotton yarns.

        The demand for the articles we manufactured was so great that it precluded the possibility of ever having on hand more than a few pieces at a time of Osnaburgs and a few bundles of cotton yarns.

        We lost also one two horse wagon and five mules, captured and taken off by the Federal army. We sent to the country one four-horse wagon and three mules, which were sold and the proceeds of the sale paid to the Agent. The blacksmith shop, wash-house and residence of the Superintendent and stable, escapted destruction during the first visit of the enemy to our capital; since then, however, during the late occupation of Jackson, they burned the blacksmith shop, consuming five sets of blacksmith's tools.

        The only property of the Institution requiring attention is two steam engines, four boilers, a few thousand feet of lumber and a large quantity of old iron. The iron is valuable and should be carefully looked after and sold for the benefit of the State. I retained Mr. D. M. Wilkinson in the employ of the State for this purpose. I would suggest


Page 97

that it is still our duty to retain him to look after the builddings, fences, engines, iron, etc., in order that they may be properly cared for.

        For the fiscal condition of the Institution I would repectfully refer you to the report, accompanying this, of Mr. E. P. Russell, the Agent and Clerk, you will perceive that the Institution for the first seven and a half months of the last fiscal year, made and paid into the Treasury of the State the sum of sixty thousand four hundred and ninety dollars and seventy-six cents ($60,460.76). He estimates that had not the city of Jackson been occupied by the Federal army, our net profits for the entire fiscal years would have been one hundred and twenty-five thousand dollars ($125,000.00). This large profit would have been produced in consequence of the low price of the raw material and the high price and great demand for all the articles manufactured at this Institution.

        The Governor some two weeks before the occupation of Jackson by the Federal army ordered me to send 25 of the most desperate and disloyal prisoners to the Penitentiary of Alabama, and in obedience to his order I did so. These prisoners, as I learn from Governor Pettus, were placed in solitary confinement until recently. They are now engaged at the usual labors of that Institution by the request of the late Governor. I think it would be well for us to have some definite understanding with the State of Alabama in regard to the expenses the State may incurr on their account.

        The Governor pardoned forty of the inmates of our Institution and they were mustered into the service of the Confederate army. Most of the remaining prisoners were turned out without being pardoned, as the Governor was unable to procure any place of safety for their confinement. Many of these were old men and those who had given the greatest evidence of contrition for their past misconduct.

        Early in the month of July I crossed the Mississppi river for the purpose of attending to some business for my brother, who is an officer in the Virginia army; it being impossible for him to obtain a furlough for a sufficient time to enable him to go to Texas to attend to his business. Under these circumstances, having but little to do of an official character, I consented to go and attend to his business, which was of an urgent character. Soon after I crossed the river the lines of the Federal army were extended from Baton Rouge to Vicksburg, making it extremely hazardous to return. This, together with the additional fact of my illness whilst in Texas,


Page 98

protracted my absence from the State, and consequently, to my regret, the earlier bringing in of this report.

        For information as to the sanitary condition of the prison, I would refer you to the report of C. S. Farrar, Surgeon and Physician.

        For your kindness and assistance in the management of the State Prison, I tender you my sincere thanks.

Repectfully, your ob't serv't,

A. M. HARDIN.

AGENT'S REPORT.

CITY OF JACKSON,
October 28, 1863.

TO MESSRS. J. C. NAPIER, C. H. MANSHIP AND C. R. DICKSON--
Board of Inspectors.

        GENTLEMEN--It again becomes my duty to report to you as Agent of the Mississippi Penitentiary, the financial condition of the Institution during the fiscal year ending the 30th day of September, 1863, embracing a period of eleven months, there being no business done during the month of August. The whole business, however, was done from the 1st October, 1863, to the 14th day of May, 1863, when the operations of the Institution were suspended by the entrance of the enemy into our city. This will give you some idea what would have been accomplished had we not been interrupted.

        Document A, will show the receipts and disbursements.

        Document B, the receipts and disbursements on account of the different departments.

        By reference to Document A, you will find the

        
Receipts to be $187,026 70
Disbursements 90,026 70
Showing excess of receipts to be $ 97,000 00
Deduct from this the available stock on hand per former report 36,509 76
Will leave a nett profit for the seven and one-half months of 60,490 76


Page 99

        Had the Institution not been destroyed I am confident it would have produced a revenue to the State for the past year of at least one hundred and twenty-five thousand dollars, clear of all expenses. No money has been drawn from the Treasury during the year. The Institution has paid its own expenses, including salaries of officers and guards.

        There is a considerable amount still outstanding and due which I am endeavoring to collect as rapidly as the times will admit. Many of the debtors are refugees, some of them are returning and the accounts will be closed as soon as possible. There are also some small accounts due by the Institution.

        Thanking you, gentlemen, for your uniform courtesy and kindness during our intercourse with each other,

I am yours, very respectfully,

E. P. RUSSELL,
Agent Mississippi Penitentiary.


Page 100

[DOCUMENT A]

        

E. P. RUSSELL, AGENT MISSISSIPPI PENITENTIARY, IN ACCOUNT WITH THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, FROM October 1st, 1862, to September 30th, 1863, inclusive

DR.         CR.
1862--Oct To amount received this month $7140 73 1862--Octobr By amount disbursed this month $7140 73
Nov To amount received this month 14,820 63 Nov By amount disbursed this month 4820 63
Dec To amount received this month 6375 81 Dec'r By amount disbursed this month 6375 81
1863--Jan To amount received this month 16,002 90 1863--Jan'y By amount disbursed this month 11,002 90
Feb To amount received this month 13,735 51 Feb By amount disbursed this month 3735 51
March To amount received this month 21 304 21 March By amount disbursed this month 11,304 21
April To amount received this month 83,711 67 April By amount disbursed this month 31,711 67
May To amount received this month 6970 61 May By amount disbursed this month 6970 61
June To amount received this month 3321 35 June By amount disbursed this month 3321 35
July To amount received this month 2000 00 July By amount disbursed this month 156 00
Sept To amount received this month 11,643 28 Sept By amount disbursed this month 3487 28
          $90,026 70
      1862--Nov By amt. paid into Treas'y $10,000 00  
      1863--Jan By amt. paid into Treas'y 5000 00  
      Feb By amt. paid into Treas'y 10,000 00  
      March By amt. paid into Treas'y 10,000 00  
      April By amt. paid into Treas'y 52,000 00  
      July By amt. paid into Treas'y 1844 00  
      Sept By amt. paid into Treas'y 8156 00 --$97,000 00
    $187,026 70     $187,026 70

        The above statement includes the total receipts and disbursements of the Penitentiary, including salaries of officers and guard, for the year ending September 30, 1863.

E. P. RUSSELL, Agent Miss. Pen'ry.

Jackson, October 1st, 1863.


Page 101

[DOCUMENT B]

        

STATEMENT--SHOWING RECEIPTS AND DISBURSEMENTS ON ACCOUNT OF DIFFERENT DEPARTMENTS PENITENtiary, from October 1st, 1862, to September 30th, 1863.

To amount received from Cotton Factory $172,608 50 By amount paid on account of Factory $46,844 77
To amount received from Wood Shop 8109 89 By amount paid on account of Wood Shop 728 46
To amount received from Shoe Shop 2601 20 By amount paid on account of Shoe Shop 1890 35
To amount received from Smith Shop 3707 16 By amount paid on account of Smith Shop 309 95
    By amount paid on account of Provisions 15,611 87
    By amount paid on account of Forage and Fuel 6767 11
    By amount paid on account of Freight & hauling 865 54
    By amount paid on account of Contingent 1137 83
    By amount paid on account of Disch. Convicts 1520 00
    By amount paid on account of Convey'g Prisoners 884 75
    By amount paid on account of Oil and Lights 973 95
    By amount paid on account of Guards' Salary 7943 17
    By amount paid on account of Officers' do 3850 00
    By amount paid on account of Hospital 189 00
    By amount paid on account of Lunatic Asylum 510 00
      $90,026 70
    By amount paid into Treasury to Balance 97,000 00
  $187,026 70   $187,026 70


Page 102

INSPECTOR'S REPORT.

To His Excellency, John J. Pettus, Governor of the State of
Mississippi:

        SIR--It again becomes the duty of the Board of Inspectors, to report to your Excellency the condition and operations of the Mississippi Penitentiary during the fiscal year ending September 30th, 1863.

        In the absence of the Superintendent, there is no report submitted by that officer. He was unavoidably called to the State of Texas to attend to some private business for his brother. It was fully his intention to have returned in time to make his report, and we suppose that the uncertainty and danger of travel at the present time has prevented his return.

        From the report of the Agent, Mr. E. P. Russell, which is herewith submitted, and to which you are respectfully referred, it will be seen that the receipts over the disbursements amount to $97,000 00, leaving a net profit (after deducting the available stock as per report last year) of $60,490 76. The Institution has paid all its own expenses, not having drawn a dollar from the Treasury. The Superintendent and Agent deserve the highest commendation for the faithful and efficient manner in which the affairs of the Institution have been condected for the past two years. It is painful that we are under the necessity of reporting to you the total destruction of the Penitentiary by the torch of the Yankee incendiaries on the 18th day of May last. Nothing but the naked walls was left standing. It was in a most prosperous add flourishing condition at the time, yielding a considerable revenue to the State, and of almost incalculable benefit to the people.

        Under your instructions, twenty-five of the convicts were transferred to the Alabama Penitentiary. It certainly was a very fortunate circumstance, and very kind in the Governor of Alabama to receive them. It would not have done to have pardoned them and turned them loose upon the community. Most of these, if not all, were long sentenced and men of the most abandoned and desperate characters and


Page 103

Lincolnites of the deepest dye--every man would have deserted to the enemy. They are liable at any time to be returned to the State, and would it not be well for the Legislature to make some provision for their safe-keeping in such an event. Forty others were pardoned and mustered into the Confederate service, under N. C. Price as their Captain. The remainder were set at liberty and sent off with our army upon its retreat from Jackson. Most of them joined our army, some few deserted.

        There is still upon the books of the Penitentiary a considerable amount of unsettled business. In the event of the Legislature deeming it unwise to rebuild the Prison at the present time, would it not be well to continue the Agency for the purpose of closing its affairs. A large amount would no doubt be thus saved to the State.

        For the health of the Prison reference is made to the report of the Physician and Surgeon.

Respectfully submitted,

C. H. MANSHIP,
President Board Inspectors pro tem.

JACKSON, Oct. 28, 1863.

PHYSICIAN'S REPORT.

To MESSRS. NAPIER, MANSHIP AND DICKSON--
Board of Inspectors:

        GENTLEMEN--In conformity of the requirements of law, I now submit to you this, my second annual report. At the date of my former report typhoid fever was prevailing, but contrary to my expectations, it soon subsided, and since then, until the breaking up of the Institution, with the exception of a few cases of pneumonia, the convicts enjoyed good health. Two deaths have occurred since I last reported. Throughout the fall, winter and spring, the convicts were supplied with an abundance of sweet potatoes and other vegetables, and the best bacon the country afforded, and to this, in a great measure, is their good health to be attributed. They seem cheerful in the discharge of their duties, and with the exception of some two or three old offenders, I had but little trouble. My visits to the Institution would average


Page 104

more than once daily. When a patient was seriously ill, it was my invariable practice to visit him twice a day until the symptoms of his disease abated. The hospital was always neat and comfortable, as you can testify, and the sick received every comfort and attention their condition demanded.

        My intercourse with all the officers of the Prison was respectful and courteous, and if we had been spared the dradful calamity which befell the Institution, through the instrumentality of our enemy, I feel confident that you and the Legislature of Mississippi, would have accorded to its officers the highest commendations for zeal, industry and economy, in its management. It was my intention to have made to you several suggestions relating to alterations around the cells, which, in my opion, would have conduced to the comfort and health of the convicts, but the hand of the destroyer has rendered this unnecessary; and now, gentlemen, in parting with you, permit me to express my gratitude for your uniform courtesy to me, and my best wishes for your future health, prosperity and happiness.

Respectfully submitted,

S. C. FARRAR,
Physician and Surgeon.


Page 105

REPORT
OF THE
TRUSTEES OF INSTITUTION FOR THE BLIND.

JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI,
November 2, 1863.

To the Legislature of the State of Mississippi:

        In presenting their regular biennial report, the Trustees of the State Institution for the Blind, would first ask the attention of your honorable body to its financial condition.

        On the 4th November, 1861, the date of their last communication, the Institution was entirely free from debt, and there remained in the Treasury a cash balance of two thousand eight hundred and eighty-two dollars and twenty-seven cents; and the receipts since then amount to fourteen thousand one hundred and twenty-three dollars and forty-eight cents, including twelve thousand dollars, the amount of the regular appropriation of six thousand dollars per annum from the State Treasury, one thousand nine hundred and eighty-three dollars and thirty-three cents, received from the Confederate States for rent of the Institute buildings while occupied as a military hospital; and one hundred and forty dollars and fifteen cents, money refunded for advances to pupils, and from the sale of brooms, etc., the property of the Institution, in all seventeen thousand and five dollars and seventy-five cents.

        The expenses of the Institutiou, during the same period, amount to fourteen thousand four hundred and ninety-nine dollars and fifty-five cents; comprising disbursements of every description, including five hundred and fifty-five dollars, an average discount of eighteen and a half per cent. on three thousand dollars creditors' warrants, upon which, at the time, the money could not otherwise be realized; the expenses attending the removal to Monticello, the rent of buildings at that place, and the purchase of necessary furniture,


Page 106

as well as the salary of Superintendent and assistants, and the hire of servants, leaving a balance on hand at the date of this report of two thousand five hundred and six dollars and twenty cents, as follows:

    RECEIPTS.

  • Cash on hand at last report . . . . . $2,882.27
  • State of Mississippi: annual appropriation of . . . . . $6000 12,000 00
  • Confederate States: rent of Institute buildings . . . . . 1983 33
  • Other sources . . . . . 140 15
  • $17,005 75

    EXPENDITURES.

  • Cash for the two years, ending this day, as per vouchers, 1@151 inclusive, and herewith submitted . . . . . $14,499 55
  • Balances . . . . . $ 2,506 20

        Of which the greater portion will be required for immediate use in purchasing supplies, and for the discharge of some small outstanding accounts against the Institution.

        In pursuance of a resolution announced in their previous report, the Board of Trustees, at an early period of their administration, commenced an entire reorganization of the establishment, placed it thoroughly on a war footing, and at once made preparations to prevent, under any circumstances whatever, its being closed against the unfortunate homeless pupils, who, up to this period had, through the beneficence of your honorable body, been so comfortably provided for. In view to this end, the Trustees engaged the services of that eminent scholar and practical teacher, Professor William Merrill, then at the head of a flourishing school in Murfreesboro', Tenn., but who, on the invitation of this Board, resigned his position there, and, with his family, removed to Mississippi. The Trustees were fortunate in securing Prof. Merrill for this important and responsible trust, for in addition to his well-known abilities as a scholar and educator, he posses qualifications not usually found in the mere teacher--the practical knowledge and experience successfully to conduct the external as well as the internal affairs of an Institution like this.

        Shortly after Prof. Merrill entered upon his duties, the entire buildings of the Institute underwent the necessary


Page 107

repairs--the rooms were thoroughly renovated, the walls neatly papered, new furniture purchased; and the whole establishment made, not only comfortable, but in many respects, so elegant as to elicit not only the commendation of the Trustees, but the admiration of strangers and the friends of the pupils visiting the Institution. The Board began to look with pride and gratification upon the beautiful grounds and buildings thus provided for the helpless beings placed under their care, and they fondly expected that, in a very short time, the consummation of their hopes and wishes would be realized; and that they could point to an Institution, second to none of its kind in the Confederacy.

        Thus matters existed when in May, 1862, the following document was served upon the Superintendent:

ASS'T QUAR. MAST'R's OFFICE,
JACKSON, May 21, 1862.

Superintendent Blind Asylum, Jackson:

        SIR--The Surgeon having had orders to furnish hospital room for the sick and wounded soldiers, and having selected the "Blind Asylum" for that purpose, I have to request that you immediately move all persons out of said Asylum, in order that it may be placed in a condition to receive the sick.

Respectfully,

MAD. McAFEE,
A. Q. M.


        And a few days thereafter the following was delivered to the Board of Trustees:

MED. H'D QUARTERS,
JACKSON, MISS., May 24, 1862.

To the Hon. Trustees of the Blind Asylum:

        You will please turn over to the Surgeon in charge, with prices affixed the following named articles of furniture:

        Double beadstead and beds 5; lounges 4; washstands 4; bowls and pitchers (wash) 4; bureaus 4; chairs, tables, safe, stove and cooking utensils 1; carpets; water buckets and pales; water bowls and pitchers; tin pans, dippers, brooms, brushes, knives and forks, wash tubs, bathing tubs, foot tubs, wadrobes, towels, castile soap.

A. B. CABANISS,
Surgeon of Post.


        The Board were well advised that, even under these peremptory orders of the military authorities then in command at this Post, they were under no obligation to surrender the


Page 108

property--they believed then, and they believe still, that other arrangements should have been made for the accommodation of our sick and wounded soldiers, and that such an Institution as that for the helpless blind should ever be held sacred by both friend and foe. Yet, notwithstanding these convictions and conceding to none other greater consideration for our gallant soldiers, more zeal in the prosecution of the great cause in which our country is engaged, and higher. aspirations for its successful termination, the members of the Board, without a murmur or a remonstrance, assented to the requisition, and caused the premises to be evacuated.

        It became thus, a matter of necessity to provide a new home for the pupils, the superintendent and his family; and Monticello, Lawrence county, was agreed upon as a suitable point for temporary location. Here all were accordingly removed, the school re-opened; and the regular exercises continued, without interruption, the the present day.

        The requisition of Dr. A. B. Cabaniss, Surgeon of Post, specifies articles not contained in the Institution, yet there were many, such as comforts, blankets and the like, not thus formally required, which were appropriated by the Surgeon in charge, or by those assuming to act under his authority, a full and correct list of all the articles thus applied to the use of the hospital, was taken, and very reasonable charges made therefor; the whole amounting to the sum of thirteen hundred and fity dollars; an amount which, at the time, would not have purchased, in Jackson, near the number of the articles the Institution was thus deprived of, nor could they, at the present period, be purchased for a much greater sum of money. Yet, reasonable as these charges unquestionably were, not only the Surgeon in charge, but the Surgeon of Post, under whose requisition the articles were delivered, refused to give the necessary certificate authorizing the Quartermaster to pay the account. Recently the whole matter has been brought before the Chief Medical Director of this Military Department, who, upon a thorough examination of the case, pronounced the claim "unquestionably just," and recommended its payment. The papers have been sent to the proper Department at Richmond, for final action.

        Early on the morning of the 17th July last, our army evacuated Jackson, and immediately thereafter the city was taken possession of by the enemy who, in turn, departed on the morning of the 20th of July. The Trustees then resumed possession of the Institute buildings, but found them greatly injured by the shot and shell during the investment


Page 109

and bombardment of the city, and entirely destitute of furniture, or movables of any kind. The premises too, are now suffering for the want of occupancy.

        The Board have, therefore, concluded, in furtherance of their original determination to keep this Institution alive and useful, to remove, at as early a day as practicable, the pupils and property from Monticello to their old and beautiful home at the Capital of the State; there, it is hoped, to remain unmolested by friends or foes, for in all ages the poor blind man, and how much more the poor blind child, has been the object of pity and commisseration.

        To enable the Board of Trustees to carry out their design, and in view of the greatly enhanced cost of everything necessary to sustain the Institution, they respectfully ask a special appropriation of two thousand dollars, to repair and put in proper order the buildings and grounds of the Institution, to procure the necessary articles of furniture, etc., and to defray the expenses of removal. They also respectfully suggest to the Legislature that, for the ensuing two years, the usual annual appropriation of six thousand dollars be increased to eight thousand dollars, a sum not more than adequate to the probable increased demands of the school whether in time of war or in time of peace. And while these increased appropriations are asked for, it may not be irrelevant to state to your honorable body, that the services of the several members of the Board of Trustees of the State Institution for the Blind, are not only gratuitous, but are emphatically, labors of love--without money and witout price, they not only freely, but most cheerfully, give their thoughts, their time and their talents, in aid of an Institution destined, they trust, to become a monument of legislative liberality and public confidence.

        It is gratifying to be able to state that, since the submission of the last biennial report, no death, and but very little sickness has occurred among the pupils.

        For other particulars, and especially as regards the internal affairs of the Institution, reference is respectfully made to the accompanying intelligent and interesting report of the Superintendent.

Respectfully submitted,

JOHN DUNCAN,

JNO. W. ROBINSON,

A. VIRDIN.
Trustees.


Page 110

SUPERINTENDENT'S REPORT.

MISS. STATE INST. FOR THE BLIND,
MONTICELLO, Oct. 28, 1863.

        GENTLEMEN--It now becomes my duty to render to you the customary biennial report of the condition of this Institution, which has so long enjoyed the fostering care of our State Government, and of your honorable Board.

        The condition of the blind in all ages of the world has rendered them the objects of peculiar sympathy--but it has only been within the last eighty years, that successful efforts have been made to educate them. In ancient times the poor blind man could only grope his way to some street corner, or the steps of some temple, and beg for alms in the name of Esculapius; depending for his bread entirely upon the charities of the people, which his helpless condition seldom failed to elicit. Even after the Christian era, the condition of the blind remained substantially the same. The heathen temple was exchanged for the Christian Church, where, sitting on the steps, he begged in the name of Jesus, or of the Holy Mother, for a penny to buy him bread. Ignorant, degraded, with no ambition but to support a miserable existence from year to year,--what a contrast he presented to the educated blind man of the present day, whom we see occupying positions of responsibility and honor; not unfrequently electrifying with his eloquence the crowded church on the steps of which he might have been begging bread, but for the noble institutions that have been established and sustained for many years by all the enlightened governments of the world.

        In the year 1784, a few years before the French Revolution, that noble philantrophist, Valentine Hauy, took from the streets of Paris a blind beggar boy, and determined to to try to educate him. The youth made rapid progress, and the attempt was so successful, and attracted so much attention, that, in 1786, under the patronage of the Philantropical Society, and approving encouragement of the Academy of


Page 111

Sciences, he had increased his number of pupils to 24, and was called to show their proficiency before the King and Royal Family at Versailles; who were so much pleased, that the King ordered funds to be appropriated for the education of blind pupils under Hauy. He soon gathered together more of the blind of Paris, and taught them,--but with almost none of the facilities which we now possess, and for many of which we are indebted to his after discoveries.

        Everything went on flourishing with Hauy and his pupils, until the French Revolution swept like a besom of destruction over the land, carrying ruin, desolation and death to thousands of the best homes of France, and flooding the streets of Paris with blood. But, even then, Hauy and his blind school was not forgotten; and his appropriations were regularly paid him by the different powers that ruled the hour in Paris; until at last the Government became totally brankrupt; and the assignats, in which he was paid, would buy neither food nor clothing. These were times to break down the most bouyant spirits, and to try the stotest hearts. He could not, and would not send into the streets, and reduce again to beggary the pupils whom he had spent years in partially educating. He went to work with his own hands, his pupils doing what they could to help him, and thus, sometimes for months all living on one meal per day, he struggled on through that dark and bloody era, until at last a firm government emerged from the chaos, and at once gave to him and his school, its efficient support.

        The school in Paris thus established by him is now pointed to with pride by France, as the best of its kind; and money is never wanting to help to establish its claim to pre-eminence.

        After the French Revolution, the Czar of Russia induced Hauy to go to St. Petersburg and open a school for the blind of his dominions. The school thus opened is still continued.

        Since that time schools for the blind have been established by all the Governments of Europe, and are shown with pride as proofs of high advancement in noble and enlightend philanthropy.

        About fifteen schools for blind had been established in Europe, before any effort was made in their behalf in America. Thirty-one years ago schools were opened in Boston and New York; and one in Philadelphia the following years. These were soon followed by similar Institutions in Ohio, Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Missouri, Mississippi, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland,


Page 112

Michigan, North Carolina, South Carolina, Arkansas and the District of Columbia.

        To show the interest taken by our State Governments in these noble Institutions, I will simply state that the buildings, appropriated for their use, have cost:

  • In Louisiana . . . . . $250,000 00
  • In New York . . . . . 150,000 00
  • In Massachusetts . . . . . 150,000 00
  • In Michigan . . . . . 150,000 00
  • In Kentucky . . . . . 100,000 00
  • In Indiana . . . . . 100,000 00
  • In Illinois . . . . . 80,000 00
  • In Virginia . . . . . 75,000 00

        Notwithstanding the cruel war now waged against us, with its demand for untold sums, none of the schools for the blind, South or North, have been closed: the enemy themselves admitting the claims of the blind in Nashville and Baton Rouge, and leaving them unmolested. Such Institutions as those for the blind, for deaf mutes, and asylums for lunatics, are now among the first visited by Foreign and American travelers of education and refinement,--as showing to some extent the character and liberality of the people, and their progress in those arts that indicate a high stage of civilization. Some Northern States have for many years vied with Europe in their schools for the blind; and it is said that the State appropriations, and donations of citizens of Massachusetts to their school for the blind have amounted to not less than a million of dollars.

        When the war commenced, your honorable Board decided that this school should be sustained; and the committee of the last Legislature, to whom your decision was submitted, most emphatically approved and endorsed your determination.

        In December, 1861, I took charge of the Institution; and have, since, done all in my power to promote its interests, and the welfare and education of its pupils. But I have had to labor under continuel, and very serious embarrassments. The school has never been supplied properly with the maps and text books in raised print, that are used in similar schools,--or, if it has had them, they were mostly worn out or destroyed, before I took charge of the Institution. It was impossible to buy, and my only course was to get along without those necessary facilities. The books in the reading library of raised print were very good, and mostly in good order. Fortuately, your former Superintendent


Page 113

had faithfully and skillfully performed the duties of his office; and I found that the pupils had been well taught in many of the English branches. They read raised print with as much facility as I have ever seen in the pupils of any Institution; and in English grammar, parsing, geography, mathematics and writing, they had been well taught. The average of scholarships was decidedly good.

        Finding the school in such good condition in regard to scholarship; and being compelled to rely mostly upon oral instruction for want of text books,--I determined to comply with the urgent wishes of many of the pupils, and form classes in the French and Latin languages, which had never been taught in this Institution; at the same time, not neglecting the English branches. I was the more impelled to this course by the fact, that, in some of the best schools in Europe and America, the languages have been taught with great success, and have been found to be the best means of disciplining the mind, and taching a thorough knowledge of our own language, as in seeing pupils. The great object of all education is to discipline the mind, and enable the pupil to think closely and continuously upon any given subject. This is especially important to the blind,--as they cannot write down their thoughts and business, and must depend upon being able to recall to mind at any moment what they know; and it is this power of concentration of thought and promptness of memory in well educated blind men, that so frequently surprises those who converse with them.

        The success of the classes in the languages has more than equalled my expectations. Assisted by my daughters in studying their lessons, the pupils have made a progress that has surprised all visitors who have heard their recitations; and that would be highly creditable in the pupils of our best classical Institutions. Of course, in teaching the languages to the blind, the mode of instruction is very different from that in seeing schools, and much more thorough; as it is necessary to make them perfectly familiar with every word and principle of the language, so that they are taught not merely to read, but to speak the language. From the experience thus gained, I am satisfied that the quickest and best mode of educating the blind would be to teach them orally some language, commencing as young as eight or ten years of age;--although my prejudices in former years were all opposed to such a belief.

        In addition to French and Latin, classes have been taught reading and spelling, mental and written arithmetic, algebra,


Page 114

English grammar and parsing,--and I have given courses of Lectures on Natural Philosophy, Astronomy, Electricity and Galvanism, as full as could be given without apparatus for practical illustrations. A large number of standard works in history, biography and general literature, have been read to the pupils, and also the papers of the day; so that they will be found better qualified to converse on customary topics, than seeing scholars generally of the same age.

        The number of pupils has, of course, been somewhat affected by the war--but much less than might have been anticipated. The number before the war never averaged more than twenty. In 1861-2, our number was nineteen (19); and in 1862-3, thirteen (13)--making an average of sixteen (16) for the two years of the war; or only four (4) less than the highest average in times of peace. In November, 1861, the school in Tennessee numbered only seventeen (17)--and the average number of pupils before the war in the Blind School of Georgia was twenty (20)--Wisconsin, 20,--Missouri. 21--Iowa, 23,--Maryland, 17,--Mischigan, 24,--and South Carolina, 13. We have received word this year from 15 pupils, that they will be here as soon as they can get conveyance--ten of whom have already arrived. This result may be considered as remarkable, as five or six pupils, who had been in the Institution many years, were well educated and had good homes, were advised by me not to return to the school; and no effort has been made to bring in new pupils. In proportion to population, the school in Mississippi has had more than the average number for other States. The health of the pupils has been generally good. No deaths since last report.

        It is, perhaps, proper that I should refer to our removal from Jackson. In May, 1862, the C. S. Quartermaster, Madison McAfee, at Jackson, by request of the Post Surgeon, pressed the buildings of the Institution into the service of the C. S. A. for a hospital, and the Post Surgeon, Dr. A. B. Cabaniss, at the same time pressed almost all our furniture, including all that belonging to the kitchen and dining room; giving us a few days only to dismiss our school and provide to our pupils. This summary proceeding on the part of the authorities, deprived the scholars not only of their comfortable home, but of almost every article necessary to establish a new one. Many of the pupils being emphatically children of the State, having neither parents nor other relatives who could give them protection; your Board, with commendable


Page 115

zeal for the welfare and usefulness of the Institution, at once determined to seek a new locality where the exercises of the school could be continued without further interruption.

        Monticello, Lawrence county, was accordingly selected, where buildings, as convenient as could be expected, were engaged; and where the school has been in successful operation for the last 15 months.

        Owing to failure in crops last year, and depreciation of the currency, the prices of provisions and clothing went up to three or four times the usual rates; and could with difficulty be procured at all. The difficulty of providing for an Institution under such circumstances will readily be appreciated--and the more so as the funds were limited to the amount before the war. It was only by the strictest enconomy, and by purchasing in large quantities such articles as farmers need, and exchange them for provisions, and doing without even very necessary articles, when the prices became higher than we could afford to pay,--that we succeeded in keeping our expenses within our income.

        At present, owing to the war, I would not suggest any changes in the internal arrangements of the school; but, when we again have peace, many changes should be made, that would greatly add to its prosperity and efficiency.

        The Institution is under many obligations to Dr. S. Brown, for gratuitous attendance upon the pupils.

        With many thanks to the members of your Honorable Board for the uniform kindness and attention that you have always given to my wishes, and for the care with which you have watched over the best interests of the Institution.

I remain ever yours, respectfully,

WM. MERRILL,
Sup't Miss. State Institute for Blind.

To MESSRS. JOHN DUNCAN, JOHN W. ROBINSON AND A.
VIRDEN--Trustees.


Page 116

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES
OF THE
INSTITUTE FOR THE DEAF AND DUMB.

To the Legislature of the State of Mississippi:

        The Board of Trustees of the Mississippi Institute for the Deaf and Dumb, would respectfnlly roport, that said Institution was progressing with unusual benefit to the pupils under our charge, until the buildings, furniture, etc., were seized by the officers of the Confederate Government for hospital purposes, in May, 1862. A portion of the pupils were immediately sent to thesr homes, and those remaining, with the exception of those having no homes, were sent during the summer, as the buildings were then used as a small pox hospital. Our Principal and his lady, (the Matron) together with Miss Head, Assistant Teacher, were retained with the hope and prospect, of our being able to establish a temporary school at some point in the eastern portion of the State, thinking that we could again occupy the Institute buildings at no distant day. Mr. A. G. Scott, Principal, was requested to make a trip for the purpose of procuring suitable buildings, but without success. The Trustees finding so much difficulty in making the necessary arrangements to continue the school, abandoned the idea. We have now three pupils on our hands who are orphans, and entirely destitute. These have been boarded and clothed at the expense of the State, to be paid out of the fund appropriated for the support of this Institution. We would respectfully recommend that some provision be made for their future tuition and support at some other Institution, and would respectfully ask for instruction from your honorable body in the premises.

        In January, 1862, the Treasurer was instructed by the Board of Trustees to discount the warrants received from the Auditor, amounting to three thousand dollars, there being no funds in the State Treasury to pay the same, our contracts


Page 117

for supplies being all made for cash, and we being largely indebted at that time. The object of making cash contracts was that supplies, etc., could be obtained at very reduced prices by so doing, the Treasurer being required to settle all accounts monthly.

        During the occupation of the Institute as a hospital, and the occupation of Jackson by the enemy, the buildings, grounds, etc., were very much injured--windows and window blinds, all gone--doors broken down and destroyed, fences all burned, much of the weather-boarding torn off, and with the exception of the frames, the buildings are almost entirely destroyed.

        The Confederate officers have been applied to frequently for the rent of the buildings and pay for furniture, etc., seized, belonging to this Institution, but we have never, as yet, succeeded in obtaining a settlement. The amount of rent with cost of furniture, etc., will amount to nearly seven thousand dollars.

        We cannot permit this occasion to pass without returning our acknowledgements to Mr. A. G. Scott and his estimable lady, (our Matron,) and to Miss Molly Head and Mr. Lawrence W. Saunders, Assistant Teachers, for their uniform kindness and attention to the education and government of the pupils, and cheerfully recommend them to any Institution needing teachers, who are every way worthy and competent.

        The property sold by order of the Board of Trustees, consisting of horses, vehicles, etc., after closing the Institution, amount to the sum of $571.00, for account of which, together with the financial condition of the Institution, we beg leave to refer you to the report of the Treasurer herewith transmitted.

        The Trustees, with deep regret, announce the death of one of the pupils, Joel Crane, he was killed by the explosion of the Confederate States Laboratory, in the City of Jackson, in November, 1862, where he had been employed for some time. This is the only death that has ever occurred at this Institution (if indeed this one could be said to have occurred there) since it was first organized.

        All of which is respectfully submitted.

A. B. CABANISS,
F. S. HUNT,
W. H. BROWN,
Trustees.

OCTOBER 31, 1863.


Page 118

        

DR. MISSISSIPPI INSTITUTE FOR THE DEAF AND DUMB, IN ACCT. WITH W. H. BROWN, TREASURER. CR.

1863--Oct. 31--To amount of Disbursements from November 1st, 1861, to October 31st, 1863, as per statements and vouchers herewith filed $6727 38 By Balance on hand November 1st, 1861 $192 27
To Balance carried down 535 89 By Amount of Auditor's Warrant on State Treasury, under requisition of Gov. Pettus as statement of Auditor of Public Accounts herewith filed 6500 00
    By Cash received for sales of property by order of Board of Trustees in November and December 1862 and January 1863. 571 00
  $7263 27   7263 27
The outstanding debts amount $1575 due and unpaid.   By Balance $535 89

        October 31st, 1863.

        W. H. BROWN, Treasurer.


Page 119

        

STATEMENT OF DISBURSEMENTS ON ACCOUNT OF THE "INstitution for the Deaf and Dumb," from the 1st November, 1861 to 31st October, 1863, inclusive.

ON WHAT ACCOUNT. AMOUNT.
Furniture $37 70
Clothing 243 56
Salaries 2850 00
Supplies 1925 50
Servant hire 523 73
Medicines 4 75
Physician's bills 40 00
Incidental expenses 298 99
Stationery, Books, &c 32 15
Traveling Expenses 171 00
To which is to be added amount paid discount on Warrants drawn from Treasury and sold by order of Board of Trustees in the months of January, February and March, 1862, there being no funds in the State Treasury to pay same.  
$3000 at an average of 20 per cent. discount 600 00
  $6727 38

Oct. 31, 1863.

W. H. BROWN, Treasurer.


Page 120

        

DISBURSEMENTS ON ACCOUNT INSTITUTE FOR DEAF AND DUMB, FROM NOVEMBER 1st 1861, TO OCTOBER 31st, 1863, INCLUSIVE.

DATE. No. of Voucher. Furniture. Clothing. Salaries. Supplies. Servant Hire. Medicines. Physicians' Bills. Incidental Expenses. Books and Stationery. AMOUNTS.
1861--Nov. 16 648         12 00         12 00
21 649       52 32           52 32
Dec. 2 650       30 00           30 00
20 651             40 00     40 00
1862--Jan. 8 652         26 00         26 00
30 653       61 12           61 12
  654       100 00           100 00
31 655               12 06   12 06
  656     50 00             50 00
February 6 657       3 50   2 50     20 15 26 15
8 658     25 00             25 00
10 659       142 72           142 72
13 660 14 50                 14 50
  661   49 51   80 65           130 16
  662       57 02           57 02
14 663       16 50           16 50
  664               252 13   252 13
  665       7 50   2 25     12 00 21 75
18 666     50 00             50 00
19 667   14 28               14 28
  668       72 00           72 00
20 669     150 00             150 00
  670         8 00         8 00


Page 121

24 671         7 50         7 50
March 1 672       68 10           68 10
5 673       13 54           13 54
March 10 674         90 00         90 00
13 675       27 50           27 50
  676 8 95                 8 95
  677       32 65           32 65
15 678       174 00           174 00
    23 45 63 79 275 00 939 02 143 50 4 75 40 00 264 19 32 15 1785 95


Page 122

        
DATE. No. of Vouchers. Furniture. Clothing. Salaries. Supplies. Servant hire. Medicines. Physician's Bill. Incidental Expenses. Stationery. Travelling Expenses AMOUNTS.
1862 - Mar. 15 679         20 00           20 00
28 680       129 81             129 81
29 681     75 00               75 00
30 682         50 00           50 00
Ap'l 3 683     75 00               75 00
4 684         30 00           30 00
8 685       29 75             29 75
9 686   39 25   62 00             101 25
12 687       61 10             61 10
  688         10 00           10 00
17 689     150 00               150 00
  690     100 00               100 00
21 691         33 00           33 00
  692       50 75             50 75
28 693     275 00               275 00
May 6 694     25 00               25 00
  695     25 00               25 00
  696                   150 00 150 00
19 697         45 00           45 00
26 698         12 50           12 50
31 699         10 00           10 00
June 7 700       20 00             20 00
10 701       278 21             278 21
28 702         12 00           12 00


Page 123

J'ne 28 703     50 00               50 00
J'ly 10 704     375 00               375 00
Aug 5 705   50 92   122 96             173 88
15 706     750 00               750 00
  707       50 00             50 00
Sept. 3 708         48 00           48 00
    23 45 153 96 2175 00 1743 70 414 00 4 75 40 00 264 19 32 15 150 00 5001 20


Page 124

        
DATE. No. of Voucher. Furniture. Clothing. Salaries. Supplies. Servant Hire. Medicines. Physician's Bills. Incidental Expenses. Stationery. Traveling Expenses. AMOUNT.
1862--Sept. 4 709         36 00           36 00
5 710         50 00           50 00
  711     50 00               50 00
13 712         11 73           11 73
29 713               12 90     12 90
Oct. 10 714     100 00               100 00
Nov.17 715   87 60                 87 60
25 716         12 00           12 00
28 717       23 65             23 65
29 718               20 00     20 00
Dec. 1 719       26 90             26 90
5 720       31 25             31 25
6 721     375 00             21 00 396 00
1863--Jan. 6 722       25 00             25 00
  723 14 25                   14 25
31 724   2 00   25 00             27 00
Mar. 2 725       25 00             25 00
7 726     150 00               150 00
19 727               1 90     1 90
  728       25 00             25 00
    37 70 243 56 2850 00 1925 50 523 73 4 75 40 00 298 99 32 15 171 00 6127 38

W. H. BROWN, Treasurer.


Page 125

CERTIFICATE.

THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI,
AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLUMBUS.

        I, A. J. Gillespie, Auditor of Public Accounts of said State, do hereby certify that warrants have been issued at this office, upon the requisitions of the Governor, in favor of the Treasurer of the Mississippi Iustitute for the Deaf and Dumb, from November 1, 1861, to October 31st, 1863, for the sum of six thousand five hundred dollars.

        L. S. Given under my hand and seal of office, at Columbus, this 31st October, 1863.

A. J. GILLESPIE,
Auditor of Public Accounts.


Page 126

NINTH ANNUAL REPORT
OF THE
SUPERINTENDENT OF THE LUNATIC ASYLUM.

To the Board of Trustees of the Lunatic Asylum:

        GENTLEMEN--In compliance with my duty as Medical Superintendent of this Institution, I desire to submit the following brief report to the Board of Trustees for their consideration.

        I deem it to be a work of supererogation to make any very extended remarks--as in the first place the Board are quite familiar with the management and details of the Institution--and second, because no publication of the report will be had to give such general information as a report might be made to possess.

        I shall, therefore, deem it my duty only to speak concisely of the results obtained in our operations for the last year, and aslo to make known the actual wants and requirements to carry on this work of benevolence with any degree of success.

        At the close of my last annual report there remained in the Asylum one hundred and twenty-four patients--during the Asylum year just closed, twenty eight insane persons have been received, making a total of one hundred and fity-two under treatment. For the same length of time there has been discharged forty-two of this number--leaving in the house at this date one hundred and ten inmates. Of those discharged the result may be stated thus--fourteen proved satisfactory recoveries, two much improved, five unimproved and twenty-one deaths.

        I should be doing myself injustice not to note some of the efficient causes that have contributed to produce this large mortality and the many disadvantages I have had to contend with to prevent it.


Page 127

        I will soon state the physical causes of the mortality of this number. Thirteen died of dysentery, two of consumption, two of typhoid fever, one a conjestive chill, one conjestion of the brain, and one conjestion of the liver.

        One of the above number was a case brought from the Penitentiary and reached here in such a collapsed condition that he lived only a few days after admission. Eleven deaths have occurred since the last occupation of the Federals. Showing a larger sum of deaths in less than three months than for nine months previously.

        This result was, no doubt, owing to a combination of causes operating upon persons of feeble and broken down constitutions. First, the fright produced by the appearance of the enemy, and especially the terrible discharge of artillery. Second, the vast accumulation of animal and vegetable matter immediately around us, subject to decay under the influence of a hot July sun. Third, we were deprived of suitable nutrition for two weeks for our household, owing to the fact that we were cut off from any market and the Yankees stripped us of cows, hogs, and nearly all our garden products; more particularly such as would suit the invalid. And fourth, we were short of many articles of medicine that were necessary for the successful treatment of such cases as these causes were developing. To add still further to our distress and embarrassment, seven out of ten of the male attendants left to break bread with our foes--this want of fidelity very much increased the care and labor of those of us who remained at our post. The great number of sick demanded nearly all of our time, and hence, the removal of the offal and filth, (which was at our very doors and was producing such melancholy results upon the inmates) was slow and tedious.

        I must premise before touching the subject of an appropriation for the next two years, by saying that the strictest economy, compatible with the comfort and the welfare of the patients, has been observed. To make this proof, I will simply state, in general terms, that we use but little more than half of army allowance of meat, and make up for this diminution of meat by a full supply of all kinds of vegetables in their season. This change, in my judgment, does not operate to the prejudice of the patients in any way, and the vegetables cost the State but a trifle, as the labor is mostly performed by the insane. We also make all the clothing for males and females--the soap, candles, vinegar, stockings, socks, brooms, thread, etc., the house uses. These would be


Page 128

items of considerable expense to the house were they to be purchased. To show that our gardening has been quite successful, I will state to the Board that in six weeks just previous to the last visit of the Federals, I sold vegetables to the amount of $2,619.75, and could have sold as much more had the gardens not have been ruined by the occupation of the enemy. Notwithstanding the economy and the many savings thus mentioned, the current and necessary expenses could not have been discharged had we not made a pretty large and fortunate purchase of goods just before the fall of New Orleans. The stock of goods then purchased would now cost $15,000, or more.

        As to the amount required to support the Institution for the next two years--it must needs be but approximative; for no one can anticipate the range of prices in the future. Taking the estimate of the present exhorbitant prices, the necessary repairs to the building and machinery, and the small stock on hand of all kinds, that a less sum than fity thousand dollars per annum, will not provide the Asylum with anything more than plain and substantial wants. I shall not urge this point, but leave it as I have stated it, feeling that you will not differ with me, except it might be, you deemed the amount too small. It certainly would be proper for the Legislature to provide a contingent fund (as the last Legislature did) to make up for a still further increase of prices.

        It may be well enough to recur to the fact, that in addition to the thirty thousand a year, we have drawn the contingent fund of five thousand dollars. Thirty-six hundred dollars of this sum was used as a first payment on a tract of land containing one hundred and fifty-three acres, bought of Dr. J. S. Sizer, and the balance used in our account current. The purchase was concluded for seventy-two hundred dollars--leaving one payment of thirty-six hundred, with interest, still due. We were forced to make this purchase, as wood could not be had at anything short of fabulous prices--and I have no doubt but that the wood on the land could now be sold for more than double the amount of purchase money.

        I have thought proper to institute the inquiry as to how we are to clothe the patients under existing circumstances. All the factories are in the employ of the Government, and the few staple goods found on the merchants' shelves, are beyond the ability of the Asylum to purchase. In view of this state of things, I volunteered the suggestion to the


Page 129

Governor of the State and some few of the members of the Legislature, that certain portion of the appropriation might be used in the purchase of cotton, and by an arrangement with the Federal authorities, sell the cotton and obtain such needed articles as we are not able to get elsewhere. It seems to me there could be no well founded objection to this measure, if carried out faithfully, and for no other purpose than indicated.

        If this policy is not adopted, or some other equally as economical, I feel quite certain that the amount of fifty thousand dollars will not support the household. I venture the assertion, that if left to purchase clothing at the present prices in the Confederacy, that ten or twelve thousand dollars will be expended alone for clothing.

        I present as a consideration and not a motive why the Institution should be sustained, were the Federals to find it unoccupied, their malice might prompt them to lay it in ashes. We know that other buildings equally sanctified in their uses, have been laid waste.

        For another twelve-month I have performed the duties pertaining to the office of Assistant Physician and Stewart. This has been a saving to our funds of not less than two thousand dollars in salaries and board. The salaries of the two officers amount to fourteen hundred dollars a year, and they could not be boarded for less than three hundred dollars each. This extra labor I have done willingly, and I trust, satisfactorily to the Board.

        As to our finances and the expenditures for the year, you will expect to get as full and complete a statement from our Secretary as circumstances will permit.

        Gentlemen, I take pleasure in returning you my sincere thanks for another year of pleasant business intercourse, as well as for the continued assistance I have received in the discharge all of my arduous duties.

        And to conclude, let us indulge the hope that our greatest trials have been passed--that under a kind Providence we may be enabled, so to administer the trust placed in our keeping, as to add the highest amount of good to those brought here for care and protection.

ROBERT KELLS,
Superintendent and Physician.

TO MESSRS. H. HOBBS, JNO. W. ROBINSON, WM. H. ALLEN,
D. N. BARROWS, W. W. LANGLEY, L. JULIENNE AND J. D.
STEWART--Board Supervisors.

MIISS. STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM, Oct. 31, 1863.


Page 130

TRUSTEES' REPORT.

To His Excellency, John J. Pettus,
Governor of the State of Mississippi:

        SIR--It is again made our duty, by law, as Trustees of the Mississippi State Lunatic Asylum, to make an annual report to you, and through you to the Legislature, soon to assemble, in regard to the wants and management of the Institution under our charge.

        This duty is made more easy in consequence of the full report made by the Superintendent. The books and vouchers of the Institution, kept by the Secretary, were all destroyed by the public enemy on their last visit to Jackson, in July, as well as those kept by the Treasurer; though none of the funds were lost. Consequently we have no report from the Treasurer and a very brief one from the Secretary.

        Having lost all our books and vouchers in the hands of the Secretary and Treasurer, we cannot make as full and satisfactory a report as to the receipts and expenses of the Institution as we desire. But we believe that all the funds will be satisfactorily accounted for by the aid of the Steward's books, kept at the Institution, and which will show much the larger portion of the disbursements of the Institution.

        The public enemy, during the siege of Jackson, destroyed nearly all the enclosures of the Institution, as well as the stock of cattle and hogs and crops of vegetables, to the extent of several thousand dollars. Finding that the Institution would likely be hard run for wood before the ensuing winter, and having an opportunity then of buying a valuable tract of wood land sufficient to supply it with wood for several years, we made the purchase, and hope it will meet your approbation. A part of the purchase money still remains unpaid, to the amount of about four thousand dollars, to meet which we respeetfully ask an appropriation. In consequence of the enhanced price of all articles of consumption, we are constrained to ask for an increased annual appropriation in order to enable us to keep the Institution in operation


Page 131

upon the most economical plan we can adopt. It is not necessary for us to ennumerate the high prices and the difficulty of procuring supplies as that is familiar to all. By the act of the Legislature passed at the regular November term, 1861, and approved December 19th, 1861, increasing the annual appropriation to thirty-two thousand dollars and requiring it to be paid quarterly in advance, has been a great advantage to the Institution, in short without such cash payments, we could not have carried on the Institution.

        We would respectfully ask for the several appropriations mentioned in the report of Dr. R. Kells, the Superintendent, who knows better than we do, the expense and difficulty of procuring supplies and the proper attendants, and unless we increase the pay of the attendants it will be very difficult, if not impossible, to retain or procure proper assistants to carry on the Institution. The friends of pay patients have been quite prompt in paying up their dues, which has been much help to the Institution. The number of patients has been considerably reduced since our last annual report, until we now have only one hundred and ten in the house.

        Most of the time since the war commenced, Dr. Kells has, by the aid of one of the attendants, discharged all the duties of Steward and Assistant Physician, and having now no regular Steward. The inventory of furniture and other property belonging to the Institution is not now made, though there is no material change since the last report was made. In conclusion, we will express the hope that the Institution may continue to receive the fostering care of the Legislature, and that it may increase until it shall furnish a comfortable home for all that unfortunate class of our citizens for whom it was intended.

Respectfully submitted,

H. HOBBS,
President Board of Trustees.

MISSISSIPPI STATE LUNATIC ASYLUM,
October 31st, 1863.


Page 132

SECRETARY'S REPORT.

JACKSON, November 2, 1863.

To the President and Board of Trustees of the Mississippi
State Lunatic Asylum:

        GENTLEMEN--This being the period at which it becomes my duty to report to the Board, as Secretary of the Institution, I hereby submit this report to your consideration.

        Owing to the desolation caused by the presence of the enemy early in May last, and the destruction of everything whereby they passed, the Asylum papers, books, etc., were all destroyed, (as well as my own private papers) by the destruction of my iron safe. Hence it is that I am unable, in the present report, to classify the different expenditures of the Institution.

        The entire destruction of the Treasurer's books and vouchers, (Mr. J. D. Stewart) has prevented his making any report at all.

        From the accuracy of the books kept by Doctor Robert Kells, at the Asylum, I am able to furnish you the following statement:

  • The balance in the hands of the Treasurer of the Institution on the 1st Nov. 1862, was about . . . . . $ 525 90
  • The amount received since then from the contingent fund is . . . . . 5,000 00
  • From the annual appropriation, drawn quarterly in advance . . . . . 32,000 00
  • From the sales of vegetables, etc., etc. . . . . . 2,619 75
  • Total amount received from pay patients . . . . . 7,168 62
  • $47,313 37
    Page 133

  • The amount disbursed for the necessary supplies of the Institution up to this date in the different branches, such as provisions, wood, clothing, etc., etc., amounts at the present date to . . . . . $ 47,353 15
  • Leaving a balance due the Superintendent of . . . . . $ 39 78

        I must here state, that nowithstanding the above expenditures, there still remains unsettled claims to the amount of some $3,800.00--$3,600.00 of which is a balance due on a purchase of land and bearing 10 per cent. interest till paid, from June last.

Respectfully submitted,

L. JULIENNE,
Secretary.


Page 134

REPORT
OF THE
CHIEF OF ORDNANCE.

H'D Q'U'S ORDNANCE OFFICE S. M.
MERIDIAN, Oct. 31, 1863.

His Excellency, John J. Pettus,
Governor and Com'd'r in Chief:

        SIR--Since my last annual report of the condition of the several Departments under my supervision, I have been steadily engaged in receiving and disbursing, and also in the fabrication of ammunition, principally for small arms, up to the 10th day of May last, at which time, under your orders, I removed all the Ordnance Stores belonging to the State to this point. I also, in pursuance of orders, moved the State Armory, at that time located in Brandon. The transportation of such a large amount of stores, material, machinery, etc., was necessarily attended with some loss and injury. Yet the loss is as nothing, compared with the entire destruction of these things had they been left to the mercy of the enemy upon their occupation of Jackson and Brandon. A complete abstract of all articles lost, damaged and rendered unserviceable since my official term commenced, both while stationary and in transitu, is herewith enclosed, marked Exhit "A." I would remark, however, that these losses have been more than counterbalanced by the arms, etc., which have been collected by me in and around Jackson, after its evacation by the enemy. I also submit a very lengthy report marked "B," of the Ordnance stores received, issued and remaining on hand, from Oct. 1862, to 1st Nov., 1863, which will explain the exact condition of the Arsenal, Magazine, etc., at present. I am now erecting the State Armory, Arsenal, Magazine and Laboratory, at this place, as per your order, which will very soon be in successful


Page 135

operation. These buildings are only temporary in their character and the expenses attending the erection of all of them won't amount to more than seven or eight thousand dollars. I leased a sufficient amount of land for them for one year or more, at the sum of one hundred dollars per annum. The expenses for carrying on the Armory for the last twelve months, amounts in the aggregate to thirty-four thousand dollars. For the proper disbursement of which money there are now the necessary vouchers on file in this office. The whole amount of expenses of all the Departments under my control, since Oct. 1862, will foot up, one hundred and three thousand three hundred and fifty-eight dollars and eighty-eight cents. All the Departments have been in a state of inactivity, so to speak, for several months past, owing to the unsettled condition of the country and the want of suitable buildings to carry on the work which should have been done. Nevertheless, I have had a sufficient amount of stores on hand to meet all demands (with a few exceptions) that have been made on my Department.

        I would respectfully recommend through you, to the Legislature, the propriety as well as the necessity of making the Ordnance Officer a disbursing agent for his Department, instead of requiring the Quartermaster General to pay his accounts. This might be done by compelling him to give a bond, as any other disbursing officer, of ten or twenty thousand dollars, for the faithful expenditures of all monies that may be required in his Department. The Governor would be the proper judge as to whether the money would be rightfully spent, and hence the Ordnance Officer could make his requisition upon the Auditor as the Quartermaster General does, and upon its approval, he could draw the funds. This was the way under the old Military Board, which is highly preferable to the present system. As it is now, all the approved accounts which properly should be on file in this office, are lodged in the hands of the Quartermaster General, as vouchers to him. The Ordnance Officer and Paymaster, may be frequently separated, as is now the case, and in carrying on the business of this office it puts the officer and those with whom he had dealings, to a great deal of unnecessary trouble and expense in getting the bills paid, which might all be obviated by making the State Ordnance Officer like that of the Confederate, a bonded Paymaster for his own Department. I would further suggest that the Ordnance Officer be allowed a clerk, the law failing to give him one, or any assistance whatever, save "Inspectors of


Page 136

Arms," stationed at the places designated in the act, whose business it was to inspect the arms brought in by the Sheriffs' of the different counties. Their services having been dispensed with long since, it is necessary that this officer have some one to aid him.

        I would also suggest that an additional amount over and above the "twenty thousand dollars" appropriated by the last Legislature for the enlargement of the State Armory, be appropriated for the purpose of buying a pice or tract of land somewhere in the interior of the State, accessible to railroad transportation. The land should be purchased in a locality where wood and water are abundant, upon which there should be erected good and permanent buildings, not only for the Armory proper, but also domicils put up in regular order, to be let out to the workmen, who would then be always under the eye and control of the Superintendent. This establishment is the nucleus out of which may be made an Institution of incaculable benefit to the State in future, as well as the Government at large, if the Legislature will foster it in its infancy.

        As my official term of office expires with your administration, I would, before closing this report, express to you my thanks for the uniform kindness and courtesy with which you have treated me, and indulge the hope that you may live long to enjoy the liberty and independence of that Government which your efforts have been mainly and most assiduously directed to establish.

Very respectfully submitted,

U. BOURNE,
Col. and Acting Chief of Ord. S. M.


Page 137

DOCUMENT A.

        

ABSTRACT OF ARTICLE LOST AND RENDERED UNSERVICEable, attending the evacuation of Jackson, Miss., and in transit therefrom.

ARTICLES. REMARKS.
832 lbs. Pig Copper Lost at Enterprize, Miss.
644 lbs. Block Tin Lost at Enterprize, Miss.
89 Sabre Belts Lost at Enterprize, Miss.
59 Bridle Fillings Lost at Enterprize, Miss.
26 6-Pounder Solid Shot, strap'd Lost at Jackson, Miss.
4 2-Pounder Carkeet Shot Lost at Jackson, Miss.
5 Enfield Rifles Damaged in transit.
16 Harper's Ferry do Damaged in transit.
47 Pairs Stirrups Lost in transit.
55 Cruppers Lost in transit.
2 Spinning Wheels Lost at Jackson.
1 Bench Vice Lost at Jackson.
2000 Sheets Paste Board Lost at Jackson.
181 12 Pounder Solid Shot Lost at Jackson.
426 7-Pounder Solid Shot Lost at Jackson.
1 Mealing Table and Muller Lost at Jackson.
30 Bushels Charcoal Lost in Jackson.
290 lbs. Cast Iron Lost in Jackson Worthless.

I certify that the above Abstract is correct.

U. BOURNE, Acting Chf. Ord.


Page 138

        

REPORT OF ORDNANCE AND ORDNANCE STORES RECEIVED, ISSUED AND REMAINING ON HAND, FROM THE 14th day of October, 1862, to the 1st day of November, 1863, at Mississippi State Arsenal.

    Pounder S. B. Bronze Guns Pounder Gun Carriages Pounder Caissons and Limbers Pounder Caissons Pounder S. B. Bronze Guns Pounder Gun Carriages Pounder Caissons Pounder Iron Guns Pounder Gun Carriages Pounder Caissons Pounder Guns Pounder Carriages and Limbers inch Bronze Breech Loading Guns inch Gun Carriages Pounder Shrapnel Shot fixed Pounder Shrapnel Shell fixed Pounder Solid Shot fixed Pounder Canister Shot fixed Pounder Shrapnel Shot fixed inch Canister Shot fixed Pounder Canister Shot fixed Pounder Solid Shot fixed Pounder Howitzer fixed Pounder Solid Shot fixed Pounder Canister Shot fixed Pounder Solid Shot Shrapnel Pounder Carkeet Shot Muskets. S. B. Muskets. Rifled Muskets. Flint Lock
DATE. 1868   18       6     6 6 6 2 2 2 2 12   6 6 6 2 18 18 12 4 4 6 2      
  Received 2 2 2 0 3 6 0 2 2 2 1 1 4 4 76 36 360 71 624 475 49 82 100 38 27 26 4 2201 262 568
  Issued 2 2 2 0 3 3 0 2 2 2 0 0 4 4 76 36 360 71 622 400 49 82 100 38 27 00 0 2201 262 564
Nov. 1 Amount on hand 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 00 00 000 00 2 75 00 00 000 00 00 26 4 00000 000 4


Page 139

        
DATE. 1863   Rifles, Harper's Ferry Rifles, Mississippi Rifles, Enfield Rifles, Sharpe's Rifles, Maynard Rifles, Hunting Rifles, Reconstructed Carbines, Rifled Rifled Barrels Double barrel Shot Guns S. B Shot Guns Pistols Pistol Holsters Cartridge's Enfield Rifles Cartridge's Miss. Rifles Cartridge's Maynard Rifles Cartridge's Sharp's Rifles Cartridge's Buckshot
  Received 15 178 22 2 0 134 132 683 35 408 10 298 496 59,190 102,975 11,100 560 14,776
  Issued 1 174 17 1 0 133 132 683 35 404 2 278 61 38,790 49,645 6440 560 131,260
Nov. 1 Amount on hand 16 4 5 1 0 1 000 000 00 4 8 20 435 20,400 53,330 4660 000 16,500


Page 140

        
DATE 1863   Cartridges Musket Cartridges Pistol Cartridges Pistol, Navy Caps, "G. D." Caps, "Musket" Powder, Rifle, Kegs Powder, Cannon Lead Cart Boxes Cap Waist Belts Shoulder Straps Canteens Canteen Straps Knapsacks Haversacks
  Received 387,670 3117 20,920 343,345 756,756 122½ 2000 9259 4028 3515 3646 3280 2825 1729 3102 2951
  Issued 204,070 3117 8890 232,345 656,386 17½ 285 265 2630 2575 3477 3161 2194 1652 1542 1911
November 1 Amount on hand 183,600 0000 12,030 101,000 100,360 112 1715 8894 1388 9240 169 119 431 77 1560 1040


Page 141

        
DATE. 1863   Gun Slings Bridle Bitts Sheep Skins, dressed Hames' Artillery, pr's Harness Leather Flax Thread Buckles, Plated Buckles, for Cartridge Boxes Saddle Trees Packing Boxes Lumber, Ft. Bayonets Bayonet Scabbards Spurs pairs Jars, 3 gal Tents, Hospital Tents, Wall Maynard Prime's Prolonges Tow Hooks Gunners' Gimlets Lanyards Thumb Stalls Fuze Gauge Port Fire Cutters Port Fire Cases Portfire Stocks
  Received 30 2 54 4 319 7 112 235 2 759 4000 1240 1471 47 3 1 6 121,600 4 4 4 9 10 1 3 2 4
  Issued 30 2 50 4 319 1 112 235 2 465 4000 861 653 47 3 1 6 3600 2 4 4 9 8 1 3 2 2
November 1 Amount on hand 00 0 4 0 000 6 000 000 0 294 0000 379 818 00 0 0 0 118,000 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 2


Page 142

        
DATE   Vent Punches Trail Handspikes Sponges and Rammers Nails Vent Covers Tube Pouches Worms Gunners' Haversacks Port Fires Leather Sponge Buckets Priming Horns Linstocks Buckshot Pack Saddles Cavalry Saddles Cavalry Valises Priming Wires Bridle Fittings Harness Artillery Setts--complete Wire Packages Gum Packages Slow Matches--yds Brass Paddocks, without keys Tube Punch Belts Sponge Buckets Sponge Covers Tar Buckets Tarpaulins Handspikes Jugs
1863                                                              
  Received 1 13 13 353 2 6 7 10 157 2 4 10 268 100 118 1 6 73 23 7 21 3 1 2 4 6 33 10 9
  Issued 1 13 9 3 2 4 4 8 40 2 4 4 190 100 118 1 6 00 5 0 00 0 0 0 2 4 0 4 4 0
November 1 Amount on hand 0 00 4 350 0 2 3 2 117 0 9 6 78 000 000 0 0   18 7 21 3 1 0 0 6 29 6 9


Page 143

        
DATE. 1863   Demijohns Ovens Camp Kettles Bread Trays Coffee Pots Tin Cups Iron Kettles Water Buckets Swords Cones' Muskets Tin for Cart. Boxes Tag Buckles Boarman Fuzes White Lead, lbs. Cast Iron lbs. Charcoal, hhds Twine Hemp, bs Twine, Cotton Spirits Turpentine, gallons Sabres Sabre Belts Pikes Cart. Paper, reams Assorted Arms Halter Bridles Box for Office Paper Breast Straps, pairs Canteens, "old" Friction Tubes
  Received 2 2 1 1 1 2 4 4 0 50 1997 6 1400 2 290 0 5 8 ½ 24 90 1600 81 169 1 1 469 2470
  Issued 0 1 1 1 1 2 4 4 0 00 0000 0 0000 0 000 0 0 0 0 3 00 000 2 21 107 0 1 000 2070
November 1 Amount on hand 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 50 1997 6 1400 2 290 0 5 8 ½ 21 90 1600 60 62 1 0 469 400


Page 144

        
DATE. 1863   Pig Copper, lbs Blasting Fuze Vent Pouches Blank Cartridges Musket Ball Cartridges, fixed Maynard Balls Buckshot Case, fixed Cone Wrenches Gun Cones Block Tin. lbs Brass, lbs Gun Cones Sheer Copper, lbs Cartridges, Damaged Martingale's, prs Sword Bayonets Rifles, Hunt'g, and reconstructed Rifles, Miss Rifles, Harper's Ferry Rifles, Enfield Muskets, S. B. Muskets, Flint Locks D. B. Guns, assorted S. B. Guns, assorted Cartridge Boxes Cartridge Boxes without Tins
  Received 8000 300 4 7 360 100 50 4 2 2817 75 865 956 119 88 20 326 14 1 3 44 11 88 57 337 105
  Issued 50 300 4 7 360 100 50 4 2 25 75 50 000 000 47 20 000 00 0 0 00 00 00 00 000 000
November 1 Amount on hand 7950 000 0 0 000 000 00 0 0 2792 00 815 956 119 41 00 326 14 1 3 44 11 88 57 337 105


Page 145

        
DATE. 1863   Cap Pouches Waist Belts Bayonet Scabbards Bowie Knives Bowie Knife Scabbards Artillery Knife 6 Pounder Gun Limbers 12 Pounder Carriage Wheels Musket Cartridge Box Tins Pistol Cartridge Box Tins 18 Pounder Cannon Tins 18 Pounder Cannon Bottoms 18 Pounder Cannon Sabots 7 Pounder Sabots 6 Pounder Sabots 4 Pounder Sabots 2 inch Canister Blocks 3 inch Canister Blocks 7 Pounder Canister Blocks 18 Pounder Cartridge Bags 12 Pounder Cartridge Bags 1 ½ inch Cartridge Bags 3 inch Rifle Cartridge Bags 7 Pounder Canister Pins and Blocks 7 Pounder Canister Bottoms 7 Pounder Canister Covers 3 inch Canister Tin and Blocks 3 inch Canister Cover
  Received 24 3 362 293 123 1 2 10 335 1093 110 12 33 208 132 74 10 33 2 200 9 100 474 27 9 5 11 1
  Issued 00 0 000 000 000 0 0 00 000 0000 000 00 00 000 000 00 00 00 0 000 0 000 000 00 0 0 00 0
Nov. 1 Amount on hand 24 3 362 293 123 1 2 10 335 1093 110 12 33 208 132 74 10 33 2 200 9 100 474 27 9 5 11 1


Page 146

        
DATE 1863   Woolen Yarn, lbs Flannel, yds. Pistol Cartridge Boxes Artillery Harness, Setts, without collars Artillery Harness, Setts, incomplete Long H. Shovels Prolong Hooks Toggle Prolonge Ring Rosin, bbls Rolling Barrel Bellows Grindstone and Frame Platform Scales Beam Scales Copper Pans Tinners' Shears Vices Boxes for Laboratory Jackscrews Sulphate Antimony, lbs Nitre, lbs Chlorate Potash, lbs Garrison Flag Plantation Bell Packing Barrels Packing Kegs Wrapping Paper, reams Glass Jars 2 inch Solid Shot, fixed Explosive Bullets Boes' Wax, lbs Carpenter's Plane Carpenter's Brace
  Received 13 55 154 72 15 7 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 50 2 1 ¾ 3 1 1 10 135 28 4 60 2000 10½ 1 1
  Issued 00 00 000 00 00 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 0 0 00 000 00 0 00 0 00 0 0
Nov. 1 Amount on hand 13 55 154 72 15 7 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 50 2 1 ¾ 3 1 1 10 135 28 4 60 2000 10½ 1 1


Page 147

        
DATE. 1863   Handsaw Ladles, Iron Firemens' Furnace Strapping Hammers Round-faced do Hatchet Pliers, prs Strapping Chisels Punches Scissors. prs Shears, prs Fuze Plug Extractor Tin Ring Cutters Fuze Plug Drift Bullet Moulds, elongated Long Moulds, prs Foot and Hand Lathe Form for Artillery Cartridge Caps Form for Artillery Cartridge Bags Copper Drift Dust Pan Measures for Artillery Cartridges Funnels for Artillery Cartridges Gauges, prs, for Cannon Balls Hone Laboratory Brushes Bunclig Blocks Patent Small Arms Cartridges Formers' Small Arms Cartridges Bench Knives Spools Gauges' Buck Cartridges Bullet Cutters Wheel Barrows Reamers for filling spherical case
  Received 1 3 1 1 1 1 1 2 3 4 1 1 2 1 4 8 1 3 11 1 1 9 2 8 1 1 3 2 45 5 35 1 1 1 4
  Issued 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00 0 00 0 0 0 0
November 1 Amount on hand 1 3 1 1 1 1 1 2 3 4 1 1 2 1 4 8 1 3 11 1 1 9 2 8 1 1 3 2 45 5 35 1 1 1 4


Page 148

        
DATE. 1863   Plugs for filling spherical case Tap-wrenches Wrenches Fuze Plug Wrenches Washing Pot and Brush Tin Straps Rifle Bullet Swedge Splitting Machine for Leather Monkey Wrench Trace Buckles Cannon Lock Covers Assorted Cartridges, for Rifles Assorted Cartridges, for Damaged 2-inch Canister Shot, not fixed Blasting Powder Kegs Powder, lbs, damaged Powder, Musket, bbls Prolonge Rope, feet Stirrups, prs Cruppers Spinning Wheel Paste Board Sheets 12 Pounder Solid Shot 7 Pounder Solid Shot Mealing Table and Muller Charcoal, bushels
  Received 4 1 1 1 1 88 1 1 1 7 1 8010 10,000 39 2 56 10½ 60 118 118 2 2000 181 426 1 30
  Issued 0 0 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 0             00 71 63 0 000 000 000 1 00
November 1 Amount on hand 4 1 1 1 1 88 1 1 1 7 1 8010 10,000 39 2 50 10½ 60 47 55 2 2000 181 426 0 30

U. BOURNE, Col. & Acting Chief of Ordnance, State of Mississippi.


Page 149

REPORT
OF THE
ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL.

HEAD QUARTERS, STATE MISSISSIPPI,
ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL'S OFFICE.
COLUMBUS, November 1, 1863.

To His Excellency, John J. Pettus,
Governor and Com'd'r in Chief:

        SIR--I have the honor to submit herewith a report of Mississippi regiments and battalions now in the service of the Confederate States.

        The report is made as acurately as the records of this Department permit, and embraces a few regiments heretofore reported by my predecessor, Col. W. H. Brown, in obedience to a resolution of the Legislature of the State, passed July 25, 1861, I have included those regiments, in order to show accurately the running numbers as they are at present designated, and the change of the numbers of some since the rendition of the report above mentioned.

        The irregularity of the numbers of battalions is occasioned by being first organized as battalions and subsequently as regiments.

        Many regiments and battalions of Mississippi volunteers were organized beyond the limits of the State and others raised under special authority, reported directly to the War Department; consequently I have not been able to report the names of the companies, the Captains of them, or number of men. The field and company officers are reported as first organized, and all changes that are known to me that have occurred in the commands are annexed to the report of each.

        I annex hereto summary report of the State troops that


Page 150

have been called from time to time into active service and organized into battalions and regiments.

        There were at first seventy companies of infantry and thirteen companies of cavaly. From which there were organized five regiments and four battalions of infantry and one battalion of cavalry. The remaining cavalry companies were unattached and operated in the northern and north-western portion of the State. The cavalry battalion is now filled to a regiment and the unattached companies have entered other cavalry organizations since formed. I have not in this report given a detailed statement of these troops, as they were reported minutely at the last meeting of the Legislature to you by Major General Tupper.

        Most of the infantry served out their term of enlistment, in that arm of the service, but cavalry being greatly needed in April last, many were permitted to change their service, upon condition that they were to re-volunteer for twelve months. By this means nearly two regiments were formed of men whose term of enlistment had nearly expired. A full report is annexed of the State troops now in service--showing there are three regiments, three battalions and ten unattached companies. There are several unattached companies in North Mississippi now being organized into a regiment under Brig. Gen. George, but the organization is not yet reported.

        I deem it unnecessary to make any comments upon or suggest any changes in the present military law of the State, as you are fully apprised of the difficulties and deficiencies of the law. The law is evidently better adapted to times of peace than to the present immergency, and would meet every necessity of simple organization for drill and inspection. But in organizing troops for active service in the field it is so extremely defective, as to render efficient organization impossible. There are numerous and glaring defects which I would point out, but being assured that the attention of the Legislature will be directed to the subject, I refrain from adverting to them in this report.

        By the act supplemental to the milita law, approved 29th January, 1862, there is but one assistant allowed this Department and the salary now fixed by law is insufficient for his support. I would suggest that said assistant be allowed the rank and pay of Captain.

        The duties of the Department are frequently very laborious and such as to require additional assistance, in which case I have heretofore employed the help necessary at my


Page 151

own expense. I would, therefore, suggest that this, as well as the other Military Departments of the State, be authorized to employ such additional assistance as is in their judgment required and only for such length of time as is absolutely necessary.

I have the honor to be,
Your Excellency's most ob't serv't,

JONES S. HAMILTON,
Adj. and Inspector Gen'l, State of Miss.

First Regiment.

        COLONEL, JOHN M. SIMONTON.

        LIEUT. COL., A. S. HAMILTOM.

        MAJOR, T. H. JOHNSON,

        DeSoto Guards, Captain W. J. Brown.

        Walker Reserve, Captain G. M. Moseley.

        Alcorn Rifles, Captain J. J. Milam.

        Dave Rogers Rifles, Captain L. M. Lansha.

        Pt. Mount Rifles, Captain C. C. Wilbourn.

        Rifle Scouts, Captain

        Moorsville Darts, Captain M. Pounds.

        Miss. Yankee Hunters, Captain

        James Creek Volunteers, Captain J. Ferguson.

        Reube Davis Rebels, Captain W. Young.

        Whole number, including field and staff officers, 682 men.

        Change in field officers as officially reported from the War Department.


Page 152

Second Regiment.

        COLONEL, T. J. DAVIDSON.

        LIEUT. COL., J. M. WELLS.

        MAJOR, JOHN R. DUVALL.

        Falkner Guard, Captain B. F. Hill.

        Molino Rifles, Captain E. M. Wells.

        Tippah Tigers, Captain P. Holcomb.

        Tippah Riflemen, Captain M. M. Corley.

        Blount Guards, Captain C. G. Blount.

        Kossuth Volunteers, Captain R. B. Allen.

        Blackland Gideonites, Captain

        Plenitude Invincibles, Captain

        Thompson Invincibles, Captain J. H. Kennedy.

        Stubbs Rifles Captain R. R. Knight.

        Whole number, including field and staff officers, 737 men.

Second Regiment, No. 1.

        COLONEL, W. C. FALKNER.

        LIEUT. COL., B. BOONE.

        MAJOR, DAVID HUMPHREYS.

        O'Connor Rifles, Captain J. H. Buchanan.

        Magnolia Rifles, Captain

        Joe Matthews Rifles, Captain W. D. Beck.

        Tishomingo Rifles, Captain

        Calhoun Rifles, Captain John J. Booth.

        Town Creek Rifles, Captain W. C. Bromley.

        Pontotoc Minute Men, Captain H. R. Miller.

        Coomwah Rifles, Captain J. H. Taylor.

        Cherry Creek Rifles, Captain John J. Herring.

        Iuka Rifles Captain J. M. Stone.

        800 men rank and file.


Page 153

Third Regiment.

        COLONEL, J. B. DEASON.

        LIUT. COL., ROBERT EAGER.

        MAJOR T. A. MELLON.

        Gainesville Volunteers, Captain McFadden.

        Shieldsboro' Rifles, Captain J. V. Toulnee.

        Chunkey Heroes, Captain W. B. Johnson.

        Sunflower Dispersers, Captain Morgan.

        McWillie Blues, Captain E. A. Peyton.

        Biloxi Rifles, Captain J. P. Elmore.

        Downing Rifles Captain Radcliffe.

        Dahlgreen Guards, Captain Green.

        Live Oak Rifles, Captain McRae.

        John M. Sharp's, Captain S. M. Dyer.

        Whole number, including field and staff officers, 806 men.

        Field officers as at present known to War Department, Col. T. A. Mellon.

Fourth Regiment.

        COLONEL, JAS. DRAKE.

        LIUT. COL., P. S. LAYTON.

        MAJOR, F. N. ADAIR.

        Carroll County Rebels, Captain

        Centre Marksmen, Captain H. Jamison.

        Red Invincibles, Captain W. C. Red.

        Stephen Guards, Captain R. D. Palmer.

        Nelson Grays, Captain Thos. P. Nelson.

        Sons of the South, Captain W. A. Sumner.

        Bankston Guard, Captain W. R. Hale.

        Benela Sharpshooters, Captain Robert Middleton.

        Paris Rebels, Captain G. W. Paris.

        Attala Yellow Jackets, Captain J. B. Moore.

        Whole number, including field and staff officers, 787 men.


Page 154

Fifth Rsgiment.

        COLONEL A. E. FANT.

        LIEUT. COL., S. F. FAUCETT.

        MAJOR A. STENNIS.

        Bogue Chitto Rangers, Captain Jackson.

        Red Rovers, Captain Armstrong.

        Pettus Rebels, Captain Reed.

        New Prospect Grays, Captain Weir.

        Lauderdale Spring Grays Captain Smith.

        Barry Guards, Captain Womack.

        Winston Rifles, Captain Comfort.

        Kemper Rebels, Captain Bostick.

        Noxubee Blues, Captain Featherston.

        Scotland Guards, Captain Lewis.

        Whole number, including field and staff officers, 736 men.

Sixth Regiment.

        COLONEL, J. J. THORNTON.

        LIEUT. COL., E. R. BENETT.

        MAJOR, R. LOWRY.

        Rankin Rough and Readies, Captain E. J. Runnels.

        Rrankin Grays, Captain W. B. Shelby.

        New Guard, Captain E. L. Alford.

        Quitman Southerns, Captain W. M. Hall.

        East Mississippi Grays, Captain A. Y. Harper.

        Crystal Springs' Guard, Captain A. B. Love.

        Rockport Steel Blades, Captain A. Steel.

        Lake Rebels, Captain W. L. Towner.

        Simpson Fencibles, Captain E. R. Bennett.

        Lowry Rifles, Captain W. J. Finch.

        Whole number, including field and staff officers, 601 men.


Page 155

Seventh Regiment.

        COLONEL, E. J. GOODE.

        LIEUT. COL., H. MAYSON.

        MAJOR, R. S. CARTER.

        Franklin Rifles, Captain W. J. Proby.

        Bogue Citto Rifles, Captain Bristoe.

        Amite Rifles, Captain B. J. Johns.

        Franklin Beaureguard's, Captain D. H. Parker.

        Jeff. Davis Sharpshooters, Captain Henry Pope.

        Marion Men, Captain W. J. Rankin.

        Goode Rifles, Captain Cannon.

        Covington Rifles, Captain J. T. Fairley.

        Dahlgreen Rifles, Captain P. B. Williams.

        Quitman Rifles, Captain Huff.

        911 men rank and file.

        Col. W. H. Bishop, Lieut. Col. A. M. Mills.

Eighth Regiment.

        COLONEL, G. G. FLYNT.

        LIEUT. COL., J. T. GATES.

        MAJOR G. T. PECK.

        Yankee Terrors, Captain Watkins,

        Southern Sentinels, Captain W. E. Day.

        Ellisville Invincibles, Captain Sam. Prince.

        True Confederates, Captain W. T. Ward.

        Tolson Guards, Captain G. W. Ryan.

        Moody True Blues, Captain G. C. Chandler.

        Confederate Guards, Captain Knox.

        Tallahoma Hardshells' Captain Sansom.

        Pinckney Guard, Captain Austin.

        Clarke Co. Rangers, Captain McNeil.

        Whole number, including field and staff officers, 888 men.

        Col. J. C. Wilkinson, Liut. Col. A. McNiel, Major John T. Smith.


Page 156

Ninth Regiment.

        COLONEL, JAS. R. CHALMERS.

        LIUT. COL., JAS. L. AUTRY.

        MAJOR,--BOWDRE.

        Irrepressibles, Captain

        Jeff. Davis Rifles, Captain Sam. Benton.

        Invincibles, Captain

        Lafayette Guard, Captain Wm. Delay.

        Home Guard, Captain T. W. Harris.

        Quitman Rifle Guard, Captain R. M. McGowan.

        Horn Lake Volunteers, Captain John H. Foster.

        DeSoto Guards, Captain S. O. B. Crockett.

        Panola Guard, Captain B. Moore.

        Corinth Rifles, Captain W. H. Kirkpatrick.

        933 men rank and file.

        Major J. H. Linam.

Tenth Regiment.

        COLONEL, ROBERT A. SMITH.

        LIEUT. COL., JOSEPH R. DAVIS.

        MAJOR, E. H. GREGORY.

        Ben. Bullard Rifles, Captain J. G. Bullard.

        Lowndes Southrons, Captain W. B. Wade.

        Mississippi Rifles, Captain Jas. Barr.

        Hill City Cadets, Captain J. E. White.

        Avengers, Captain Geo. H. Lipscomb.

        Madison Rifles, Captain Geo. R. Fearn.

        Bahala Rifles, Captain O. T. Gibbs.

        Yazoo Minute Men, Captain H. Peak.

        Rankin Rifles, Captain G. N. Miller.

        Port Gibson Rifles, Captain W. McKeever.

        841 men rank and file.

        Colonel James Barr.


Page 157

Eleventh Regiment.

        COLONEL, W. H. MOORE.

        LIEUT. COL., P. F. LIDDELL.

        MAJOR,----.

        University Grays, Captain W. B. Lowry.

        Coahoma Invincibles, Captain S. M. Delaney.

        Chickasaw Rifles, Captain J. B. Williams.

        Neshoba Rifles, Captain A. H. Franklin.

        Prairi Guards, Captain J. W. Harriston.

        Noxubee Rifles, Captain Geo. G. Wair.

        Lamar Rifles, Captain

        Chickasaw Guards Captain W. F. Tucker.

        Van Dorn Reserves Captain R. O. Reynolds.

        Carroll Co. Rifles, Captain R. W. Williamson.

        Whole number rank and file 747 men.

        Col. S. F. Butler, Major W. B. Lowry.

Twelfth Regiment.

        COLONEL, R. GRIFFITH.

        LIEUT. COL., W. H. TAYLOR.

        MAJOR, JOHN R. DICKENS.

        Charley Clark Rifles, Captain John J. McLain.

        Natchez Fencibles, Captain E. M. Blackburn.

        Raymond Fencibles, Captain Cuddy Thomas.

        Pettus Relief, Captain M. B. Harris.

        Sardis Blues, Captain

        Durant Rifles, Captain John A. Cason.

        Vicksburg Sharpshooters, Captain H. H. Miller.

        Claiborne Guards, Captain Henry Hughes.

        Satartia Rifles, Captain E. R. Gale.

        Lawrence Rifles, Captain R. J. Bowen.

        1013 men rank and file.

        Colonel W. H. Taylor.


Page 158

Thirteenth Regiment.

        COLONEL, WM. BARKSDALE.

        LIEUT. COL.

        MAJOR,

        Winston Guards, Captain John M. Brady.

        Wayne Rifles, Captain J. W. Eckford.

        Pettus Guard, Captain S. J. Randall.

        Kemper Legion, Captain J. W. Carter.

        Minute Men of Attala, Captain L. D. Fletcher.

        Secessionists, Captain D. R. McIntosh.

        Almutcha Infantry, Captain P. H. Bozeman.

        Spartan Band, Captain W. Mellard.

        Lauderdale Guards, Captain Kenon McElroy.

        890 men rank and file.

        Col. J. W. Carter, Lieut. Col. J. McElroy, Major J. M. Bradley.

Fourteenth Regiment.

        COLONEL, W. S. BALDWIN.

        LIEUT. COL., M. E. MORRIS.

        MAJOR, W. L. DOSS.

        Enterprise Guards, Captain R. S. Weir.

        Quitman Invincibles, Captain J. P. McGowan.

        Shubuta Rifles, Captain R. J. Lawrence.

        Meridian Invincibles, Captain W. F. Compton.

        Beaureguard Rifles, No 2., Captain A. S. Lee.

        Columbus Riflemen, Captain

        Monroe Guards, Captain F. M. Rogers.

        Monroe Volunteers, Captain S. J. Gholson.

        Agency Rifles, Captain A. J. Maxwell.

        1034 men rank and file.

        Colonel Donovan.


Page 159

Fifteenth Regiment.

        CONEL, W. S. STATHAM.

        LIEUT. COL., J. W. HEMPHILL.

        MAJOR, H. B. DENNIS.

        Oktibbeha Plowboys, Captain J. M. Watson.

        Quitman Rifles, Captain J. W. Wade.

        Wenona Stars, Captain Thos. Booth.

        McClung Rifles, Captain

        Wigfall Rifles, Captain W. F. Brantly.

        Choctaw Guards, Captain

        Long Creek Rifles, Captain L. S. Terry.

        Grenada Rifles, Captain

        Water Valley Rifles, Captain B. F. Collins.

        Yallabusha Rifles, Captain F. M. Aldridge.

        1002 men rank and file.

        Colonel M. Farrell.

Sixteenth Regiment.

        COLONEL, C. POSEY.

        LIEUT. COL., ROBERT CLARK.

        MAJOR, H. BANKSTON.

        Wilkinson Rifles, Captain A. M. Feltus.

        Adams Light Guard, No. 1, Captain D. Walworth.

        Adams Light Guard, No. 2, Captain S. E. Baker.

        Fairview Rifles, Captain J. T. Moore.

        Summit Rifles, Captain J. D. Blencoe.

        Quitman Guards, Captain S. A. Mathews,

        Crystal Springs Rifles, Captain J. C. Davis.

        Westville Guards, Captain G. J. D. Funches.

        The Defenders, Captain W. H. Hardy.

        Jasper Grays, Captain J. J. Shannon.

        1002 men rank and file.

        Lieut. Col. J. J. Shannon, Major Sam. Baker.


Page 160

Seventeenth Regiment.

        COLONEL, W. S. FEATHERSTON.

        LIEUT. COL., JOHN MCGUIRK.

        MAJOR, J. M. LYLES.

        Panola Vindicators, Captain Geo. P. Foote.

        Quitman Grays, Captain W. D. Holder.

        Pettus Rifles, Captain M. Bell.

        Confederate Guards, Captain

        Mississippi Rangers, Captain

        Rough and Readies, Captain H. E. Wilkinson.

        Samuel Benton Relief Rifles, Captain B. G. Laurence.

        Magnolia Guards, Captain

        Buena Vista Rifles, Captain J. L. Rogers.

        Burnsville Blues, Captain J. C. Waters.

        1000 men rank and file.

        Colonel W. D. Holder.

Eighteenth Regiment.

        COLONEL, E. R. BURT.

        LIEUT. COL., J. M. GRIFFIN.

        MAJOR, J. W. BALFOUR.

        Confederate Rifles, Captain J. M. Jayne.

        Burt Rifles, Captain

        Mississippi College Rifles, Captain J. W. Wilburn.

        Hamer Rifles, Captain C. F. Hamer.

        McClung Rifles, Captain

        Beaureguard Rifles, Captain

        Brown Rebels, Captain A. G. Brown.

        Confederates, Captain O. R. Singleton.

        Camden Difles, Captain Adam McWillie.

        Benton Rifles, Captain W. H. Luce.

        723 men rank and file.

        Colonel J. M. Griffin.


Page 161

Nineteenth Regiment.

        LIEUT. COL., JOHN MULLENS.

        MAJOR, N. H. HARRIS.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Twentieth Regiment.

        COLONEL, D. R. RUSSELL.

        LIEUT. COL., H. H. MILLER.

        MAJOR, WM. N. BROWN.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Twenty-first Regiment.

        COLONEL, B. G. HUMPHRIES.

        LIEUT. COL., WM. L. BRANDON.

        MAJOR, D. N. MOODY.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Twenty-Second Regiment.

        COLONEL, J. D. LESTER.

        LIEUT. COL., H. J. REID.

        MAJOR, T. C. DOCKERY.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.


Page 162

Twenty-third Regiment.

        COLONEL, T. J. DAVIDSON.

        LIEUT. COL., J. M. WELLS.

        MAJOR, JOHN R. DUVALL.

        Franklin Guards, Captain R. H. Hill.

        Molens Rifles, Captain E. M. Wells.

        Tippah Tigers, Captain P. Holcombe.

        Tippah Riflemen, Captain M. M. Conley.

        Blount Guards, Captain C. G. Blount.

        Kossuth Hunters. Captain R. B. Allen.

        Blackland Gideonites, Captain

        Plenitude Invincibles, Captain

        Thompson Invincibles, Captain Kennedy.

        Stubbs Rifles, Captain R. R. Knight.

        Whole number, including field and staff officers, 737 men.

Twenty-fourth Regiment.

        COLONEL, W. F. DOWD.

        LIEUT. COL., R. P. MCKELVAINE.

        MAJOR, W. C. STAPLES.

        Buena Vista Hornets, Captain J. W. Buchanan.

        Dowd Rebels, Captain J. D. Smith.

        Gaines Warriors Captain Henry Roberts.

        Hellen Johnston Guards, Captain E. C. Postell.

        Cummings Grays, Captain B. F. Toomer.

        Choctaw Rebels, Captain W. C. Staples.

        Mississippi Confederates, Captain W. L. Lyle.

        Kemper Rebels, Captain R. P. McKelvaine.

        Caledonia Rifles, Captain M. M. Rowan.

        One company not returned.

        717 men rank and file.


Page 163

Twenty-fifth Regiment.

        COLONEL, J. D. MARTIN.

        LIEUT. COL., E. F. MCGEHEE.

        MAJOR, THOS. H. MANGUM.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Twenty-sixth Rsgiment.

        COLONEL, A. E. RENOLDS.

        LIUT. COL., F. M. BOONE.

        MAJOR, T. F. PARKER.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Twenty-seventh Regiment.

        COLONEL, TAOMAS M. JONES.

        LIUT. COL., JAMES L. AUTRY.

        MAJOR, GEORGE H. LIPSCOMB.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Twenty-eighth Regiment--Cavalry.

        COLONEL, P. B. STARKE.

        LIEUT. COL.,----FERGUSON.

        MAJOR, E. P. JONES.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.


Page 164

Twenty-ninth Regiment.

        COLONEL, E. C. WALTHALL.

        LIEUT. COL., W. F. BRANTLEY.

        MAJOR, J. B. MORGAN.

        Robson Rifles, Captain R. Robson.

        Lafayette Rebels, Captain N. A. Isom.

        Panola Patriots, Captain T. F. Wilson.

        Dixie Rifles, Captain J. F. Harrington.

        DeSoto Brothers, 1st Lieut. Geo. W. Reynolds, com.

        Fishing Creek Avengers, Captain S. B. Herron.

        Oakland Rebels, Captain W. B. Craig.

        Hampton Guards, Captain J. M. Hampton.

        Gale Reserves, Captain R. G. Johnson.

        Walthall Rebels, Captain J. F. Taylor.

        Whole number, including field and staff officers, 876 men.

Thirtieth Regiment.

        COLONEL, G. F. NEILL.

        LIEUT. COL., J. J. SCALES.

        MAJOR, H. REYNOLDS.

        True Mississippians, Captain T. H. Robinson.

        Neill Guards, Captain J. M. Johnson.

        Dixie Boys, 1st Lieut. Wm. Ray, commanding.

        Carroll Minute Men, Captain F. P. Pleasants.

        Yazoo Grays, Captain Q. D. Gibbs.

        Dixie Heroes, Captain W. V. Davis.

        ("No name") Captain John K. Allen.

        ("No name") Captain Samuel Young.

        Buckner Rebels, Captain John N. Campbell.

        One company not returned.

        Whole number, including field and staff officers, 763 men.


Page 165

Thirty-first Regiment.

        COLONEL, J. A. ORR.

        LIEUT. COL. M. D. L. STEPHENS.

        MAJOR, H. E. TOFF.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Thirty-second Regiment.

        COLONEL, M. P. LOWERY.

        LIEUT. COL., W. H. H. TYSON.

        MAJOR, F. C. KARR.

        Southern Farmers, Captain Alexander Archer.

        Buckner Boys, Captain Benjamin J. Kizer.

        Lowery Rebels, Captain F. S. Norman.

        Johnston Avengers, Captain D. P. Rogers.

        Tishomingo Avengers, Captain J. G. Lowery.

        Lowery Invincibles, Captain W. M. Irions.

        Hatchie Rifles, Captain John N. Scally.

        Beaureguard Rifles, Captain J. H. Tankersly.

        W. R. Nelson Guards, Captain W. R. Nelson.

        Tishomingo Rebels, Captain J. W. Swinney.

        Whole number, including field and staff officers, 783 men.

Thirty-third Regiment.

        COLONEL, D. W. HURST.

        LIEUT. COL., W. B. JOHNSON.

        MAJOR, J. L. DRAKE.

        Amite Defenders, 1st Lieut. Moses Jackson, com'g.

        Cumberland Guards, Captain A. K. Booth.

        Leake Rebels, Captain R. J. Hall.

        Rebel Avengers, Captain W. S. Warren.

        Homesville Guards, Captain J. T. Lamkin.

        Amite Guards, Captain H. Morgan.

        Franklin Guards, Captain R. R. Webb.

        Davis Guards, Captain J. M. Tinnon.

        Mississippi Defenders, Captain W. B. Johnson.

        Johnson Guards, Captain R. O. Byrne.

        Whole number, including field and staff officers, 792 men.


Page 166

Thirty-fourth Regiment.

        COLONEL, SAMUEL BENTON.

        LIEUT. COL., DANIEL B. WRIGHT.

        MAJOR, (Not reported.)

        Tippah Farmers, Captain Granville A. Woods.

        Bowen Company, Captain H. J. Bowen.

        Goodman Guards, Captain T. A. Falconer.

        Dixie Guards, Captain Dan'l B. Wright.

        Cold Water Rebels, Captain H. T. Walton.

        Tippah Rangers, Captain John Y. Murry.

        Tippah Rebels, Captain A. C. Rucker.

        Mississippi Avengers, Captain M. F. Wilkins.

        Smith Rifles, Captain E. W. Smith.

        Sons of Liberty, Captain J. B. Huddleston.

        Whole number, including field officers, 779 men.

Thirty-fifth Regiment.

        COLONEL, W. S. BARRY.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Thirty-sixth Regiment.

        COLONEL, D. J. BROWN.

        LIEUT. COL., S. G. HARPER.

        MAJOR, W. W. WITHERSPOON.

        Dixie Guards, Captain Alexander Yates.

        Edwards Tigers, Captain S. K. Smith.

        Hillsboro' Rebels, Captain T. J. Denson.

        Copiah Rebels, Captain L. B. Harris.

        Harper Reserves, Captain C. P. Partin.

        Mount Zion Guards, Captain T. J. Chrisman.

        Zollicoffer Avengers, Captain Henry T. Siebe.

        Yankee Hunters, Captain J. S. Tatom.

        Captain R. D. Ogletree.

        Captain J. W. Ward.

        Two companies not returned.

        Number reported, including fild officers, 624 men.


Page 167

Thirty-seventh Regiment.

        COLONEL, ROBERT MCLAIN.

        LIEUT. COL., O. S. HOLLAND.

        MAJOR, JOHN MCGEE.

        Shubuta Guards, Captain T T Howze.

        Enterprise Tigers, Captain W C Turner.

        Pattons Company, Captain Wm S Patton.

        Clark County Rescuers, Captain S H Terrell.

        Yancy Guards, Captain S A Nunn.

        Jasper Guards, Captain A F Dantzler.

        Jasper Avengers, Captain Francis B Loper.

        McLain Rifles, Captain W W Weir.

        DeSoto Rifles, Captain C C Terrill.

        McLemore Guards, Captain W P Anderson.

        Number reported, including field officers, 888 men.

Thirty-eighth Regiment.

        COLONEL, F. W. ADAMS.

        LIEUT. COL., PRESTON BRENT.

        MAJOR, FRANK. FOXWORTH.

        Wolf Creek Marksmen, Captain J Dishman.

        Brent Rifles, 1st Lieut. H S Blumficle, com'g.

        Van Dorn Guards, Captain R C McCoy.

        Wilkinson Guards, Captain J H Jones.

        Johnston Avengers, Captain Leander M Graves.

        Holmes County Volunteers, Captain Walter L Keirn.

        Hancock Rebels, Captain D B Seal.

        Columbia Guards, Captain A C L Foxworth.

        White Rebels, Captain John F White.

        Price Relief, Captain W M Estelle.

        Number reported, including field officers, 963 men.


Page 168

Thirty-ninth Regiment.

        COLONEL, W. B. SHELBY.

        LIEUT. COL., W. E. ROSS.

        MAJOR, W. MONROE QUIN.

        Burt Avengers, Captain W E Ross.

        Simpson Guards, Captain R J Durr.

        Dixie Guards, Captain J R Wilson.

        Rankin Rebels, Captain S C Myers.

        Johnson Avengers, Captain M V Collum.

        Barry Guards, Captain L H Tilman.

        Newton Hornets, Captain J C NcElroy.

        Price Rebels, Captain Wm Price.

        Pearl River Guards, Captain C. B. Banks.

        Monroe Quin Guards, 1st Liut. J A Nash, com'g.

        Number reported, including field officers, 895 men.

Fortieth Regiment.

        COLONEL, W. B. COLBERT.

        LIEUT. COL., J. A. P. CAMPBELL.

        MAJOR, E. MCDONALD.

        Campbell Guards, Captain J A P Campbell.

        Confederate Guards, Captain R B Campbell.

        Standing Pine Guards, Captain Jas R Childress.

        (No name) Captain A M Green.

        (No name) Captain W. McD Gibbons.

        Attala Guards, Captain Geo P Wallace.

        Oak Bowery Invincibles, Captain R K Clayton.

        (No name) Captain M S Latimer.

        (No name) Captain W P Culbertson.

        Parrott Rifles, Captain Wm S Parrott.

        Number reported, including field officers, 951 men.


Page 169

Forty first Regiment.

        COLONEL, W. F. TUCKER.

        LIEUT. COL.

        MAJOR,

        Pontotoc Grays, Captain S E Melson.

        Koger's Company Captain T J Koger.

        Duke's Company, Captain H J Duke.

        Abes Rejecters, Captain Lewis Ball.

        Verona Rifles, Captain Thomas C. Ashcroft.

        Williams' Company, Captain Joseph P Williams.

        Becket's Company, Captain N J Becket.

        Hicks' Company, Captain James M Hicks.

        Mississippi Rip Raps, Captain G D Moore.

        Okolona Guards, Captain John Richardson.

        Number reported, including field officers, 1136 men.

Forty-second Regiment--Cavalry.

        COLONEL,

        LIEUT. COL., JAMES GORDON.

        MAJOR, T. L. HARRIS.

        Loula White Rebels, Captain J F White.

        Choctaw Rangers, Captain R C Love.

        Newton Rangers, Captain J J Perry.

        Mooresville Blues, Captain J L McCarty.

        Mrs. Body Guard, 1st Liuet. John Gaddis, com.

        East Mississippi Dragoons, Captain James M Hogan.

        Kemper Dragoons, Captain W G Beck.

        Ruffin's Company, Captain James Ruffin.

        Pontotoc Rangers, Captain Joshua T Pitts.

        Lauderdale Cavalry, Captain W. V. Rany.

        Number reported, including field officers, 753 men.


Page 170

Forty-third Regiment.

        COLONEL, W. H. MOORE.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Forty-fourth Regiment.

        COLOEL, A. K. BLYTHE.

        No Muster rolls returned to this Department.

Forty-fith Regiment.

        COLONEL, A. B. HARDCASTLE.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Forty-sixth Regiment.

        COLONEL, J. W. BALFOUR.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Wirt Adams' Cavalry.

        COLONEL, WIRT ADAMS.

        LIET. COL., ROBERT C. WOOD, JR.

        MAJOR, JAMES HOGAN.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.


Page 171

First Regiment of Artillery.

        COLONEL, W. T. WITHERS.

        LIEUT. COL., JAMES P. PARKER.

        MAJOR, B. R. HOLMES.

        Company A, Captain S. J. Ridley.

        Company B, Captain A. J. Herod.

        Company C, Captain H. P. Turner.

        Company D, Captain J. L. Wofford.

        Company F, Captain J. L. Bradford.

        Company G, Captain J. L. Cowan.

        Company H, Captain George Ralston.

        Company I, Captain Robert Bowman.

        Company K, Captain George F. Abbay.

        One muster roll not returned.

        Number reported, including field officers, 1262 men.

Ward's Battalion of Artillery.

        MAJOR, M. S. WARD.

        1st Company, 1st Lieut. J. D. Vance, commanding.

        2d Company, Captain J. H. Yates.

        3d Company, Captain J. McClendon.

        Whole number reported 233 men.

Fourth Mississippi Battalion--Cavalry.

        LIEUT. COL., CHARLES BASKERVILLE.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.


Page 172

Fith Mississippi Battalion--Infantry.

        MAJOR, W. H. KILPATRICK.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Eighth Mississippi Battalion--Infantry.

        LIEUT. COL., J. S. TERRELL.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Eighth Missisippi Battalion--Sharp Shooters.

        MAJOR, W. C. RICHARDS.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Tenth Mississippi Battalion--Infantry.

        MAJOR, W. A. RAYBURN.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.

Eleventh Mississippi Battalion--Heavy Artillery.

        LIEUT. COL., R. STEVENING.

        No muster rolls returned to this Department.


Page 173

First Regiment Minute Men.

        COLONEL, BENJAMIN KING.

        LIEUT. COL., J. LAWHAN.

        MAJOR, B. F. SUTTON.

        Time expired.

Second Regiment Minute Men.

        COLONEL, D. H. QUINN.

        LIEUT. COL., JAMES CONERY.

        MAJOR, J. O. MAGEE.

        Time expired.

Third Regiment Minute Men.

        COLONEL, WILLIAM J. OWENS.

        LIEUT. COL., J. A. HARLIN.

        MAJOR, F. C. MERCER.

        Time expired.

Fourth Regiment Minute Men.

        COLONEL, W. C. BROMLEY.

        LIEUT. COL., J. J. STONE.

        MAJOR, B. M. KILGORE.

        Time expired.


Page 174

Fifth Regiment Minute Men.

        COLONEL, HENRY ROBINSON.

        LIEUT. COL., D. W. METTS.

        MAJOR, SAMUEL J. RANDELL.

        Time expired.

First Battalion Minute Men.

        MAJOR, W. B. HARPER.

        Time expired.

Second Battalion Minute Men.

        MAJOR, HENRY F. COOK.

        Time expired.

Third Battalion Minute Men.

        LIEUT. COL., THOMAS A. BURGIN.

        MAJOR, B. B. MOORE.

        Time expired.

Fourth Battalion Minute Men.

        LIEUT. COL., A. J. POSTLETHWAIT.

        MAJOR, JOHN D. FARLEY.

        Time expired.


Page 175

First Battalion Cavalry Minute Men.

        MAJOR, G. L. BLYTHE.

Cavalry organizations--First Regiment.

        COLONEL, G. L. BLYTHE.

        LIEUT. COL., N. C. EDMONDSON.

        MAJOR, C. L. BOWEN.

        Term of service expired and in progress of re-organization.

Second Regiment.

        COLONEL, J. F. SMITH.

        LIEUT. COL., W. L. LOWRY.

        MAJOR,

        Company A, Captain S. G. Street.

        Company B, Captain W. K. Posey.

        Company C, Captain W. G. Martin.

        Company D, Captain W. H. Wilson.

        Company E, Captain E. M. Wells.

        Company F, Captain Joseph A. Johnsons.

        Company G, Captain George Isbell.

        Company H, Captain D. C. Gilleylin.

        Company K, Captain W. L. Lowry.


Page 176

Third Regimeni.

        COLONEL, JOHN MCGUIRK.

        LIEUT. COL., J. A. BARKSDALE.

        MAJOR, B. M. KILGORE.

        Company A, Captain Stillwell.

        Company B, Captain W. L. Farris.

        Company C, Captain T. J. Kyle.

        Company D, Captain John W. Logan.

        Company E, Captain J. M. Griffin.

        Company F, Captain H. H. Barksdale.

        Company G, Captain Jas. A. Barksdale.

        Company H, Captain B. M. Kilgore.

        Company I, Captain T. W. Webb.

Ham's Battalion.

        MAJOR, HAMM.

        Company A, Captain B. H. Estes.

        Company B, Captain F. F. M. Paynes.

        Company C, Captain J. N. Yates.

        Company D, Captain W. L. White.

        Company E, Captain C. W. McNeill.

Davenport's Battalion.

        MAJOR, S. DAVENPORT.

        Company A, Captain H. B. Brown.

        Company B, Captain W. B. Pardue.

        Company C, Captain C. H. Carter.

        Transferred to Confederate service.


Page 177

Perrin's Battalion.

        LIEUT. COL., R. O. PERRIN.

        MAJOR, A. C. REID.

Companies.

        Captain Perrin's.

        Captain Allen's.

        Captain Mett's.

        Captain Mosley's.

        Captain Montgomery's.

        Captain Rayburn's.

        Captain Foard's.

        Captain Thomas'

        Captain Walker's.

Unattached Companies.

        Herndon Rangers, Lieut. Montgomery, com.

        Mississippi Rangers, Captain W. B. Peery.

        Weatherall's, Captain J. T. Weatherall.

        Gholson Guards, Captain T. C. Bookter.

        Hartin's Company, Captain J. A. Hartin.

        Buford Company, Captain J. H. Buford.

        Hall's Company, Captain Hall.

        Saunders' Company, Captain Saunder's.

        Thames' Company, Capt. Thames (disbanded).

        Red's Company, Capt. Red, (organized and gone into Confederate service).

Cavalry Companies Unattached.

        Captain Samuel Mathews.

        Captain J. B. Dunn.

        Captain W. B. Prince.

        Captain A. H. Forrest.

        Captain W. C. Maxwell.

        Captain R. L. Adams.

        Captain Stillwell.

        Captain W. F. Gartley.

        Captain Wetherall.


Page 178

        

LOCAL DEFENSE COMPANIES.

Names of Company. County. Captains. Description. Nos.
Leake Rangers Leake County Capt. J. Nash Cavalry 36
Capitol Guards Hinds County Capt. W. W. Hardy Infantry 71
Knox's Company Neshoba County Capt. J. G. Knox Cavalry 45
Morgan Riflemen Calhoun County Capt. C. C. Morgan Do. 35
Foote's Company Noxubee County Capt. H. W. Foote Do. 25
Yallobusha Rangers Yallobusha County Capt. L. R. Stewart Do. 58
Vaiden Guards Carroll County Capt. W. J. Booth Infantry 56
Fant's Company Noxubee County Capt. A. E. Fant Do. 37
Burt's Company West Point Capt. Wm. Burt Do. 43
Barr's Company Calhoun County Capt. A. Barr Do. 33
Gage's Company Louisville Capt. W. A. Gage Do. 44
Choctaw Silver Greys Choctaw County Capt. J. W. C. Drane Do. 26
Choctaw Reserves Do. County Capt. James Drane Cavalry 40
Local Guards Wilkinson County Capt. G. H. Gordon Infantry 28
Semple's Company Do. County Capt. R. Semple Cavalry 22
Slate Spring's Company Calhoun County Capt. T. K. McCord Do. 46
Hightower's Company Do. County Capt. Thos. Hightower Do. 36
Standfer's Company Chickasaw County Capt. J. J. Standfers Infantry 51
Neshoba Rangers Neshoba County Capt. J. McH. Wilson Cavalry 32
Terry's Company Chunky Station Capt. P. P. Terry Infantry 20
Fester Creek Rangers Copiah County Capt. H. G. D. Brown Cavalry 27
Boomrang's Pontotoc County Capt. S. H. Taylor Do. 24
Wilson's Company Do. County Capt. H. C. Wilson Infantry 27
Williams' Company Itawamba County Capt. Thos Williams Do. 24
Wesson Artillery Choctaw County Capt. J. C. Kittrell Artillery 39
Noxubee Home Guards Noxubee County Capt. J. B. McLelland Cavalry 28


Page 179

REPORT
OF THE
QUARTERMASTER GENERAL.

MACON, MISS., Oct. 22, 1863.

To His Excellency, John J. Pettus,
Governor and Com. in Chief State Miss.:

        GOVERNOR--I annex as a part of this report, my first annual report and render the recommendations therein contained, together with the following additional ones.

        Owing to the limited number of clerks allowed this Department, there remains much unfinished business. Settlements are yet to be made with all of the Assistant Quartermasters of the State and the numerous agents appointed by yourself. I, therefore, and to conform to the Confederate rules upon the same subject, earnestly recommend that an officer with the rank and pay of Captain, be appointed by yourself or your successor, to audit and put in proper form, all claims payable by this Department and to audit all reports of Assistant Quartermasters and Commissaries, also to examine vouchers, unpaid by Assistant State Quartermasters and Commissaries, that may be presented to this Department for payment, and his certificate to their correctness to be sufficient authority to pay the same, thus conforming to the army rules of the Confederate Government, as well as the civil rules of our State, in cases of outstanding debts in the civil Departments.

        To prevent confusion and complication of the business of this and the Ordnance Departments, I would recommend that the Chief of Ordnance be made a disbursing officer for his own Department and that he be allowed a clerk, thus again conforming to Confederate rules upon the same subject; the importance of which must be apparent, when it is remembered that the disbursements of these Departments


Page 180

are on final settlement to be refunded to the State by the Confederate Government, hence the papers of each Department should remain on file in their respective Departments.

        Since December 17th, 1862, the date of my last annual report to 30th September, 1863, inclusive, there has been disbursed, including transfer of funds to Assistant Quartermasters, the sum of five hundred and eighty two thousand and ninety-eight dollars and thirty cents, out of which amount two hundred and fifty thousand dollars was loaned by this Department to the Confederate Government by your order to pay State troops, the said sum to be repaid to the State, so soon as funds were received by the officer to whom it was loaned. There has been returned to date of said loan, the sum of seventy-one thousand five hundred and sixty dollars, the balance due, (I have been advised by Major Cooke, Chief Paymaster C. S. A., at Enterprise, Miss.,) was on the way from Richmond, Va., and when received, would be paid over to the State, through this Department. I have received from the State Treasurer and various other sources, the sum of $583,419.37--(say) five hundred and eighty-three thousand four hundred and nineteen dollars and thirty-seven cents, as per account current marked "A."

        From the 30th of September, 1863, to October the 22d, 1863, inclusive, you will perceive that I have received from the State Treasury and other sources, the sum of one hundred and forty-five thousand nine hundred and twenty-one dollars and sixty-five cents (say $145,921.65) showing a balance due the State of two thousand and twenty-five dollars and sixty-eight cents ($2,025.68). See account current marked "B."

        I herewith send you a full report of my transactions from February 12th, 1862, to September 30th, 1863, containing my returns for each quarter, with abstracts and their accompanying vouchers, showing receipts and issues of Quartermasters and Commissary stores, etc., also receipts and disbursements of what funds have passed through my hands during that period.

        I would respectfully recommend that a committee of the Legislature be appointed to examine this report, as also any books or papers in my Department appertaining thereto.

        In the removal of this Department from Jackson of public stores, though compelled to do so rather hurridly, and having to ship both north and east, it being impossible to obtain transportation on any one Railroad, I have to report that


Page 181

we have been quite fortunate in saving nearly everything with the exception of a few articles of camp and garrison equipage, and sacks, and some office furniture, which was burnt by the Federals on their occupation of the city.

A. M. WEST,
Qr. M. Gen'l S. M.

JACKSON, MISS., Dec. 17, 1862.

To His Excellency, John J Pettus,
Governor and Comm'd'r in Chief State Miss:

        GOVERNOR--On the 11th day February last, at your instance, I entered upon the discharge of the duties of this Department, my inexperience in matters of this character, the large amount of unsettled business and outstanding claims against the Military Departments of the State, have rendered the labor of this office very arduous and complicated, many informalities necessarily occurring.

        At the time of my appointment there was no Confederate Quartermaster at this post and the Confederate Government having called on the State for seven additional regiments--fifteen were formed, accepted and hurridly placed in camp. By your direction, to prevent suffering on their part, this Department proceeded to act as Quartermaster, Commissary and Transportation Agent for said regiments. With the limited assistance allowed by law, it was almost impossible to dispatch business with the rapidity that the then condition of the country required.

        Immediately after entering upon the discharge of the duties of this office and when furnishing troops organized for Confederate service as aforesaid, I wrote and dispatched Col. A. C. Myers, Quartermaster General of the Confederate States, at Richmond, Va., relative to the mode of reimbursing the State of Mississippi for supplies thus furnished. The rule for the government of this Department in its said issues, as agreed to between him and myself, was that said issues should be made to Quartermasters of the Confederate States and the same would be paid for by them. All of said issues thus made have been paid for.

        The following informal issues were made for the reason that the troops were without a Quartermaster: Capt. Baine's


Page 182

artillery company and several infantry companies, were furnished tents and camp equipage, upon receipts of their Captains. Col. Barry's regiment was also furnished with tents informally--this latter will soon be corrected I think, and the State reimbursed. These several issues were seemingly necessary, as no provision had been made by Confederate authorities, there being at that time no Confederate Quartermaster here to receipt for the same.

        The fall of Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans, and the menaced condition of Vicksburg and the State of Mississippi, made it, in your opinion, necessary to call out the Militia for active service. "Section 10 of an act to revise and reduce into one the militia and volunteer laws of this State," provides that the militia when called into active service "shall be conducted to the respective places at which the said militia may be required to rendezvous, upon reaching their destination the militia shall be organized into battalions, regiments and brigades, * * * and shall proceed to the election of the proper officers as herein provided." * * * In regard to the first organization "This section was construed to give the Brigadier Generals and Colonels thus elected, the appointment of staff officers, including Quartermasters, as provided in section 12."

        In regard to the first organization of the militia in pursuance of this act, the troops were necessarily rendezvoused without a Quartermaster, Commissary or Paymaster being appointed and qualified by giving bond and security, as none could be appointed before the election of said officers. This Department was, therefore, required to discharge not only the duties of Quartermaster, Commissary, Paymaster and Transportation Agent, but also the duties of brigade and regimental Quartermaster for the troops thus called into active service, hence ensued many informalities inconsistent with the relationship properly existing between the Quartermaster General and the Assistant Quartermasters in active service, which made it necessary for this Department to issue directly to Captains and other officers, quartermaster and commissary stores. To prevent a recurrence of this evil provision should be made for the appointment of Quartermasters and Commissaries, either by this Department, subject to the approval of yourself, or to be appointed directly by you.

        If it be the intention of State authorities to continue in active service the militia, I would respectfully suggest an increase of force in this Department in cases of emergency,


Page 183

also the propriety of appointing Quartermasters and Commissaries for battalions, regiments and brigades, as provided in "army regulations," thus conforming State service to Confederate and adopt for the government of State troops, the army rules and regulations of the Confederate States and have same printed for the use of the officers, to be distributed among them as the statutes of the State are to civil officers.

        The following condensed report shows the disbursements of this Department to date, from the 11th day of February last, on account of the various Military Departments of the State and for the purchase of salt for the use and benefit of the people of the State, amounting to eight hundred and fifty-four thousand six hundred and four dollars and fifty-eight cents ($854,604.58). See account current marked "C."

A. M. WEST,
Quartermaster General State Mississppi.


Page 184

[DOCUMENT A.]

        

CR. STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, IN ACCT. WITH COL. A. M. WEST, QUARTERMASTER GEN'L, STATE OF MISS. DR.

1863--Sept. 30 To this amount disbursed on account of Quartermasters, Paymasters,' Commissary's, Ordnance and Adj't General's Department, State of Mississippi, from the 17th December, 1862 to the 30th September, 1863, inclusive. 582,098 30   1863--Sept. 30 By cash rec'd from the State Treasurer, on requisitions of the Governor on the Auditor, as per warrants on file in the State Treasurer's office, from Dec. 17, '62, to Sept. 30, '63, inclusive 465,305 00  
1863--Sept. 30 To Balance on hand this day due the State of Mississippi, to be accounted for in next account 1321 07     By cash rec'd from the Confederate Government, for Quartermaster and Commissary Stores sold them during above time 36,982 89  
          By this amount returned the State by the Confed. Gov't, being on account of a loan of $250,000, made to them to pay troops 71,560 00  
          By cash rec'd from various sources as per cash book 9571 48 -$583,419 37
      $583,419 37 1863--Sept. 30 By bal. brought down. $1321 07  

        I certify that the above is a true account of all public monies received by me not heretofore accounted for, and that the disbursements have been fully made.

A. M. WEST, Qr. Master Gen'l, State Miss.

Stated at Macon, Miss., Sept. 30th, 1863.


Page 185

[DOCUMENT B.]

        

DR. STATE OF MISSISSIPPI IN ACCT. WITH COL. A. M. WEST, QUARTER-MASTER GEN'L, STATE OF MISS. CR.

1863--Oct. 22 To this amt. disbursed on acct. of Qr. Mast's, Paymasters', Comm'ssary's, Ord'ce and Adj't Gen's Dept's, of the State of Missi'ppi, from the 30th Sept. 1863 to Oct. 22d, '63 inclusive 145,921 65   1863--Oct. 22 By cash rec'd from the State Treasurer on requisition of the Governor on the Auditor as per warrants on file in State Treasurer's office, from Sept. 30, 1863 to Oct. 22d, 1863, inclusive. 142,998 66  
1863--Oct. 22 To balance on hand this day due the State of Mississippi, to be accounted for in next account 2025 68     By cash rec'd from other Gov't for stores sold them during same time 414 00  
          By cash rec'd from other sources as per cash book in said time 4534 67  
      $147,947 33       $147,947 33
          By balance brought down due the State $2025 68  

        I certify that the above is a true account of all public monies received by me not heretofore accounted for, and that the disbursements have been fully made.

A. M. WEST, Qr. Master Gen'l, State of Miss.

Stated at Macon, Miss., Oct. 22d, 1863.


Page 186

[DOCUMENT C.]

        

DR. STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, IN ACCT. WITH COL. A. M. WEST, QR. MASTER GEN'L, STATE MISSISSIPPI,

1862       1862      
Dec. 17 To amt. expended on acct. of Qr. Master's, Paym'rs, Commissary's, Ordnance and Adj't Gen's Depart's of State of Mississippi, from 11th Feb. 1862 to 17th December, 1862 inclusive, as per cash book. $854,604 58   Dec. 17 By cash rec'd from the State Treasurer on requisitions of the Governor on Auditor of the State, as per warrants on file in State Treasurer's office, from Feb 11, 1862 to Dec. 17, 1862 inclusive $757,370 00  
  To balance on hand due the State of Mississippi, to be accounted for 182 79     By cash rec'd from the Confederate Gov't for stores sold them and from various other sources for same period 97,417 37  
      $854,787 37       $854,787 37
        1862      
        Dec. 17 By balance brought down to be accounted for $182 79  

        I certify that the above is a true account of all public monies received by me not heretofore accounted for, and that the disbursements have been fully made.

A. M. WEST, Qr. Master Gen'l, State of Miss.

Stated at Jackson, Miss., this 17th day of December, 1863.


Page 187

REPORT
OF THE
GENERAL SALT AGENT.

MACON, MISS., Oct. 22, 1863.

To His Excellency, John J. Pettus
Governor of the State of Mississippi:

        GOVERNOR--On the 13th day of April, 1863, you did me the honor to appoint me General Salt Agent for the State of Mississippi, to receive and receipt for all salt shipped to me by Salt Agents appointed by you, "to obtain salt by mining or otherwise." In your said appointments, you directed said salt to be issued pro rata to the Presidents of the Boards of Police, or to agents appointed by said boards, to be distributed by them to the indigent families of soldiers in their respective counties.

        I have received from Capt. D. S. Patterson, Salt Agent, 29,150 pounds of salt, and from Capt. W. C. Turner, 49,656 pounds of salt, as per statement marked "S;" and have distributed and sold same as per statement marked "D." I send you an account current showing disposition of funds that have come into my hands on account of salt. In pursuance of your Special Order, No. 31, directed to me and dated December 1st, 1862, I issued to Thomas E. Helm, Salt Agent, ten thousand dollars, (say $10,000, * *) to purchase cotton to be exchanged for salt. I also issued to him, in pursuance of your order, dated May 6th, 1868, the sum of ten thousand dollars--making total twenty thousand dollars. Mr. Helm has not, as yet, reported to this Department relative to the disbursement of the said funds or any part thereof. I know, however, that a large amount of the same was invested in cotton, fifty bales of which were shipped to Ponchatoulas, and fifty bales to Mobile, and other cottons were purchased


Page 188

and shipped. On the 18th inst., being requested by you, I agreed to take charge of the purchase, manufacture and distribution of salt; as provided in an act entitled "An act to procure salt for the indigent families of soldiers and for other purposes," and proceeded to order the casting of boiling power and to make other suitable arrangements to increase the capacity of the State works located in Clark county, Alabama, and to establish others at the same place, as also on the coast near Mobile. Mr. Z. A. Philips, whose services I regard as invaluable, has consented to aid me in this important work. By energy and fidelity it is hoped the supply will ere long equal the pressing wants of the State. If the policy now being inaugurated is not, by the Legislature or the enemy, disturbed, and the services of efficient agents can be secured, salt in quantities sufficient for the entire State will be made during the ensuing year, and by the aid of private enterprise, which is now quite vigilant, salt may be obtained in time to save the meat of the present season.

        I respectfully recommend a bold and liberal policy upon this all important subject; prudent economy is right, but not an economy that takes counsel from a fear of failure and consequent loss of money.

        Men rarely ever succeed in any enterprise, who take counsel from their fears. It is, therefore, earnestly hoped that the Legislature soon to convene will foster and wisely encourage the manufacture of salt upon a large scale, especially as the subsistence of the Confederate army and people, is the great subject now submitted for our consideration and essential to our ultimate success in this most terrible of all wars. Hence nothing within the compass of our skill or ability, necessary to success, should be omitted.

I am, Governor,
Very respectfully, your ob't ser't,

A. M. WEST,
General Salt Agent for State Miss.

        P. S.--I was compelled, to prevent the salt falling into the hands of the enemy at Jackson, to ship the same up the Mississippi Central Railroad, to Goodman, and not being considered safe even there, I concluded to issue it to such counties as would send for it. Hence the excess on the pro-rata share issued to some counties, as will be perceived by referring to statement "D."

        The salt due the counties of Yazoo and DeSoto, under this said distribution, not being sent for, though the Presidents


Page 189

of the Boards of Police of said counties were notified in due time and the agent in charge at Goodman becoming alarmed for its safety, after the occupation of Yazoo City by the enemy, sold it to citizens for their own use as per his certificate on file in this office.

        In my written appointment, my powers were restricted to the reception from Salt Agents previously appointed by yourself, of "all the salt by them delivered and receipt to them for the same," and deliver at my office, "all salt by you (me) received to the Presidents of the Boards of Police or Agents appointed by said board, the pro-rata share to which their respective counties are entitled, to be by them distributed in their respective counties." I am not, therefore, responsible for any failure on the part of Salt Agents "to obtain salt by mining or otherwise" as contemplated. W. C. Turner, Salt Agent, I understand, has issued salt to some of the southern counties. I presume he will report to you.

        A. M. WEST,
General Salt Agent S. M.

        N. B.--Captains Patterson and Turner, Salt Agents, made no report, in writing, of the cost of the above salt, but from their verbal statements of its probable cost, we concluded, though unable to arrive at its actual cost, to issue the same as above, which we deemed sufficient to cover cost. No report has, up to this time, been made by either of said Agents. Hence, time has demonstrated the propriety of our action in the premises.

        A. M. WEST,
General Salt Agent S. M.


Page 190

DOCUMENT--.

        

THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI IN ACCOUNT WITH A. M. WEST, GENERAL SALT AGENT,

DR.             CR.
1863       1863      
May 6 To this amount paid T. E. Helm, Salt Agent, State of Mississippi $10,000 00   May 6 By this amt. received of State Treasurer out of Fund, for app'n of Salt $10,000 00  
  To this amount paid expenses of Salt Agents from May 6, 1863, to Oct. 22d, 1863 1364 57     By this amount received for 77,959 lbs. of Salt distributed to the various Counties of the State, pro-rata, from Jan. '63, to Oct. 22, 1863 13,882 24  
To this amount paid back into State Treasury 12,589 67            
          By this amount rec'd for bbls. and sacks 72 00  
      $23,954 24       $23,954 24

Macon, Miss., Oct. 22d, 1863.

A. M. WEST, General Salt Agent, State Miss.


Page 191

DOCUMENT D.

        

STATEMENT OF SALT ISSUED TO THE SEVERAL COUNTIES OF the State, and quantity sold to prevent falling into the hands of the enemy, by A. M. WEST, General Salt Agent.

DATE. To whom Issu'd. No. of Pounds. Probable Cost. Remarks. Amount.
1863          
Jan. 15 Copiah County. 856 10c. Issued before cost was known, by order Gov. $85 60
30 Kemper 653 13   84 89
31 Madison 655 13   85 11
Feb. 2 Attala 849 13   110 37
2 Rankin 780 13   101 40
6 Leake 672 13   87 36
9 Noxubee 886 13   115 18
11 Neshoba 350 13   45 50
12 Smith 491 13   63 83
12 Jefferson 240 13   31 20
16 Holmes 837 13   108 81
20 Carroll 1226 13   159 38
23 Yazoo 339 13   44 07
24 Lawrence 384 13   49 92
27 Hinds 789 13   102 57
Mar. 12 Choctaw 1412 13 10 sacks @ 50c. each. 188 56
14 Lowndes 595 13 4 sacks @ 50c. each. 79 35
18 Tallahatchie 275 13 2 sacks @ 50c. each. 36 75
20 Jasper 396 13 3 sacks @ 50c. each. 52 98
April 3 Lauderdale 669 13 4 sacks @ 50c. each. 88 97
May 2 Leake 1099 16   175 84
    627 13   446 95
July 10 Lafayettee 2284 16    
    479 13   926 59
10 Panola 5402 16    
    3016 16   552 50
10 Yallobusha 538 13    
10 Carroll 4470 16   715 20
10 Choctaw 7371 16   1179 36
10 Attala 3772 16   603 52
10 Holmes 4283 16   685 28
    232 13   164 88
10 Sunflower, 842 16    
    275 13   390 79
10 Tallahatchie 2219 16    
10 Leake 3750 16   600 00
10 Madison 3136 16   501 76
    793 13   565 33
10 Calhoun 2889 16    
    1068 13   761 24
10 Marshall 3890 16    


Page 192

DATE. To whom Issued. No. of Pounds. Probable Cost. Remarks. Amount.
July 10 * Winston 4000 16 7 em'y bbls.@$2 e'h. $654 00
10 Sold at Goodman. 112   12 em'y bbls.@$2 e'h. 52 00
10 Sold 8058 40 17 em'y bbls.@$2 e'h. 3257 20
Total No.Po'nds issu'd and sold. 77,959 Rec'd. Total cost $13,954 24

        *There was a mistake in the issue of Salt to Winston; she got 4000 lbs, gross; tare was not taken off, and is therefore due her.



Page 193

DOCUMENT S.

        

AMOUNT OF SALT RECEIVED BY A. M. WEST, SALT AGENT, AND ESTIMATED COST OF SAME.

1863      
Jan. 1 Received of Captain D. S. Pattison, Salt Agent:    
  56 Bbls. of Salt 28,500 lbs.    
  1 Half do Salt 2850 lbs. tare.    
  25,650@13c $3334 50  
Jan. 7 Received of Capt. D. S. Pattison, Salt Agent:    
  30 Sacks Salt, 3500 lbs.,@13c 455 00  
Mar. 31 Received of Capt. W. C. Turner, Salt Agent:    
  349 Sacks Salt, 49,656 lbs., @ 16c 7944 96 --$11,734 46

A. M. WEST, General Salt Agent.

Macon, Miss., Oct. 22d, 1863.


Page 194

W. C. TURNER'S REPORT.

ENTERPRISE, Oct. 22, 1863.

Governor John J. Pettus,
Macon, Mississippi:

        SIR--I have the honor to hand you herewith enclosed my report of business transacted since my appointment as Salt Agent, consisting of the following papers, to-wit:

        Account current with abstracts and vouchers.

        Property return with accompanying abstract, letters from A. to F., and certified invoices No. 1 and 2; all of which I hope may meet your approbation.

        It will be seen from my report, that Messrs. Norman & Co., have done but little. The first lot of salt delivered me by them was paid for by me. I afterwards, as per contract, advanced them money, provisions, etc., and in return for which I have only received one hundred and twelve bushels of salt. The provisions advanced, at the prices they were to pay, amounts to $10,770 38. These, at cost prices, would amount to more than double this amount. But the report will show for itself. I have used every care in making it out and think it will be easily comprehended. I think it would be well to have that salt law somewhat changed. It is very difficult to get at the cost price of particular lots of salt, especially where we make it. Would it not be better to donate the salt to the indigent familes of soldiers and other necessitous persons, and sell the overplus, if any, at market price, to others. It should also be provided that Presidents of Boards of Police in each county should receive the distributive share of such county and dispose of it.

        To make an adequate supply of salt will require a large force and a heavy outlay of funds.

        I report in my property return one furnace which we have been running for a month or more, the expense of which and the proceeds, I have not included in my report, because I have not, as yet, received the salt. It, however, is at this


Page 195

time in transitu and all of it will come in my next report. We hope to make on our furnance some 20 to 25 bushels of salt per day. I have leased one also, which is now running. It will be seen from my report that I have but little salt on hand here, the proceeds of our own furnace, as already stated, not having come to hand. We have from that source several hundred bushels, as I have been informed by the Superintendent. I shall leave for the works this evening, and on my return, will call and see you. I have heard nothing from Messrs. Norman & Co., since I saw you.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

W. C. TURNER.
Salt Agent.


Page 196

DOCUMENT--

        

THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI IN ACCOUNT CURRENT WITH W. C. TURNER, SALT AGENT, FOR THE STATE OF Mississippi, from the 1st day of January, 1863, to the 22d day of October, 1863.

DR.         C.R.
1863     1863    
Oct. 22 To amount of Purchases, as per Property Return $77,184 32 Feb. 7 By cash received from State Treasurer $15,000 00
Oct. 22 To amount advanced to Norman & Co. as per contract 18,884 90 March 31 By cash received from State Treasurer 35,000 00
Oct. 22 To amount of traveling expenses as per Abstract E 391 25 June By cash received from State Treasurer 10,000 00
Oct. 22 To cost of Stores on hand as per Property "Returns," viz:     By sales as per certified invoice, No. 2 20,217 63
  1619 bush. Corn @ $2 67 $4322 73   August By cash received from State Treasurer 50,000 00
  1004 sacks Corn @ 2 05 2008 20        
  6600 lbs. Fodder @ 2 66¼ 176 00        
  672 lbs. Salt @ 30c 201 60        
  1 Salt Furnace 16,600 00        
    $23,308 53      
  To balance due the State of Mississippi 10,448 63      
    $130,217 63     $130,217 63


Page 197

CERTIFIED INVOICE, NO. 1.

        I certify that I shipped A. M. West, Q. M. G. S. M., fifty-two thousand six hundred pounds salt (52,600 lbs.) and that the lot, lost by dripping, wastage, storage and stealage twenty-nine hundred and forty-four pounds (2944 lbs.,). Leaving balance actually delivered, as per his receipt, 49,656 lbs., here with forty-nine thousand six hundred and fifty-six pounds.

W. C. TURNER,
Salt Agent.


Page 198

DOCUMENT B.

        

CERTIFIED INVOICE, No. 2.
I certify that I have issued at this Depot, in accordance with orders received from General A. M. West, General Salt Agent, the following described Stores, to-wit:

To whom Issued. Amount. Bushels of Meal. Pounds of Salt. Pounds of Bacon. Sacks. Bushels of Wheat. Remarks.
Itawamba County $1000 00 @ 20cts.   5000        
Jasper County 1861 40 @ 20cts.   9307   62   Sacks to be returned.
Clark County 1922 40 @ 20cts.   9612   77   Sacks to be returned.
Jones County 1050 00 @ 20cts.   5250        
Smith County 1128 20 @ 20cts.   5641        
Sundry Persons 4186 00 @ 50cts.   8372       Obliged to resort to these in order to procure bacon.
M. D. Haynes 150 00 @ 30cts.   500        
S. T. Mears 150 00 @ 30cts.   500        
Sundry indigent families 300 00 @ 30cts.   1000        
W. C. Turner 150 00 @   500        
A. M. West, Q. M. 350 00 @$1 25cts.     280     This issue was for Gen. Loring's army on its arrival at Jackson after battle of Baker's Creek.
A. M. West, Q. M. 416 66 @ 2 50 166 2/3          
A. M. West, Q. M. 1250 00 @ 2 50 500          
A. M. West, Q. M. 3330 00 @ 1 00     3000     This issue was for the poor at Jackson, after its invasion by the Yankees, all by order of the Governor.
W. C. Turner 1823 36 @ 1 48     1232      
Sundry Persons 334 16 @ 5 00         66 5-6  
A. M. West, Q. M. 815 45 @ 2 05       349    
  20,217 63 666 2/3 45,682 4512 488 66 5-6  

W. C. TURNER, Salt Agent.


Page 200

DOCUMENT C.

        

PROPERTY RETURN, SHOWING PURCHASES, SALES AND ISSUES OF STORES FROM JANUARY 1st TO THE 22d OF October, 1863, made by W. C. Turner, Salt Agent, for the State of Mississippi.

Abstracts of Purchases, &c. Amount. BACON. CORN. FODDER. PEAS. WHEAT. SACKS. SALT. SALT FURNACE.
    Pounds. Bushels. Pounds. Bushels. Bushels. No. Pounds No
Abstract A, No. 1 $22,681 83 15,306½              
Abstract B, No. 1 10,871 11   4079½            
Abstract B, No. 2 401 75     15,000          
Abstract B, No. 3 194 73       51 6-10        
Abstract B, No. 4 563 75         117      
Abstract B, No. 5 53 75       13 9-10        
Abstract C, No. 1 5318 12           2605    
Abstract D, No. 1 12,496 18             43,038  
Abstract D, No. 2 7201 10             52,600  
Abstract D, No. 3 16,600 00               1
Abstract D, No. 4 802 00             5600  
Total amount $77,184 32                
To be accounted for   15,306½ 4079½ 15,000 65½ 117 2605 10,1238 1


Page 201

        

ISSUES AND SALES.

  Pounds. Bushels. Pounds. Bushels. Bushels. No. Pounds. No.
Abstract F 10,794½ 1386½ 8400 65½ 50 1-6 1113    
Certified Invoice, No. 1             52,600  
Certified Invoice, No. 2 4512 666 2/3     66 5-6 488 45,682  
Ordinary loss on Corn, &c.:                
On Corn, 10 per cent.   407            
Ordinary loss                
On Salt, 5 per cent.             2284  
Total Isues and Sales 15,306½ 2460½ 8400 65½ 117 1601 100,566  
Stores remaining on hand   1619 6600     1004 672 1

W. C. TURNER, Salt Agent, State of Miss.


Page 202

        

[ABSTRACT A.]

DATE. ARTICLES. Cost per Pound. Amount of Purchase. Expenses. Total Cost.
1863--May 29 Paid for 1452 pounds Bacon, @ $1 10 1597 20    
  Paid for 3 Tierces Packing and Nails.     6 00  
30 Paid for 1400 pounds Bacon, @ 90 1260 00    
June 3 Paid for 900 pounds Bacon, @ 1 00 900 00    
3 Paid for Agent's expenses on same     18 50  
3 Paid for Freight on same.     8 90  
3 Paid for 424½ pounds Bacon, @ 1 30 551 85    
3 Paid for Drayage, Wharfage and Commissions on same     14 49  
May 27 Paid for 488 pounds Bacon, @ 1 20 585 60    
27 Paid for Freight up river     58 00  
  Paid for Drayage, Wharfage, Freight and Commissions     23 04  
July 2 Paid for 10,332 pounds Bacon, @ 1 66 2/3 17,220 00    
5 Paid for Freight to Mobile     62 00  
  Paid for 310 pounds Bacon, @ 1 00 310 00    
  Paid for Agent Railroad Fare to Columbus     6 00  
  Paid for Agent Hotel Fare     5 00  
  Paid for Agent Railroad Fare to Crawford     1 25  
  Paid for Agent Hotel Fare to Crawford     12 00  
  Paid for Agent Horse hire to Crawford     2 00  
  Paid for Agent Railroad Fare to Enterprise     5 50  
  Paid for Agent Railroad Fare to Crawford     5 50  
  Paid for Agent Hotel Fare to Crawford     5 50  
  Paid for Agent Horse Hire     4 00  
  Paid for Agent Railroad Fare to Columbus     1 00  


Page 203

  Paid for Agent Hotel Fare to Columbus     5 00  
  Paid for Agent Railroad Fare to Crawford     1 25  
  Paid for Agent Hotel Fare to Crawford     5 50  
  Paid for Agent Railroad Fare to Enterprise     5 50  
  Paid for Agent Telegraph Dispatch     1 25  
  Total No. Pounds 15,306½   22,424 65 257 18 22,681 83
Average cost of Bacon per pound. $1 48.          

W. C. TURNER, Salt Agent.


Page 204

        

ABSTRACT B.

DATE. ARTICLES. COST. Amount of Purchase. Expenses. Total Cost.
1863--April 1 Paid J. C. Cox, for 1000 bushels Corn, @ $1 85 $1850 00    
  Paid J. M. Witherspoon for 500 bushels Corn, @ 1 80 900 00    
  Paid H. S. Potts, 500 bushels Corn, @ 1 50 750 00    
  Paid H. N. Lawrence, 500 bushels Corn, @ 2 00 1000 00    
  Paid Shields, 1000 bushels Corn, @ 2 00 2000 00    
  Paid Expense of purchase and delivery to Wagons     94 40  
  Paid Hauling to Depot     575 00  
  Paid Feeding hands     204 75  
  Paid Feeding 5 teams 35 days, @ 12 50   439 50  
  Paid Hauston, 579½ bushels Corn, @ 1 50 869 25    
  Paid A. C. Hundley, for services rendered in purchasing and delivering Corn     200 00  
  Paid Hands for shucking and shelling     250 25  
  Paid Freight on 6 car loads Corn     183 00  
  Paid Expense of Agent     76 75  
  Paid Freight on 3 car loads Corn     78 00  
  Paid Expense up country after Corn     34 00  
  Paid Freight on Corn     142 75  
  Paid Drayage on do     100 00  
  Paid Freight on car load Meal to Mobile     25 00  
  Paid Freight on 100 sacks Meal up river     100 00  
  Paid Wharfage and drayage     7 84  
  Paid Commissions, receiving and forwarding     14 00  
  Paid 2 Drayages on 131 sacks Meal     10 00  
  Paid River Freight     121 00  


Page 205

1863--April 1 Paid Wharfage, Storage and Commissions     131 40  
  Paid Drayage     5 50  
  Paid Commissions, receiving and forwarding     2 90  
  Paid Freight on car load Meal to Mobile     25 00  
  Paid Hands for loading car     3 75  
  Paid Expenses transportation and conducting 3 car loads Meal from E. to Salt Works     677 07  
  Total No. bushels Corn, 4079½   7369 25 3501 86 $10,871 11
  Average cost of Corn per bushel, $2 67.        

        W. C. TURNER, Salt Agent.


Page 206

        

ABSTRACT B.--2, 3, 4 & 5.

DATE. ARTICLES. COST. Cost of Purchase. Expenses. Total Cost.
1863--April 1 Paid J. M. Witherspoon for 10,000 pounds Fodder, @ $1 75 175 00    
  Paid H. N. Lawrence for 5000 pounds Fodder, @ 2 00 100 00    
  Paid Hands for Baling Fodder,     50 00  
  Paid Use of Screw for packing Fodder,     40 00  
  Paid Freight on Fodder,     10 00  
(2) Paid Freight on same to Mobile     16 00  
  Paid Freight on same up river     10 75  
  Total number pounds Fodder, 15,000   275 00 126 75 $401 75
  Average cost of Fodder per cwt. $2 66 2/3.        
July 1 Paid for 51 6-10ths bushels Peas, @ 2 50 129 00    
  Paid for Drayage, Wharfage and Freight up river     47 50  
  Paid for Freight to Mobile     14 13  
(3) Paid for Commissions receiving and forwarding     4 10  
  Total bushels 51 6-10ths.   129 00 65 73 194 73
  Average cost of Peas per bushel, $3 80.        
August 18 Paid for 117 bushels Wheat, @ 4 00 468 00    
  Paid for Hauling to Depot     25 00  
  Paid for Freight to Enterprise     35 00  
  Paid for Freight to Mobile     10 75  


Page 207

(4) Paid for Freight and charges up river     25 00  
  Total number bushels 117.   $468 00 95 75 $563 75
  Average cost of Wheat per bushel, $4 82.        
July 1 Paid for 13 9-10ths bushels Peas, @ 2 50 34 75    
  Paid for Drayage, Wharfage and Freight up river     13 00  
(5) Paid for Freight to Mobile     3 90  
  Paid for Commissions, receiving and forwarding     2 10  
  Total bushels, 13 9-10ths.   $34 75 19 00 53 75
  Cost Peas per bushel, $3 82.        

W. C. TURNER, Salt Agent.


Page 208

        

ABSTRACT C.

DATE. ARTICLES. COST. Cost of Purchase. Expenses. Total Cost.
1863--February 8 Paid for 299½ yards Lowels, @ $0 60 179 70    
  Paid for Sewing Thread     1 25  
  Paid for Expressage on @     5 00  
  Paid for Making 186 Sacks, @ 10   18 60  
March 14 Paid for 169 Sacks @ 2 00 338 00    
April 1 Paid for Making 73 Sacks, @ 10   7 30  
1 Paid for Thread     3 00  
1 Paid for 137 Sacks, @ 1 25 171 25    
1 Paid for 312¼ yards Lowels, @ 1 30 405 92    
1 Paid for 429 yards Duck, @ 1 50 648 50    
1 Paid for Making 54 Sacks, @ 10   5 40  
1 Paid for Making 320 Sacks, @ 10   32 20  
June 3 Paid for 15 Sacks, @ 1 50 22 50    
3 Paid for Making 1110 Sacks, @ 10   111 00  
3 Paid for 15 Sacks, @ 1 50 22 50    
  Paid for 1000 yards Lowels, @ 1 40 1400 00    
  Paid for Freight and Drayage     5 00  
  Paid for Commissions     35 00  
April 10 Paid for 51 Sacks, @ 1 50 76 50    
  Paid for Expressage on same     1 00  
  Paid for 26 Sacks, @ 1 50 39 00    
  Paid for 1181½ yards Lowels, 1 40 1654 10    
  Paid for 50 Sacks, @ 1 00 50 00    
  Paid for 22 Sacks, @ 25 5 50    


Page 209

April 10 Paid for 20 lbs. Sewing Thread, 2 00   40 00  
  Paid for Making 399 Sacks,@ 10   39 90  
  Total No. Sacks, 2605.   5013 47 304 65 --$5318 12
  Average cost per Sack, $2 05.        

W. C. TURNER, Salt Agent.


Page 210

        

ABSTRACT D.--1, 2, & 3.

DATE. ARTICLES. COST. Cost of Purchase. Expenses. Total Cost.
1863--June 26 Paid for 43,038 pounds Salt, @ 26 2/3 11,476 80    
  Paid for Wharfage at Salt Works     60 00  
  Paid for 78 Barrels, @ 2 50   195 00  
  Paid for Freight on Salt down river     448 00  
  Paid for Freight on Salt M. & O. R. R.     169 00  
  Paid for Freight on Salt Sacks to Carney's Bluff     13 00  
(1) Paid for Commissions receiving and forwarding Sacks     1 00  
  Paid for Drayage in Mobile on Salt     40 50  
  Paid for Wharfage in Mobile on Salt     18 48  
  Paid for Commissions receiving and forwarding     56 40  
  Paid for Handling Salt and loading car     4 00  
  Paid for Drayage in Enterprise     14 00  
  Total No. pounds Salt, 43,038.        
      $11,476 80 $1019 38 $12,496 18
  Average cost per pound, 30 cts.        
March 14 Paid Norman & Co. for 52,600 pounds Salt, at 12 6312 00    
  Paid Freight on same to Mobile     420 80  
  Paid Wharfage in Mobile     4 10  
  Paid Drayage in Mobile     20 00  
  Paid Charges, including storage     60 00  
  Paid Freight M. & O. R. R.     217 70  
(2) Paid Freight Southern R. R.     106 00  
  Paid Drayage in Jackson     34 00  


Page 211

  Paid Hands at State Warehouse     3 50  
  Paid Messenger in charge of Salt     13 00  
  Paid Expressage on Sacks     10 00  
  Total No. pounds Salt, 52,600   $6312 00 889 10 7201 10
  Average cost per pound, 14 cts.        
  Paid for one Salt Furnace, Well, &c       16,600 00

        W. C. TURNER, Salt Agent.

        
ABSTRACT D.--No. (4.)      
1863--Aug. 1. Received of Messrs. Norman & Co., on account State of Mississippi;      
5600 lbs of Salt, @12c $672 00    
Paid Expenses on same to this place   130 00  
  672 00 130 00 $802 00
Total No. Pounds Salt, 5600.      
Average cost per pound, 14 cts.      

W. C. TURNER, Salt Agent, State of Miss.


Page 212

        

ABSTRACT E.

DATE. CURRENT EXPENSES. Total Cost.
1863--Jan. 23 Paid R. R. Fare from E. to Jackson and back $12 50
  Paid Hotel Fare on trip 8 00
30 Paid R. R. Fare from E. to Jackson and back 12 50
  Paid Hotel Fare on trip 12 00
Feb. 8 Paid R. R. Fare from E. to Jackson and back 12 50
  Paid Hotel Fare on trip 16 00
March 1 Paid R. R. Fare from E. to Salt Works 15 00
  Paid Hotel Fare on trip 30 00
  Paid Steamboat Fare to Demopolis 6 00
  Paid R. R. Fare Home 9 00
  Paid Hotel Fare 3 00
14 Paid R. R. Fare from E. to Salt Works 15 00
  Paid Hotel Fare on trip 15 00
  Paid R. R. and Steamboat Fare home 12 00
  Paid Hotel Fare on trip 10 00
28 Paid R. R. Fare from E. to Jackson and back 24 00
  Paid Hotel Fare on trip 34 00
June 29 Paid R. R. Fare from E. to Mobile 7 50
  Paid Hotel Fare on trip 10 00
  Paid Fare up and down River 14 00
  Paid Horse hire 1 00
  Paid Board at Salt Works 4 00
  Paid Hotel Fare in Mobile 6 00
  Paid R. R. Fare home 7 50
Aug. 8 Paid Expenses to Salt Works by land 15 00


Page 213

  Paid Board at Salt Works 18 00
  Paid Expenses home 15 00
  Paid Horse hire 15 00
  Paid Drayage and hands loading Meal 11 75
Sept. 18 Paid Expenses to Crawford and back 25 00
    $391 25

W. C. TURNER, Salt Agent.


Page 214

        

ABSTRACT F.

DATE. ARTICLES. Cost per Pound. AMOUNT.
1863--March 14 Cash advanced Norman & Co.   $2304 90
May 7 41 Bushels Meal, Norman & Co. $2 50 102 50
  25 Sacks, Norman & Co. 2 00 50 00
27 11,267 Bushels Meal, Norman & Co. 2 50 586 82
  126 Sacks, Norman & Co. 2 05 258 30
14 9840 Bushels Meal, Norman & Co. 2 50 512 50
  102 Sacks, Norman & Co. 2 05 209 10
18 424½ lbs. Bacon, Norman & Co. 0 40 169 80
27 488 lbs. Bacon, Norman & Co. 0 40 195 20
June 3 1 Box & 1 Cask Bacon, Norman & Co. 1300 lbs. 0 40 520 00
5 4800 lbs. Fodder, Norman & Co. 2 50 120 00
  3926 lbs. Peas, Norman & Co. 3 50 229 00
  37 Sacks, Norman & Co. 2 05 75 85
  337 Do Norman & Co. 2 05 690 85
  8567 lbs. Bacon, Norman & Co. 0 40 3426 80
  201 bushels Meal, Norman & Co. 2 50 502 50
  100 Sacks, Norman & Co. 2 05 205 00
April 10 Cash, Norman & Co.   16,580 00
July 4 14,615 bushels Meal, Norman & Co. 2 50 761 20
  159 Sacks, Norman & Co. 2 05 325 95
15 108 bushels Meal, Norman & Co. 2 50 1406 00
  375 bushels Corn, Norman & Co. 2 50 562 00
  4 Sacks, Norman & Co. 2 05 8 20
  15 lbs. Bacon, Norman & Co. 0 40 6 00
Aug. 14 10,525 bushels Meal, Norman & Co. 2 50 548 17


Page 215

  115 Sacks, Norman & Co. 2 05 235 75
  3011 bushels Wheat, Norman & Co. 5 00 250 88
  3600 bushels Fodder, Norman & Co. 3 00 108 00
  19 Sacks, Norman & Co. 2 05 38 95
25 8274 bushels Meal, Norman & Co. 2 50 430 93
  89 Sacks, Norman & Co. 2 05 182 45
      $29,655 28

        

RECAPITULATION.

Cash $18,884 90
Meal, 1386½ Bushels 3464 30
Bacon, 10,794½ lbs. 4317 80
Fodder, 8400 lbs. 228 00
Peas, 65½ Bushels 229 00
Wheat, 50 1-6th Bushels 250 88
Sacks, 1113 Bushels 2280 40
  $29,655 28

W. C. TURNER, Salt Agent.W. C. TURNER, Salt Agent.


Page 216

REPORT
OF THE
MISSISSIPPI HOSPITAL AND DEPOT.

BY
REV. C. K. MARSHALL.

RICHMOND, VA., Oct. 1, 1863.

To His Excellency, John J. Pettus,
Governor of the State of Mississippi:

        SIR--I herewith submit my report of the receipts and expunditures of the office of Mississippi Depot and Army Intelligence, for Virginia, from August 1st, 1862, to September 1st, 1863, together with a synopsis of all receipts and expenditures from the first establishment of the Agency, in August, of 1861, to the recent date above given. From this exhibit it will be seen that I have expended in all, the sum of $46,518 54, forty-six thousand five hunnred and eighteen dollars and fifty-four cents. Of this sum I received from the State Treasurer, upon your orders, $24,710 00, and from the people, in cash and cotton donations, from our State, the sum of $15,427 21.

  • Say expended . . . . . $46,518 54
  • Received . . . . . $24,710 00
  • 15,427 21
  • $40,137 21 . . . . . $40,137 21
  • Balance due me . . . . . $6,387 33

        This leaves the State indebted to me in sum of six thousand three hundred and eighty-one dollars and thirty-three cents. In addition to this, I have advanced, in small sums, for the


Page 217

relief of destitute or suffering soldiers, nearly three thousand dollars; but the parties declined, generally, accepting the aid unless on the condition that the sum should be considered a loan, to be returned at the earliest day practicable. This is all in small sums. In the transactions I have felt satisfied that the heart of my fellow-citizens would approve my conduct. But, alas! for many of the brave beneficiaries, they have paid the greater debt--the price of liberty--the life itself!

        Our organization of a Mississippi Hospital has been maintained up to this time. At present it is what is known at Richmond as Howard's Grove Hospital. At a recent period we had but little over three hundred inmates and patients, and none of them could, with four or six exceptions, be deemed cases of serious indisposition.

        The Hospital system has been so greatly reformed and improved by the officer in charge of that department, that the expense heretofore incurred will not be required. But, still cases of great need and suffering require attention from the people of our own State, and must continue to do so till the days of peace return.

        I have recently endeavored to establish a Mississippi Hospital at Atlanta, but have failed so far for the want of suitable buildings.

        But I have opened a Depot and Office of Army Intelligence for the Mississippi troops, and placed a disabled Mississippi soldier in it as my assistant, and hope this will meet your approbation. There the donations, clothing, valuables and letters, can be collected, preserved, or forwarded to the army, relieving our soldiers of a thousand anxities and losses. The necessity of keeping up the Depot at Richmond is still felt, and will be maintained until further orders. I find it important to furnish lodgings to large numbers of our citizen soldiers at these depots, owing to the high prices of lodging at the hotels. Heretofore, we have not been able to extend this favor sufficiently. Some States are opening houses where their soldiers in transitu can obtain both food and lodging at the expense of the State, and save the soldier the little funds he may have for other necessities. I have closed the Depot at Lynchburg, as the changed state of our affairs, rendered it no longer indispensable.

        You will observe in the report that I have made no charge for my own services; nor did I expect to receive anything; but the temporary suspension of my private revenues in Vicksburg, may make it necessary for me to receive the


Page 218

amount of my actual expenses incurred in the performance of my duties. In view of future necessities I deem it proper to suggest to you to ask the Legislature to make a further appropriation of the sum of fifty thousand dollars, for the carrying out of the plans and measures of Hospital relief and Depot accommodations. Perhaps it is my duty to say that our sick and wounded soldiers have in innumerable instances, derived the most valuable attention from Dr. A. C., Holt, whom you appointed in connexion swith Dr. Blackburn now resigned, as a special Surgical Commissioner for the State. Dr. Holt is regarded among the ablest Surgeons in the army, as without many, if any, superiors. And his ready, zealous, persevering and skillful attention to our sick, wounded and suffering soldiers, has long since satisfied me that he is doing a service for his country and State, which it would be unwise to dispense with; and while no amount of money can compensate for such services, I believe he ought to be compensated, and unless such compensation is provided for, both for the past and the future, I would enquire of you whether out of funds in my hands you would authorize me to make any payment to him. He has never intimated such a plan to me and I offer these thoughts from my own sense of fitness and value of his services.

        Though not a part of my special business, I have deemed it my duty to assist the survivors of our deceased soldiers families to obtain the sums of money due them. Owing to the breaking up of our postal arrangements it was found impossible for the Auditor's Department to forward the claims, when allowed, to the proper parties, and quite as impracticable to pay over monies I had collected for those who had authorized me to settle their claims. Consequently I have employed a detailed soldier, unfit for field service, to visit the chief parts of the State when necessary and settle these claims. This work has been performed without cost to the soldiers families, but I need authority to meet any expense that may attend on the method I have been compelled to adopt for the execution of the plan, if it meets your approval.

Respectfully submitted, yours,

C. K. MARSHALL.


Page 219

REPORT
OF
AUDITOR TAYLOR.

TREASURY DEPARTMENT,
SECOND AUDITOR'S OFFICE,
January 31, 1862.

Honorable C. G. Memminger,
Secretary of the Treasury:

        SIR--I have the honer to acknowledge the reference by you, to this office, of the letter of the Governor of Mississippi, dated December 20th, to the President, on the subject of the claims of said State for reimbursements of expenditures on account of the war.

        An examination was in progress, in order to report as to the condition of the claim filed in August last, when Colonel Neill, of Mississippi, appeared on the 27th with further vouchers in the claim of the State, amounting to $193,551 16. These were immediately taken up for examination, with a view to ascertain what amount could be allowed on them agreeably with the Regulations. I have now the honor to report as follows:

  • The amount claimed per abstracts filed in August . . . . . $ 350,515 80
  • Of which there has been allowed and paid . . . . . 92,165 38
  • Leaving suspended and unpaid . . . . . $ 258,350 42
  • The amount claimed for abstract filed 27th, is . . . . . 193,551 16
  • Of which I recommend for allowance . . . . . 14,880 57
  • Leaving suspended . . . . . $ 178,670 59

        This large amount excluded (for the present) from allowance is composed mainly--

        1st. Advances or transfers of money in round sums to State officers or agents and others to be expended or applied


Page 220

to liabilities incurred, without any account exhibiting the items and nature of service, and receipts of parties rendering the same.

        2nd. Accounts charged in the abstract not receipted.

        3rd. Payments for the purchase of supplies, the application of which to the service is not shown.

        The first of the above named classes of cases reaches the largest amount, more than two hundred thousand dollars, the authorities of the State having placed large sums in the hands of its officers and agents to meet demands, taking their receipts which they forwarded as vouchers.

        In some cases these receipts are very vague, simply stating the amount received, without specifying how it is to be applied, such receipts cannot be admitted as proper vouchers consistently with regulations and usage or with the law providing for the State claims.

        In cases, if any, where the party to whom the transfer was made is found to have been at the time an officer of the C. S. service, the State can have credit by charging such officer on the books in this office. No such cases have yet been found, though close examination on this point has not yet been concluded.

        With respect to accountability for property purchased I would refer to remarks on this subject in my former reports, on the claim of the State of S. Carolina, and my report to Congress, transmitted through you on the 18th ultimo. It is fair to presume that those supplies were applied to the public service, but whether according to the standard of allowance authorized in the army, as required by the act of August 30th cannot be determined in the entire absence of returns and vouchers showing its disposition, and even of official statements exhibiting the number of troops &c., to be maintained.

I have the honor to be,
Very respectfully,

(Signed) W. H. S. TAYLOR.
Auditor.


Page 221

AUDITOR TAYLOR'S LETTER TO GOV. PETTUS
ON CLAIMS OF THE STATE.

TREASURY DEPARTMENT,
SECOND AUDITOR'S OFFICE,
October, 2, 1862.

His Excellency, John J. Pettus,
Governor of Mississippi:

        SIR--As requested in your letter of 23d ult., I herewith send you "a statement of all sums paid to the State of Mississippi on claims audited against the Confederate Government--to whom paid and date," viz:

        
DATE. AMOUNT. TO WHOM PAID.
August 31, 1861 $74,499 48 Gen. Mad. McAfee, Qr. M. Gen., S. Miss.
Novemb'r 6, 1861 7408 05 Col. G. F. Neill, Agent, Miss.
Dec. 21, 1861 10,257 85 Remit'd to Hon. J. J. Pettus, Gov. Miss.
Feb. 11, 1862 33,239 33 Col. G. F. Neill, Agent, Miss.
Total $125,404 77  

I have the honor to be, sir,
Very respectfully, your ob't ser't,

(Signed) W. H. S. TAYLOR,
Auditor.


Page 223

INDEX TO APPENDIX.

    • AUDITOR'S REPORT, NO. 1--

    • of receipts and disbursements from March 4th, 1862, to Oct. 31st 1863, from 1 to 84
    • receipts by warrant 8 to 11
    • disbursements by warrant 11 to 16
    • assessment of lands for 1861, '62, '63, '64, 16 to 22
    • assessment of persons and personal property for 1861 22 to 34
    • assessment of persons and personal property for 1862 34 to 46
    • revenue settlement State tax 1861 46 to 52
    • settlement military tax 1861 52 to 58
    • revenue settlement State tax 1862 58 to 64
    • settlement military relief tax 1862 64 to 70
    • distribution military relief tax 1861 70 to 75
    • distribution military relief tax '62 75 and 76
    • interest due Chickasaw counties 77 to 80
    • amounts drawn by Miss. Cent. R. R., 80
    • amounts drawn by Mobile & O. R. R. 81
    • amounts drawn by Miss. Tenn. R. R. 82
    • amounts drawn by N. O. J. & G. N. R. R. 83
    • amounts warrants issued on loan to purchase corn and food 84
    • AUDITOR'S REPORT, NO. 2--

    • in relation to issuance of Treasury notes 85 & 86
    • AUDITOR TAYLOR'S REPORT--

    • claims of the State 219-20-21
    • BLIND--

    • report of Institute for the 104 to 115
    • trustees report 104 to 109
    • superintendent's report 110 to 115
    • DEAF AND DUMB--

    • report of institute for the 116 to 125
    • trustees' report 116 & 117
    • treasurer's report 117 to 124
    • certificate of Auditor 125
    • ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL'S REPORT:

    • from 149 to 179

    Page 224

    • GEOLOGICAL SURVEY--By E. W. Hilgard--

    • memoranda in relation to 88, 89, 90, 91, 92
    • analyses of salts 92, 93 and 94
    • LUNATIC ASYLUM--

    • report of 126 to 133
    • superintendent's report 126 to 129
    • trustee's report 131 and 131
    • secretariy's report 132, 133
    • MISSISSIPPI HOSPITAL AND DEPOT--

    • C. K. Marshall's report of 216-17-18
    • ORDNANCE--

    • report of Chief of, U. Bourne 134 to 148
    • articles lost and rendered unserviceable 138
    • ordnance, etc., remaining on hand 138 to 148
    • PENITENTIARY REPORT--

    • of A. M. Hardin, Superintendent 95, 96, 97, 98
    • of E. P. Russell, Agent 98, 99, 100 and 101
    • receipts and disbursements 100
    • receipts and disbursements on account of departments 101
    • Inspectors' report 102 and 103
    • Physician's report 103 and 104
    • QUARTERMASTER GENERAL'S REPORT--

    • General West's report for 1862 & '63 178 to 187
    • receipts and disbursements 184, 185 and 186
    • SALT AGENT'S REPORTS--

    • report of A. M. West, general salt agent 185 to 194
    • account current 190
    • salt issued to the several counties 191 and 192
    • amount of salt received and cost of same 193
    • report of W. C. Turner, salt agent 194 to 216
    • account current 196
    • certified invoice No. 1 197
    • certified invoice No. 2 198
    • property return 200
    • issues and sales 201
    • bacon purchased and expenses 202-3
    • corn purchased and expenses 204-5
    • fodder, peas and wheat, cost and expenses 206-7
    • sacks, cost and expenses of 208-9
    • salt, cost and expenses on 210-11
    • current expenses 112-13
    • sundry articles purchased and expenses 214-15
    • TREASURER'S REPORT--

    • in relation to removal of documents, etc. 87
    • treasury notes issued by ordnance of Convention 87
    • treasury notes issued by act of legislature 88
    • statement of cotton notes etc. 88


Page 225

INDEX TO HOUSE JOURNAL.

CALLED SESSION--1862.

    • ABSENCE

    • leave of, granted Mr. Dyer 4
    • leave of, granted Mr. Boyd 15
    • leave of, granted Mr. Denney 15
    • leave of, granted Mr. Edwards 18
    • leave of, granted Mr. Johnson, of Warren 24, 45
    • leave of, granted Mr. Lyle 35
    • leave of, granted Mr. Rogers, of Pontotoc 35
    • leave of, granted Mr. Hooker, of Hinds 45
    • leave of, granted Mr. Buntin 52
    • APPROPRIATIONS--

    • making certain 80, 81
    • ARMS--

    • resolution requesting information in relation to 15
    • to increase manufacture of 38, 54, 56, 60, 77
    • to authorize payment for 42, 53, 55, 60, 77
    • in relation to, received from counties 43, 53
    • ARMY--

    • to aid in strengthening 58, 62, 67, 68, 69, 73, 75, 76, 81
    • BONDS--

    • to provide for guaranty of certain 31, 48, 63, 72, 80
    • CANTON--

    • to repeal in relation to 21, 22
    • CLAIMS--CARROLL COUNTY--

    • to legalize assessments in 56, 60
    • DOOR-KEEPER--

    • elected 4
    • DISTILLATION--

    • to prevent, &c. 15, 29, 39, 46, 47, 63, 66, 72, 73, 74
    • DEFENSE--

    • to further provide for 32, 51, 52, 60
    • EXECUTORS,

    • Administrators and Guardians--
      • in relation to 19, 20, 24, 39, 52, 56, 60, 63, 67, 73, 77, 80
    • FAMILIES OF SOLDIERS--

    • better to provide for indigent 6, 14, 19, 22 23, 43, 45, 51, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 69, 70, 71, 72, 77
    • to amend to create a fund for, approved Dec. 16, 1861 31
    • to provide further means for support of 54
    • HABEAS CORPUS--

    • to authorize suspension of 8, 28
    • HUTCHINGS, W. P.--

    • in relation to 43
    • IMPRESSMENT

    • of slaves, &c. 6, 23, 38, 40, 63, 66, 80
    • JAILORS--

    • in relation to fees of 31, 43, 45
    • LAWRENCE COUNTY--

    • to legalize assessment in 41, 51, 52, 56, 60
    • LIMITATIONS--

    • to suspend statute of 35, 44, 54, 55 57
    • MILITARY SYSTEM--

    • to reorganize and establish 5, 14, 22, 44
    • communication in relation to 19

    Page 226

    • MILITARY TAX--

    • what funds receivable 7, 50
    • how collected 7, 25, 26, 27, 29
    • MILITARY RELIEF TAX--

    • statement of by auditor 17, 18, 59
    • MILITIA--

    • to enroll 20, 22
    • to revise and reduce into one the laws of, 24, 44, 45, 49, 53, 54, 57, 58, 60, 61, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 73, 74, 75, 78
    • to repeal section 22, of law approved Jan. 24, 1862 77
    • to change laws in this State 33, 38, 58
    • MESSAGES--

    • from the Senate-- 6, 7, 21, 30, 39, 43, 51, 55, 56, 60, 67, 69, 72, 78, 79
    • from the Governor 9 to 13, 25, 33, 34, 60, 76, 78, 79
    • MESSAGE

    • from auditor 59
    • from Secretary of State 62
    • MEDICAL SUPERVISORS--

    • to appoint 36, 56, 58
    • MEDICAL COMMISSIONERS--

    • to authorize appointment of, 56, 58, 72, 76
    • ORGANIZATION--

    • of House 3, 4, 6, 7
    • PETITIONS--

    • of citizens of Smith county 19, 36, 37, 63
    • PENITENTIARY--

    • in relation to 21, 30, 33, 37
    • to increase pay of guards 26, 37
    • PAPER MONEY--

    • to tax unauthorized issues 23, 28, 56, 67, 79
    • PIKE COUNTY--

    • to apply swamp land funds 32
    • QUARTERMASTER AND ADJUTANT GENERAL--

    • in relation to 79
    • RESOLUTION--

    • notifying Senate of organization of House 4
    • appointing committee to wait on Governor 4, 80
    • appointing committee to wait President, Gen. Johnston, &c. 5
    • requesting certain book furnished House 7
    • defining business proper for action of House 14
    • requesting certain information from auditor 14
    • requesting information in relation to arms 15
    • excusing absence of members in army 15
    • in relation to Q D. Gibbs 16
    • in relation to militia, &c 19, 21
    • in relation to salt 20, 24, 32
    • in relation to class legislation 20, 42, 51, 52, 56, 60, 64
    • in relation to Penitentiary 21
    • in relation to military affairs 23
    • in relation to supervising surgeon 24
    • in relation to war tax 32
    • in relation to death of A. F. Dantzler 35
    • in relation to the militia 38
    • in relation to adjournment 55, 63, 64
    • in relation to funds for indigent families 57
    • in relation to acts and journals 60, 62
    • of thanks to the Speaker 61
    • of thanks to the Clerk, &c 61
    • in relation to cotton burnt, &c 64, 68
    • in relation to deserters from the House 64, 72, 73, 74
    • inviting Joseph E. Johnston to address both Houses 69, 70
    • to suspend military tax 79
    • REPORTS--

    • of committee to wait on President, &c 5, 26, 39
    • of Col. A. M. West 63
    • REDEMPTION--

    • of lands, &c., sold for taxes 32, 53
    • RECORDS--

    • to authorize the removal of 20, 21, 27, 28, 51, 52, 56, 60
    • REVISED CODE--

    • to suspend art. 196, chap. 4, of 41, 42
    • RELIEF--

    • of Thos. McRae, assignee, &c 21
    • of Capt. H. Jamison 27, 39, 52, 60
      Page 227

    • of certain public officers 39, 41, 45
    • SERGEANT-AT-ARMS--

    • resignation of 6, 7
    • STANDING COMMITTEES--

    • vacancies filled in 15, 16
    • STAY LAW--

    • to extend provisions of 21, 51
    • SLAVES--

    • to repeal an act approved Nov. 29, 1861 31, 48
    • SALT--

    • to procure 35, 37, 51, 52
    • TREASURY NOTES--

    • to provide for as advance on cotton 20, 30, 44
    • TAX--

    • to suspend for certain time therein named 45, 49, 63, 66, 79
    • TELEGRAPH COMPANY--

    • to authorize South Western to issue change notes 63, 66
    • YAZOO COUNTY--

    • to legalize assessment in 41, 51, 52, 56, 60
  • YEAS AND NAYS-- 14, 29, 30, 31, 41, 47, 48, 49, 50, 65, 69, 70, 71, 74, 72, 79


Page 228

NOVEMBER SESSION--1863.

    • ABSENCE--

    • leave of, granted Mr. Alcorn 86
    • leave of, granted Mr. McElroy 114
    • leave of, granted Mr. McLaurin 120
    • leave of, granted Hon. W. H. Kilpatrick 120, 127
    • leave of, granted Messrs. Tindall, Upshaw and Carroll 124
    • leave of, granted Mr. Pounds 129, 136
    • leave of, granted Messrs. Tindall, Gulley, High, Gray and Grace 152
    • leave of, granted the Speaker 174
    • leave of, granted Mr. Buntin 174
    • leave of, granted Messrs. Johnson, McGehee and Eskridge 174
    • leave of, granted Messrs. Barton and Winter 178
    • leave of, granted Messrs. Easterling and Robinson 179
    • leave of, granted Mr. Gowan 185, 201
    • leave of, granted Mr. Moore 187
    • leave of, granted Messrs. McLaurin, Lowry and Montgomery 187
    • leave of, granted Messrs. Seal of H., Carroll, Deason of J., and Deason of C. 196
    • leave of, granted Messrs. Sessions and Alcorn 215
    • leave of, granted Mr. Fort 216
    • leave of, granted Messrs. Downs and Daniel 218
    • leave of, granted Messrs. Hooker, McElroy and Easterling 220
    • leave of, granted Messrs. Kirk and Hathorn 229
    • leave of, granted Messrs. Gulley and Upshaw 240
    • leave of, granted Messrs. Gray, Lowry and Dillard 278
    • leave of, granted Messrs. Regan, Rucks, Yandell, Stephens, Prewitt and Lott 281
    • ALIENS--

    • for disposition of 275, 282, 290
    • ARMY--

    • to punish persons falsely claiming to be in 322
    • of this State, to organize 215, 247, 248, 276, 278
    • to aid in strengthening 276
    • of Confederate States, to aid in strengthening 225, 278, 297
    • to provide for exemption of certain officers 304, 321, 323, 325, 328
    • ASSESSMENT ROLLS--

    • to provide 108, 119
    • laws, to amend in this State 166, 190
    • AUDITOR AND TREASURE'S OFFICES--

    • to provide for examination of 136, 173, 190, 191, 319, 321
    • to exempt 241
    • to fix salary of auditor and clerk 259
    • AMNESTY--

    • granting to persons, &c. 166, 189
    • ATTACHMENT LAWS--

    • to amend 166, 218, 239, 290
    • AMITE COUNTY--

    • to increase fees of officers 196, 212, 295
    • ATTALA COUNTY--

    • to further provide for families in 255, 279, 284, 297
    • APPROPRIATIONS--

    • making certain 320, 327, 328

    Page 229

    • BANK OF JACKSON, &c.

    • to amend to incorporate 126, 137, 153, 155
    • BENEFIT--

    • of companies of Captains Mitchell, Williams and Johnson 197, 263, 287
    • of Moses E. Enochs 311, 316
    • BONDS AND NOTES--

    • to require destruction of 190, 265
    • to require to be printed, &c. 210, 238, 258
    • BLIND--

    • report of trustees for, presented 240
    • report of committee 260, 261, 262
    • making certain appropriations for 280, 283, 296
    • CLERK--

    • R. C. Miller appointed 83, 85
    • COMMITTEES--

    • standing appointed 102
    • joint standing appointed 102
    • on State Departments 107
    • COLLECTION LAWS--

    • to enforce 105, 109, 138, 141
    • CHICKASAW COUNTY--

    • to compel A. Bean to pay over money, 164, 175 212
    • to aid in supplying records in 301, 303
    • CHOCTAW COUNTY--

    • to authorize Thos. E. Dorris to practice law in the Probate Court 114
    • to authorize Board of Police to borrow money 325, 327
    • CARROLL COUNTY--

    • to legalize sale of lands 199
    • COLLECTORS--

    • delinquent, authorized to pay in certain funds, 117, 213 216, 311
    • COSTS--

    • to provide for payment of 118, 121
    • CARDS--

    • to encourage manufacture of, 172, 213, 258, 265, 283, 301, 319 321, 327, 325
    • to procure 241, 265, 279, 283, 296, 317, 327, 325
    • CLERRS AND INSPECTORS OF ELECTIONS--

    • to increase pay of 123, 189
    • CLERKS, SHERIFFS, &c.--

    • to increase fees of 253
    • CLERKS OF PROBATE--

    • to enable Boards of Police to compensate 304
    • COURTS--

    • to change rule of practice in 124
    • COMMON SCHOOLS--

    • to authorize payment of interest on funds of, 142
    • COUNTY TREASURERS--

    • to exempt. &c. 319, 328, 325
    • CLAIMS--

    • of boy Charles 126, 320
    • of E. C. Eggleston 256, 320
    • of V. M. Humphrey 276, 320
    • of A. S. Harmon 295, 320
    • of Thomas Lampley 295, 320
    • COMMUNICATION--

    • from Jarvis Seal 130
    • from Cooper & Kimball, public printers, 125, 136, 180
    • from auditor of public accounts 211
    • from W. C. Turner, salt agent 216
    • from Major L. Mims 292, 293
    • COPIAH COUNTY--

    • in relation to estrays 211
    • COLUMBUS LIFE INSURANCE CO.--

    • to amend charter, 163, 290, 311 318, 324
    • CONFEDERATE MONEY--

    • to levy a tax on persons refusing 195
    • CRIMINAL OFFENSES--

    • to better provide security in 275, 282, 290
    • COUNTY BOUNDARIES--

    • to repeal in relation to 292
    • DOOR-KEEPER--

    • Mr. Worrell elected, &c. 85, 102
    • DEBTS--

    • regulating payment of 106
    • DIVORCES AND ALIMONY--

    • to amend law of 119, 141, 218, 239
    • DEAF AND DUMB AND BLIND--

    • referred to committee, 128, 277, 278
    • to amend in relation to 280, 282
    • DISTILLATION--

    • to amend to prohibit 129, 131
    • to repeal in relation to 131, 162, 184, 187, 189, 196, 219
      Page 230

    • to prohibit of grain, &c 300, 306
    • to authorize from grain 322
    • DE SOTO COUNTY--

    • for relief of citizens of 177, 200, 258
    • DECEASED SOLDIERS--

    • to provide for claims of 311, 316
    • DESERTERS--

    • to punish for concealing 225, 240, 244, 252, 265, 280 283, 307, 312
    • DEVISES AND BEQUESTS--

    • to repeal in relation to 256
    • DELINQUENT TAX COLLECTORS--

    • to authorize the State Treasurer to receive from the delinquent tax collectors of the several counties in this State the military bonds or notes falling due 1st January, 1863-'64, in payment of the amount due them on account of the military tax for the year 1861 321, 327, 325
    • ELECTIONS--

    • returns for Governor 105, 110, 111, 112
    • ELECTION LAWS--

    • to amend in this State 105
    • to regulate voting in this State 132
    • ENLISTMENTS--

    • to encourage in army of Confederate States 119, 184 235, 307
    • EXEMPTIONS--

    • to repeal exempting legislators 123, 128, 129
    • ESTRAYS--

    • registration and sale of 211, 257, 279
    • FAMILIES OF SOLDIERS--

    • to better provide for 105, 128, 129
    • to procure cotton and wool cards for 133, 192, 241, 317
    • to better provide for 179, 200, 215, 216, 220, 225, 226, 227 228, 229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 241, 242, 243, 246, 248 264, 269 .
    • to procure salt for 241, 254, 279, 283
    • supplemental to an act better to provide for 291, 309, 317
    • GREEN COUNTY--

    • to repeal to reduce taxes 197, 252, 255
    • GOVERNMENT AGENTS--

    • to punish for falsely representing as such 286, 296, 301, 315
    • GRAIN AND PROVISIONS--

    • to encourage production of 309
    • HANCOCK COUNTY--

    • to pay clerks, &c., of elections, 137, 210, 239, 266
    • to repeal to reduce taxes in 162, 241, 253, 264, 269
    • HORSES--

    • impressment of 128
    • HABEAS CORPUS--

    • to amend in relation to 243, 257, 265, 269, 279 283, 296
    • HAWKING AND PEDDLING--

    • to repeal in relation to 286, 292
    • HISTORIAN--

    • to create to State University 243
    • ITAWAMBA COUNTY--

    • to amend school laws of 101, 171, 185, 186
    • to authorize board police to borrow money, 104, 130, 155, 181 201
    • to authorize board police to make certain approp'n 106, 120
    • to authorize an appropriation for use of schools 135
    • to reimburse 162
    • to increase salary of Probate Judge 304, 321, 328, 325
    • IMPRESSMENTS--

    • to repeal in relation to 132, 196
    • to amend in this State 196, 202
    • to punish parties making illegal 210, 238, 270
    • INAUGURATION--

    • of Gov. Clark 154, 155, 158
    • INFORMAL CLAIMS--

    • to provide for against the State 299, 301, 318
    • INDEMNITY--

    • to provide for the Legislature 235
    • JAILORS--

    • to regulate fees of, in State 118, 125, 127, 135, 155
    • JONES COUNTY--

    • to amend in relation to appropriation of certain monies, 138, 189
    • to amend in relation to fines and forfeitures 198, 253, 264, 269

    Page 231

    • JACKSON--

    • to amend charter of 197, 253, 264, 269
    • JURORS--

    • to provide for obtaining 219, 239, 267, 279, 283, 296
    • JASPER COUNTY--

    • to correct the levy of poor tax 257, 280, 284, 296
    • JESSEE BARNETT--

    • complaint of, &c. 294
    • JACKSON COUNTY--

    • to authorize employment of free negroes, 282, 284
    • KEEPER OF CAPITOL, &c.--

    • election of De Witt Clinton 140
    • KEMPER COUNTY--

    • to increase salary of P. Judge, 186, 210, 220, 229
    • LAWRENCE COUNTY--

    • to change time of holding P. Court 210, 239
    • LEAKE COUNTY--

    • to change time of holding Probate Court in 181
    • to fees of clerk of Probate Court 193, 218, 233, 245
    • LOWNDES COUNTY--

    • to fix fees of Jailors 104, 118
    • to authorize sheriff to receive Confederate Notes, &c. 163, 190
    • LAUDERDALE COUNTY--

    • to increase salary of Probate Judge of,-- 110, 127, 212, 257, 280, 284, 296
    • to pay clerks, &c., of elections 239
    • to appoint Administrators for 256, 291
    • LUNATIC ASYLUM--

    • message referred 128
    • report of committee 22 to 225
    • for benefit of 225, 253, 264, 269
    • claim of presented 255
    • LIMITATIONS--

    • to extend statute of, &c 172, 188
    • LEVEE DISTRICT--

    • to suspend tax in 184, 210, 220, 229
    • MEMORIAL--

    • of citizens of Kemper 163
    • of Police Court of Lafayette county 163
    • of Thos. M. Cannon 197
    • of John C. Brown 199
    • of James W. Harris 211
    • of D. O. Merwin 211
    • of S. W. Woolard 307
    • MARSHALL COUNTY--

    • to establish records in 138, 188
    • MONROE COUNTY--

    • to increase salary of Probate Judge of 115, 212 319, 321, 327, 325
    • to enable Police Court to levy tax, &c., 246, 255, 280, 283, 297
    • MALONE, SAMUEL B.--

    • to appoint receiver for absent legatees of, 311, 316
    • MEDICAL COMMISSIONERS--

    • to repeal the appointment of, 122, 186 210, 220, 230
    • MILITIA--

    • to organize and discipline 307, 312
    • MILITARY SERVICE--

    • making appropriation for 322, 325, 227, 328
    • MESSENGERS--

    • to authorize appointment of 101, 106, 107, 111
    • MESSAGE--

    • from the Senate 87, 106, 110, 111, 115, 120, 125, 126 129, 130, 135, 136, 141, 152, 164, 171, 176, 187, 196, 210 217, 219, 235, 241, 246, 252, 257, 295, 298, 307, 323, 325 327, 328 .
    • MESSAGE--

    • from the Governor 88, 107, 134, 153, 155, 156, 157, 158 159, 160, 161, 178, 185, 193, 202, 215, 229, 236, 245, 246 247, 254, 285, 295, 296, 297, 302, 324, 328 .
    • MISS. MUTUAL INSURANCE CO.--

    • to amend charter of 163
    • MERIDIAN MANUFACTURING COMPANY--

    • to incorporate 255, 280, 283, 297
    • MISSISSIPPI MANUFACTURING CO.--

    • to incorporate 101, 110, 120, 135, 155
    • NAMES--

    • to change Walter Masonhimer 126
    • to change Mildred Harris 162, 181, 210
    • to change Nancy Delaware Wyatt 177, 200, 215
    • NEGROES--

    • removal of referred 128
    • NOXUBEE COUNTY--

    • in relation to school fund 198
    • to authorize to borrow money 325, 327

    Page 232

    • NEWTON COUNTY--

    • to pay clerks, &c of elections 239
    • to appoint administrators for 256, 291
    • ORGANIZATION--

    • of House 83 to 86
    • OVERSEERS OF ROADS--

    • to extend law governing 142, 174
    • OPERATIVES--

    • to exempt certain 319
    • PAGES--

    • appointed 86
    • PETITION--

    • of Dr. S. M. Hamilton, of Clark 114
    • of Reese Price, of Clark 114, 182
    • of Wm. H. Smith, of Noxubee 115, 188
    • of Wm. H. Keys 120, 295
    • of citizens of Attala county 125, 190
    • of Wm. S. Price, sr., 137, 192
    • of W. C. Tucker 138, 182
    • of J. S. Terrell, sr., and W. A. Trotter 162, 249
    • of E. C. Mosbey 162, 246
    • of W. S. McKee 163, 263
    • of citizens of Monroe county 172
    • of Wm. M. Haley 241
    • of W. D. McCulloch 241, 293
    • PUBLIC ROADS--

    • when on boundary line 120, 127
    • PERSONS AND PROPERTY--

    • for protection of 243
    • PERSONAL PROPERTY--

    • to recover, &c 130, 173, 181, 201
    • to authorize removal of 218, 239, 249
    • PENITENTIARY--

    • in relation to 128, 210, 238, 262, 263
    • POLICE COURTS--

    • to extend power in certain counties 142, 173
    • PROBATE JUDGES--

    • of the State, to increase salaries of 212, 213
    • PROBATE LAWS--

    • to amend in this State 195, 212
    • QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL--

    • to provide an assistant for 133, 184, 293, 301
    • PATROLS--

    • to amend in relation to 235
    • RESOLUTION--

    • in relation to rules of House 86, 153
    • in relation to opening House with prayer 86
    • joint, appointing committee to wait on Governor 87, 88
    • joint, in relation to Sergeant-at-arms 87, 88
    • joint, in relation to election of C. S. Senator 87, 105, 127, 142 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 151, 158, 162, 166 167, 168, 169, 170, 171 .
    • in relation to postage 102, 116
    • in relation to stationery 103, 104
    • in relation to regular hours for sessions 103
    • joint, in relation to Confederate currency 105, 165, 171, 175 177, 185, 186, 187, 202, 218, 220, 230, 239, 252, 265, 282 307, 312 .
    • in relation to officers occupying seats 105, 109, 119
    • in relation to militia system 106
    • in relation to printing documents 106, 107
    • in relation to writing desks 107
    • in relation to number of soldiers in State 108, 116, 117
    • in relation to indigent families 109
    • in relation to pay of 1st Battalion 109
    • in relation to addresses on state of country 109, 113, 120, 135 163, 166, 195, 218, 235, 240, 252, 266 .
    • joint, in relation to pay of soldiers 110, 120, 126
    • in relation to soldiers voting 110, 250
    • joint, in relation to counting vote for Governor 105, 110 112, 113
      Page 233

    • joint, in relation to election of Sate Printer 117
    • joint, in relation to notifying Chas. Clark of his elect'n, 117, 125
    • joint, in relation to salt 118, 125, 126
    • in relation to State troops parolled at Vicksburg 118, 301
    • in relation to documents to be furnished House 120, 124
    • in relation to bonds of Confederate States 121, 124
    • in relation to payment of Confederate States tax 121, 214
    • in relation to increasing salary of Governor, &c. 121
    • in relation to eligibility to seats 122, 183
    • joint, relation to impressments 122, 185, 186
    • in relation to jurisdiction in criminal cases 122
    • in relation to reports of Medical Commissioners 122
    • in relation to prices of salt, cotton cards, &c. 123, 190
    • joint, in relation to indigent families 125, 127
    • joint, in relation to conferring certain powers on Governor 125, 127
    • joint, in relation to State Reporter, &c. 127, 133, 134, 137, 139
    • joint, in relation to joint standing committees 130, 172
    • joint, in relation to compiling constitutions 131, 165, 173, 185 and 186
    • joint, in relation to using negroes in service 131
    • joint, in relation to settling claims for impressed articles-- 132, 175
    • joint, in relation to tendering Hall to Gen. Gholson 133, 135
    • in relation to Penitentiary 135
    • in relation to examination of acts of State 137
    • joint, in relation to exemption and substitute law 153, 175
    • joint, in relation to leave of absence to T. M. Yancy 163, 181 201, 218, 245, 247
    • in relation to in relation to pay for horses, &c. 164
    • joint, of inquiry in relation to militia 164, 200
    • joint, in relation to Executive Mansion and other funds-- 164, 191, 200, 201, 219
    • joint, in relation to Confederate notes 164
    • joint, in relation to Lunatic Asylum 164, 200
    • joint, for relief of certain counties 164
    • joint, in relation to adjournment 165, 181, 201, 243, 286, 328
    • joint, in relation to changing Constitution 172
    • joint, in relation to impressment of slaves 172, 177
    • inviting Gens. Lee, Forrest and Furgusson to seats 175
    • in relation to member from Vicksburg 183, 289
    • joint, in relation to removal of Generals Pemberton and Lovell 186
    • joint, in relation to the President's order removing slaves, 194, 235, 236, 245, 247, 250
    • joint, in relation to compelling Judges to hold Courts, &c. 195
    • joint, in relation to a day of fasting and prayer 195, 210 238, 245, 247
    • joint, in relation to cotton burned 195
    • joint, in relation to collection of taxes in certain counties 200
    • joint, in relation to business of Legislature 208, 286, 296, 302
    • joint, in relation to eligibility to civil or military offices, 209, 216, 219, 234, 286
    • in relation to railroads 210
    • in relation to clothing for Herndon Rangers 210, 239
    • in relation to confidence in the President 210, 239, 241 246, 271, 272, 273, 274, 275, 312
      Page 234

    • joint, in relation to a recess 216
    • in relation to prices on railroad freight, &c. 217, 239, 258
    • in relation to expenditures, &c., of the State 217
    • in relation to trustees of State University 218
    • joint, in relation to soldiers' families 218, 256
    • joint, in relation to printing certain act 248, 279, 284, 297
    • joint, in relation to thanks to our soldiers 279, 284
    • joint, in relation to putting all able-bodied men in the field 257
    • joint, in relation to publication of certain acts 257
    • joint, in relation to mothers, wives and sisters of our soldiers, 257, 279, 284, 297
    • in relation to Hugh W. Sheffey, et al. 257, 265
    • in relation to Lunatic Asylum, &c. 275, 282
    • in relation to State University 280
    • in relation to the Militia 280, 281
    • in relation to time of speaking 281
    • joint, in relation to tax in kind 281
    • in relation to confining members to subject under discussion 289
    • joint, in relation to leave of absence of J. S. Ham and S. M. Meek 296, 301, 322
    • in relation to treasurer's report 298, 310
    • in relation to election of Superintendent and Clerk of Penitentiary 299, 301, 303, 304
    • joint, in relation to employing negroes in the army 300
    • joint, in relation to printing acts of last called session, 311, 316
    • joint, of thanks to the ministers of the City of Columbus 320
    • joint, of thanks to citizens of Columbus 316, 317
    • joint, making appropriation to Christian Church of Columbus 316, 317
    • making appropriation for printing done 317
    • instructing our Senators and requesting our Representatives in Congress to inquire of the War Department why it is necessary to keep a Brigadier General, with a large staff of able-bodied young men, and two batteries of artillery at Columbus, Miss., while the enemy are more than 100 miles north of said city, and the army requires soldiers in the field 220
    • of thanks to the Speaker 221
    • of thanks to R. C. Miller, clerk 221
    • in relation to enrollment of appropriation bill 323, 326
    • in relation to reconsideration of votes taken 323
    • REVISED CODE--

    • to amend art. 15, ch. 4, of 108
    • to amend chap. 8, in relation to fees in Wilkinson 108
    • to amend art. 6, chap. 3, p. 292 249, 282, 284, 295
    • to repeat art. 55 and 56, sec. 10, ch. 35 268, 296, 300
    • to amend art. 82, sec. 8 282, 284, 290
    • to repeal a part of art. 4, ch. 9 288
    • RAILROADS--

    • defining rates of charges by 316, 317
    • RAILROADS--

    • making them responsible for freight, &c. 297, 312, 316, 327, 324
    • to enable them to pay money borrowed 252, 266, 267, 268, 276, 284, 288, 299
    • to compel to keep lights, &c. on cars 110, 126, 181
    • to incorporate the Alabama and Mississippi Rivers 130, 172 235, 236, 267
    • to repair Mobile and Ohio 165, 171, 179, 185, 210
      Page 235

    • to authorize collection of money from, &c. 178, 214, 216, 233 236
    • RAILROAD STOCK--

    • to enable Lowndes, Oktibbeha, Noxubee, and City of Columbus to settle 126, 190, 246, 252, 255
    • RANKIN COUNTY--

    • to amend in relation to fees of clerk of Probate Court 165, 193, 218, 233, 245
    • to repeal reducing salary of Probate Judge 235, 251
    • RELIEF--

    • of Walter McDougal 101, 110, 111, 114, 155
    • of M. D. Files 104
    • of clerks of courts of record 106
    • of certain tax collectors 108, 118
    • of Wm. W. Brooks 115, 137, 153, 155
    • of destitute families in Yazoo county 115, 142, 153, 155
    • of Wm. Rice Hooker 123, 131, 135, 155
    • of Augustus H. Ware, a minor 126, 137, 158, 174, 178
    • of Geo. R. Fall 126, 192, 218, 240, 252, 255
    • of G. S. McMillan 103, 173
    • of Administrators, Guardians, &c. 138, 249
    • of Josiah H. Askew 142, 173
    • of Thos. M. Smedes 152, 175
    • of Samuel M. Meek 152, 174
    • of tax-payers, in certain cases 162, 225, 234
    • of Wm. C. Nickle 163, 253, 264, 269
    • of destitute families of Pontotoc 163, 289
    • of Sydney Moore Jackson 165, 181, 209, 215
    • of G. C. Dennis 165, 182
    • of John W. Cox 166, 181, 210, 215
    • of J. D. W. Duckworth 171, 263, 282, 295, 302
    • of Samuel B. Jones 171, 210, 238, 245, 246
    • of heirs of J. T. Fortson 172, 266
    • of Mississippi State troops 179, 263, 302, 309, 324
    • of Cooper & Kimball 180, 246, 252, 254
    • of children of Douglas S. King 187, 193, 218, 233, 245
    • of M. D. Files 192
    • of Judges of Circuit Courts 195, 235, 236, 245
    • of C. E. Murphree 197, 287, 311
    • of Wm. Beachum 197, 293, 312, 318, 324
    • of Anthony D. Gordon 197, 253, 264, 269
    • of Henry B. Luckett 197, 253, 264, 269
    • of James H. Matthews 198, 253, 264, 269
    • of T. A. Mitchell 198
    • of John A. McNiel 198, 253, 264, 269
    • of Ried & Dickson. 198
    • of E. A. Miller 199, 211
    • of First Battalion State troops, 208, 243, 288, 316, 317, 327, 325
    • of owners of slaves impressed 208, 211, 326
    • of D. H. Maury 241, 254, 287
    • of heirs of J. S. Terrell, Jr. 249, 280, 284, 296
    • of Thos. Harris and J. L. Burks 252, 266
    • of Probate Clerk of Newton county 256, 280, 283, 297
    • of M. D. Haynes 266
    • of Confederate soldiers 267
    • of Isham Dansby 276, 294, 311, 318, 324
    • of James Reedy 280, 282, 294
    • of Thos. J. Fortson 295, 311, 319, 324
    • of John Vernon 295, 319
      Page 236

    • of Robert H. Whitley 301, 303
    • of Probate Clerk of Lauderdale County 301, 303
    • of Thos. A. Mitchell 320, 323, 327, 324
    • of families of soldiers in counties therein named 327, 324
    • REPORTS

    • of Secretary of State on vote for Governor 104, 105
    • of Treasurer 137
    • of Auditor on stationery 104
    • of Auditor on receipts and disbursements 116
    • of committee on Lunatic Asylum 222 to 225
    • REDEMPTION

    • of lands, to provide for, 171, 258, 265, 279, 283, 295, 302
    • RUNAWAY SLAVES

    • to authorize Sheriffs to receive Confederate money for when sold 218, 233, 245
    • RECORDS

    • to authorize removal of 241, 254, 318
    • to authorize clerks to record anew--when 302, 307, 315
    • REVENUE LAWS

    • to amend 259, 297, 298, 317, 318, 321, 322, 323, 325, 327
    • to raise additional revenue 305
    • REGISTERS AND RECEIVERS

    • to commute pay of 287, 294, 311, 319
    • SPEAKER

    • L. E. Houston nominated and elected 85
    • SERGEANT-AT-ARMS

    • D. R. Corley elected 88
    • SPECULATION

    • to prevent 106
    • SOUTHERN COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, &c.--

    • to incorporate 123, 128, 235, 245, 247
    • SCOTT COUNTY

    • change time of holding Probate Court, 165, 209, 215
    • STATE OFFICERS

    • salaries of 128, 132, 140, 142, 151
    • STATE TROOPS

    • message in relation to 202
    • SIMPSON COUNTY

    • to extend provisions of certain act to 138
    • to authorize distribution of school fund 199
    • to sell estrays 199
    • STATE REPORTER

    • election of A. Y. Harper 139
    • STATE PRINTING

    • to regulate price of 180
    • STATE PRINTER

    • election of J. J. Shannon & Co. 140
    • to amend as to compensation of 241, 251, 253, 266, 276
    • SCHOOL FUNDS

    • to authorize payment of interest on 174
    • STOCK AND PROVISIONS

    • to encourage introduction of 303
    • SUITORS

    • to prevent injustice to 177, 200, 248
    • SLAVE JOHN

    • to emancipate 277, 296, 300, 302
    • SLAVES

    • in relation to President's order for removal 193, 194
    • SALARIES

    • to increase of certain officers 322
    • SOLDIERS

    • to compensate in State service 235, 251
    • to supply with shoes and clothing 241, 251
    • SOLDIERS' HOME

    • to appropriate money for 276
    • STATE UNIVERSITY

    • to amend in relation to 292, 311, 318, 624
    • STATE TREASURER

    • to authorize to employ clerk 315, 321, 328, 325
    • TAXES

    • to revise and amend collection of 108, 189, 246, 252, 255
    • to extend collection of 119, 130
    • to exempt certain slaves from 131
    • to allow additional time for collection of 1862 172, 188, 218 233, 245
    • to extend time of assessing in certain counties 172, 189, 190 218, 234, 245
    • to secure collection on delinquent lands 259, 263, 284
    • to levy and collect 33⅓ per cent. on persons refusing Confederate currency 305
    • TIPPAH COUNTY

    • for relief of indigent families, &c. 122
    • TALLAHATCHIE COUNTY

    • to repeal to annex a part to Sunflower 123
    • THREE PER CENT. FUND

    • to authorize Treasurer to use 252

    Page 237

    • TREASURY NOTES

    • to authorize issuance of 298, 303
    • UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI

    • message in relation to 235, 286
  • WIVES, Widows and children of soldiers 128
    • WILKINSON COUNTY

    • to increase salary of clerks of courts 214
    • WAYNE COUNTY

    • in relation to duties of school commissioners, 257, 280, 283, 297
    • WASHINGTON COUNTY

    • in relation to school fund 198
    • WINE

    • to encourage manufacture of 301, 302
    • WINSTON COUNTY

    • in relation to accounts, &c., in Probate Court of 115, 121
    • to authorize Board of Police to borrow money, &c., 165, 312 316, 327, 325
    • to authorize suits to be brought in certain cases 181, 201
    • in relation to school fund of 198
    • in relation to estrays 199
    • YAZOO COUNTY

    • for relief of destitute families in 115
  • YEAS AND NAYS 103, 109, 119, 123, 130, 138, 152, 176, 177, 178 186, 219, 221, 227, 228, 229, 236, 240, 244, 256 259, 268, 269, 270, 271, 281, 284, 291, 292, 302, 305, 306, 308, 311, 313, 314, 315, 322, 324, 326