Florida. General Assembly. House of Representatives. House Journal--10th Sess. A Journal of the Proceedings of the House of Representatives of the General Assembly of the State of Florida, at Its Tenth Session, Begun and Held at the Capitol, in the City of Tallahassee, on Monday, November 26, 1860.

House Journal--10th Sess.
A Journal of the Proceedings of the House of Representatives
of the General Assembly of the State of Florida,
at Its Tenth Session, Begun and Held at the Capitol,
in the City of Tallahassee, on Monday, November 26, 1860:
Electronic Edition.

Florida. General Assembly. 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
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Academic Affairs Library, UNC-CH
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
2000.

Source Description:
(title page) House Journal--10th Sess. A Journal of the Proceedings of the House of Representatives of the General Assembly of the State of Florida, at Its Tenth Session, Begun and Held at the Capitol, in the City of Tallahassee, on Monday, November 26, 1860.
390 p.
Tallahassee: OFFICE OF THE FLORIDIAN AND JOURNAL.
PRINTED BY DYKE & CARLISLE.
1860.

Call number 1505.1 Conf (Rare Book Collection, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)

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Library of Congress Subject Headings, 21st edition, 1998

Languages Used:

English

LC Subject Headings:

Secession -- Florida.
Legislation -- Florida.
Legislative journals -- Florida.
Florida -- Politics and government -- 1861-1865.

Revision History:

2001-02-23,
Celine Noel and Wanda Gunther
revised TEIHeader and created catalog record for the electronic edition.
2000-11-13,
Natalia Smith, project manager,
finished TEI-conformant encoding and final proofing.
2000-10-27,
Lee Ann Morawski
finished TEI/SGML encoding
2000-10-24,
Apex Data Services
finished transcribing the text.

HOUSE JOURNAL--10th Sess. A
Journal of the Proceedings
OF THE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
OF THE
GENERAL ASSEMBLY
OF THE
STATE OF FLORIDA,
AT ITS
TENTH SESSION,
Begun and Held at the Capitol, in the City of Tallahassee,
on Monday, November 26, 1860.

Tallahassee:
OFFICE OF THE FLORIDIAN AND JOURNAL.
PRINTED BY DYKE & CARLISLE.
1860.

Page 3

JOURNAL

Of the House of Representatives of the General Assembly of Florida at the Tenth Session thereof, begun and held at the Capitol, in the City of Tallahassee, in the State of Florida, on Monday, the twenty-sixth of November, eighteen hundred and sixty:

On which day, being that fixed by the Constitution of the State of Florida for the meeting of the General Assembly, the House of Representatives was called to order by F. L. Villepigue, Secretary of State, who proceeded to call the roll by Counties, when the following members appeared, presented their certificates of election, and were severally sworn by E. M. West, Justice of the Peace, viz:

From Escambia--Alexander C. Blount.
From Santa Rosa--John Wilkinson.
From Holmes--Clark Broxson.
From Washington--H. H. Wells.
From Jackson--Jacob H. Pooser,
James L. Robinson,
Jacob V. Dansby.
From Calhoun--Levi Yon.
From Franklin--D. P. Holland.
From Gadsden--W. H. Scott,
D. W. Holloman,
S. B. Love.
From Liberty--Archibald Campbell.
From Leon--J. J. Williams,
J. B. Galbraith,
Avin Oliver,
A. S. Cole.
From Jefferson County--J. S. Russell,
P. B. Bird,
B. W. Bellamy.
From Madison, Taylor and Lafayette--D. H. Mays,
C. C. Coffee,
J. A. J. Collins.
From Columbia and Suwannee--Garret VanZant,
N. A. Hull,
Joseph Price.
Page 4
From New River--W. C. Newbern.
From Nassau--J. H. Haddock.
From Duval--A. A. Canova.
From St. Johns--W. H. Mickler.
From Putnam--G. E. Hawes.
From Orange--David Mizell.
From Volusia--Abraham Richardson.
From Brevard--N. Yates.
From Levy--Thos. N. Clyatt.
From Hernando--N. W. Holland.
From Hillsborough--Joseph Howell.
From Manatee--John Parker.
From Dade--Theodore Bissell.
From Monroe--George L. Bowne.
From Sumter--Josiah A. Lee.
From Clay--Miles J. Murphy.

Quorum present.

On motion of Mr. Hawes, the House adjourned until 10 o'clock to-morrow morning.

TUESDAY, November 27th, 1860.

House met pursuant to adjournment.

Journal of yesterday's proceedings read and approved.

On motion, Mr. Vogt took the Chair.

The roll was called--a quorum present.

Messrs. Carter, of Wakulla, Means, of Alachua, McCormick, of Marion, McKinnon, of Walton, presented their certificates of election and were severally sworn in.

The House then proceeded to the election of a Speaker.

Mr. Holland, of Franklin, nominated Mr. Galbraith, of Leon.

There being no other nominations, upon motion, Mr. Galbraith was declared unanimously elected Speaker of the House.

On motion, Messrs. Coffee, Holland and Bellamy were appointed a Committee to conduct the Speaker elect to the Chair.

The Speaker addressed the House as follows:

Gentlemen of the House of Representatives:

I thank you for the honor which you have done me in electing me to preside over your honorable body, and shall show my appreciation of the same by exerting myself to the utmost of my ability to preserve that order and promote that dispatch of business which is so necessary, especially at this time, in which I ask, and trust I shall receive, your unanimous co-operation. Never before has a Legislature of Florida been called upon to consider of such grave and weighty matters as those which we will have

Page 5

to pass upon at this time. The long continued, persistent and unscrupulous aggressions of a majority of the Northern people upon the rights and interests of the Southern States of this Confederacy, have culminated in the election of a man to the Presidency of these United States pledged to make war upon the institutions of the South. The Southern mind is indignant at the result, and the Southern soul is in arms. The people of Florida cannot, must not, will not submit tamely to these insults and wrongs. To us the people look for the initiation of measures of redress, and the ways and means of sustaining our State during this crisis. Let us approach these questions with that earnest, temperate consideration that the vastness of their results demand. Within the next few months we will decide the political destiny of ourselves and of our posterity for ages. No crisis in our history can be more solemn and important than the one in the midst of which we now are. It should obliterate all traces of party and personal discord or jealousy. The petty contests among ourselves become contemptible in this great emergency, and all men of all parties and sections in our State should unite their best counsels as brothers embarked in a common ship. If the State of Florida is thrown upon her own resources for the support of a national government, it is vitally important that we should give prompt attention to that local legislation which may be immediately demanded by the interests of our own citizens. Let us apply ourselves to these great subjects with energy, and that success which ever attends a virtuous, a brave, and a free people when in the right, will crown our labors and preserve the peace, the rights, and the dignity of the State of Florida.

On motion of Mr. Bellamy, the House went into the election of officers, when the following gentlemen were nominated for their several respective positions without opposition, and upon motion declared unanimously elected:

Chief Clerk--A. J. PEELER, of Leon.
Assistant Clerk--W. F. BYNUM, of Lafayette.
Engrossing Clerk--V. A. CLEM, of Jefferson.
Enrolling Clerk--W. McPHERSON, of Walton.
Sergeant-at-Arms--J. C. KILBEE, of Jackson.
Door-Keeper--A. B. CAMPBELL, of Madison.
Messenger--J. W. TOMPKINS, of Columbia.

Who were duly sworn into office.

Mr. Holland moved that a committee of three be appointed to inform the Senate that the House is organized and ready to unite with a similar committee on the part of the Senate to inform his Excellency, the Governor, that the General Assembly is now organized and ready to receive any communication he may be pleased to make;

Page 6

Which motion was adopted, and Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Mays and Bellamy were appointed said committee.

Mr. Hawes moved that the Rules of the House at the last session be adopted for the government of the House until other Rules shall be adopted;

Which motion was agreed to.

On motion of Mr. Bird, a committee, consisting of Messrs. Bird, Hawes and Williams, was appointed to select a Chaplain for the present session.

Mr. Vogt moved that the Sergeant-at-Arms be required to furnish the House with stationery;

Which motion was adopted.

Mr. Murphy moved that a committee of three be appointed to select a Printer for the House;

Which motion was lost.

Mr. Russell moved that the House proceed to the election of a Printer;

Which motion was agreed to.

Mr. Williams nominated Messrs. Dyke & Carlisle, who were, on motion of Mr. Hawes, declared unanimously elected.

Mr. Blount moved that the rules be waived to permit him to introduce a bill without previous notice;

Which motion was adopted.

Mr. Blount introduced a bill to be entitled An act to Quiet Titles and to prevent unjust and vexatious Litigation in the County of Escambia;

Which was placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Hawes gave notice that at some future day he would ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an Act for the relief of Howell H. Baisden, Tax Collector of Putnam County.

A committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Dawkins, Starke and Magbee, informed the House that the Senate was organized and ready to proceed to business.

The following communication was received from the Hon. D. L. Yulee, and ordered to be read:

DEAR SIR:--Oblige me by communicating the enclosed to the House over which you preside. I have sent by the mail a duplicate, but the enclosed is what I have to request you to present immediately upon your organizing.

I wish the General Assembly to know at once that I go with my State, and that I shall not retain a seat in Congress one instant beyond the hour of summons home to her sons.

Yours Respectfully,

D. L. YULEE.

To the Speaker.

Page 7

WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 1860.

To the President of the Senate and the
Speaker of the House of Representatives
of the General Assembly of Florida:

GENTLEMEN--Allow me through you to announce to the General Assembly, as the Electing Body, under the Constitution of the United States, for Senators in Congress, that upon learning at any time between this and the fourth day of March next, of the determination of Florida to dissolve her union with the Northern States, I shall promptly and joyously return home, to support the banner of the State to which my allegiance is owing, and in which my family altar is established.

Respectfully your servant,

D. L. YULEE.

The Committee appointed to inform the Senate of the organization of the House returned and reported that duty performed, and were discharged.

Mr. Hawes introduced the following petition:

To the Honorable the Speaker of the House of
Representatives in General Assembly met:

The Petition of Benjamin Frisbee, contesting the seat of Miles J. Murphy of Clay County, respectfully showeth that he is the duly elected Representative from said County;

That said Murphy received the Certificate of Election, because of alleged informality in the returns of Long Branch Precinct;

That said precinct was not counted in canvassing the returns of the County;

That they should have been counted and by so doing it would appear that he received a majority of the votes of the County, which he is able to show;

That he is the elected representative of said County, and as such, entitled to the seat of the Hon. Miles J. Murphy, who received the Certificate of Election.

B. FRISBEE.

Which was read and referred to the Committee on Elections.

The following message from his Excellency the Governor was received and read:

Page 8

GOVERNOR'S MESSAGE.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
TALLAHASSEE, November 26th, 1860.

Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives:

The crisis, long expected by men of observation and reflection, has at length come. A series of aggressions and insults, commencing forty years ago, by the Northern States against the Southern, and increasing in audacity as time rolled on and the South forbore, has been pushed to a point at which further forbearance of the South would justify the allegation that we "are afraid to resist."

The election of Lincoln and Hamlin to the two highest offices in the confederacy, viewed in connection with the circumstances that led to the result, and the determination of Northern fanatics to urge their mad schemes, regardless of the welfare and the security of the Southern people, ought to extinguish any desire of the latter to prolong their connection with those who show such an utter disregard of covenanted rights and of plighted faith.

I will not insult your intelligence or trespass on your patience by recounting the aggressions already perpetrated, or by referring to those that must follow our submission. For myself, in full view of the responsibility of my position, I most decidedly declare that in my opinion the only hope the Southern States have for domestic peace and safety, or for future respectability and prosperity, is dependent on their action now; and that the proper action is--Secession from our faithless, perjured confederates.

But some Southern men, it is said, object to secession until some overt act of unconstitutional power shall have been committed by the General Government; that we ought not

Page 9

to secede until the President and Congress unite in passing an act unequivocally hostile to our institutions and fraught with immediate danger to our rights of property and to our domestic safety. My countrymen! if we wait for such an overt act, our fate will be that of the white inhabitants of St. Domingo.

But why wait for this overt act of the General Government? What is that Government? It is but the trustee, the common agent of all the States, appointed by them to manage their affairs according to a written constitution or power of attorney. Should the sovereign States, then--the principals and the partners in the association--for a moment tolerate the idea that their action must be graduated by the will of their agents? The idea is preposterous.

Let it be constantly had in mind, this essential difference between the relation in which the thirteen colonies stood to the British empire and its government and that relation which the States of this Union occupy towards the federal power and authority. The colonies were fractional parts of one consolidated State. They had no separate organization or powers, except such as they derived from the King and Parliament of Great Britain, consequently they stood in the same relation to that government that the counties of Florida do to the State government. But how different is our condition! Our general government was created by separate, independent sovereign States. It was established for certain specified purposes, defined by a constitution, which constitution is a compact between the sovereign States who created it and all who have become parties to it. The COLONISTS were subjects of the British crown. This they often acknowledged by petitioning that power for a removal of their grievances. When, therefore, they resisted the authority of their confessed sovereign, they placed themselves in a state of rebellion, the purpose of which was revolution. They knew this, yet did they falter even with the penalty of treason staring them in the face? No--they met in conventions--they

Page 10

declared "that governments derived their just powers from the consent of the governed--that they were instituted to protect the people in the enjoyment of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, and that whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it." Had they failed to maintain their asserted rights by the sword, they would have been amenable to the penalties denounced against treason. But they succeeded in establishing their independence. After this consummation of their noble struggle, the people of the several colonies, then acknowledged to be free and independent States, formed a new Confederation by framing and adopting, voluntarily, and each one for itself, that Constitution which is so flagitiously violated by many of the parties to the compact of fraternity.

The preamble to this Constitution recites the purposes for which it was ordained, among which are these: "To establish justice, insure domestic tranquility," &c. Has it effected these objects? Let the question be answered by the forty years' war waged by the Northern States upon the just rights of the Southern--by the statute books of those States, disgraced with laws expressly designed to defraud us of our property, and at the same time insulting us with threats of fine and imprisonment if we seek to reclaim our property even through the operation of that Constitution which they were sworn to support. Let it be answered by the machinations of fanatics, and of cold-blooded knaves, to destroy our "domestic tranquility," and this, not only by secret sedition and insurrection, but also by avowed efforts, now nearly consummated, to pervert all the powers of a common government to the perpetration of their fiendish crimes.

Such, fellow-citizens, is a meagre outline only of the pictures of wrong and outrage that we are expected to endure unresistingly. But shall we endure it? Heaven forbid! Forbid it the memory and the example of those noble patriots who pledged their "lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor" to maintain their liberty and their rights. Shall we,

Page 11

the descendants of such sires, relinquish the rich inheritance thus acquired? Must we jeopard our present security and our future existence as a free people, by stopping now to reargue the abstract question of the right of secession? I have already adverted to the important difference between the political responsibilities of the people of the thirteen old colonies and those which attach to the people of the United States. The former being subjects, could not withdraw from or forcibly oppose their government without an act of rebellion, for although they declared it their right to change their government, they were fully aware that the right depended upon their success in maintaining it. Not so with regard to the people of these States. They are not subjects but citizens--citizens, owing their first and highest allegiance to the respective sovereign States. While the States remain in the Union, the citizens may commit an act of rebellion against their particular States, or against the United States. But the moment that a State, in her sovereign capacity, declares a dissolution of the Federal ties, her citizens are absolved from all responsibility to the Federal Government, and the State released from all conventional obligations to her former associates. And more than this--a palpable infraction by one or more of the other States of the covenanted rights of one or more of the others, releases the latter from their obligations to the compact. And of such infractions and "the mode and measure of redress," each State has the right to judge for itself. This is a right inherent in States and can only be alienated by their voluntary act. In the Constitution of the United States, there is no relinquishment of this right--no transfer of it to any other power, tribunal or Judge. The right consequently remains to the State, perfect and unimpaired, and it were puerile to dispute about the name of the thing when the time has come for proving its efficacy.

Entertaining these views, I most earnestly recommend a call of a Convention of the people of the State, at an early day, to take such action as in their judgment may be necessary to protect and preserve the rights, honor and safety of the people

Page 12

of Florida. I would further recommend a revision of the Militia laws, with a view to a more effective organization of the Military, and an appropriation of one hundred thousand dollars as a military fund for the ensuing year, to be expended ar fast as the public necessities may require.

Very respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

On motion of Mr. Hawes 1000 copies of the message were ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

Mr. Coffee moved that so much of the Governor's message as relates to Federal Relations be referred to the Committee on Federal Relations;

Which motion prevailed.

Mr. Mays moved that so much of the Governor's message as relates to appropriations, revenue, &c., be referred to the Committee on Finance and Public Accounts;

Which was agreed to.

On motion the rule was waived and Mr. Holland of Franklin, without previous notice, allowed to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to provide for the calling of a Convention of the People of the State of Florida;

Which was read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on Federal Relations.

On motion the rule was waived and Mr. Williams allowed to introduce a resolution instructing the Committee on Finance and Public Accounts to report upon the expediency of levying a tax upon slaves for the purpose of raising a fund for the arming of the State;

Which was read and referred to the Committee on Finance and Public Accounts.

On motion, the rule was waived and Mr. Holland of Franklin, without previous notice, was allowed to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the suspension of specie payments by the Banks in this State and the Agencies of Banks that are engaged in the banking business in this State;

Which was read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

On motion, the rule being waived, Mr. Holland of Franklin, also introduced a bill to be entitled an act to stay Judicial Sales in this State;

Which was read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

The rule being waived, Mr. Vogt offered a resolution that the General Assembly of the State of Florida proceed, on the 29th

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inst., to the election of Secretary of State, Treasurer, Attorney General and Comptroller;

Which was placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Love gave notice that he would at some future day ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to amend the Attachment Laws now in force in this State; also

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws in force in this State governing Public Schools.

Mr. Howell gave notice that he would on some future day ask leave to introduce a bill to form a new County from the Counties of Hillsborough and Brevard.

The rule being waived, Mr. Mays offered a resolution suggesting to the Trustees of the Internal Improvement Fund that they adopt a system for the reduction of the price of the State Lands;

Which was read the first time and ordered for a second reading to-morrow.

Mr. Holland, of Franklin, moved that the Standing Committee of the House on Federal Relations be appointed to act with the Standing Committee on Federal Relations of the Senate as a Joint Committee on the subject of Federal Relations;

Which motion was agreed to.

Mr. Mays moved that 80 copies of the bill for the calling of a State Convention be printed for the use of the House;

Which prevailed.

The House took a recess until 3 o'clock, P. M.

3 O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to quiet titles and to prevent unjust and vexatious litigation in the county of Escambia,

Was read the first time, and, after being read the second time by its title, was referred to the Committee on Judiciary.

The resolution to go into the election of State officers on the 29th inst.,

Was read and adopted.

Ordered to be engrossed and certified to the Senate.

The rules being waived, Mr. Holland of Franklin presented a petition from the citizens of Apalachicola, praying the amending of the act of January 10th, 1855, entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Harbor and Bay of Apalachicola;

Page 14

MEMORIAL OF THE CITY OF APALACHICOLA.

To the General Assembly of the State of Florida:

SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVES:--We, the undersigned citizens of Apalachicola, respectfully petition, that you will amend the Act of January 10th, 1855, entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Harbor and Bay of Apalachicola, by authorizing the City of Apalachicola to issue bonds for the sum of twenty-five thousand dollars; and that you appropriate the sum of twenty-five hundred dollars per year for the space of ten years out of the States' Tax of Franklin county to pay said Bonds. The City of Apalachicola to pay the interest on said Bonds.

With this amount of money we can cut through the "Bulk Head," which obstructs the inner Harbor and thereby afford a passage through the whole of St. Georges' Sound to vessels carrying twelve feet water. We can also clear out the Channel so as to bring eleven and twelve feet water up to the Wharfs of the City, while at present we have but six and one-half feet water in the Channel at high tide. This appropriation would be fully capable of having this great work accomplished. We can purchase the necessary machines; our own citizens can do all the work; and with the powers given us under the Act of 1855, we will have ample means to keep the Channel open.

This work would increase the value of a great portion of the City. It would open a large lumber business, it would greatly increase the business done in Naval Stores, and it would materially lower the charges on Cotton shipped from here and on Goods received at this Port. The revenue of the State would be greatly increased by the increased amount of taxes which this City would pay.

The commercial importance of this City justifies us in demanding this as a right. We are the great Depot of the State. We do more business than each and every other portion of the State put together.

This year we have done over Fourteen Millions worth of business.

Our Foreign Export Trade from the 1st of September, A. D. 1859, to the 1st of August, A. D. 1860, was three millions two hundred and nine thousand five hundred and seventy dollars, being an increase over last year on Foreign Exports of one million five thousand eight hundred and ninety-five dollars; and we have every hope of an increase next year of our Foreign Trade.

The Foreign Imports received at this Port from the 1st of January, 1859, to 1st of August, A. D. 1860, were as follows:

Page 15

FOREIGN IMPORTS FROM 1ST JANUARY, 1859, to 1st AUGUST, 1860. VALUE.

Salt, $19,101 36

Sundries, 4,685 47

Molasses, 9,529 49

Total value of invoices, $33,316 32

FOREIGN COTTON EXPORTS.

SHIPPED FROM 1st SEPTEMBER, 1859, TO 1ST AUGUST, 1860. No. Bales of Cotton. Value of Cotton.

To Liverpool, 52,577 $2,832,524 19

To Liverpool, 391 28,230 57

To Gibralter, 2,068 116,200 00

To Havre, France, 1,420 81,396 50

To St. Petersburgh, Russia, 2,634 151,219 07

Total foreign cotton trade, 59,090 $3,209,570 33

Foreign shipments destroyed and partially destroyed by fire at the anchorage during the year, 2,171 bales of cotton for Antwerp, and 2,531 bales for Liverpool--value about $258,610.

We have received, from 1st September, 1859, to 1st August, 1860, 133,079 bales of cotton, worth about $7,319,345. Of this 71,166 bales were shipped to domestic ports, 59,090 foreign, residue on hand for shipment. Now add to this the gross value of tobacco, hides, cedar, lumber, &c., &c., shipped from this port, and the gross value of all merchandize received from all ports, and which is consumed and forwarded at Apalachicola and comes into our harbor, and it will be found to exceed fourteen millions of dollars. In this trade, there have been cleared, at the Custom House at this port, from 1st September, 1859, to 1st of August, A. D. 1860, 148 vessels. Of this number 31 ships carried freights to foreign ports and 117 to domestic ports.

This is by far a greater amount of business than all the ports of this State added together can show, except this city.

To do so great an amount of business you will readily perceive that there must necessarily be a great amount of capital and commercial ability at this City; and that her citizens must command the confidence of the commercial world. We point to our criminal docket and challenge the State to produce records that

Page 16

exhibit a less amount of crime. Such is the character of the City, and such the amount of Foreign and home business that she transacts; this is your own Gulf City of Apalachicola. She has paid into the State Treasury many thousands of dollars; and she now asks you to allow her twenty-five hundred dollars per year for ten years out of the State Tax that she pays, to improve her Harbor and Bay.

We respectfully say we have right to expect that you will give us the aid asked. Are you sincere when you say that you desire direct trade with Europe? If yea, why not encourage and assist your own city that has done this year in exports over three millions and a quarter? If the people of Florida will only ship their Cotton direct to Europe, our city and our merchants have the capital and ability to do a business of thrice the amount, and to receive in return for you from Europe all goods of every description that you now buy at the North and pay enormous costs, charges and profits on. Why not save all those Northern expenses and build up Southern cities instead of Northern? We have shipped over three millions and a quarter to Europe, a large portion of it will be worked up and shipped to the North and the people of Florida will go there and buy it. Why not ship it back to Apalachicola and buy it there instead of at New York? This can be done and we have the capital at Apalachicola to do it, if the citizens of the State will ship through their own city to Europe and send their orders for goods to Europe. If we can send to Europe over three millions, could we not have received three millions of goods in return? If European houses find it to their interest to order from our Port, would not our people find it to be their interest to buy in return from the European houses? They send to us to save the costs and charges of the North, why do our people not send to them to save the cost, charges and profits of the North?

Our city has been most grossly and shamefully neglected. We receive a mail but three times a week for eight months in the year, and twice a week for four months, while towns and cities, of not one hundredth part the importance in the State receive daily mails. Now while we are glad to see them so well provided for, yet we have cause to complain that a place of so great commercial importance as this should be treated so shamefully.

Our isolated position has prevented us from reaping any of the advantages of the system of Internal Improvements of this State. We are cut off from the advantages that the interior and the cities of Fernandina, St. Marks, Jacksonville, Cedar Keys and Pensacola and the Gulf, have derived from it. Millions of dollars have been appropriated out of the Internal Improvement Fund by the State for the purpose of building these roads; they cross our river about one hundred miles from this city; they will not

Page 17

allow us, even with our own means, to bring it to an accessible point to us. Now, we most respectfully insist that the Internal Improvement Fund was donated for the use of the whole State. We had a like interest and a common property in that fund with the rest of the people of Florida, and we should have had our interests provided for by the State out of that fund; but as the whole of that fund is now appropriated to build the different lines of railroad, and as we have not got, and cannot get any benefit whatever from that fund of millions of which we are part owners, we now respectfully ask that you will allow, out of the sum that this county pays each year for State taxes, the sum of twenty-five hundred dollars for ten years.

Appropriations for other places have been made. We rejoice to see the great works of Internal Improvement that are being accomplished in our State under State aid, and we say that we have a claim above all others, for not one dollar has ever been appropriated for us.

We therefore pray that you will pass the amended Bill annexed, and we will ever pray, &c.

SAMUEL BENEZET,
Mayor City Apalachicola.

W. D. MACLAY,

C. THIGPIN,

J. M. G. HUNTER,

ANSON HANCOCK,
Councilmen.

GEO. BUCKMAN,
Pres. Apalach. and New Orleans Steam Nav. Co.

RICHARD G. PARKER,
Pres. Apalachicola Cham. of Com.

Signed by one hundred and thirty-six others.

OFFICE OF COLLECTOR OF CUSTOMS,
District of Apalachicola.

I, GEO. L. BROCKENBROUGH, Deputy Collector of Customs, do hereby certify that the report and statement of the Foreign Imports and Foreign Exports in the above memorial, are true and correct, as appears from the Records in this office; and from the best information, I believe the value of the business therein stated to have been done at this Port, from 1st September, 1859, to 1st August, A. D. 1860, to be correct.

Given under my hand and seal of office, this 8th day of August, A. D., 1860.

GEO. L. BROCKENBROUGH,
Deputy Collector of Customs.

Which was read and 80 copies ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

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Mr. Mizell gave notice, that he would, at some future day, ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Sheriff of Orange county, as ex-officio Tax Assessor and Collector, to assess and collect taxes in Brevard county, and for other purposes.

Mr. Mays gave notice that on to-morrow he will ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge of the Circuit Court of the Middle Circuit of Florida to call and hold an extra term of the Circuit Court for Hamilton County in said Circuit.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Call, Dawkins and Ingram, presented a communication from the Hon. D. L. Yulee.

Mr. Stewart, member elect from Hamilton County, presented his credentials and took the usual oath.

The Speaker announced the following Standing Committees:

Committee on Judiciary.

Messrs. MAYS,
BLOUNT,
HOLLAND of H'n'do,
LOVE,
HOLLAND of Fr'klin,

On Finance & Public Accounts.

Messrs. BELLAMY,
YON,
VOGT,
VANZANT,
LEE.

On Federal Relations.

Messrs. HOLLAND of Fr'klin,
MAYS,
BOWNE,
BLOUNT,
WILLIAMS.

On Corporations.

Messrs. HOLLAND of H'n'do,
BLOUNT,
CANOVA,
BROXSON,
COFFEE.

On Indian Affairs.

Messrs. BISSELL,
HOWELL,
PARKER,
RICHARDSON,
YATES.

On Agriculture.

Messrs. HULL,
MICKLER,
MURPHY,
PRICE,
RUSSELL.

On Schools and Colleges.

Messrs. HAWES,
SCOTT,
WILKINSON,
WELLS,
HOWELL.

On Engrossed Bills.

Messrs. VOGT,
STEWART,
SCOTT,
COLE,
WELLS.

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On Claims.

Messrs. HAWES,
OLIVER,
NEWBERN,
BISSELL,
MIZELL.

On Internal Improvements.

Messrs. CANOVA,
BLOUNT,
McCORMICK,
HULL,
DANSBY.

On Propositions & Grievances.

Messrs. POOSER,
CAMPBELL,
CARTER,
COLLINS,
CLYATT.

On Enrolled Bills.

Messrs. HOLLOMAN,
HADDOCK,
YATES,
CANOVA,
MEANS.

On Elections.

Messrs. BIRD,
PARKER,
VANZANT,
WILKINSON,
LOVE.

On Militia.

Messrs. WILLIAMS,
MAYS,
HOLLAND of H'n'do,
McKINNON,
ROBINSON.

On motion of Mr. Bellamy, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, November 28th, 1860.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Committee appointed to select a Chaplain reported that they had selected the Rev. J. K. Glover, of Tallahassee, as Chaplain for the House during the present session.

The Rev. Mr. Glover was introduced and officiated as Chaplain.

The Journal of yesterday's proceedings was read and approved.

Mr. Holland, of Franklin, moved that a Committee of three be appointed to inform the Senate that the House is prepared to go into the canvassing of the returns for Governor to-day at 12 o'clock;

Which motion was carried.

Messrs. Holland, of Franklin, Blount and Coffee, were appointed said Committee.

Mr. Mays introduced a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge of the Middle Circuit of Florida to hold an Extra Term of the Circuit Court in Hamilton county;

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

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Mr. Vogt moved that the Sergeans-at-Arms be required to furnish each member of the House and Chairman of each Standing Committee, with a copy of the Journal and Acts of the last General Assembly, and Thompson's Digest;

Which was adopted.

Mr. Oliver moved that so much of the Governor's Message as relates to the Militia, be referred to the Committee on the Militia;

Which was adopted.

Mr. Holland of Franklin, from the Committee on Eederal Relations, made the following report:

The Joint Committee on the subject of Federal Relations, to whom was referred so much of the Message of the Governor as relates to Federal Relations, and to whom was also referred the Senate and House bills to provide for the calling of a Convention of the People of the State of Florida, beg leave to

REPORT:

That they cordially endorse and approve of the views and recommendations of his Excellency incorporated in his Message. Your Committee therefore present the annexed bill, to be entitled An Act to provide for calling a Convention of the People of the State of Elorida, as the result of their joint action, with the recommendation that the same do pass.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

D. P. HOLLAND,
Chairman House Committee.

Which was read.

Mr. Blount from a Special Committee to whom was referred the duty of preparing suitable Rules for the government of the House, made the following report:

The Special Committee, to whom was referred the duty of preparing rules for the government of the House, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to report, that they recommend the adoption of the rules of the House of Representatives at its last session as the standing rules of this House.

ALEX. C. BLOUNT,
BURTON W. BELLAMY,
C. C. COFFEE.

STANDING RULES OF THE HOUSE.

RULE 1. The Speaker shall take the Chair every day, precisely at the hour to which the House shall have adjourned on the preceding day; shall immediately call the members

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to order, and, on the appearance of a quorum, shall cause the Journal of the preceding day to be read.

2. He shall preserve order and decorum; may speak to points of order in preference to other members, rising from his seat for that purpose; and shall decide questions of order, subject to an appeal to the House by any two members; on which appeal no member shall speak more than once, unless by leave of the House.

3. He shall rise to put the question, but may state it sitting.

4. No member shall speak to any other, or otherwise interrupt the business of the House, or read any newspaper, or other paper while the Journals or other public papers are being read, nor pass between the Speaker and any other member who may be addressing the House.

5. Every member, when he speaks, shall address the Chair, standing in his place, and when he has finished shall sit down; nor shall any member speak more than twice on any one subject without leave of the House.

6. When two or more members shall rise at the same time, the Speaker shall name the person entitled to proceed.

7. When a member shall be called to order, he shall sit down until the Speaker shall have determined whether he is in order or not; and every question of order shall be decided by the Speaker, without debate, subject to an appeal to the House.

8. If a member shall be called to order for words spoken, the exceptionable words shall be immediately taken down in writing by the person objecting, that the Speaker may be better able to judge of the matter.

9. No member shall absent himself from the service of the House without leave of the House; and in case a less number than a quorum shall convene, they are hereby authorized to send the Sergeant-at-Arms for (any or) all absent members, as the majority of such members present shall agree, at the expense of such absent members respectively, unless such excuse for non-attendance shall be made as the House (when a quorum is convened) shall judge sufficient.

10. No motion shall be debated until the same shall be reduced to writing, delivered in at the table, read and seconded.

11. When a question is under debate, no motion shall be received but to adjourn, to lay it on the table, to postpone indefinitely, to postpone to a certain day, to commit or to

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amend; which several motions shall have precedence in the order in which they stand arranged; and the motion for adjournment shall always be in order, and the motions to adjourn or lay on the table shall be decided without debate.

12. If the question in debate contains several points, any member may have the same divided.

13. In filling up blanks, the largest sum and longest time shall be first put.

14. When the reading of a paper is called for, and the same is objected to by any member, it shall be determined by vote of the House, without debate.

15. When the yeas and nays shall be called for by two of the members present, every member within the bar of the House at the time the question was put by the Speaker, shall (unless for special reasons he be excused by the House,) declare openly and without debate his assent or dissent to the question. In taking the yeas and nays, and, upon the call of the House, the names of the members shall be taken alphabetically, and the Speaker shall in all cases vote first.

16. No member shall be permitted to vote on any question who was without the bar of the House at the time the question was put, unless by consent of the House, and no motion to permit such member to vote shall be in order, unless it shall be made before the House shall proceed to other business.

17. On a motion made and seconded to shut the door of the House in the discussion of any business, in which discussion the public safety may, in the opinion of the House, imperiously require secresy, the House shall direct the Speaker to cause the lobby to be cleared, and, during the discussion of such business, the door shall remain shut, and no person shall be admitted except by special order of the House.

18. The following order shall be observed in taking up the business of the House, viz: 1st, motions; 2d, petitions, memorials and others papers addressed either to the House or to the Speaker thereof; 3d, resolutions; 4th, reports of Standing Committees; 5th, reports of Select Committees; 6th, messages from the Senate lying on the table; and, lastly, orders of the day.

19. When a question has once been made and carried in the affirmative or negative, it shall be in order for any member of the majority to move for a reconsideration thereof; but no motion for the reconsideration of any vote shall be in order after a bill, resolution, message, report, amendment or motion upon which the vote was taken, shall have gone out

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of possession of the House announcing their decision; nor shall any motion for reconsideration be in order unless made on the same day on which the vote was taken, or within the two next days of the actual session of the House thereafter.

20. All questions shall be put by the Speaker of the House, and the members shall signify their assent or dissent, by answering viva voce, yea or nay, and in the event of a tie, the question shall be decided in the negative.

21. The Speaker of the House, or the Speaker pro tem., shall have the right to name a member to perform the duties of the Chair, but such substitution shall not extend beyond an adjournment.

22. Before any petition, memorial or other paper addressed either to the House or the Speaker thereof shall be received and read at the table, whether the same be introduced by the Speaker or a member, a brief statement of the contents of the petition, memorial, or other paper, shall be made by the introducer.

23. One day's notice at least shall be given of an intended motion for leave to bring in a bill, and no bill shall be written or printed except by express order of the House.

24. Every bill and all resolutions of a public nature, or for the appropriation of the public money, shall receive three readings previously to the final passage of such bill or resolution, and the Speaker shall give notice at each, whether it be the first, second or third readings, which readings shall be on three different days, unless four-fifths of the members shall otherwise direct.

25. At the second reading of any bill or resolution, it shall be in order for any member to move its commitment to a Committee of the whole House; that it lay on the table; for its indefinite postponement; for its postponement to a day certain, not beyond the session; for its commitment to a Standing Committee; to a Select Committee; or to amend; which motions shall have precedence in the order above stated.

26. It shall not be in order to amend the title of any bill or resolution until it shall have passed its third reading.

27. The titles of bills, and such parts thereof only as shall be affected by the proposed amendments, shall be inserted on the journals.

28. The following Standing Committees, to consist of not less than five members each, shall be appointed by the Speaker at the commencement of each session, with leave to report,

Page 24

by bill or otherwise, viz: A Committee on the Judiciary; a Committee on the Militia; a Committee on Finance and Public Accounts; a Committee on Claims; a Committee on Schools and Colleges; a Committee on Internal Improvements; a Committee on Enrolled Bills and Engrossed Bills; a Committee on Elections; a Committee on Propositions and Grievances; a Committee on Federal Relations; a Committee on Corporations; a Committee on Indian Affairs; a Committee on Agriculture; a Committee on Commerce and Navigation; a Committee on Taxation and Revenue, and a Committee on the State of the Commonwealth.

29. All confidential communications made by the Governor to the House, and all business in the consideration of which the injunction of secresy shall have been imposed, shall be by the members thereof kept secret, until the House by its resolution shall take off the injunction of secresy.

30. Each member of Select Committees shall, with their Chairman, sign every report made to the House, if they concur therein.

31. Messages may be received at any stage of the business, except while a question is being put, or while the yeas and nays are being called.

32. The Governor and Secretary and members of the Senate shall be admitted to a seat within the bar of the House, and any other person shall be admitted in like manner, upon being invited by a member.

33. The Clerk, the Sergeant-at-Arms and Door-Keeper shall be severally sworn by a judicial officer of the State, well and faithfully to discharge their respective duties, and to keep secret the proceedings of the House, when sitting with closed doors.

34. All acts, addresses and joint resolutions shall be signed by the Speaker; and all writs, warrants and subpoenas issued by order of the House, shall be under his hand and seal, and attested by the Clerk.

35. In case of any disturbance or disorderly conduct in the lobby, the Speaker or Chairman of the Committee of the Whole House, shall have the power to order the same to be cleared.

36. Reporters wishing to take down the debates and proceedings, may be admitted by the Speaker, who shall assign such places to them on the floor, or elsewhere, as shall not interfere with the convenience of the House.

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37. No member shall vote on the question in the event of which he may have a private or personal interest.

38. After a motion is stated by the Speaker or read by the Clerk, it shall be deemed in possession of the House, but may be withdrawn at any time before a decision or amendment.

39. The previous question shall be in this form: "Shall the main question be now put?" and shall be decided by a majority of the members present, without debate; and until it is decided shall preclude all amendments, and further debate of the main question.

40. When a question is postponed indefinitely, the same shall not be acted upon again during the session.

41. No motion or proposition on a subject different from that under consideration, shall be admitted under color of amendment.

42. The unfinished business in which the House was engaged at the adjournment, shall have the preference in the orders of the day, and no motion on any other business shall be received without special leave of the House, until the former is disposed of.

43. Upon the call of the House, the names of the members shall be called over by the Clerk and the absentees noted; after which, the names of the absentees shall again be called over, the doors shall then be shut, and those for whom no excuse or insufficient excuses are made, may, by order of those present, be taken into custody as they appear, or may be sent for and taken into custody wherever to be found by the Sergeant-at-Arms.

44. When a member shall be discharged from custody and admitted to his seat, the House shall determine whether such discharge shall be with or without paying fees.

45. It shall be the duty of the Committee of Elections to examine and report upon the certificates of election, or other credentials, of the members returned to serve in this House, and to take into their consideration all such petitions and other matters touching elections and returns as shall or may be presented or come into question, and be referred to them by the House.

46. No committee shall sit during the sitting of the House, without special leave.

47. All bills ordered to be engrossed, shall be executed, in a fair, round hand, and without erasures or interlineations.

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48. Before a bill or resolution requiring three readings shall be read the third time, it shall be carefully engrossed under the direction of the Clerk, and upon the third reading of the bill or resolution, it shall not be committed or amended without the consent of three-fourths of the House.

49. No amendment by way of rider shall be received to any bill on its third reading.

50. When a bill or resolution shall have passed its third reading it shall be certified by the clerk, endorsing thereon the day of its passage, and be transmitted to the Senate accompanied with a message stating the title of the bill or resolution, and asking the concurrence of that body, and its transmission shall be entered upon the Journal.

51. Bills committed to a committee of the whole House shall be first read throughout by the clerk, and then again read and debated by clauses, leaving the preamble to be last considered; the body of the said bill shall not be interlined and defaced, but all amendments, noting the page and line, shall be duly entered by the clerk on a separate paper, as the same shall be agreed to by the committee, and so reported to the House. After report, the bill shall again be subject to be debated and amended by clauses.

52. It shall be in order for the Committee on Enrolled and Engrossed Bills to report at any time.

53. Messages shall be transmitted to the Governor and Senate by the Door-keeper, unless otherwise directed by the House.

54. No bill shall be introduced into the House on the last week of the session, nor shall the rules, or any of them, be rescinded or suspended, unless two-thirds of the members present so direct.

55. That upon the adjournment of the General Assembly, the Clerk of the House shall be required to file in the office of the Secretary of State, all papers on file with him relating to unfinished business, all original papers and Journals of the House, and that he be required to obtain a certificate from the Secretary of State that such has been done and file the same with the Treasurer before receiving his compensation.

56. In all cases not provided for by these Rules, parliamentary practice as laid down in Jefferson's Manual is hereby adopted.

The report of the committee was concurred in, and on motion

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of Mr. Blount 80 copies of the Rules were ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

Mr. Holland of Hernando, from the Committee on Corporations, made the following report:

The Committee on Corporations to whom was referred the House bill entitled a bill to be entitled an Act to authorize the suspension of specie payments by the Banks in this State and the Agencies of Banks that are in the banking business in this State, having had the same under consideration, do recommend that the bill do pass with the following amendments, to-wit:

After the word "specie" in the last line of the first section, the words, "until the first day of January, 1862," be added. And that after the word "specie" in the fifth line of the second section, the words "by the several Banks in this State and the Agencies of all Banks that are engaged in the Banking business in this State," be inserted, and that the word "repealed" in the sixth line of the same section be stricken out and the word "suspended" be inserted in its stead, and the words "until the first day of January, 1862," be added thereto.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The following message from his Excellency the Governor was received and read.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTEMNT,
TALLAHASSEE, Nov. 27, 1860.

Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives:

I submit herewith the reports of the Treasurer and Comptroller, exhibiting the financial condition of the State, together with the reports of the Attorney General, Register and Salesman, and the Treasurer of the Internal Improvement Fund, to which your attention is respectfully invited.

Very respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

On motion of Mr. Coffee, 500 copies of the Message and Accompanying Documents were ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

Notice was given of intention to introduce the following bills at some future day, viz:

By Mr. Murphy:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Ozias Budington.

By Mr. Canova:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Jacksonville Light Infantry and to secure certain exemptions.

By Mr. Clyatt:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph P. Phelps, of Levy county; also,

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A bill to be entitled an act regulating pilotage at Cedar Keys.

By Mr. Holland, of Franklin:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of McQueen McIntosh.

Mr. Hull gave notice that at some future day he would ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to give the election of Constables in the Magistrates' Districts of this State to the legal voters of their respective Districts.

Mr. Lee gave notice, that he would, on some future day, ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to amend the election laws in force in this State;

Also, a bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Fussell, a minor, in Sumter county, to assume the management of his own estate and contract and be contracted with, &c.

Mr. Haddock gave notice, that he would, at some future day, ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act enlarging the time for making demand on Railroad Companies for stock killed or injured.

Mr. Newburn gave notice that he would, on some future day, introduce a bill to be entitled an act to divide the county of New River and create the county of Baker.

Mr. VanZant gave notice, that at some future day he would ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to amend the Poor School Laws of this State so far as has reference to the county of Columbia.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the calling of a Convention of the people of the State of Florida, came up on its second reading, and on motion of Mr. Holland, of Franklin, the House resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole for its consideration--Mr. Hawes in the chair. After some time spent therein, the committee rose and by their chairman reported the bill back to the House as amended;

Which report was concurred in.

A committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Chain, Brokaw and Call, waited on the House and informed them that in pursuance of the House resolution the Senate would meet the House in the Representative Chamber at 12 o'clock, M., to canvass the Election Returns for Governor.

The following gentlemen, Messrs. Murphy, Mickler, Mays, Bird, Holland of Franklin and Canova, presented preambles and resolutions touching the crisis of the times, the policy of calling a State Convention and the position that the State of Florida should assume, that were adopted at public meetings in their respective counties;

Which were read.

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The Committee appointed to inform the Senate that the House was ready to canvass the vote for Governor of this State, reported that they had performed that duty and were discharged.

On motion of Mr. Bird, a committee consisting of Messrs. Bird, Bellamy and Canova, were appointed to assist in counting the votes.

The Senate having entered the Hall and occupied the seats assigned them, the Speaker proceeded to open and publish, in the presence of both House of the General Assembly, the returns of the election for Governor.

After a careful canvass of all the returns, the Speaker announced the result to be as follows:

The whole number of votes given for Governor of Florida were 12,252, of which number JOHN MILTON received the number of 6,994, and EDWARD HOPKINS received the number of 5,248; whereupon JOHN MILTON having received the highest number of votes, was declared duly elected Governor of the State of Florida for four years from the first Monday of October next.

The Senate returned to their Chamber.

On motion of Mr. Haddock, the House took a recess until 3 o'clock, this afternoon.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

The House resumed, in Committee of the whole, the consideration of the bill to be entitled an act to provide for the calling of a Convention of the people of the State of Florida--Mr. Hawes in the Chair.

After some time spent in the consideration thereof, the Committee rose and reported the bill back to the House as amended, and asked to be discharged;

Which report was concurred in by the House, the amendments adopted, and the bill as amended read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge of the Middle Circuit of Florida to hold an Extra Term of the Circuit Court in Hamilton County;

Was read the second time, and on motion referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Resolution relative to the price of Public Lands in this State,

Was read the third time, and on the question of its passage the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby,

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Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--42.

Nay--Mr. Bowne--1.

So the resolution passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the suspension of specie payments by the Banks of this State and the agencies of Banks that are engaged in the banking business in this State,

Was read the second time, the amendments recommended by the Committee on Corporations concurred in and the bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

The rule being waived, Mr. Mays, from the Committee on the Judiciary, was allowed to make the following report:

The Committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an Act to Quiet Titles and to prevent unjust and vexatious Litigation in the County of Escambia, have had the same under consideration, and believing it to be the duty of the State to give quiet and peace to the titles of its citizens, acquired in good faith, and that the best interests of society are secured and promoted thereby, ask leave to report the accompanying bill to the House as a substitute for the bill referred, and recommend that it do pass. All of which is respectfully submitted.

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman Judiciary Committee.

Which report was read and the bill and substitute placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to quiet titles and prevent unjust and vexatious litigations in the county of Escambia,

Came up on its second reading, and the substitute reported by the Committee on the Judiciary adopted in lieu thereof and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

On motion of Mr. Hawes, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

THURSDAY, November 29th, 1860.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Glover officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Coffee the reading of the Journal of yesterday was dispensed with.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Call, Brokaw and Bowers waited on the House and informed them that

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the Senate had unanimously passed the bill to be entitled an act to provide for the calling of a Convention of the People of the State of Florida, as reported by the Joint Committee, without amendment.

Notice was given of intention to introduce the following bills at some future day, viz:

By Mr. Williams:

A bill to be entitled an act for the purpose of imposing an extra tax upon all Goods manufactured North of Mason's and Dixon's line and brought into this State for sale.

By Mr. Canova:

A bill to be entitled an act for the better protection of the fisheries on the St. Johns river in this State.

By Mr. Russell:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Town of Monticello in Jefferson county; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Episcopal Church in said town.

By Mr. Mickler:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of A. D. Rogero, Sheriff of St. Johns county.

By Mr. Holland of Hernando:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of the Florida Volunteers and for other purposes.

By Mr. Parker:

A bill to be entitled an act to declare Peas Creek navigable.

By Mr. Love:

A bill to be entitled an act to change and define the boundary line between Gadsden and Liberty counties.

By Mr. Yates:

A bill to be entitled an act for the benefit of actual settlers of Brevard county and for other purposes.

By Mr. Means:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Hon. B. A. Putnam; also,

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of the Executor of the Estate of Robert H. Child, deceased.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that a Select Committee be appointed and instructed to report a bill to this House to punish in a summary manner persons uttering abolition sentiments in this State;

Which was agreed to, and Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Mays, Yates, Bowne and Blount were appointed said Committee.

On motion, the rules were waived, and the following bills were introduced which were placed among the orders of the day:

By Mr. Cole:

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A bill to be entitled an Act for the relief of A. J. Peeler, Clerk of the Supreme Court;

A bill to be entitled an act to prevent the peddling of Books in this State.

By Mr. Newburn:

A bill to be entitled an act to allow Matthew L. McKinney to assume the management of his own estate; also

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Jefferson Felmer Ault to that of Jefferson Felmer Johns.

By Mr. McKinnon:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Walton County relative to the Poor School Fund; also

A bill to be entitled an act to repeal a Bridge Tax in Walton County.

By Mr. VanZant:

A bill to be entitled an act to establish the Records of Columbia County, and for other purposes.

By Mr. Williams:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Ephraim Saunders, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate.

Pursuant to previous notice the following bills were introduced and placed among the orders of the day:

By Mr. VanZant:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the School Laws of the County of Columbia.

By Mr. Lee:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Election Laws of this State; and

A bill to be entitled an act to empower James Fussell, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate, and for other purposes therein specified.

By Mr. Mizell:

A bill to be entitled an act to assess and collect Taxes in Brevard county by the Sheriff of the county of Orange as ex-officio Tax-Assessor and Collector.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills and resolution as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the suspension of specie payments by the Banks of this State and the Agencies of Banks that are engaged in the banking business in this State;

A bill to be entitled an act to quiet titles and to prevent unjust and vexatious litigation in the county of Escambia;

A resolution relative to the price of the Public Lands in this State.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

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Which was read and the accompanying bills and resolution placed among the orders of the day.

Notice was given of intention to introduce the following bills at some future day, viz:

By Mr. Blount:

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate and define the duties and liabilities of Railroad Companies in this State;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the acts creating liens in favor of mechanics and others;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the pleading and practice in the Courts of this State;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act fixing the compensation of Auctioneers;

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for filling vacancies in the office of Justices of the Peace; and

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Charter of the Alabama and Florida Railroad Company.

Mr. Blount presented the petition of sundry citizens of Escambia county praying to be declared exempt from the operation of the acts of 23d December, 1856;

Which was read and referred to a Select Committee consisting of Messrs. Blount, Oliver and Vogt.

Mr. Means presented a memorial for the relief of Hon. B. A. Putnam;

Which was read and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Canova presented a memorial for the relief of John M. Irwin;

Which was read and referred to the Committee on Claims.

A committee consisting of Messrs. Roders, Starke and Call, from the Senate, waited upon the House to inform them that the Senate had concurred in the resolution to go into the election of State Officers at 12 o'clock to-day.

Mr. Bellamy offered a resolution relative to the sale of the Stocks of other States held by the Comptroller for the payment of debts of the State, and the purchase of Arms and Munitions of War;

Which was read the first time, the rule waived, read a second and third time by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson,

Page 34

Robinson, Russell, Stewart, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--40.

Nays--None.

So the Resolution passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A committee consisting of Messrs. Call, Davidson and Abercrombie, from the Senate, waited upon the House to inform them that the Senate had adopted the Joint Rules reported by the Joint Committee appointed to draft rules for the government of both Houses.

Mr. Hawes moved the adoption of the Joint Rules as reported by the Joint Committee;

Which was agreed to.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide for a Convention of the People by the State of Florida,

Was read the first time, the rule waived and read a second time by its title.

Mr. Love moved to strike out the "3d day of January" and insert in lieu thereof the "17th day of January;"

Upon which motion the yeas and nays were called for by Messrs. Holland and Love, and were as follows:

Yeas--Messrs. Bissell, Bowne, Broxson, Campbell, Haddock, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, McKinnon, Mizell, Murphy, Oliver, Scott and Wilkinson--14.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Yates and Yon--31.

So the amendment was lost.

The bill was then read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--45.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Mickler moved that a committee be appointed to inform

Page 35

the Senate that the House is ready to go into the election of State officers;

Which was agreed to, and Messrs. Mickler, Vogt and Yon appointed said committee.

The committee having performed their duty were discharged.

The Senate entered the House and the President by request of the Speaker took the chair.

The President declared the object of the joint meeting to be to elect a Secretary of State, Treasurer, Attorney General and Comptroller.

The joint meeting proceeded to the election of Secretary of State.

Mr. Russell nominated Mr. F. L. Villepigue.

The vote was:

For VILLEPIGUE--Senate 20. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--40. Total--60.

Blank--Mr. VanZant--1.

The President declared F. L. Villepigue duly elected Secretary of State.

The joint meeting proceeded to the election of Treasurer.

Mr. McCall nominated C. H. Austin.

The vote was:

For AUSTIN--Senate 20. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--46. Total--66.

The President declared Charles H. Austin duly elected Treasurer of the State of Florida.

The joint meeting proceeded to the election of Attorney General.

Mr. Holland of Hernando nominated Mr. J. B. Galbraith of Tallahassee.

Mr. Pooser nominated Mr. T. T. Long, of Nassau County.

The vote was:

For GALBRAITH--Senate--10. House--Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Cole, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, McKinnon,

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Murphy, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Scott, Williams, Yates and Yon--21. Total--31.

For LONG--Senate--9. House--Messrs. Bird, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt and Wells--21. Total--30.

BLANK--Senate--1. House--Messrs. Broxson, Holloman, Hull, Love and Wilkinson--5. Total--6.

The President declared that there was no election, neither of the candidates having received the requisite number of votes.

The joint meeting proceeded to a second ballot.

The vote was:

For GALBRAITH--Senate--9. House--Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, McKinnon, Murphy, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Scott, Williams, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--22. Total--31.

For LONG--Senate--9. House--Messrs. Bird, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt and Wells--22. Total--31.

BLANK--Senate--2. House--Messrs. Coffee, Holloman and Love--3. Total--5.

The President declared that there was no election.

On motion of Mr. Call of the Senate, the Joint Meeting proceeded to the election of Comptroller of Public Accounts.

Mr. Holland of Hernando nominated Mr. R. C. Williams of Leon county.

Mr. VanZant nominated Mr. Lewis Pyles, of Alachua county.

Mr. Love nominated Mr. John Beard, of Leon county.

The vote was:

For WILLIAMS--Senate 10. House--Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Williams and Yates--22. Total--32.

For PYLES--Senate 8. House--Messrs. Clyatt, Coffee, Had-dock, Hawes, Hull, McCormick, Means, Micker, Mizell, Murphy, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells and Yon--18. Total--26.

For BEARD--Senate 1. House--Messrs. Bellamy, Collins, Holloman, Love, Mays and Wilkinson--6. Total 7.

The President declared that there was no election.

Mr. Call of the Senate moved the adjournment of the Joint meeting until 12 o'clock to-morrow;

Which motion was lost.

Page 37

The Joint meeting proceeded to a second ballot for Comptroller.

The vote was:

For WILLIAMS--Senate 10. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McKinnon, Parker, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Williams and Yates--22. Total--32.

For PYLES--Senate 9. House--Messrs. Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Haddock, Hull, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Murphy, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells and Yon--18. Total--27.

For BEARD--Senate 1. House--Messrs. Bellamy, Hawes, Holloman, Love, Mays and Wilkinson--6. Total 7.

Blank--Mr. Richardson--1.

The President declared that there was no election.

On motion of Mr. Call of the Senate, the joint meeting adjourned.

On motion of Mr. Hawes, the House took a recess until 3 o'clock, P.M.

3 O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the suspension of specie payments by the banks of this State and the Agencies of Banks that are engaged in the banking business in this State, came up on its third reading.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the rule be waived and the bill placed back upon its second reading;

Which motion was agreed to.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following amendment:

SEC. 3. Be it further enacted, That from and after the passage of this act, no sale shall be made in this State by virtue of any writ of fieri facias on Decree in Equity, until the first Monday in January, A. D. one thousand eight hundred and sixty-two; provided, however, the Defendant shall give Bond for the forthcoming of said property on the first Monday of January, A. D., one thousand eight hundred and sixty-two, as now by law provided for the replevin of property.

Which was read and the yeas and nays being called for on the adoption of the same by Messrs. Holland of Franklin and Blount, were:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, McCormick, Pooser, Price, Russell and Wells--9.

Nays--Mr. Speaker--Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell,

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Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McKinnon, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Scott, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--28.

So the amendment was lost.

The rule being waived, Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the bill with the amendment be referred to the Committee on the Judiciary of the House to form a Joint Committee by uniting with the Committee on the Judiciary of the Senate in its consideration;

Which motion was agreed to.

The rule being waived Mr. Mays moved that a committee be appointed to inform the Senate that such was the action of the House, and also that said Judiciary Committee of the House and Senate as a joint committee would also consider and report at the same time upon a bill now before the Committee on the Judiciary of the House entitled an act to stay Judicial Sales in this State;

Which motion was agreed to, and Messrs. Mays, Holland of Franklin, and Holland of Hernando appointed said Committee.

The rule being waived, Mr. Mays from the Judiciary Committee made the following report:

The Judiciary Committee to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge of the Circuit Court for the Middle Circuit of Florida to hold an extra term of the Circuit Court for the County of Hamilton, beg leave to report that they have had the same under consideration, and return the same to the House without amendment, and recommend its passage.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of A. J. Peeler, Clerk of the Supreme Court;

Was read the first time, and on motion the rule was waived, read the second time by its title, and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

The following bills were read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow:

A bill to be entitled an act to allow Jefferson Filmer Ault to change his name to Jefferson Filmer Johns.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the election laws of this State.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the School laws of the County of Columbia.

A bill to be entitled an act to empower James Fussell of Sumter county to assume the management of his own estate.

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A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Ephraim Saunders to assume the management of his own estate.

Engrossed bill to be entitled an act to quiet titles and to prevent unjust and vexatious litigation in the County of Escambia.

Was read the third time and on the question of its passage the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Murphy, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Scott, Wells, Williams, Yates and Yon--34.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion of Mr. Love the House adjourned till to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

FRIDAY, November 30th, 1860.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Glover officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Oliver the reading of the Journal of yesterday was dispensed with.

Notice was given of intention to introduce the following bills at some future day, viz:

By Mr. Stewart:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize W. J. J. Duncan and Elizabeth Zipperer, to establish a Toll Bridge across the Suwannee river at Zipperer Ferry.

By Mr. Hawes:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of James B. Brown, former Tax Collector of Putnam county.

Mr. Coffee introduced a resolution to pay Benjamin F. Whitner, Jr., for surveying and marking the boundary line between the States of Georgia and Florida;

Which was read and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holloman presented a series of resolutions adopted at a public meeting of the citizens of Gadsden county;

Which were read.

Mr. Vogt from the Committee on Engrossed bills made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge of the Middle

Page 40

Circuit of Florida to hold an extra Term of the Circuit Court in Hamilton county; and,

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of A. J. Peeler, Clerk of the Supreme Court.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was read and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Williams, from the Committee on the Militia to whom was referred that part of the Governor's Message relating to Military Affairs, made the following Report:

The Committee on the Militia to whom was referred that portion of the Governor's Message relating to Military Affairs, have had the same under consideration, and beg leave to

REPORT:

That they find great want of system in the Militia laws of the State. These laws consists of various enactments passed at different times, containing provisions and amendments not altogether consistent with each other, and not constituting such a complete code of law on the subject as the exigencies of the State require. Your Committee do not deem it expedient at this time to attempt a consolidation and completion of these laws, and think sufficient at least for the present time such amendments as are contained in the Bill accompanying this Report, recommending however a more complete code to be prepared as soon as practicable.

Your Committee find the chief difficulty in the way of an effective Militia System in the State to be a supposed defect in the Constitution relative to the powers of Court Martial, and recommend an amendment to the same, which will obviate the difficulty.

Your Committee further recommend that a suitable salary be attached to the Office of Adjutant General.

JOS. JOHN WILLIAMS, Chairman.

Which report was received and read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
November 30th, 1860.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act making certain appropriations for the support of the Government; also,

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph B. Wood, of Columbia county.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PAKKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Page 41

Which was read, and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Militia Laws now in force in this State;

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and on motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the House resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole for its consideration--Mr. Vogt in the Chair.

After some time spent therein the Committee rose and by their Chairman reported the Bill back to the House as amended and recommended its passage and asked to be discharged;

Which report was concurred in, and the bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Chain, Brokaw and Rogers, waited on the House to inform them that the Senate had passed a Joint Resolution relative to adjournment;

Which was received and placed among the orders of the day.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. McCall, McQueen and Dawkins waited upon the House to inform them that the Senate had passed a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Gen. William E. Anderson and others;

Which was received and placed among the orders of the day.

On motion of Mr. Mays the rule was waived and he allowed to make the following report:

Mr. Mays from the Committee on the Judiciary made the following report:

The Judiciary Committee to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the suspension of specie payment by the banks that nre engaged in the banking business in this State; and a bill to be entitled an act to stay judicial sales in this State, have had the same under consideration and beg leave to

REPORT:

That they recommend that the amendment offered in the House to the first bill be not adopted, and that two additional sections, numbers 3 and 4, herewith submitted, be attached as amendment and that the bill thus amended do pass.

They also report a bill which they recommend as a substitute for the bill to be entitled an act to stay judicial proceedings.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS.
Chair'n Judiciary Committee.

Page 42

Which was received and read, and the bills and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the rule be waived and the Joint Resolution of the Senate relative to adjournment be taken up;

Which motion was agreed to.

Which was read and Mr. Russell moved to strike out the number "seven" in the fifth line and insert the number "fourteen" in lieu thereof;

Upon which motion the yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Holland and Blount, were as follows:

Yeas--Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Campbell, Carter, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Love, McKinnon, Mizell, Murphy, Newburn, Price, Russell, Scott, Yates and Yon--17.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams and Wilkinson--28.

So the motion was lost.

Upon the question of the passage of the resolution the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Murphy, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--35.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Bowne, Campbell, Holloman, McKinnon, Newburn, Russell and Scott--9.

So the resolution passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion of Mr. Hawes the rule was waived and he allowed to introduce the following bill:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Howell A. Baisden former Sheriff of Putnam county;

Which was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and placed among the orders of the day.

On motion of Mr. Hull, the House took a recess until 3 o'clock, P.M.

THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

Mr. Dansby moved that the rules be waived and the House

Page 43

act upon the Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Gen. William E. Anderson and others;

Which motion was lost.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge of the Middle Circuit of the State of Florida to hold an extra Term of the Circuit Court in Hamilton county;

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Wilkinson and Yates--28.

Nays--None.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Abercrombie, Chain and Starke, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had passed a Joint Resolution relative to the Convention;

Which was received and placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from his Excellency the Governor:

EXECUTIVE CHAMBER,
TALLAHASSEE, Nov. 30th, 1860.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--I respectfully recommend the following nomination for the advice and consent of the General Assembly.

NASSAU COUNTY.

Auctioneer--E. J. Acosta.

Very Respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

Which was read, and on motion of Mr. Haddock the nomination therein contained advised and consented to.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
November 30, 1860.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following joint resolution, viz:

Joint Resolution in relation to the Convention; also

Resolution in relation to electing a United States Senator.

Very Retpectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Page 44

Which was read and the accompanying resolutions placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Election Laws now in force in this State,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
November 30th, 1860.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has passed the following bill, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Pilot Laws of the port of Fernandina.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the School Laws of Columbia County,

Was read the Second time and on motion of Mr. Haddock referred to the Committee on Schools and Colleges.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Abercombie, Brokaw and Simkins, waited upon the House to inform that body that the Senate had passed a bill to authorize the County Commissioners of Escambia county to borrow money to build a Court House and Jail;

Which bill was placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Mays moved to take up the bill entitled an act to authorize the suspension of specie payments by the Banks in this State and the agencies of Banks that are engaged in banking business in this State;

Upon which motion the yeas and nays were called for by Messrs. Mays and Blount, and were as follows:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Canova, Coffee, Collins, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holloman, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Scott and Vogt--14.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, McKinnon, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--24.

Which motion was lost.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to establish the Planters and Merchants' Bank of Pensacola,

Was, on motion of Mr. Blount, taken up, read the first and

Page 45

second times by its title and referred to Committee on Corporations.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
November 30th, 1860.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has passed the following Bill, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to allow James R. Green of Gadsden county to contract and be contracted with.

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
November 30th, 1860.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has passed the following bill, viz:

House bill to be entitled an act to quiet titles and to prevent unjust and vexatious litigation in the county of Escambia.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read and the accompanying bill ordered to be enrolled.

The following bills were read the second time and ordered to be engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to repeal an act authorizing a Bridge Tax in Walton county;

A bill to be entitled an act to empower James Fussell, a minor, to take charge of his own estate;

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Ephraim Saunders, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Jefferson Felmer Ault to Jefferson Felmer Johns,

Was read the second time, and on motion of Mr. Murphy, the bill was amended by inserting a section in said bill changing the name of Benjamin Keyton Durance to Benjamin Keyton Kennedy.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Howell A. Baisden, former Sheriff and Tax-Collector of Putnam county,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Page 46

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bill as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Militia Laws now in force in this State.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Coffee moved that a Committee of three be appointed to act with a similar Committee on the part of the Senate to prepare an appropriation bill;

Which motion was adopted, and Messrs. Coffee, Vogt and Hawes were appointed said Committee.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Walton county relative to the School Fund,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Schools and Colleges.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that the members, officers and printers of the House be allowed the same compensation as that paid for similar services by the last General Assembly;

Which was agreed to.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Chain, Simkins and Baldwin, waited upon the House to inform them that the Senate had passed a bill to authorize the building of a bridge over Bayou Texas;

Which bill was placed among the orders of the day.

Resolution to pay Benjamin F. Whitner, Jr., for surveying and marking the boundary line between the States of Georgia and Florida,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to morrow.

A committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Baldwin, Jones and Dawkins waited on the House and announced that the Senate had passed a resolution for the relief of L. I. Fleming;

Which was received and the accompanying resolution placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to prevent the peddling of Books in this State;

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver,

Page 47

Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Vogt, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--35.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

The rule being waived, Mr. Russell gave notice that he would on to-morrow introduce a resolution to form a Select Joint Committee to take into consideration the Militia Laws of this State, and offer a bill early in the adjourned term of the General Assembly in lieu of the same.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of A. J. Peeler,

Was read the third time and upon the question of its passage the vote was:

YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland, of Franklin, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell. Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--37.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Militia Laws of this State,

Was read the third time and on the question of its passage the vote was:

YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Lee, Mays, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Scott, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--36.

Nay--Mr. Love--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A committee consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Coffee and Blount, was appointed to return a Senate bill to the Senate for amendment.

The committee returned and reported that they had performed the duty assigned them and asked to be discharged.

A committee consisting of Messrs. McQueen, Call and Rodgers, wited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had passed an act to provide against the failure of a representation from the Counties of Dade and Monroe, in the Convention, and requested the concurrence of the House thereto;

Which was received and placed among the orders of the day.

Page 48

Mr. Wilkinson moved that the House adjourn until to-morrow 9 o'clock:

Upon which motion the yeas and nays were called for by Messrs. Mays and Russell, and were as follows:

YEAS--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Canova, Clyatt, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Hull, Mays, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--23.

Nays--Messrs. Blount, Carter, Coffee, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Love, Pooser and Scott--9.

So the House adjourned until to-morrow 9 o'clock, A. M.

SATURDAY, December 1st, 1860.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Glover officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Hull the reading of the Journal of yesterday was dispensed with.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
December 1st, 1860.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has passed the following House bill, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of A. J. Peeler, Clerk of the Supreme Court.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the accompanying bill ordered to be enrolled.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the rule was waived, and the Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide against the failure of a representation from the counties of Dade and Monroe in the Convention was read the first time.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the rule was waived, and the bill read the second and third times by its title, and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--36.

Nays--None.

Page 49

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that a Committee be appointed to wait upon the Senate and inform them that the House had concurred in the passage of the bill;

Which was agreed to, and Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Coffee and Blount appointed said Committee.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Hernando, the rule was waived, and he allowed to make the following report:

Mr. Holland of Hernando, from the Committee on Corporations, made the following report:

The Committee on Corporations to whom was referred the Senate bill to be entitled an act to establish the Planters and Merchants Bank of Pensacola, have had the same under consideration and upon examination find that its provisions are in strict accordance with the requirement of the Constitution of this State; they further find that proper and due notice has been given according to law for an application to this Legislature for a charter for the said Bank, they therefore ask leave to report the said bill back to the House with the recommendation that it do pass.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

N. W. HOLLAND,
Chair'n Com. on Corporations.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Hernando, the rule was waived, and the bill to be entitled an act to establish a Bank in Pensacola was read the first time.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Hernando, the rule was waived, and the bill read the second and third times by its title, and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Hull, Lee, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Murphy, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Wells, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--34.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion of Mr. Collins, the same Committee, viz: Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Coffee and Blount was requested to inform the Senate that the House had concurred in the passage of the bill.

Page 50

Mr. Hawes introduced a series of resolutions from Putnam county, of a public character upon the present crisis of affairs;

Which were received and read.

On motion of Mr. Pooser, the following Committee was appointed, viz: Messrs. Mays, Williams and Bellamy to confer with a similar Committee on the part of the Senate to report a bill to the adjourned session at its convening as to the best means to be devised for raising the revenue of the State.

The rule being waived, Mr. Love gave notice that he will at some future day ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws of this State in reference to actions of ejectment.

A Committee consisting of Messrs. Starke, Dawkins and Duncan waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had amended the bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Gen. William E. Anderson and others, and requested the concurrence of the House thereto;

Which bill was received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Hollaman, from the Committee on Enrolled bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled bills beg leave to report that they have examined the following bills and find them correctly enrolled, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to quiet titles and to prevent unjust and vexatious litigation in the county of Escambia; also,

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of A. J. Peeler, Clerk of the Supreme Court.

Very respectfully submitted,

D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

Which was read.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Call, Walker and Watlington waited upon the House to inform them that the Senate had passed a bill to be entitled an act providing for a State uniform and flag, and requested the concurrence of the House thereto;

Which bill was received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Howel A. Baisden, former Sheriff and Tax Collector of Putnam county;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the election laws now in force in this State;

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A bill to be entitled an act to allow Jefferson Filmer Ault to change his name to Jefferson Filmer Johns;

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Ephraim Saunders, a minor, to assume the management of his estate;

A bill to be entitled an act to repeal an act authorizing a bridge tax in Walton county; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to empower James Fussell, a minor of Sumter county, to assume the management of his own estate, and contract and be contracted with.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was read, and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Ingram, Rogers and Walker, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had passed a bill to be entitled an act to charter the Southern export and import company;

Which bill was received and placed among the orders of the day.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Dawkins, Rodgers and Call waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had passed a bill to be entitled an act to amend the Banking Laws of this State, and requested the concurrence of the House thereto;

Which bill was received and placed among the orders of the day.

A committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Magbee, Starke and Duncan, waited upon the House and requested the return to the Senate of a bill to be entitled an act to amend the Banking Laws of this State.

The Speaker appointed Messrs. Canova, Clyatt and Yon a committee to return said bill.

The committee reported that they had performed their duty and asked to be discharged.

Mr. Bird, from the Committee on Elections, made the following report:

The Committee on Elections to whom was referred the matter of the contested seat of the Representative from Clay County, would respectfully submit the following

REPORT:

It appears from the evidence adduced before your Committee, that the Board of Canvassers for said County, in canvassing the vote, rejected Long Branch precinct on the grounds as is alledged by them of "informality and indication of fraud," in conducting the election at said precinct. That by the rejection of said precinct,

Page 52

the result of the election was changed in favor of the present occupant of the seat by three votes. There is no evidence before your committee to show that there was any actual fraud, (though great informality,) in conducting the election at said Long Branch precinct; and therefore the committee are of opinion that said precinct should not have been rejected by said Board of Canvassers. From the evidence, however, there are very grave doubts on the minds of your committee as to the legality of three or more votes cast for the contestant at that and other precincts in said county, leaving it doubtful as to who, or whether either of the parties claiming, are entitled to the seat from said county of Clay.

Your committee would therefore recommend the passage of the following resolution and accompanying bill:

Resolved, That from the date of this report the seat from Clay County be hereby declared vacant and a new election ordered to fill said vacancy.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

P. B. BIRD, Chairman.

Which report was received and read, and on motion of Mr. Russell, made the special order on the ninth day of January next.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That the general laws, but none of a local nature passed at this session shall be printed in one newspaper at Pensacola, Marianna, Apalachicola, Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Cedar Keys, Tampa, Ocala, Key West, and Fernandina, and that the Clerk of the House do as speedily as possible have this resolution carried into effect.

Which was not agreed to.

Mr. Vogt presented the following proceedings of a mass meetings held at Ocala, 26th November, 1860:

At a Mass meeting of the citizens of Marion County, held at Ocala, this 26th day of November, 1860, on motion, Gen. J. M. Commander was called to the Chair, and S. D. McConnell and W. McCaslan, Esqrs., appointed Secretarys; whereupon the following Preamble and Resolutions were unanimously adopted:

WHEREAS, for many years a political party having existence only in the Northern States of this Union, notoriously hostile to the Southern States, their institutions and dearest interests, has been growing most surely and rapidly, gaining strength in numbers, in hostility and in arrogance, until finally, after a long course of determined unconstitutional aggression, the election which has recently taken place throughout the Union for Electors for President and Vice President of the United States, has resulted in the triumph of this party by a large majority, and in the virtual choice of the sectional candidate of this party for

Page 53

President and Vice President, who have avowed their intention to wage against these Southern interests and institutions, a war, "irrepressible, irreconcilable and everlasting," until their fatal purpose shall be effected in the abolition of negro slavery in America. And whereas, This Confederacy has ceased to answer the purposes for which it was instituted, namely, the promotion of the happiness and prosperity of the several States composing it. And whereas, We recognize the right of each State to resume at pleasure all the rights and sovereignty which were delegated to the General Government for the purposes specified in the Constitution of the United States. Therefore,

Be it resolved, That we, the citizens of Marion County, ignoring all party names and past issues, do earnestly recommend the General Assembly of the State of Florida, now in session, immediately to enact a law providing for the meeting at an early day of a Convention of Delegates from the several Counties of the State, to take into consideration the expediency of dissolving our connection with the Federal Union, giving to the said Convention plenary powers to effect such dissolution, and to do such other things, and to aid the General Assembly in providing such guarantees for our future peace and security as may be demanded by the exigences of our situation.

Be it further resolved, That we do also recommend to the said General Assembly,

1st. The enactment of such laws as may be necessary to alleviate any unusual embarrassments of the commercial interests of this State consequent upon the present political emergency.

2d. That an amount of money be immediately raised sufficient to arm the Militia of the State, that a committee be appointed to select and purchase such arms, and that they be deposited at some convenient point in each Brigade in charge of Brigade armorers.

3d. That the Senators and Representative of the State of Florida in Congress be requested by resolution to resign therefrom immediately.

4th. That no election be had for U. S. Senator to fill the vacancy which will take place on the 4th of March next, by the expiration of Mr. Yulee's term.

5th. That the State of Florida make common cause with each and every Southern State, that may secede from the Union, and that any attempt by the United States Government to coerce any seceding Southern State, be regarded as a declaration of war against this State, and that the Governor of the State of Florida be requested forthwith to communicate this resolution to the Governors of the several Southern States.

Be it further resolved, That Gen. J. M. Commander be specially

Page 54

delegated to furnish the Senator and Representatives of Marion County in the General Assembly with a copy of these resolutions, and that they be requested to lay the same before their respective Houses.

J. M. COMMANDER, Ch'n.

S. D. MCCONNELL,

W. MCCASLAN,
Secretaries.

Which were read.

The following message was received from his Excellency, the Governor:

EXECUTIVE CHAMBER,
TALLAHASSEE, December 1, 1860.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--I have approved an act entitled an act for the relief of A. J. Peeler, Clerk of the Supreme Court; also

An act to quiet Titles and to prevent unjust and vexatious Litigation in the County of Escambia.

Respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

Which was read.

The rule being waived, Mr. Dansby moved that the Senate bill for the relief of Gen. William E. Anderson be read;

Which was agreed to.

The bill was read the first time, the rules waived, read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Finance.

A committee consisting of Messrs. Means, Mickler and Canova were appointed to inform the Senate that the House had agreed to change the time of adjournment from 12 o'clock., M, to 1 o'clock, P. M.

The committee reported that they had performed their duty and were discharged.

A committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Rogers, Simkins and Magbee waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had concurred in the resolution of the House changing the time of adjournment of the General Assembly from 12 o'clock, M. to 1 o'clock, P. M.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
December 1st, 1860.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has passed the following resolutions, viz:

Joint Resolution in relation to the Comptroller's office; also House resolution relative to the sale of the Stocks of other States held by the Comptroller for the payment of the debts of the State, and the purchase of arms and munitions.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Page 55

Which was read and the accompanying resolutions ordered to enrolled.

On motion of Mr. Means the rule was waived and the bill to be entitled an act to charter the Southern Export and Import Company was read the first time.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Hernando the bill was referred to the Committee on Corporations.

On motion of Mr. Blount the rule was waived and the bill to be entitled an act to authorize the building of a bridge over Bayou Texar was read the first time.

On motion of Mr. Blount the rule was waived and the bill read the second and third times by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--35.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the rule was waived, and the bill to be entitled an act providing for a State Uniform and Flag was read the first time.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the rule be waived and the bill read the second and third times by its title and put upon its passage;

Which motion was lost.

On motion of Mr. Hawes the rule was waived and the Appropriation bill read the first time.

On motion of Mr. Hawes the rule was waived and the bill read the second and third times by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Richardson, Scott, Stewart, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--36.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Blount moved that a committee be appointed to wait on the Senate and inform them that the House has passed House bill to be entitled an act to authorize the building of a bridge over Bayou Texar; also

Page 56

A bill to be entitled an act making appropriations for the support of the Government;

Which was agreed to.

Whereupon the Speaker appointed Messrs. Blount, Love and Holland of Franklin, who reported that they had performed their duty and were discharged.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph B. Wood, of Columbia county,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of Escambia county to borrow money to build a Court House and Jail,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

The rule being waived Mr. Coffee, from a Select Commitee, reported a bill to make appropriation for the payment of the expenses of the present General Assembly,

Which was read the first time, rule waived, read second and third times, and on the question of its passage the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Scott, Williams, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--37.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion, a committee consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Scott and Williams was appointed to inform the Senate of the passage of the bill and requesting their concurrence thereto.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that the rule be waived and House bill authorizing the suspension of specie payments by the Banks be taken up;

Upon which motion the yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Hull and Yon, and were:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Bowne, Canova, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Mays, Mickler, Murphy, Oliver, Scott, Vogt and Williams--17.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Broxson, Campbell, Dansby, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, VanZant, Wells, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon--23.

Page 57

So the motion was lost.

The following message was received from his Excellency the Governor:

EXECUTIVE CHAMBER,
TALLAHASSEE, Dec. 1st, 1860.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: I have approved and signed the following resolution, viz:

Resolution placing the bonds of the several States belonging to the School and Seminary Fund and other monies at the disposal of the Governor.

Very respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

Which was read.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the rule be waived and the combined bills allowing the suspension by the Banks and bill to stay the Judicial Sales jointly be taken up;

Upon which motion the yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Dansby and Pooser, were:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Love, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Murphy, Newburn, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Wells and Wilkinson--28.

Nays--Messrs. Bissell, Bowne, Broxson, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mickler, Oliver, Parker, Price, Williams, Yates and Yon--13.

So the motion was lost.

Mr. Russell moved that the rule be waived and the bill to stay Judicial Sales be taken up;

Which motion was lost.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that a committee be appointed to act with a similar committee on the part of the Senate to wait upon his Excellency the Governor and notify him that the General Assembly is about to adjourn and enquire if he has any further communications to make;

Which was agreed to, and the Speaker appointed Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Blount and Holloman said committee.

The committee returned and informed the House that they had performed their duty and his Excellency the Governor stated that he had no further communication to make, but heartily coincided in the action of the General Assembly and assured them that he would with pleasure most heartily co-operate with them in maintaining and protecting the honor and integrity of the State.

A committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Davidson, Starke and Bowers waited upon the House and announced that the Senate had passed House bill making appropriation for the payment of the expenses of the present General Assembly.

Page 58

A committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Dawkins, Duncan and Jones waited upon the House and announced that the Senate was ready to adjourn.

Messrs. Blount, Coffee and Hull were appointed a committee to inform the Senate that the House was ready to adjourn.

The committee returned and reported that they had performed their duty and were discharged.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the House adjourned till 12 o'clock, M. on the seventh day of January, A. D. 1861.

Page 59

DOCUMENTS
ACCOMPANYING THE GOVERNOR'S MESSAGE.

COMPTROLLER'S REPORT.

TREASURY DEPARTMENT, COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE,
TALLAHASSEE, Nov. 1st, 1860.

To his Excellency, MADISON S. PERRY,
Governor of Florida:

Sir: In obedience to the requirements of law, I herewith submit my Report upon the Finances of the State for the year ending on the 31st of October, 1860.

The receipts at the Treasury for the year ending on the 31st October, 1860.amount to . . . . . $115,894 89
To wit:--From License Tax, . . . . . $6,554 51
From Fines, . . . . . 2,685 38
From Auction Tax, . . . . . 2,285 96
From Revenue, 1856, . . . . . 39 51
From Revenue, 1857, . . . . . 1,773 99
From Revenue, 1858, . . . . . 6,858 49
From Revenue, 1859, . . . . . 93,263 99
From Revenue, 1860, . . . . . 2,352 06
On Account of Rent, . . . . . 60 00
On Account of Contingent Fund, . . . . . 16 00
On Account of Sale of Books, . . . . . 5 00--$115,894 89
The Warrants issued amount to . . . . . $117,808 85

To wit:--Judicial Department--

On account of Salaries, . . . . . $23,575 00
On account of Contingent Expenses of Supreme Court, . . . . . 1,694 02
On account of Fees paid acting Solicitors, . . . . . 235 00
On account of Additional compensation to Judges, . . . . . 79 50
On account of Attendance of Attorney General on Supreme Court, . . . . . 61 00--$25,644 52

Executive Department--

On account of Salaries, . . . . . $5,100 00
On account of Governor's Residence, . . . . . 500 00--5,600 00

Military Department--

On account of Salaries, . . . . . 168 83

Ninth General Assembly Adjourned Session--

On account of Pay of Members and Clerks, . . . . . $12,627 00
On account of Contingent Expenses proper, . . . . . 465 58
On account of Printing General Laws, . . . . . 324 40
On account of Printing Miscellaneous, . . . . . 3,965 50
On account of Copying House Journal, . . . . . 270 00
On account of Copying Senate Journal, . . . . . 50 00--17,702 48
Page 60
Jurors and Witnesses, . . . . . 31,250 82
Criminal Prosecutions, . . . . . 23,274 02
Contingent Expenses of State, . . . . . 4,136 25
Certificates for Interest due on Scrip issued for Military Service of 1849 . . . . . 4,315 42
Maintenance of Lunatics, . . . . . 2,993 00
Protection of Public Property, . . . . . 906 35
Payment for the value of Negro hung, &c. . . . . . 525 50
Post Mortem Examinations, . . . . . 594 00
Indian Hostilities of 1849, . . . . . 395 86
Pay of U. S. Marshal for Repairing Room in the Capitol, . . . . . 178 00
Expense Surveying County Lines, . . . . . 75 25
Repairing of Capitol, . . . . . 48 55--$68,693 02--$117,808 85

SCHOOL AND SEMINARY FUNDS.

The following are the receipts during the fiscal year, 1860:
On account of the School Fund, . . . . . $15,044 23
On account of the Seminary Fund, . . . . . 4,776 03
On account of the Interest on School Fund, . . . . . 6,802 41
On account of the Interest on Seminary Fund, . . . . . 1,104 58--$27,727 25
The following are the Warrants drawn during the fiscal year, 1860:
Upon School Fund for the purpose of Investment, . . . . . $15,037 50
Upon Sem'y Fund for the purpose of Investment, . . . . . 5,012 50
Upon School Fund Expense of Investment, . . . . . 112 66
Upon Sem'y Fund Expense of Investment, . . . . . 18 34
Upon Sem'y Fund East Florida State Seminary, . . . . . 2,349 58
Upon Sem'y Fund West Florida State Seminary, . . . . . 2,344 58
Upon School Fund Contingent Expenses, . . . . . 7 00
Upon Sem'y Fund Contingent Expenses, . . . . . 3 00
Upon School Fund Register's Salary, . . . . . 700 00
Upon Sem'y Fund Register's Salary, . . . . . 700 00
Upon Interest School Fund--Expense of Printing, . . . . . 40 00
Upon Interest School Fund--For pay of Teachers, . . . . . 3,390 45
Upon Interest School Fund--Under the amended Act to establish Common Schools, . . . . . 9,100 62--$38,816 23

Very respectfully,

T. W. BREVARD,
Comptroller.

TREASURER'S REPORT.

TREASURY DEPARTMENT, TREASURY OFFICE,
TALLAHASSEE, Nov. 19, 1860.

To His Excellency, M. S. PERRY,
Governor of Florida:

Sir: I respectfully present, and through you to the General Assembly, reports from this office, of the receipts and disbursements at the Treasury, for the period of November 1st, 1859, to October 31st, 1860, also reports of the School and Seminary Funds for the same period.

The increase in disbursements for Jurors and Witnesses, Criminal Prosecutions and contingent expenses of Circuit Courts, is largely disproportional to previous periods. For the years following, (ending 31st October,) the payments were:

Page 61

For Jurors and Witnesses. For Criminal Prosecutions and Contingent Expenses Circuit Courts.

1854 $10,033 10 $13,520 81

1855 11,901 35 12,216 22

1856 15,220 22 11,560 88

1857 16,096 51 11,974 41

1858 16,558 01 8,377 32

1859 18,931 27 14,952 21

1860 30,296 84 21,818 87

The increase during which periods varying generally from ten to twenty, while that of the present is from thirty-three to sixty per cent. A large part of criminal prosecution warrants was held by the Tax Collectors, and the unexhausted balances of former appropriations resorted to in order to complete settlements with those officers. Many of them will doubtless again make application for settlement before the enactment of the general appropriation bill, and it will facilitate those cases if an early appropriation can be obtained of ten thousand dollars for Jurors and Witnesses, and the same amount for criminal prosecutions.

Very Respectfully,

C. H. AUSTIN,
Treasurer.

The Treasurer in account with the State of Florida:

1860. DR.

Nov. 1.--To balance per report of Nov. 1, 1859, $20,423 77

To amount received on account of revenue, 1856, 39 51

To amount received on account of revenue, 1857, 1,773 99

To amount received on account of revenue, 1858, 6,858 49

To amount received on account of revenue, 1859, 93,263 94

To amount received on account of revenue, 1860, 2,352 06

To amount received on account of Licenses, 6,554 51

To amount received on account of Fines, 2,685 38

To amount received on account of Auction Tax, 2,285 96

To amount received on account of Contingent Fund, 16 00

To amount received on account of Rent, 60 00

To amount received on account of Sale of Books, 5 00

To Balance, 4 43

$136,323 04

1859. CR.

Nov. 1--By amount of warrants paid and other disbursements, viz:

For sinking fund of State Bond account, $ 5,000 00

For Executive Department, 6,100 00

For Judicial Department, 25,186 02

For Military Department, 168 38

For Indian Hostilities of 1849, 755 60

For Jurors and State Witness, 30,296 84

For Criminal Prosecutions and contg. exps. Circuit Courts, 21,818 87

For Contingent Fund, 5,000 00

For Supreme Court contingent expenses, 1,898 84

For Adjourned Session of Ninth Gener l Assembly, viz:

Pay of Members, Officers, &c $12,957 00

Pay to Floridian & Journal, printing, 2,251 70

Pay to Florida Sentinel, printing, 2,038 20

Pay to McDougall & Co., Stationary, &c. 455 58 --17,702 48

Page 62

For Maintenance of Lunatics, 3,036 00

For Interest on State Bonds, 10,079 60

For Interest on State Scrip, 5,434 68

For J. W. Baker, Judge, extra judicial services, 400 00

For T. F. King, Judge, extra judicial services, 400 00

For Post Mortem examinations, 634 70

For Protection of public property and repairs of Capitol, 954 90

For Special act of relief, 1,163 50

For Taxes refunded Jesse M. Willis, 39 38

For Rent, &c., refunded E. E. Blackburn U. S. Marshal, (with recourse upon the General Government), 178 00

For Survey of County lines of Washington, Jackson and Calhoun counties, to determine venue, 75 25

$136,323 04

The Treasurer in account with the School Fund:

1859. DR.

Nov. 1. --To balance per report of this date, $17,484 07

11. --To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register, 894 60

Dec. 6. --To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register, 978 88

1860.

Jan. 9. --To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register, 978 34

Feb. 11. --To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register, 3,264 69

Mch. 9. --To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register, 874 75

April 4. --To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register, 987 58

25. --To amount received from T. W. Brevard, Comptroller, 835 00

May 8. --To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register, 2,588 40

Aug. 4. --To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register, 2,265 35

Oct. 4. --To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register, 1,376 74

--To amount Interest received, 9,292 41

$41,820, 70

1860. CR.

Jan. 9. --By Cash paid quarter salary of D. S. Walker, Register, $ 175 00

Mch. 31. --By Cash paid T. W. Brevard, Comptroller for investment, 15,037 05

April 7. --By Cash paid quarter salary of H. A. Corley, Register, 175 00

July 10. --By Cash paid quarter salary of H. A. Corley, Register, 175 00

--By Cash paid Warrant for Dyke & Carlisle, 4 00

--By Cash paid Warrant for H. A. Corley, Register, interest for disbursement, 9,100 92

--By Cash paid Warrant for T. W. Brevard, Comptroller, 64 50

--By Cash paid Warrant for H. Archer, 48 16

Oct. 6. --By Cash paid Warrant for C. Findeisen, 3 00

--By Cash paid quarter salary of H. A. Corley, Register, 175 00

--By Cash paid Warrants of Comp., int. to School Teachers, 3,740 58

--By balance on hand, 13,122 04

$41,820 70

1860.

Nov. 1. --To balance cash on hand, $13,122 04

Other assets, viz:

State stock, $41,500 00

Bond of city of Tallahassee, 3,300 00

Bond of Gadsden county, 2,071 37

Land notes, 194 22-- 47,065 59

$60,187 63

NOTE.--Putnam county Bond $3,000 delivered to T. W. Brevard, Comptroller

Page 63

The Treasurer in account with the Seminary Fund:

1859. DR.

Nov. 1. --To balance per report of this date, $ 3,155 63

11. --To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register, 13 55

Dec. 6. --To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register, 699 10

1860.

Jan. 9. --To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register, 1,582 34

Feb. 11. --To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register, 744 19

Mch. 9. --To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register, 439 61

April 4. --To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register, 296 71

Aug. 4. --To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register, 160 10

Oct. 4. --To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register, 840 43

--To amount interest received, 4,084 58

$12,016 24

1859. CR.

Oct. 31. --By amount paid East Florida Seminary, $ 854 58

--By amount paid West Florida Seminary, 854 58

1860.

Jan. 9. --By amount paid quarter salary, D. S. Walker, Register, 175 00

20. --By amount paid East Florida Seminary 745 00

--By amount paid West Florida Seminary 745 00

Mch 31. --By amount paid T. W. Brevard Compt. for investment, 5,012 50

April 11. --By amount paid quarter salary, H. A. Corley, Register, 175 00

July 10. --By amount paid quarter salary, H. A. Corley, Register, 175 00

Aug. 8. --By amount paid Warrant for T. W. Brevard, Comptroller, 10 50

--By amount paid Warrant for H. Archer, 7 84

Oct. 6. --By amount paid Warrant for C. A. Findeisen, 3 00

--By amount paid quarter salary, H. A. Corley, Register, 175 00

--By amount paid West Florida Seminary, 745 00

--By amount paid trans. to credit W. F. Sem., (advised) 552 29

--By amount paid trans. to credit E. F. Sem., (advised) 745 00

--By amount paid trans. to credit E. F. Sem., (advised) 552 29-- 1,297 29

--By balance, 488 66

$12,016 24

1860.

Nov. 1. --To balance cash on hand, $488 66

Other Assets, viz:

State Stocks, $48,500 00

Duval county bond, 1,000 00

Land notes, 666 57-- 50,166 57

$50,655 23

NOTE.--South Carolina Bond $1,492 44 delivered T. W. Brevard, Comptroller,

A Summary of the Receipts and Disbursements at the Treasury, from the 1st day of November, 1859, to the 31st day of October, 1860.

RECEIPTS.

On Account of State of Florida, . . . . . $136,323 04
On Account of School Fund, . . . . . 41,820 70
On Account of Seminary Fund, . . . . . 12,016 24
$190,159 98

PAYMENTS.

On Account State of Florida, . . . . . $136,323 04
On Account School Fund, . . . . . 28,698 66
On Account Seminary Fund, . . . . . 11,527 58
Page 64

BALANCES.

School Fund, . . . . . 13,122 04
Seminary Fund, . . . . . 488 66
$190,159 98

STATE REGISTER'S REPORT.

STATE REGISTER'S OFFICE,
November 1st, 1860.

To his Excellency MADISON S. PERRY, Governor of Florida:

SIR: As Register of Public Lands and Superintendent of Common Schools and Seminaries for the State, I have the honor to submit to your Excellency the following as the Biennial Report of this office:

SEMINARY FUND.

From October 31st, 1858, to November 1st, 1860, there have been sold, of the lands belonging to this Fund, 3,097 79-100 acres, at an average price of a little over $3.94½ per acre, producing, in cash, $3,683.65, and, in bonds, $9,626.69. Add this number of acres to the 32,651 59-100 stated as having been sold at the date of the last report of my predecessor, and it appears that the whole number of acres belonging to this fund sold since the establishment of this office is 35,748 79-100, producing in cash and bonds the sum of $84,935.58.

The following is a statement of the receipts and disbursements on account of this Fund during the period embraced in this re-report:

Received in cash:

From cash payments made for entries of lands, . . . . . $3,683 65
From bonds given for credit instalments, . . . . . 4,410 56
From balance on hand per last report, . . . . . 3 72
$8,094 21

Disbursements:

Amount paid to C. H. Austin, Treasurer, . . . . . 8,040 31
Balance on hand not paid over, . . . . . 53 90
$8,094 21

SCHOOL FUND.

From October 31st, 1858, to November 1st, 1860, there have been sold, of lands belonging to this Fund, 14,827 11-100 acres, at an average price of a little more than $1.38¼ per acre, yielding, in cash, $8,421.44, and, in bonds, $12,578.98. Add this number of acres to the 46,881 96-100 acres stated as having been sold in the last report from this office, and it appears that

Page 65

the whole number of acres belonging to this Fund sold since November 23d, 1850, is 61,709 7-100 acres, producing, in cash and bonds, the sum of $99,681.01.

The following is a statement of the receipts and disbursements on account of this Fund during the period embraced in this report:

Received in cash:

From sales of lands, being cash payments, . . . . . $8,421 44
From payment of instalment bonds, . . . . . 21,749 46
Balance not paid over per last report, . . . . . 28 64
$30,199 54

Disbursements:

Paid Williams, Gwynn and Harris for appraising, . . . . . $1,621 11
Paid for binding and printing 1 vol. certificates, . . . . . 8 00
Money refunded upon an erroneous entry, . . . . . 15 00
Paid C. H. Austin, Treasurer, . . . . . 27,657 79
Balance not paid over, . . . . . 897 64
$30,199 54

COMMON SCHOOLS.

The following statements show the number of children in each county between the ages of five and eighteen years, and the am't of money apportioned to each county, accruing from the interest of the School Fund, for the years 1859 and 1860:

Page 66

A. The Apportionment of Interest accruing on the School Fund from July 1st, 1858, to July 1st, 1859, among the several Counties in the State.

COUNTIES. No. Children. Amount. Remarks.

Escambia, 650 $270 18 Amount apportioned for each child a little over 41-57 cents.

Santa Rosa, 1,044 434 00

Walton, 520 216 13

Washington, 466 193 70

Holmes, 331 137 60

Jackson, 1,946 808 85

Calhoun, 250 103 92

Franklin, 506 210 33

Gadsden, 1,062 441 42

Liberty, 265 110 15

Leon, 1,210 505 00

Wakulla, 501 208 25

Jefferson, 839 348 73

Madison, 973 404 44

Taylor, 160 66 50

Lafayette, 160 66 50

Hamilton, 651 270 60

Columbia, 1,745 725 32

Nassau, 351 145 89

Duval, 1,602 665 88

Alachua, 900 374 09

Marion, 929 386 15

Sumter, 233 96 85

St. Johns, 452 187 88

Putnam, 507 210 73

Orange, 220 91 44

Volusia, 208 86 46

Brevard, 100 41 56

Levy, 272 113 05

Hernando, 269 112 80

Hillsborough, 700 290 96

Manatee, 148 61 51

Monroe, 590 245 23

20,760 $8,630 10

Page 67

B. Apportionment of Interest accruing on the School Fund from July 1st, 1859, to July 1st, 1860, among the several Counties of the State of Florida.

COUNTIES. No. Children. Amount. Remarks.

Escambia, 567 $255 15 Amount apportioned for each child, 45 cents.

Santa Rosa, 1,044 469 80

Walton, 485 218 25

Washington, 435 195 75

Holmes, 410 184 50

Jackson, 1,995 897 75

Calhoun, 200 90 00

Franklin, 421 189 45

Gadsden, 1,058 476 10

Liberty, 272 122 40

Leon, 1,133 509 85

Wakulla, 527 237 15

Jefferson, 862 387 90

Madison, 1,081 486 45

Taylor, 412 185 40

Lafayette, 160 72 00

Hamilton, 875 393 75

Suwannee, 328 147 60

Columbia, 919 413 55

New River, 500 225 00

Nassau, 386 173 70

Duval, 434 195 30

Clay, 313 140 85

St. Johns, 624 280 80

Putnam, 510 229 50

Alachua, 900 405 00

Marion, 1,200 540 00

Sumter, 233 104 85

Orange, 220 99 00

Volusia, 208 93 60

Brevard, 100 45 00

Levy, 341 153 45

Hernando, 408 183 60

Hillsborough, 867 390 15

Manatee, 148 66 60

Monroe, 602 270 90

21,178 $9,530 10

But few of the County Superintendents have reported anything except the census of children as returned to them by the Tax Assessors.

In Escambia county--One Teacher was employed during the year ending July 1, 1860, teaching 27 Scholars; amount paid him, $117.65; during the previous year six teachers were employed, teaching 150 children; amount paid them $677.50; several of said teachers were employed only a part of the year.

In Santa Rosa county--No children attended school under the provisions of the Act of 1853 during the year 1859, no Common Schools being as yet organized. No appropriation by the county for Common Schools.

Page 68

In Washington county--Teachers employed in 1859, nine; amount paid them, $173.55; No. of scholars taught, 152; Teachers employed in 1860, four; amount paid them, $96.75; Scholars taught, 92. Nothing appropriated by the county.

In Jackson county--Teachers employed in 1859, ten; amount paid them, $355; Scholars taught, 258: amount appropriated by the county during the year, $807.46; in 1860, No. of Teachers employed, 16; amount paid them, $595; Scholars taught, 464; amount appropriated by the county, $934.77.

In Wakulla county--No children attending school under the Act. The County Commissioners have laid a tax of 10 per cent. upon the State Tax for Common School purposes.

In Duval county--Two Teachers were employed; amount paid them, $94.50; No. of children taught, 33.

In Marion county, 1860--Teachers employed, fourteen; am't paid them, $426.75; No. of children taught, 256.

In Monroe county, 1859--Teacher employed, one; assistants, two; No. of schools, 1; No. of children attending school, 146; amount paid Teachers, $727.65; amount paid from county apportionment, $545. In 1860--Teacher employed, 1; assistants, 1; No. of schools, 1; children attending school, 195; amount paid Teachers, $824.80; total sum apportioned to said county by State and county, $825.

The apportionment of the interest of the School Fund in 1860 gives 45 cents for each child between the ages of five and eighteen years. This is the largest apportionment ever made from the School Fund. If equally distributed, it is evident the amount is insufficient to confer any practical benefit upon the children of our State. This suggestion is all that I suppose necessary to call the attention of yourself and the Legislature to the subject.

By the Act of the last Legislature it is made the duty of the State Superintendent to pay the amount of school money apportioned annually, to each county, to the Judge of Probate of the county. The law does not provide that the County Superintendents shall make any report of the manner in which said Fund is disposed of or invested.

SEMINARIES.

Circumstances over which I had no control have so far prevented me from visiting the Seminary at Ocala this year, nor have I received any report from the Board of Visitors.

I have several times visited the Seminary at Tallahassee, and find that there are prospects of it becoming a highly useful institution.

HUGH A. CORLEY, Register.

Page 69

SALESMAN'S REPORT.

Tallahassee, Fla., Nov. 1, 1860.

To his Excellency, Madison S. Perry, Governor of Florida,
and President of the Board of Trustees of the Internal
Improvement Fund:

SIR: As Salesman of the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Fund, I have the honor to submit the following Report of sales and receipts in this office for the two last years.

From 31st October, 1858, to November 1st, 1860, there have been sold of lands belonging to the original Internal Improvement Fund 7,949.37 acres, at an average price of nearly $2.17 per acre. Add this number of acres to the 153,572.91 stated to have been sold in the last Report of my predecessor, and it appears that 161,522.28 acres belonging to this Fund have been sold since the establishment of this Office. In addition to these, the Board has issued tr the St. John's and Indian River Canal Commissioners a deed for 20,227.78 acres of Internal Improvement lands, making the whole amount heretofore disposed of 181,750.06.

During the period embraced in this Report there have been sold of swamp and overflowed lands granted by the act of Congress of September 28th, 1850, 60,073.95 acres, making the whole amount of these lands sold since they were brought into market 179,195.90 acres.

The annexed tables, marked A and B, exhibit statements of the monthly sales during the period embraced in this Report, and of the monthly receipts up to the 1st of April last. Since the last named date the moneys have been received by C. H. Austin, Esq., Treasurer of the Board.

HUGH A. CORLEY,
Salesman, &c.

Page 70

A. Statement of Sales of Internal Improvement and Swamp Lands, from November 1st, 1858, to November 1st, 1860.

SWAMP LANDS. INTER'L IMP. LANDS.

MONTH. No. Acres Sold. A't. Cash Payme't. Amt. Bonds Received. No. Acr's Sold. A't. Cash Payme't. Amt. Bonds Received.

November, 1858, 2,928.01 $1106 43 $3,418 53 480.22 $287 85 $768 44

December, 1858, 3,432.08 1721 33 3,551 73 80.19 52 00 139 15

January, 1859, 4,373.94 2572 23 4,367 91 242.82 179 00 482 65

February, 1859, 6,537.45 2881 48 7,497 00 210.08 133 00 357 48

March, 1859, 2,730.62 2499 51 1,180 60 232.36 190 11 193 54

April, 1859, 1,364.77 1645 25 -- 160.14 289 00 --

May, 1859, 3,211.97 3688 02 239 50 160.98 339 24 --

June, 1859, 1,837.35 2320 92 Credit system abolished. 131.15 71 91 195 26

July, 1859, 3,039.42 4020 06 40.17 96 66 --

August, 1859, 2,140.40 2639 30 197.02 107 05 291 99

September, 1859, 2,097.19 2342 11 119.84 79 15 213 90

October, 1859, 1,996.24 2256 17 78.94 44 00 117 32

November, 1859, 2,465.45 3057 48 80.02 44 24 119 26

December, 1859, 2,991.53 3465 68 200.07 153 18 413 19

January, 1860, 2,460.56 3001 65 40.00 71 90 --

February, 1860, 2,759.59 3076 14 160.12 125 18 338 73

March, 1860, 1,772.78 2093 60 118.72 65 66 176 98

April, 1860, 2,490.50 Received by C. H. Austin, Treasurer. 80.00 Received by C. H. Austin, Treasurer. Credit system abolished.

May, 1860, 1,210.63 2751.02

June, 1860, 1,519.26 1321.00

July, 1860, 1,566.23 240.00

August, 1860, 1,331.23 704.14

September, 1860, 2,296.15 120.37

October, 1860, 1,520.60

60,073.95 $20,255 27 7949.37 $3,807 89

Page 71

B. Statement of the amount af Cash received on account of Sales of Swamp and Internal Improvement Lands from November 1st, 1858, to April 1st, 1860.

MONTH. Cash Payments. Notes Paid. Inter. on Notes. TOTAL.

November, 1858, $1,394 28 $3,013 63 $65 27 $4,473 18

December, 1858, 1,773 33 2,997 54 30 71 4,801 58

January, 1859, 2,751 23 4,699 69 148 08 7,599 00

February, 1859, 3,014 48 5,814 74 4 80 8,834 02

March, 1859, 2,689 62 3,359 60 49 09 6,098 31

April, 1859, 1,934 25 2,201 46 6 96 4,142 67

May, 1859, 4,027 26 3,079 02 10 57 7,116 85

June, 1859, 2,392 83 2,920 92 69 38 5,383 13

July, 1859, 4,116 72 2,690 63 16 88 6,824 23

August, 1859, 2,746 35 2,301 30 44 77 5,092 42

September, 1859, 2,421 26 1,165 30 39 21 3,625 77

October, 1859, 2,300 17 4,384 08 535 06 7,219 31

November, 1859, 3,101 72 4,320 19 126 02 7,547 93

December, 1859, 3,618 86 3,609 34 22 30 7,250 50

January, 1860, 3,073 55 3,601 57 37 62 6,712 74

February, 1860, 3,201 32 6,032 41 103 50 9,337 23

March, 1860, 2,159 26 3,248 36 31 97 5,439 59

Total, $46,716 49 $59,439 78 $1,342 19 $107,498 46

TREASURER'S REPORT.

TREASURY OFFICE,
TALLAHASSEE, Nov. 20, 1860.

To His Excellency, MADISON S. PERRY,
Governor of Florida;

Sir: I respectfully present (and through you to the General Assembly,) my report of the financial affairs of the Internal Improvement Fund, for the two years beginning November 1, 1858, and ending October 31, 1860.

Since the organization of the Board of Trustees, the Fund has received (in round numbers,) four hundred and seventy-one thousand and eighty-five dollars, from the following sources:

From sale of lands--cash, . . . . . $321,000 00
In Tallahassee Railroad bonds, . . . . . 3,100 00--$324,100 00
From the General Government on account of land reclamations, . . . . . 42,038 55
From sales of State stocks, . . . . . 52,000 00
From the several Railroads of the system on account of net earnings, . . . . . 18,336 04
From Interest account--in cash, . . . . . $13,080 00
In bonds, . . . . . 2,000 00--15,080 00
From bills payable, . . . . . 19,000 00
From Calhoun county loan, . . . . . 300 00
Page 72
From miscellaneous sources, . . . . . 230 40
$471,085 00
Tallahassee Railroad Company Bonds on hand from land sales and interest account, . . . . . 5,100 00
$465,985 00
Which has been disbursed for the following purposes:
Invested in Bonds of the several Railroads of the system, . . . . . $120,145 00
Disbursed for the interest on the Bonds of the said Railroad Companies, . . . . . 231,300 00
Disbursed for the St. Johns and Indian River Canal, . . . . . 6,000 00
Disbursed for selecting lands:
Paid H. Wells and A. M. Randolph, . . . . . $82,475 00
Paid Walter Gwynn, . . . . . 4,151 00--86,626 00
Disbursed for management and sale of lands, . . . . . 6,500 00
For legal services, . . . . . 500 00
For rescinded land contracts, . . . . . 600 00
For interest account, . . . . . 1,887 00
For bills payable account, . . . . . 8,706 04
For miscellaneous purposes, . . . . . 3,222 61
Balance on hand, . . . . . 498 35
$465,985 00

The Florida Rail Road Company.

The amount of interest paid upon the bonds of this Company with that which has accrued on their bonds held by the Trustees is, . . . . . $195,195 00
To which add land dividend and stock interest, . . . . . 19,265 91
$214,460 91
For which there have been received certificates of Stock, . . . . . $130,100 00
Cash on net earnings account . . . . . 6,937 33--137,037 33
$77,423 58

They have acknowledged receipt of statement and say that the certificate for the balance shall be forthcoming, and have presented a draft for the amount of $4,379 30 to be applied to there net earnings account.

The Pensacola & Georgia Rail Road Company.

The amount of interest paid for this Company, with that which has likewise accrued, &c., is, . . . . . $32,100 00
For which has been rec'd certificates of stock, . . . . . $26,900 00
Cash on net earnings account, . . . . . 5,200 00--$32,100 00

The Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Rail Road Company.

The amount of interest paid and that which has accrued, &c., . . . . . $22,505 00
For which has been rec'd certificates of stock, . . . . . $16,300 00
Cash on net earnings account, . . . . . 6,198 71
Balance, . . . . . 629 00--$22,505 00

Page 73

The Tallahassee Rail Road Company.

This Company did not apply to the Fund to provide for the interest of their bonds.

They have provided for the sinking Fund account to July 1859, by their bonds amounting to, . . . . . $5,100 00
And cash, . . . . . 505 00
$5,605 00

ASSETS.

The assets of the Fund are as follows:

Railroad Stocks, viz:
The Florida Railroad, . . . . . $130,100
Pensacola & Georgia Railroad, . . . . . 26,900
Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad, . . . . . 16,300
$173,300 00
Railroad Bonds:
Tallahassee Railroad, . . . . . $53,600
Deduct exchg. with Comp'tr for Florida R. R. do. (by order of Board,) . . . . . 50,000
3,600
Of sinking Fund, . . . . . 5,100
Of interest account, . . . . . 2,000
10,700
Florida Railroad Company Bonds, . . . . . 95,000
Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Bonds,*
*This item was erroneously published $41,500 in last Report. See original extension of Oct. 8, 1858.
. . . . . 41,000
Deduct amount returned to equalize rate of purchase, (by order of Board,) . . . . . 2,000
39,000
Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad Bonds, . . . . . 23,000
167,700 00
County Bonds:
Gadsden County, . . . . . 1,150
Calhoun County, . . . . . 650
Less collected, . . . . . 300 . . . . . 350
1,500 00
Land Bonds:
Per Register's List, . . . . . 94,634 81
Less Collected, . . . . . 8,672 20
85,962 61
Per list of last Report, . . . . . 986 13
Less collected, . . . . . 451 38 . . . . . 534 75
86,497 36
$428,997 36

Very respectfully,

C. H. AUSTIN,
Treasurer Board Trustees In. Imp. Fund.

Page 74

The Treasurer, in account with the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Fund:

1858. DR.

Nov. 1.-- To balance per report of this date, $ 14,895 99

3. To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal, 2,703 11

Dec. 6. To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal, 4,458 18

16. To amount received from Florida Railroad Company for 50 per cent. net proceeds of receipts from 1st March to 31st August, 261 19

1859.

Jan. 3. To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal, 4,801 58

26. To amount received from Tallahassee R. R. Company 6 months int. on $5,600 bonds, 196 00

To amount received from same, interest on $3000 bonds of sinking fund, 105 00

To amount received from same, on sinking fund account, 130 00

27. To amount received from I. B. Stone, sheriff Calhoun county on loan to said county in 1853, 300 00

Feb. 5. To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal, 7,599 00

9. To amount received from Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company, for 50 per cent. net proceeds of receipts to December 1, 1858, 2,000 00

18. To amount on hand, notes 221 94

April 6. To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal, 11,881 33

May 2. To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal, 4,142 67

June 3. To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal, 7,066 85

22. To amount received from Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company for 50 per cent net proceeds of receipts to 31st ultimo, 1,200 00

Sep. 3. To amount received from Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad Company for 50 per ct. net proceeds of receipts to July 1, 1859, 883 71

Oct. 6. To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal, 20,975 65

Nov. 1. To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal, 7,219 31

10. To amount received from Gov. Perry, a United States Treasury Warrant No. 1262--No. 811 as a part of the land reclamation of this fund from the General Government, 42,038 55

$133,080 86

1858. CR.

Nov. 3.-- By cash paid Randolph & Wells, on account contract for selecting lands, $1,047 79

15. By amount paid W. A. Forward, Chairman Board of Commissioners, on account of a survey for a canal between Indian and St. John's Rivers, 1,000 00

Dec. 6. By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract 1,531 91

10. By amount paid to Charleston Mercury for advertising for proposals to cut St. John's and Indian River Canal, 36 00

18. By amount paid S. Turman's bill for advertising change in price of swamp lands, 2 50

1859.

Jan. 3. By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract 2,104 17

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5. By amount paid interest on $18,000 of Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company bonds for 6 months, 630 00

17. By amount paid McDougall & Hobby for stationary for salesman's office, 46 00

18. By amount paid Geo. Damon for a desk for Secretary's office, 15 00

By amount paid qr. salary of officers, viz:

D. S. Walker, salesman, 200 00

M. D. Papy, secretary, 100 00

C. H. Austin, treasurer, 125 00-- 425 00

25. By amount paid Wm. A Forward, Chm'n Board Commissioners on account survey of Canal between St. Johns and Indian rivers, 1,000 00

Feb. 4. By amount paid interest on $127,000 bonds of the Pensacola & Georgia

Railroad Company, 4,445 00

Exchange, 22 23-- 4,467 23

By amount paid interest on $1000 bond of Florida Railroad Company, 35 00

Exchange, 18-- 35 18

By amount paid Randolph & Wells on account contract, 2,772 22

9. By amount paid Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company, making the rate of investment in their bonds equal with the other Roads, 2,000 00

10. By amount paid M. Nash, P. M., postage bill for Salesman's office, 46 46

19. By amount paid John Bradford, Eng. balance for services rendered for examination upon Fla. Railroad, 100 00

24. By amount paid interest on $86,000 bonds

Florida Railroad Company, 3,010 00

Exchange, 15 05-- 3,025 05

24. By amount paid interest on $10,000 bonds

Florida Railroad Company, 350 00

Exchange, 1 75-- 351 75

25. By amount paid T. W. Brevard, Comptroller, for School and Seminary Fund, in the exchange of $50,000 of Tallahassee R. R. Co. Bonds for same amount of Florida R. R. Co. Bonds, being the difference in the accumulated interest, 1,166 66

Mch. 17. By amount paid Florida Peninsular advertising change in price of Swamp Lands, 5 00

By amount paid Randolph and Wells on account contract, 2,620 73

By amount paid Interest on $2.000 Bonds of Pen. & Geo. R. R. Company, 70 00

By amount paid interest an $10,000 Fla. R. R. Co. (two instalments,) 700 00

22. By amount paid Marianna Patriot, advertising change in price of swamp lands, 7 50

By amount paid Jacksonville Standard for same, 6 50

By amount paid interest on $628,000

Fla. R. R. Co. bonds, $21,980 00

Exchange, 109 90-- 22,089 90

Page 76

By amount paid interest on $1,000 bond of Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co. 35 00

Exchange, 17-- 35 17

By amount paid interest on $1,000 bond of Fla. R. R. Co., 35 00

Exchange, 17-- 35 17

30. By amount paid interest on $6,000 bonds of Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co., 210 00

April 2. By amount paid Independent Press, publishing change in price of Swamp lands, 5 00

8. By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract, 2,610 49

By amount paid quarter salaries of officers, viz.:

D. S. Walker, salary to 1st inst. $248 87

M. D. Papy, salary to 1st inst. 100 00

C. H. Austin, salary to 1st inst. 125 00-- 473 87

25. By amount paid Jacksonville Republican, advertising change in price of swamp lands, 6 50

May 2. By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract, 1,828 43

June 3. By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract, 3,266 28

13. By amount paid Milton Courier, advertising change in price of swamp lands, 5 00

Sept. 8. By amount paid quarter salaries of officers, viz.:

D. S. Walker, Salesman, $300 00

F. L. Villepigue, Secretary, 100 00

C. H. Austin, Treasurer, 125 00-- 525 00

15. By amount paid interest on $12,000 bonds of Florida Railroad Company, 420 00

Exchange, 4 20-- 424 20

By amount paid interest on $175,000 Pen. & Geo. Railroad bonds, 6,125 00

Exchange, 61 25-- 6,186 25

17. By amount paid interest on $10,000 Florida Railroad bonds, (2 instal.) 700 00

Oct. 6. By amount paid qr. salary officers, viz:

D. S. Walker, Salesman, 300 00

F. L. Villepigue, Secretary, 100 00

C. H. Austin, Treasurer, 125 00-- 525 00

By amount paid Florida Sentinel bill printing for Salesman's office, 45 00

By amount paid M. Nash, P. M. postage for same 20 35

By amount paid Randolph & Wells on account contract, 3,222 95

By amount paid interest on $743,000 of Florida Railroad Company bonds 26,005 00

By amount paid interest on $66,000 of Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad bonds, 2,310 00

By amount paid State Bank of Florida, Exchange on above 331 80

Interest on above 280 00-- 28,926 80

31. By amount paid Randolph & Wells on account contract, 2,143 84

By amount paid M. Nash, P. M., postage bill for Salesman's office, 46 86

By amount balance interest paid State Bank, 28 65

By balance, 34,506 71

133 080 86

Page 77

1859. DR.

Nov.--1. To balance, $34,506 71

Dec. 5. To amount received from D. S. Walker, Salesman, 7,547 95

7. To amount received from Tallahassee Railroad on sinking fund account, 40 00

1860.

Jan. 6. To amount received from D. S. Walker, Salesman, 7,250 50

Feb. 6. To amount received from H. A. Corley, Salesman. 6,663 31

20. To amount received from Florida Railroad Company, as half net earnings, for periods ending 1st March and September, 1859 6,676 33

24. To amount received from Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad Company, on account one-half net earnings, 1,400 00

March 1. To amount received on land notes, 229 44

4. To amount received from H. A. Corley, Salesman, 5,439 59.

April 14. To amount received from Pen. & Geo. Railroad Company, as one-half net earnings, period ending November 30, 1859, 2,000 00

20. To amount received from Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad Company, on account one-half net earnings, 175 00

July 30. To amount received from same, on account same, 870 00

Oct. 4. To amount received from same, on account same, 2,870 00

To amount received from bills payable, 19,000 00

31. To amount received from land sales, 24,891 00

To amount received from land notes, 8,672 20

$128,232 03

1859. CR.

Dec. 5.-- By amount paid Randolph & Wells on account of selecting lands, 3,051 23

23. By amount paid Pensacola Gazette, advertising change in price of swamp lands, 7 50

By amount paid Milton Courier for same, 5 00

1860.

Jan. 6. By amount paid officers salary, viz:

D. S. Walker, Salesman, 300 00

F. L. Villepigue, Secretary, 100 00

C. H. Austin, Treasurer, 125 00-- 525 00

16. By amount paid Floridian & Journal advertising change in price of swamp lands, 7 50

23. By amount paid Wm. Law, Esq., Att'y, for legal opinion relation to the power of a majority of the Board of Trustees, 500 00

31. By amount paid interest on $87,000 of the Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company, 3,045 00

Feb. 8. By amount paid two instalments on Bond 116 Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co. 70 00

9. By amount paid interest on $22,000 Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co. bonds, viz.: 21st July, 1859, coupons; 22d January, 1860, do, 1,505 00

24. By amount paid interest on $40,000 Fla., At. & Gulf Cen. R. R. Co. bonds, 1,400 00

March 7. By amount paid McDougall & Hobby, bill stationary for Salesman's office, 61 13

By amount paid interest on $10,000 Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co. bonds, 350 00

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8. By amount paid M. Nash, P. M., postage bill Salesman's office, 32 55

By amount paid interest on $1,012,000 Florida R. R. Co. bonds, 35,420 00

By amount paid interest on $71,000 Fa., At. & Gulf Cen. R. R. Co. bonds, 2,485 00

By amount paid interest on $82,000 Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co. bonds, 2,870 00

By amount paid advertising in New York and express transportation, 7 50

By amount paid exchange balance, 42 29

28. By amount paid interest on $10,000 Florida R. R. Co. bonds, 350 00

April 2. By amount paid interest on $8,000 Fla., At. & Gulf Cen. R. R. Co. bonds, 280 00

12. By amount paid do. on $1,000 do. do. do. 35 00

17. By amount paid do. on $2,000 do. do. do. 70 00

18. By amount paid quarter salaries officers, viz.:

H. A. Corley, Salesman, $300 00

F. L. Villepigue, Secretary, 100 00

C. H. Austin, Treasurer, 125 00-- 525 00

20. By amount paid interest on $5,000 Fla., At. & Gulf R. R. Co. bonds, 175 00

May 2. By amount paid Fla., At. & Gulf R. R. Co., balance on net earnings account, 17 28

20. By amount paid bill Florida Dispatch advertising sale of lands, 24 00

By amount paid Floridian & Journal, blanks for Salesman, 22 50

July 16. By amount paid M. Nash, P. M., postage account Salesman's office, 23 15

19. By amount paid quarter salary officers, viz:

H. A. Corley, Salesman, 200 00

F. L. Villepigue, Secretary, 100 00

C. H. Austin, Treasurer, 200 00-- 500 00

30. By amount paid interest on 24,000 dollars Florida Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad Company Bonds, 840 00

August 2. By amount paid bill Florida Peninsular, advertising public sale lands, 10 00

By amount paid bill Eastern Herald for same, 24 00

By amount paid bill Home Companion for same, 15 00

Oct. 4 By amount paid quarter salary officers, viz:

H. A. Corley, Salesman, 200 00

F. L. Villepigue, Secretary, 100 00

C. H. Austin, Treasurer, 200 00-- 500 00

By amount paid W. D. Moseley, Ch. Indian River and St. Johns Canal Company, to meet interest on bonds of said company, 4,000 00

By amount paid interest on $1,198,000

Florida R. R. Company Bonds, 41,930 00

Exchange, 419 30

Advertising and Express transportation, 650 00-- 42,355 80

By amount paid interest on $340,000

Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central

Railroad Company Bonds, 11,900 00

Exchange, 90 30

Advertising and Express, 4 25-- 11,994 55

Page 79

By amount paid interest on $172,000

Pen. & Geo. Railroad Co. bonds, $6,020 00

Exchange, 60 20

Advertising and Express, 3 05-- 6,083 25

By amount paid on account of bills payable, 8,706 04

By balance, 498 35

$128,433 62

1860.

Nov. 1.-- To balance, $498 35

C. H. AUSTIN,
Treasurer Board of Trustees Internal Imp't. Fund.

ATTORNEY GENERAL'S REPORT.

ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE,
TALLAHASSEE, November 19, 1860.

His Excellency, M. S. PERRY, Governor, &c.

Sir: The act of July 23d, 1845, directs the Attorney General to report to the Governor "as to the effect and operation of the acts of the last previous session, the decision of the Courts thereon, referring to the previous legislation on the subject, with such suggestions as in his opinion the public interest may demand."

The act to amend the militia and patrol laws of this State, approved 22d December, 1859, has not, to my knowledge, been sufficiently tested in its practical workings to enable me to suggest any amendments, except such as seem to be needful when considered in reference to the exigency for which it was intended to provide.

One of the purposes of the act was to secure the enrollment of all persons subject to military duty, with the view of ascertaining the effective military strength of the State, and of obtaining the basis upon which a proper distribution of arms might be made. By the proper discharge of their duties by the several officers elected under the act, this purpose may be easily accomplished. But another, and perhaps the more important object, was the efficient military organization and discipline of those upon whom the State has to rely in any case of emergency making it necessary to call its forces into the field. It is impossible to foretell when this emergency will arise, but in view of the present aspect of affairs the ordinary rule of action should be discarded, and the possibility of a danger be held sufficient to exact the best and most efficient measures to place the military forces of the State on the best possible footing. It might perhaps not be considered wise to abolish the militia system altogether.

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but in connection with it the General Assembly might, by suitable enactments, encourage the organization of volunteer companies, batalions and regiments. To do this in a proper way, a fund should be raised, and although the people are ever alive to any new impositions, it is believed that in times of emergency a true patriotism will not shrink from a necessary burthen. Money performs its part in the protection of the people as well as men, and those who do not give the State their services should not object to yield her the small amount necessary to attain the end in view. Many of our citizens would willingly enrol themselves in volunteer companies if much of the expense incident to their proper organization and discipline were borne by the State. A properly organized volunteer force in each county would form the nucleus of an army around which the citizens generally could rally in case of need, and render more effective service than we could expect under the militia laws.

I beg leave to call the attention of the General Assembly to the Act of last session to amend the laws now in force in this State relative to ejectment suits. The fictitious parties are abolished and the declaration is required to contain a simple statement of the cause of action, but no provision is made in reference to the manner of bringing the party defendant into Court. As the law stands, difficulties may arise in practice as to the manner of serving the defendant with notice, and I therefore suggest that the General Assembly should so amend the law as to provide for the issuing and service of process, as in ordinary common law actions.

I would respectfully call the attention of the General Assembly to those provisions of the laws establishing the ad valorem system of taxation, requiring returns to be made of and imposing a tax upon book accounts, as being in many instances unequal. The merchant who has already paid a tax upon his capital, and who, according to the common practice, sells his goods on a credit, in the expectation of realizing his money on the first of January, when the accounts become due, is compelled, if the accounts remain unpaid, to submit to a second tax upon the same capital, without the opportunity of increasing his profits by its re-investment.--Add to this the difficulty of estimating the value of such accounts, many of which are never collected, and it becomes apparent that the law operates with inequality and oftentimes with injustice.--Capital can easily elude the restraints of the law. It may, in a moment, be transferred to those points where the least restrictions are thrown around it. The wisest policy is to encourage its introduction into the State, and leave it as free as possible to seek those channels of trade in which it promises the best returns.

I am, very respectfully, &c.,

M. D. PAPY.

Page 81

HOUSE JOURNAL.

MONDAY, January 7th, 1861.

This being the day to which the House adjourned, the same was called to order by the Speaker, and the roll being called, the following members answered to their names:

Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Bowne, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mizell, Murphy, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Scott, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--29.

So there was a quorum present.

On motion of Mr. Williams, a Committee consisting of Messrs. Williams, Bowne and Hawes, were appointed to make arrangements for the procurement of a suitable room for the sitting of this body in contemplation of the Representative Chamber being occupied by the State Convention.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Hernando, the Speaker appointed a Committee, consisting of Messrs. Holland of Hernando, Vogt and Robinson, to confer with a similar committee appointed by the State Convention, for the purpose of making permanent arrangements for suitable and separate rooms to accommodate the sitting of the Convention and General Assembly at the same time.

On motion of Mr. Williams, the House adjourned until Wednesday morning, at 12 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, January 9th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The journal of Monday was read and approved.

Mr. Blount moved, if concurred in by the Senate, that the House adjourn until Monday next;

Upon which, the yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Love and Coffee, the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Holloman, Mizell, Scott, Stewart and Wilkinson--8.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bowne, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, McKinnon,

Page 82

Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams and Yates--29.

So the motion was lost.

Mr. Haddock moved that the House adjourn until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock;

Upon which, the yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Love and Coffee, the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Bowne, Broxson, Carter, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mays, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Murphy, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--29.

Nays--Messrs. Blount, Coffee, Collins, Hull, Love, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Robinson, Vogt and Williams--11.

So the motion was carried, and the House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

THURSDAY, January 10, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

Mr. Pooser moved that the House adjourn until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

Upon which, the yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Coffee and Williams, the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Lee, Mickler, Murphy, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Scott, Stewart, Vanzant, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--21.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Bowne, Coffee, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Love, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Oliver, Price, Robinson and Williams--13.

So the motion was carried, and the House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

FRIDAY, January 11, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present

The Rev. Mr. Ellis was introduced and officiated as Chaplain, having been selected to fill the vacancy occasioned by

Page 83

the absence and removal of the Rev. J. K. Glover, the former Chaplain.

The Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

Mr. Blount, in pursuance of previous notice, introduced the following bills:

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate and define the duties and liabilities of Railroad Companies in this State;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the acts creating liens in favor of mechanics and others;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the pleading and practice in the Courts of this State;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act fixing the compensation of Auctioneers;

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for filling vacancies in the office of Justice of the Peace; and

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Charter of the Alabama and Florida Railroad Company;

Which were placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Price gave notice that he would on some future day ask leave to introduce a bill to empower William J. Tucker to assume the management of his own estate.

Also, a bill to change the names of certain persons therein specified.

Mr. Vanzant gave notice that he would on some future day ask leave to introduce a bill to empower William F. Williams to assume the management of his own estate.

Also, a bill to change the names of certain persons therein specified.

Mr. Bird gave notice that on some future day he would introduce a bill to allow Morris Leob to assume the management of his own estate.

Mr. Blount moved that the rules be waived to allow him to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola and Mobile Railroad and Manufacturing Company, and also a bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Florida and Alabama Railroad Company:

Which was agreed to, and said bills received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Vanzant introduced a petition from sundry citizens of Columbia county praying that an appropriation of fifteen sections of the lands belonging to the State may be donated to the authorities of said county to aid in building a Court House for the use of said county;

Which was referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

The following reports were received and read:

The Committee appointed by the House to make arrangements

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for the sitting of the House of Representatives during the sitting of the Convention, beg leave to make the following report:

That they have secured the Supreme Court room for the temporary use of the House.

JOS. JOHN WILLIAMS, Chairman.

The Special Committee appointed to consult with a Committee from the Convention in relation to a room for the sitting of that body, beg leave to report that they have consulted with said Committee, and have tendered the use of the Representatives' Hall to that body for their use while in session, which tender has been accepted by the Convention.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman,

D. A. VOGT,

JAMES ROBINSON.

The following communication addressed to the House from M. J. Murphy of Clay county, was received and read:

CAPITOL, TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA,
January 10th, 1861.

HON. JOHN. B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

Sir:--You will please communicate to the House over which you have the honor to preside, that I tender my resignation as a member of the same.

My reasons for so doing are that T. J. Hendricks, Esq., Delegate from Clay county to the State Convention, has this day cast his vote against the passage of the Ordinance of Secession, and he having more recently come from the People of said county than myself, perhaps represents their sentiments more fully than I do; therefore I am unwilling longer to represent them, holding as I do principles so adverse to theirs, as expressed through their Delegate.

By accepting my resignation you will enable the People of said county to elect a Representative more worthy of their confidence, and enable your humble petitioner to seek a sphere in which he will be able to do his country more efficient service.

Very respectfully,

M. J. MURPHY.

After some discussion the paper above was withdrawn until the report of the Committee on Elections concerning the contestation of the seat of said member from Clay should be considered.

Mr. Russell offered the following resolution:

Resolved, The the Committees on the Militia of the House and Senate act in conjunction in considering all bills introduced in either body relative to Military Affairs;

Which was read and adopted.

Page 85

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of William Henry Fitts to William Henry Bull;

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to allow James R. Green, of Gadsden county, to contract and be contracted with;

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph B. Wood, of Columbia county;

Was read the first time, and on motion referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

A bill to be entitled an act to allow Matthew L. McKinney to assume the management of his own estate;

Was read the first time, and on motion referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A Committee from the Senate waited upon the House to inform them that the Committee on the Judiciary of the Senate, if concurred in by the House, would act in conjunction with the Committee of the Judiciary of the House in considering such matters as should be brought before them.

The rule being wavied, Mr. Coffee moved that the Judiciary Committee be a joint Committee of the House to act with a similar Committee on the part of the Senate to transact such matters as may be referred to them;

Which was agreed to.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief A. D. Rogero, Sheriff of St. Johns county,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate resolution for the relief of L. J. Fleming,

Was read the 1st time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Howell A. Baisden, Sheriff and Tax-Collector of Putnam county,

Was read the second time and referred to Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of Escambia county to borrow money to build a Court House and Jail;

To which, after being read a second time, Mr. Wilkinson offered the following amendment: After the words "Escambia county," insert "Santa Rosa county;"

Which, with the bill, was referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Page 86

The following communication was received from the State Convention:

HOUSE OF DELEGATES,
TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Jan'y 11th, 1861.

Hon. Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--By a resolution of this Convention, your honorable body is respectfully invited to attend at the Capitol this day at 1 o'clock, P. M., to witness the ratification of the Ordinance of Secession. Your attendance is respectfully solicited.

Very respectfully,

WILLIAM S. HARRIS,
Secretary.

Which was read and a communication addressed to the Convention informing them that the House would accept their invitation.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the election laws in force in this State,

Was placed back upon its second reading and referred to the Committee on Elections.

A bill to be entitled an act to allow Jefferson Felmer Ault to change his name to Jefferson Felmer Johns,

Was placed back on its second reading and referred to Committee on the Judiciary.

A resolution to pay Benjamin F. Whitner, Jr., for surveying and marking the boundary line between the States of Georgia and Florida,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Claims.

Senate joint resolution in relation to the Comptroller's Office;

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Catharine A. Joiner;

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

On motion of Mr. Mays, the House took a recess until 15 minutes past 1 o'clock.

At the appointed time the House resumed its session.

The rule being waived, Mr. Blount moved that leave be granted the member from Orange to absent himself on to-morrow from the service of this House,

Which was agreed to.

A Committee from the Senate waited upon the House and informed them that they had been appointed to act with a similar Committee if appointed by the House to wait upon the State Convention and inform them that they were now ready to proceed

Page 87

to the Convention and witness the ratification of the Ordinance of Secession in pursuance of the invitation extended to them by said Convention;

Whereupon Messrs. Blount, Mays and Holland were appointed a Committee to act with the Committee of the Senate, who after a short absence reported that they had performed that duty and were discharged.

A bill to be entitled an act providing for a State uniform and flag,

Was read the second time and on motion referred to the Committee on Militia.

The rule being waived, Mr. Blount moved that this House, preceded by the Speaker, do now proceed to witness the ceremony of the ratification of the Ordinance of Secession of this State from the Union of the confederacy once known as the United States of North America, and at the conclusion of that ceremony that this House do return to its chamber;

Which motion was agreed to.

After witnessing the signing and ratification of the Ordinance of Secession, on the East portico of the Capitol, the members of the House, preceded by their Speaker, returned and resumed their session.

On motion of Mr. Wilkinson, the House adjourned until tomorrow morning at 10 o'clock.

SATURDAY, January 12th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

Upon motion of Mr. Williams, the further reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

Notice was given of intention to introduce the following bills at some future day, viz:

By Mr. Carter:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the pilot laws now in force for the port of St. Marks.

By Mr. Hull:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the act of the 4th March, 1841, in relation to the sale of real estate of deceased persons.

By Mr. Love:

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of David McLewis of Gadsden county to that of McDavid Lewis.

By Mr. Howell:

A bill to be entitled an act to permit Erasmus M. Thompson,

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of Hillsborough county, to practice law in the several counties of this State; also,

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Dr. S. B. Todd, of Hillsborough county.

By Mr. Bellamy:

A bill to be entitled an act to allow William R. Taylor to assume the management of his own estate.

By Mr. Russell:

A bill to be entitled an act to encourage the citizens of this State to arm themselves.

By. Mr. Howell:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William H. Fannen.

Mr. Cole moved that the rule be waived, and that he be allowed to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws of this State;

Which was agreed to, and said bill received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Richardson moved that the rule be waived, and that he allowed to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to permanently locate the county site of Volusia;

Which was agreed to, and said bill received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Vogt presented a petition from Marion county, signed by James T. Hopkins and two hundred others, praying for a stay law;

Which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Pooser, from the Committee on Propositions and Grievances, made the following report:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph B. Wood, of Columbia county, have considered the same and recommend its passage with the following amendment: Provided that the said Joseph B. Wood, shall first make affidavit before some legal officer that the State is justly indebted to him in said amount.

J. W. POOSER, Chairman.

Which was received and read.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the pilot laws for the Port of Fernandina,

Was read the second time, and on motion of Mr. Love, the future consideration of the same was postponed until Wednesday next.

Senate resolution for the relief of L. J. Fleming,

Page 89

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Finance and Public Accounts.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize the county of Polk from the counties of Hillsborough and Brevard,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of A. D. Rogero, Sheriff of St. John's county,

Was read a second time, and on motion referred to the Committee on Finance and Public Accounts.

Senate joint resolution in relation to the Comptroller's office,

Was read a second time, and upon motion was laid on the table.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the suspension of specie payments by the Banks of this State and the Agencies of Banks that are engaged in the banking business in this State;

Was, upon motion, placed back upon its second reading, and with the bill to stay Judicial Sales in this State, were referred to the joint committee of the Judiciary of the House and Senate for further consideration.

The rule being waived, upon motion of Mr. Vogt, the petition of sundry citizens of Marion County relative to a stay law was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Upon motion, the rule being waived, Mr. Stewart introduced a bill to be entitled an act to authorize Henry C. Grovenstine to plead and practice law;

Which was received and placed among the orders of the day.

Upon motion the rule being waived, Mr. Richardson introduced a bill to be entitled an act permanently to locate the County Site of Volusia County;

Which on motion of Mr. Love, was read the first and second times by its title and with the petition accompanying the same, referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph B. Wood, of Columbia county,

Was read the second time and the amendment proposed to the same by the Committee on Propositions and Grievances adopted, and the bill ordered for a third reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate and define the duties and liabilities of railroad corporations in this State,

Was read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the acts creating liens in favor of builders, material men, mechanics, laborers and others,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

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A bill to be entitled an act to provide for filling vacancies in the offices of Justices of the Peace in this State,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Alabama and Florida Railroad Company in relation to the election of Directors,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

On motion of Mr. Love, the report of the Committee on Elections, relative to the contested seat of Clay county, was taken up and made the special order of the House.

After some discussion of said report, the same, with all the evidence touching said contested seat, on motion of Mr. Love, was referred to a Select Committee of five.

The Speaker appointed Messrs. Blount, Mays, Hawes, Holland of Hernando and Cole said Committee.

On motion of Mr. Love, the rule was waived and he allowed to introduce the following resolution:

Resolved, That the House inform the Senate that they will be ready on Tuesday, 15th inst., at 12 o'clock, to go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller of Public Accounts for the State of Florida;

Which was adopted, and the same ordered to be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act passed Nov. 21st, 1829, sec. 3d, Thomp. Dig., page 242, fixing the compensation of Auctioneers,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola and Mobile Rail Road and Manufacturing Company,

Which was read the first and second times by its title, and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the pleadings and practice in the Courts of this State,

Was read the first and second times by its title, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Upon motion of Mr. Love, the House adjourned until Monday next, 12 o'clock, M.

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MONDAY, January 14th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Campbell, the reading of the journals of Saturday's proceedings were dispensed with.

Mr. Blount moved that leave of absence from the service of this House be granted to the member from Walton (Mr. McKinnon) for the space of fifteen days;

Which was granted.

Notice was given of intention to introduce the following bills at some future day, viz:

By Mr. Campbell:

A bill to be entitled an act to consolidate the office of Judge of Probate and Clerk of the Circuit Court in the county of Liberty.

By Mr. Oliver:

A bill to be entitled an act authorizing James Addison, a citizen of Leon county, to build a dam across Ocklockonee river for mill and other purposes.

By Mr. Yates:

A bill to be entitled an act to reorganize Brevard county, and for other purposes.

Mr. Newburn, in pursuance of previous notive, introduced a bill to be entitled an act to organize a new county to be called Baker county, with a petition from the citizens of New River county;

Which bill and petition was referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

Mr. Bloxson introduced a petition from W. C. Gillis and a hundred other citizens of Holmes county, praying the location of the Court House at Hewett's Bluff;

Which petition was referred to Committee on Corporations.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 10th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has passed the following Bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to charter the Southern Export and Import Company;

A bill to be entitled an act to make Senean Brown, wife of Henry Brown, a free dealer;

Also, House bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge

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of the Middle Circuit of Florida to hold an extra term of the Circuit Court in Hamilton county.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the House bill which had passed the Senate ordered to be enrolled, and the Senate bills placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 14th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has concurred in the House resolution to elect Attorney General and Comptroller on Tuesday, the 15th instant.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PAKKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read.

The rules being waived, the following bills were introduced without previous notice:

By Mr. Means:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Alachua County Railroad Company.

By Mr. Vanzant:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the criminal laws of this State;

Which bills were read and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Hawes, from the Committee on Schools and Colleges, made the following reports:

The Committee on Schools and Colleges, to whom was referred a bill entitled an act to amend the school laws of Columbia county, beg leave to make the following report, viz:

That they find nothing that is objectionable in the bill, and, as it is entirely local in its application, they see no reason why it may not pass.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read.

Also the following:

The Committee on Schools and Colleges, to whom was referred a bill entitled an act for the relief of Walton county, relative

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to the school fund, beg leave to report that they have had the same under consideration, and recommend its passage.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws,

Was read the first time, and on motion of Mr. Vought was read the second time by its title and referred to Committee on Internal Improvements.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Henry C. Grovenstine to plead and practice law,

Was read the first time, and on motion ordered for a second reading to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize the county of Polk from the counties of Hillsborough and Brevard,

Was read the second time, and on motion referred to a Select Committee, consisting of Messrs. Howell, Yates and Parker.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act passed November 21st, 1829, section 3d, (Thompson's Digest, page 242,) fixing the compensation of auctioneers,

Was read second time by its title, and on motion was referred to the Committee on the Sudiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize a new county to be called Baker county,

Was read the first time, and on motion ordered for a second reading to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to make Senean Brown, wife of Henry Brown, a free dealer,

Was read the first time, and on motion ordered for a second reading to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Walton county, relative to the school fund,

Was read the second time, and on motion to be engrossed for third reading to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Alabama and Florida Railroad Company in relation to the election of Directors,

Was read the second time, and on motion referred to Committee on Corporations.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the school laws for Columbia county,

Was read a second time, and on motion referred to a Select Committee, consisting of Messrs. Vanzant, Hull and Newburn.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the acts creating liens in favor of builders, material men, mechanics, laborers and others,

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Was read a second time, and on motion referred to Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for filling vacancies in the office of Justices of the Peace in this State,

Was read the second time and on motion referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to make constables elected by the people and the mode of taking bonds, &c.,

Was read the first time, and on motion, the rule being waived, was read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Alachua County Railroad Company,

Was read the first time, and on motion, the rule being waived, was read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the criminal laws of this State,

Was read the first time, and on motion was ordered for a second reading to-morrow.

The rule being waived, Mr. Blount moved that the Sergeant-at-Arms of this House (John Kilby) be granted leave of absence from the service of this House for fifteen days, and that the Speaker be authorized to appoint a Sergeant-at-Arms pro tem. during such absence;

Which was agreed to.

On motion of Mr. Campbell, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 11 o'clock.

TUESDAY, January 15, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Russell the reading of the Journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

On motion of Mr. Mays, Mr. Means of Alachua was added to the Standnig Committee on the Judiciary.

Notice was given of intention to introduce the following bills at some future day, viz:

By Mr. Canova:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the German Saving and Building Association of Jacksonville.

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By Mr. Robinson:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Town of Campbelton, of Jackson county; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to incorporate the Town of Marianna, approved Jan. 8th, 1853.

Mr. Mays moved that 80 copies of the bill to be entitled an act to amend the pleading and practice of the Courts of this State, now in the hands of the Judiciary Committee, be printed for the use of this House;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that the bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola & Mobile Railroad and Manufacturing Company be printed, and eighty copies of the same be furnished for the use of the House and Senate;

Which was agreed to.

The following memorials were presented and read:

By Mr. Canova:

A memorial from Davis Floyd praying to be released as surety on a Tax Collector's bond;

By Mr. Love:

A memorial from sundry citizens of Liberty county praying for a division of said county;

Which memorials were referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances, with instructions to report by bill or otherwise.

The rules being waived, in pursuance of previous notice, the following bills were introduced:

By Mr. Oliver:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Addison to construct a dam across Ocklocknee river, for the purpose of erecting a mill.

By Mr. Parker:

A bill to be entitled an act to declare Peas Creek a navigable stream;

Which bills were received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Poser, from the Committee on Propositions and Grievances, made the following report:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Howell A. Barsden, former Sheriff and Tax Collector of Putnam county, beg leave to Report:

That they have had the same under consideration, and recommend the bill to be put upon its passage.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Which was received and read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

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Also the following:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred a petition from sundry persons of Columbia county, praying a donation from the State of fifteen sections of land belonging to the State, for the purpose of building a Court House in said county, and after having duly considered the petition, there being no limitation to the location of the lands, and for other reasons, we deem it inexpedient to report favorably.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Which was read.

Mr. Vogt from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills Report:

The following bill as correctly engrossed, viz: A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Walton county relative to the School Fund. Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was received and read, and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland, from the Committee on Corporations, made the following report:

The Committee on Corporations, having had the bill to be entitled an act to repeal an act authorizing a bridge tax in Walton county under consideration, beg leave to report that they have carefully considered the same and recommend that the bill do not pass.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was received and read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to regulate and define the duties and liabilities of Railroad Companies in this State, having had the same under consideration, beg leave to report, that they have carefully examined and considered said bill, and recommend that it do not pass.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom a House bill entitled an act permanently to locate the county site of Volusia county was referred, beg leave respectfully to report the same as duly considered by them, and in lieu of it report back to the House the following as a substitute.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

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Which was read and the accompanying bill and substitute placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of the county of Escambia to borrow money for the purpose of building a Court House and Jail, with the amendment thereto, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to report the same back to the House with the following additional amendments, to wit:

Insert the word "counties" in every case in which the word "county" occurs in said bill.

And an additional section, to be numbered

SEC. 5. Be it further enacted, That at the next election to be held in the counties aforesaid it shall be the duty of the Judges of Probate thereof to submit the provisions of this act to the voters of said counties, requiring each voter to endorse on the ballot by him deposited his approval or disapproval of the same, and if, upon a canvass of the votes cast, it shall appear that a majority of the legal votes are in favor thereof, then this act shall take effect and be in force, and not sooner.

With these amendments the Committee recommend that the bill do pass.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendments were placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to charter the Southern Export and Import Company, having had the same under consideration, beg leave to report that they have carefully examined said bill, and would recommend that the bill be amended in the following manner, to wit:

After the words "capital stock," in the 12th line of the 6th section, insert the words "as well as the private property of each and every one of the stockholders of said Company."

With this amendment the Committee recommend that the bill do pass.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Bellamy, from the Committee on Finance and Public Accounts, made the following report:

The Committee on Finance and Public Accounts have had under consideration the following bill and resolution, and recommend that they do pass:

Page 98

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of A. D. Rogero, Sheriff of St. Johns county.

A resolution for the relief of L. J. Fleming.

B. W. BELLAMY, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and resolution placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Finance and Public Ats, to whom was referred a bill to to be entitled an act for the relief of Gen. William E. Anderson and others, have had the same under consideration, and report:

That they recommend the passage of the bill, with the following amendment: "Provided that the said accounts shall be audited and allowed as proper and just by the Comptroller."

B. W. BELLAMY, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

The Joint Committee on the Judiciary of the House and Senate made the following report:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to allow Matthew L. McKinney to assume the management of his own estate, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to

REPORT:

That they entertain serious doubt as to the propriety of interfering, by special legislation, with that general rule of the law which prescribes a certain age, twenty-one years, to be attained by persons to entitle them to the full and complete dignity of citizenship. A rule of law so ancient in its origin, and one that has shown, by its operatione and effects, so much wisdom in its conception, should not, in the opinion of your Committee, be broken in upon by special legislation, except for reasons so apparent, and upon facts so evident as to address themselves to the common sense of every one with such force as to give assurance that "the sanctity of the general rule may not be injuriously affected by its violation in the particular instance." Your Committee are not aware that any circumstances exist, in connection with the case referred to them, that should induce them to depart from the old rule, and therefore recommend that the bill do not pass.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

Which was read.

Page 99

A Select Committee, through Mr. Howell, made the following report:

The Select Committee to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to organize the county of Polk from the counties of Hillsborough and Brevard, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me, their Chairman, to report the same with amendments, and recommend the passage of said bill.

Respectfully submitted,

JOSEPH HOWELL, Chairman.

Which was received and read, and said bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

A Select Committee, through Mr. Vanzant, made the following report:

The Committee report that the bill be amended by inserting counties where the word county appears, and Judges of Probate where Judge of Probate appears, and after the word Columbia insert Suwanee, New River, Lafayette, Nassau and Sumpter.

Which was received and read, and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

On motion, the House took a recess for ten minutes.

The House resumed its session at the appointed time.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Call, Chain and McCall, informed the House that the Senate was ready to go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller.

On motion of Mr. Pooser, a Committee of Three were appointed by the House, consisting of Messrs. Pooser, Broxson and Bellamy, to inform the Senate that the House is ready to go into the election of officers.

The Committee having performed their duty, were discharged.

The Senate entered the House, and the President, by request of the Speaker, took the Chair.

The President declared the object of the joint meeting to be to elect an Attorney General and Comptroller of Public Accounts.

The joint meeting proceeded to the election of Attorney General.

Mr. Pooser nominated Mr. T. T. Long, of Nassau county.

Mr. Holland of Hernando nominated Mr. J. B. Galbraith, of Leon county.

The vote was:

FOR MR. GALBRAITH--Senate 8. House--Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Love, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Scott, Williams and Yates--18. Total--26.

FOR MR. LONG--Senate 9. House--Messrs. Bird, Clyatt, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means,

Page 100

Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt and Wilkinson--20. Total--29.

Blank--Senate none. House--Mr. Coffee--1.

The President decided that there was no election, neither of the candidates having received the requisite number of votes.

The joint meeting proceeded to a second ballot.

The vote was:

FOR GALBRAITH--Senate 8. House--Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Love, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Scott, Wells, Williams and Yates--19. Total--27.

FOR LONG--Senate 8. House--Messrs. Bird, Clyatt, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt and Wilkinson--19. Total--27.

Blank--Senate 1. House--Messrs. Coffee and Lee--2.

The President decided that there was no election.

On motion of Mr. Call of the Senate, the joint meeting proceeded to the election of Comptroller of Public Accounts.

Mr. Bowne of Hernando nominated Mr. R. C. Williams of Leon county.

Mr. VanZant nominated Mr. Lewis Pyles of Alachua county.

Mr. Finlayson nominated Mr. William Scott of Jefferson county.

The vote was:

FOR WILLIAMS--Senate 8. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxon, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Oliver, Parker, Robinson, Scott, Williams and Yates--19. Total--27.

FOR PYLES--Senate 8. House--Messrs. Clyatt, Coffee, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt and Wilkinson--18. Total--26.

FOR SCOTT--Senate 1. House--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Russell and Scott--4. Total--5.

BLANK--Senate--None. House--None.

The President decided that there was no election.

The joint meeting proceeded to a second ballot for Comptroller.

The vote was:

FOR WILLIAMS--Senate 7. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Oliver, Parker, Robinson, Scott, Williams and Yates--19. Total--26.

FOR PYLES--Senate 9. House--Messrs. Clyatt, Coffee, Dansby,

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Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt and Wilkinson--18. Total--27.

FOR SCOTT--Senate 1. House--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird and Russell--3. Total--4.

The President decided there was no election.

On motion of Mr. Call of the Senate, the joint meeting adjourned.

Mr. VanZant moved that the House adjourn until to-morrow morning, 11 o'clock;

Upon which motion the yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Love and Pooser, were:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newbern, Parker, Richardson, Stewart, VanZant, Wilkinson and Yates--21.

Nays--Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Bowne, Campbell, Coffee, Dansby, Hull, Love, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Vogt and Williams--16.

So the motion was carried, and the House stood adjourned until to-morrow morning, 11 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, January 16th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Bellamy, the further reading of the Journal of yesterday's proceedings, after certain corrections being made, was dispensed with.

Notice was given of intention to introduce the following bills at some future day, viz:

By Mr. Holland of Hernando:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of the Florida Volunteers and others, who have not been paid for services actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians.

By Mr. Hull:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William G. Parker, Sheriff of Suwannee county.

By Mr. Love:

A bill to be entitled an act to change the times for holding the Circuits Courts in the Middle Judicial Circuit; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the rules of Chancery

Page 102

practice in this State in reference to granting orders of publication to perfect service upon non-residents, &c.

Mr. Love moved that the Speaker be authorized to employ such assistance as may be necessary to bring up the Journals of the House;

Which was agreed to.

The following bills were introduced in pursuance of previous notice, viz:

By Mr. Robinson:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the town of Campbellton of Jackson county.

By Mr. Canova:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Jacksonville Light Infantry of Jacksonville.

By Mr. Price:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize William J. Tucker to assume the management of his own estate; also,

A bill to be entitled an act authorizing and directing the Secretary of State to furnish the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Columbia county with seal of office.

By Mr. Murphy:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Ozias Buddington.

By Mr. Stewart:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize William J. Duncan and Elizabeth Zipperer to establish a toll bridge across the Suwannee and Allapaha rivers;

Which bills were received and placed among the orders of the day.

The following memorials were presented and read:

By Mr. Holland of Hernando:

A memorial from Thomas Law and sundry others, for the relief of Hamilton Kersey; also,

A memorial from B. F. Jackson and sundry others, praying for the relief of Jackson L. Andrews and others, citizens of Hernando county; also,

A memorial from C. R. Alexander and sundry other citizens of Hernando county, praying for the release of John Townsend and others, sureties on a Tax-Collector's bond.

By Mr. Clyatt:

A memorial from James F. Prevatt, former Sheriff and Tax-Collector of Levy county, for relief;

Which memorials were referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances, with instructions to report by bill or otherwise.

The Joint Committee of the House and Senate on the Judiciary made the following report:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred

Page 103

a bill to be entitled an act to provide for filling vacancies in the office of Justice of the Peace, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to

REPORT:

That they have examined the said bill, and do not deem the enactment of such an act as the bill contemplates necessary to the public welfare at present, and therefore return the bill, and recommend that the bill do not pass.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Jefferson Filmer Ault, of New River county, to Jefferson Filmer Johns, have had the same under consideration, and ask leave to

REPORT:

That the legislation provided by the act of 1852, chapter 532, fully embraces the relief sought by this bill. The Committee further report that the 2d section of the bill referred, provides that the name of Benjamin Keyton Durance, of Clay county, be changed to that of Benjamin Keyton Kennedy, and that he be made an heir at law of James H. Kennedy. The Legislature has heretofore provided the manner and form in which persons may be legitimated, and heirship to estate created, through the Courts of the State. They therefore deem the legislation asked for unwise and inexpedient, and recommend that the bill do not pass.

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee,

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which were received and read, and said bills placed among the orders of the day.

The committee on Claims and Accounts through Mr. Hawes, made the following report:

The committee on Claims, to whom was referred a resolution to pay Benjamin F. Whitner for surveying and marking the boundary line between the States of Georgia and Florida, beg leave to report, that they have had the same under consideration and recommend its passage.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was received and the said resolution placed among the orders of the day.

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The committee on Proposition and Grievances, through Mr. Pooser, made the following report:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances having before them an act to be entitled an act to divide New River county, at the centre line of township four, running from east to west across said county, and that a new county be created out of the northern portion thereof, to be called Baker county, and after duly considering the case in all its bearings, have agreed in our report that the bill pass.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Which was received and read and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 16th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act regulating pilots and pilotage of the Bay of Pensacola;

A bill to be entitled an act in relation to the common school fund of Santa Rosa county;

A bill to be entitled an act to empower William H. Webster, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate, and to contract and be contracted with;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road law, and to repeal certain acts relating to Santa Rosa county, herein named; and

A bill to be entitled an act declaring who shall be held and considered as orphans.

Very Respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

A committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Call, Magbee and Walker, waited upon the House and requested the return of the Senate bill entitled an act to amend the Pilot laws for the Port of Fernandina.

The Speaker appointed a committee consisting of Messrs. Coffee, Murphy and Bellamy, to return said bill;

Who reported that they had performed said duty, and were discharged.

The rule, being waived, Mr. Love moved that the petition from sundry citizens of Liberty county be withdrawn from the Committee

Page 105

on Propositions and Grievances and referred to a select committee of five;

Which was agreed to, and Messrs. Love, Campbell, Oliver, Wells and Stewart, were appointed said committee.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to make Senean Brown, wife of Henry Brown, a free dealer,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Henry C. Grovenstine to plead and practice law,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph B. Wood, of Columbia county,

Was read the second time, amendments adopted, and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Howell A. Baisden, former Sheriff and Tax Collector of Putnam county,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act permanently to locate the county site of Volusia county,

Was read the second time, the substitute proposed by the Committee on Corporations adopted, and the bill ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to repeal an act authorizing a bridge tax in Walton county,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the criminal law of this State,

Was read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A Senate bill to be entitled an act authorizing the County Commissioners of Escambia county to borrow money to build a Court House and Jail,

Was read the second time, and, on motion of Mr. Mays, the House resolved itself into Committee of the Whole to take the same into consideration, Mr. Love in the Chair.

After some time spent therein, the Committee rose and reported the bill back as amended, and recommended its passage. The amendment thereto proposed by the Committee on Corporations was adopted and the same ordered to be engrossed and

Page 106

appended, and said bill ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to charter a Southern Export and Import Company,

Was read the second time, and, on motion of Mr. Mays, the House resolved itself into Committee of the Whole to take the same into consideration, Mr. Hawes in the Chair.

After some time spent therein, the Committee rose and reported progress and asked leave to sit again.

The rule being waived, Mr. Love moved that 80 copies of the bill be printed for the use of the House;

Which was agreed to.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. McQueen, Rogers and Baldwin waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had passed the following resolution:

WHEREAS, A monument to the late Captain John Parkhill, who was killed in the service of the State, has been procured by the voluntary subscription of his fellow-soldiers and citizens:

Resolved, That the same be erected in the Capitol Square, under the supervision of Major General G. W. Parkhill, at a point to be chosen by him;

Which, upon the rule being waived, was adopted by the House and the same ordered to be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Stewart moved that the House adjourn until to-morrow morning, 11 o'clock;

Upon which motion the yeas and nays were called for by Messrs. Russell and Oliver, and were:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Richardson, Stewart and Wells--20.

Nays--Messrs. Bowne, Canova, Dansby, Haddock, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--16.

So the House stood adjourned until to-morrow morning, 11 o'clock.

THURSDAY, January 17th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

On motion of Mr. Holloman, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

Notice was given of intention to introduce the following bills at some future day, viz:

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By Mr. Haddock:

A bill to be entitled an act to charter the Bank of Alachua, situated at the city of Fernandina; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to prevent persons from penning or detaining stock without the consent of the owners of Nassau co.

By Mr. Holloman:

A bill to be entitled an act for the protection of slave property.

The following bills were introduced in pursuance of previous notice, viz:

By Mr. Love:

A bill to be entitled an act to change and define the boundary line between the counties of Gadsden and Liberty; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to change the time of holding the Circuit Court of the Middle Circuit of Florida; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to change the Chancery practice in this State in reference to granting orders of publication, &c.

By Mr. Carter:

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate the compensation of pilots at the Port of St. Marks.

By Mr. Holland of Hernando:

Which bills were received and placed among the orders of the day.

The rule being waived, the following bills were introduced without previous notice:

By Mr. Blount:

A bill to be entitled an act to enable rail-road companies to obtain the right of way.

By Mr. Robinson:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to incorporate the town of Marianna, approved January 8th, 1853.

By Mr. VanZant:

A bill to be entitled an act to legalize the acts of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Columbia county and for other purposes.

By Mr.--:

A bill to be entitled an act enlarging the time for making demands on rail-road companies and for other purposes.

Said bills were received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Richardson presented a memorial from sundry citizens of Volusia county for the relief of A. J. Baker, &c.;

Which was received, read and referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances, with instructions to report by bill or otherwise.

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The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, through Mr. Pooser, made the following report:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having before them a memorial or petition for the relief of Joseph F. Prevatt, Sheriff and Tax Collector of Levy county, and after having fully examined the case carefully, we mutually agree that the prayer of the petition should not be granted.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Also the following:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having before them a petition from John Townsend, Cornelias Seals and Elias J. Knight, bondsmen of Ezekiel L. Selph, Tax Collector and Assessor in Hernando county, praying to be relieved from an indebtedness, not stated, subject to said bond, we, the Committee, having weighed all the circumstances embracing the case, to the best of our knowledge, do hereby concur in our opinions that the prayer of the petition should not be granted.

J. H. POOSER, Chairman.

Also the following:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances have taken into consideration a petition for the relief of Enoch H. Anders and William M. Lang, for services rendered in Capt. R. D. Bradley's Company of Mounted Volunteers, beginning with the 22d of July and up the 23d of October, 1849, inclusive, and having carefully examined all the circumstances connected with the case, we are of the opinion that the prayer of the petition should not be granted.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Also the following:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having under consideration a petition for the relief of Hampton Kersey, who served under the command of Capt. E. T. Hendricks, as a mounted volunteer, in 1856 and 1857, and after having examined the case according to the best evidences before us, we do all agree that the petition ought not to be granted.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Also the following:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having before them a memorial for the relief of Davis Floyd of Clay county, security on the bond of Nathan H. Voght, Tax Collector and Assessor of Duval, praying to be relieved of an indebtedness of three thousand dollars, subject to said bond, we, the Committee, having carefully investigated the case before us, do hereby agree not to recommend the prayer of the petition.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

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Which reports were received and read, and upon motion concurred in.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act permanently to locate the County Site of Volusia county;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph B. Wood, of Columbia county;

A bill to be entitled an act to repeal an act authorizing a Bridge Tax in Walton county;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Howel A. Baisden, former Sheriff and Tax Collector of Putnam county;

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties to borrow money to build a Court-House and Jail.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed first among the orders of the day.

The following report was received from the Joint Committee of the Judiciary of the House and Senate:

The Joint Committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the acts creating liens in favor of builders, material men, mechanics, laborers and others, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to report the same back to the House with the following amendments, to-wit:

Strike out from the 13th and 14th lines of the first section, all after the word "labor" to the word "shall," and insert the words "which notice upon being accepted in writing by the said owner, or proprietor, or his agent."

Strike out from the 17th line of the same section, the words "of a copy."

Strike out the entire 5th (fifth) section.

With these amendments the Committee recommend that the bill do pass.

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was read.

The rule being waived, Mr. Love moved the adoption of the following additional Standing Rule of the House:

That all motions made during motion hour of intention to introduce bills, or concerning any bill, and all motions necessary

Page 110

to appear upon the journals during motion hour, or motions to waive the Rule, shall be reduced to writing by the mover and sent to the desk of the Clerk to be read by him, and it shall not be required of the Clerk to enter upon the minutes of the proceedings of the House any motion not so reduced to writing and sent to the desk of the Clerk as aforesaid.

Which was adopted.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 16, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has passed the following Bill, viz:

A bill to be entitled an Act to change the name of Nepcy Williams to that of Nepcy Cheshire.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. McCall, Starke and Walker informed the House that the Senate will be ready at 1 o'clock, P. M., to go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller.

Mr. Means moved that at 10 o'clock to-day the House enter into an election of Comptroller and Attorney General, and that a Committee be appointed to wait upon the Senate and inform them of the same.

The rule upon vote, not being waived, said motion was not acted upon.

Mr. Love moved that the rule be waived, and he be allowed to introduce the following resolution:

Resolved, That the House inform the Senate that they will be ready to-day at one o'clock to go into election of Attorney General and Comptroller of Public Accounts for the State of Florida.

The rule upon vote, not being waived, said resolution was not acted upon.

Mr. Love moved that a Committee be appointed to wait on the Senate and inform them that the House would not concur to go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller at 1 o'clock, P. M.;

Which motion was agreed to.

Whereupon Messrs. Love, Coffee and Blount were appointed said Committee.

The Committee returned and reported that they had performed that duty, and were discharged.

Page 111

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of A. D. Rogero, Sheriff of St. Johns county,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to repeal an act authorizing a bridge tax in Walton county,

Was placed back on its second reading and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

A bill to be entitled an act to allow Matthew L. McKinney to assume the management of his own estate,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Gen. William E. Anderson and others,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Finance and Public Accounts.

Senate resolution for the relief of L. I. Fleming,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize the county of Polk from the counties of Hillsborongh and Brevard;

Which on motion, was laid on the table.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the school laws of Columbia county,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate and define the duties and liabilities of Railroad Companies in this State;

Which on motion, was laid on the table.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Addison to construct a dam across the Ocklockonee river for the purpose of erecting a mill,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title, and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to declare Peas Creek a navigable stream,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to Incorporate the town of Campbellton in Jackson county;

Rule waived, read the first and second times by its title, and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Jacksonville Light Infantry of Jacksonville;

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Rule waived, read the first time by its title, and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow,

Senate bill to be entitled an act to empower William H. Webster, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate and to contract and be contracted with;

Rule waived, read the first time by its title, and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Ozias Buddington,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize William J. J. Duncan and Elizabeth Zipperer to establish a toll bridge across the Suwannee and Alapaha rivers;

Which was read the first time, rules waived, read a second time by its title, and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to empower Wm. J. Tucker to assume the management of his own estate,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act authorizing and directing the Secretary of State to furnish the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Columbia county with a seal of office,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to make Senean Brown, wife of Henry Brown, a free dealer;

Which, upon motion, was laid upon the table.

Senate bill to be entitled an act placing certain minor children under the guardianship and protection of the Probate Court,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties to borrow money to build a Court House and Jail,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Scott, Stewart, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--35.

Nays--Messrs. Mays, Oliver, Russell and VanZant--4.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph B. Wood of Columbia county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Winkinson and Yates--36.

Nays--Messrs. Holloman and Scott--2.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to permanently locate the county site of Volusia county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--37.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Howell A. Baisden, former Sheriff and Tax Collector of Putnam county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--37.

Nay--Mr. Holloman--1

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the acts creating liens in favor of builders, material men, mechanics, laborers and others;

Was read a second time and the amendments proposed by the Joint Judiciary Committee adopted, and the bill ordered to be engrossed for a third reaning on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Nepcy Williams to Nepcy Cheshire;

Page 114

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to regulate pilots and pilotage of the Bay of Pensacola;

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act in relation to the common school fund of Santa Rosa county;

Rule waived, read first time by its title and ordered for second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to fill vacancies in the offices of Justices of the Peace,

Was read the second time, and on motion was laid upon the table.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the road law and to repeal a certain act relating to Santa Rosa county therein named;

Rule waived, read first time by its title and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize a new county to be called the county of Baker,

Was read the second time, and on motion was laid on the table.

A bill to be entitled an act to allow Jefferson Filmer Ault to change his name to Jefferson Filmer Johns,

Was read the second time, and on motion was laid on the table.

On motion of Mr. Carter, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 11 o'clock.

FRIDAY, January 18, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Bird, the reading of the Journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with, after certain corrections were made therein.

Notice was given of intention to introduce the following bills at some future day:

By Mr. Carter:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of G. G. Holt and Thaddeus Rees, of Wakulla county.

By Mr. Holland of Hernando:

Page 115

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Spencer T. Thomas, of Hernando county.

By Mr. Hull:

A bill to be entitled an act to allow Lewis Clarke, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate.

By Mr. Holland of Hernando:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of John Townsend, Cornelius Seals and Elias J. Knight, bondsmen of Ezekiel L. Selph, Tax Collector of and Assessor for Hernando county.

In pursuance of previous notice, the following bills were introduced:

By Mr. Howell:

A bill to be entitled an act to permit Erasmus M. Thompson, of Hillsborough county, to practice law in the several counties in this State; also,

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William H. Fannin.

By Mr. Russell:

A bill to be entitled an act to encourage the citizens of this State in procuring arms and accoutrements, and for other purposes.

By Mr. Newburn:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge of Probate and County Commissioners of New River county to draw and select the Grand Jurors from such persons as are qualified to serve as jurors.

By Mr. VanZant:

A bill to be entitled an act to empower William F. Williams to assume the management of his own estate.

Said bills were received and placed among the orders of the day.

The rule being waived, the following bills were introduced without previous notice:

By Mr. Williams:

A bill to be entitled an act to grant certain privileges to the Leon Artillery Company, and to provide an armory and accoutrements for the same.

By Mr. Love:

A bill to be entitled an act concerning the office of Clerk of the Supreme Courts of this State.

Said bills were received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that a bill to be entitled an act to organize the county of Polk from the counties of Hillsborough and Brevard; also, a bill to be entitled an act to organize a new county to be called the county of Baker, be taken from the table and placed among the orders of the day;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Blount moved, that the bill entitled an act to regulate the

Page 116

duties and liabilities of Railroad Companies be taken from the table and placed among the orders of the day;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Mays moved that leave of absence be granted to Messrs. Stewart of Hamilton, Hull of Columbia and Price of Columbia counties until Tuesday next 1 o'clock;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Hull moved that leave of absence from this House be granted to Mr. Love of Gadsden until 12 o'clock, Monday next;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Bellamy offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That the House (with the consent of the Senate) will go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller of Public Accounts at half past 7 o'clock P. M. on Tuesday, January 22d inst.;

Upon which the yeas and nays were called for and were:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Newburn, Parker, Price, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wells and Yates--23.

Nays--Messrs. Bowne, Canova, Clyatt, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Oliver, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Vogt and Williams--19.

So the resolution was adopted.

On motion of Mr. Bird, a Committee was appointed to convey said resolution to the Senate and inform them of its adoption.

The Speaker appointed Messrs. Bird, Bellamy and Robinson said Committee.

The committee returned and reported that they had performed their duty and were discharged.

Mr. Canova offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That the Comptroller of this State be and he is hereby requested to render statements to the General Assembly of the condition of the several Banks organized and in operation within this State under the act authorizing the same;

Which was adopted and the same ordered to be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Addison to construct a dam across the Ocklockonee river for the purpose of erecting a mill;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of A. D. Rogero, Sheriff of St. Johns county;

Page 117

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the School Laws of Columbia county;

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize William J. J. Duncan and Elizabeth Zipperer to establish a toll bridge across the Suwannee and Alapaha rivers;

A bill to be entitled an act to allow Mathew L. McKinney to assume the management of his own estate.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was received and read and the accompanying bills placed first among the orders of the day.

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary of the House and Senate made the following report:

The Joint Committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to make Constables elective by the people, and the mode of taking bonds, &c., have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report the accompanying bill as a substitute for the bill referred to them, and recommend its passage.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to incorporate the Alachua Railroad Company, ask leave to return the said bill to the House and respectfully suggest its reference to the Committee on Corporations.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the Criminal law of the State, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to

REPORT:

That they recommend that the second section of said bill be struck out, and with this amendment that the bill be passed.

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Also the following:

Page 118

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend an act, passed November 21st, 1829, section 3d, (Thompson's Digest, page 242,) fixing the compensation of Auctioneers, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to

REPORT:

That they do not think it advisable to make the changes in the law respecting Auctioneers which the bill contemplates, and therefore return the bill to the House and recommend that it do not pass.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which were received and read, and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

The Committee on Claims, through Mr. Hawes, made the following report:

The Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the memorial of John M. Irwin, Surveyor and Engineer, asking to be remunerated for a survey of the Ocklawaha River, in this State, having duly considered the same, beg leave to

REPORT:

That the services rendered in the said survey by the petitioner, and for which he asks remuneration, were at the time entirely unauthorized by the State or any of its officers, and consequently entitle him to no compensation from this Legislature. But it is due to the petitioner to state that, subsequently the Legislature of this State adopted a resolution, authorizing and requesting the Trustees of the Internal Improvement Fund to employ a competent Engineer to survey the said Ocklawaha river, and that the Governor, instead of incurring the expense of a new survey of that river, used the survey of the petitioner as the basis of his message to the Legislature on that subject. Your Committee, therefore, have deemed it best to present these facts to the House, and leave the whole matter to the sense of justice and liberality of the Legislature.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was received and read.

The Committee on Internal Improvements, through Mr. Canova, made the following report:

The Committee on Internal Improvements to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the Road laws, beg

Page 119

leave respectfully to report the same back to the House without amendment, and recommend its passage.

A. A. CANOVA, Chairman.

Which was received and read, and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, through Mr. Pooser, made the following report:

We, the Committee on Propositions and Grievances, after having advisedly examined the claim of the petitioners of Volusia county, recommend that the above bill be put upon its passage.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Which was received and read and the reported bill placed among the orders of the day.

The following report was received from the Select Committee on the memorial from Liberty county:

The special committee, to whom was referred the petition of sundry citizens of Liberty county praying to change the boundary lines between the counties of Liberty and Gadsden, so as to include them in Gadsden county, have had the same under consideration and beg leave to

REPORT:

That they deem the prayer of the petitioners reasonable and just, and recommend that a bill be passed in accordance with the prayer of said petitioners.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

S. B. LOVE,
H. H. WELLS,
A. OLIVER,
J. Q. STEWART.

Mr. Campbell made the following minority report:

The undersigned being compelled to differ in opinion from the views expressed in the majority report of the Special Committee, appointed to take under consideration a petition from several citizens of Liberty County, praying that a change be made in boundary line, beg leave to

REPORT:

That several of the petitioners are not citizens of Liberty county, and several others who signed the petition signed a former petition to be cut off from Gadsden county, making the reasons assigned for signing the petition neither reasonable nor just, is of opinion that the petition should not be granted.

ARCH'D CAMPBELL.

Which were read.

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The rule being waived, Mr. Williams offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That on and after Tuesday the 22nd inst., the daily sittings of this House shall be as follows: From 10½ A. M. to 1½ P. M., and from 3½ P. M. to 5½ P. M.;

Which, upon motion of Mr. Love, was laid upon the table until Tuesday next.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 17th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--I am instructed to return Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the pilot laws for the Port of Fernandina.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PAKKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 17th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has passed the following bill with amendments, viz:

House bill to be entitled an act to establish the Records of Columbia county and for other purposes.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read and the amendments proposed by the Senate adopted, and the bill with amendments ordered to be enrolled.

The Select Committee on the contested seat from Clay county made the following report:

The Select Committee to whom was referred the contested election case from the county of Clay, have had the same under consideration, and ask leave to

REPORT:

That from a full and careful examination of all the testimony adduced before them, they are of opinion that B. Frisbee, Esq., has been legally elected by a majority of two votes, and is therefore

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entitled to the seat in this House now held by Miles S. Murphy, Esq.

All of which is respectfull submitted,

ALEX. C. BLOUNT,

G. E. HAWES,

A. S. COLE,

D. H. MAYS,

N. W. HOLLAND.

Which was received and read, and on motion to concur in the same, the yeas and nays were call for, and were:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Parker, Vogt and Yates--20.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Broxson, Canova, Clyatt, Dansby, Holland of Hernando, Hull, Lee, Love, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wells and Williams--20.

So the report was not concurred in.

Mr. Holland of Hernando offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That in the contested election from Clay county, the seat be declared vacant, and that the Judge of Probate of said county be required to order a new election to fill said vacancy.

Upon which the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Collins, Dansby, Holland of Hernando, Hull, Lee, Love, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wells and Williams--23.

Nays--Messrs. Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Robinson, Vogt and Yates--17.

So the resolution was adopted, and the seat from Clay county declared vacant.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to allow Matthew L. McKinney to assume the management of his own estate,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, McCormick, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Price, Richardson, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wells and Yates--27.

Nays--Messrs. Campbell, Carter, Mays, Means, Pooser, Robinson, Russell, Vogt and Williams--9.

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So the bill passed, title as stated and ordered to be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Addison to construct a dam across the Ocklocknee river for the purpose of erecting a mill,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt and Williams--30.

Nays--Messrs. Campbell, Holloman, Love and Scott--4.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of A. D. Rogero, Sheriff of St. Johns county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wells and Yates--33.

Nay--Mr. Haddock--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Williams moved that the House adjourn until Monday, 12 o'clock, M.;

Upon which the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Carter, Coffee, Cole, Holloman, Love, Mays, Means, Scott, Stewart, VanZant and Williams--11.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, McCormick, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Vogt, Wells and Yates--30.

So the motion was lost.

On motion of Mr. Haddock, the House adjourned until tomorrow morning, 10 o'clock.

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SATURDAY, January 19th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

Upon motion of Mr. Bird, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with, after certain corrections were made therein.

Notice was given of intention to introduce the following bills at some future day, viz:

By Mr. Haddock:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws of Nassau county.

By Mr. Carter:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of John Stevens.

Mr. Blount moved that the bill to be entitled an act to make Senean Brown, wife of Henry Brown, a free dealer, be taken from the table and placed among the orders of the day;

Which was agreed to.

In pursuance of previous notice the following bill was introduced:

By Mr. Carter:

A bill entitled an act for the relief of George G. Holt and Thaddeus Reece, of Wakulla county;

Which was read, and on motion placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that a Select Committee be appointed to report a bill to this House, providing for a uniform for the troops of Florida, and that the Senate be requested to appoint a Committee to act with the House Committee, as a Joint and Select Committee;

Which motion was adopted, and Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Coffee, Bird, Russell and Wells were appointed said Committee.

Mr. Pooser gave notice that he would, on some future day, ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to change the name of the Big Spring creek, in Jackson county, to Spring river, and make the same a navigable stream.

Mr. Coffee offered the following resolution:

Be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Florida in General Assembly convened, That the two bodies adjourn on Saturday, 26th instant;

Which was laid on the table.

Mr. Means offered the following resolution:

Be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Florida in General Assembly convened, That the Comptroller and Treasurer be, and they are hereby required to

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audit and to pay the account of B. Frisbee, late contestant for the seat of Clay county in this House, at the rate of per diem and mileage allowed the members of this House, up to the 18th day of January, 1861, and that M. S. Murphy be allowed the same pay for his services in this House up to same date.

Which was read the first time, rule waived, read a second and third times, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, VanZant, Vogt, Wilkinson and Yates--30.

Nays--None.

So the resolution passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Canova offered the following resolution:

Be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Florida in General Assembly convened, That the sum of two hundred and ten ($210) dollars be, and the same is hereby allowed to John M. Irwin, for services rendered in surveying the Ocklawaha river, and that the Comptroller of the State is authorized to draw his warrant on the Treasurer for said amount.

Which was read, and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

Mr. Holland, from the Committee on Corporations, made the following report:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill entitled an act to repeal an act authorizing a bridge tax in Walton county, beg leave to report that they have carefully considered said hill, and being convinced that no one can be injured thereby, respectfully recommend that the bill do pass.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola and Mobile Railroad and Manufacturing Company, have had the same under consideration, and ask leave to

REPORT:

That, upon an examination of the said bill, they perceive that it is intended to substitute the name of the "Pensacola and Mobile Railroad and Manufacturing Company" for that of the "Junction and Perdido Railroad Company," a Company now in existence under the act of 1849, providing for the formation of associations for purposes of internal improvement, and which Company

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has now progressing and in operation a large portion of their works and have expended large sums of money upon the same under the franchises granted by said act. The Committee therefore recommend that the bill do pass, with the following amendment, to wit: Strike out of the 9th line of the 7th section the words "or of the United States."

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Florida and Alabama Railroad Company in relation to the election of Directors, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to report the same back to the House with the recommendation that said bill do pass.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which were read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Bird, from the Committee on Elections, made the following report:

The Committee on Elections, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the Election laws in force in this State, have had the same under consideration and

REPORT:

That they deem the amendment proposed by the bill a judicious one, and would ask leave to return the same to the House and recommend its passage.

P. B. BIRD, Chairman.

Which was read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The Select Committee to whom was referred the memorial of sundry citizens of Escambia county made the following report:

The Committee to whom was referred the memorial of sundry citizens of Escambia county, praying that Saturne Rainey, and others, be exempt from the operation of the act of 1856, Chapters 794 and 795, have had the same under consideration and beg leave to

REPORT:

That it appears from the facts set forth in the memorial that most of the persons in whose favor this memorial has been presented, or their immediate ancestors, were inhabitants of the Territory of Florida at the time of its cession to the United States by the crown of Spain; that under the treaty of settlement and limits entered into between the United States and his Catholic Majisty, the King of Spain, and ratified by the U. States February

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19th, 1821, it is provided in the sixth Article of the same that "The inhabitants of the territories which his Catholic Majisty cedes to the United States by this treaty, shall be incorporated in the Union of the United States as soon as may be consistent with the principles of the Federal Constitution, and admitted to the enjoyment of all the privileges, rights and immunities of the citizens of the United States." This being a treaty stipulation solemnly entered into between the high contracting powers thereto, creating vested rights in these persons, sound policy as well as the obligations of justice, require that it should be inviolably carried out and performed, that no act should be done by this State, in her sovereign capacity, which would tarnish her honor, as nothing adds so much to the glory of a nation as the reputation of an inviolable fidelity in the performance of promises. We therefore recommend that the accompanying bill do pass, in accordance with the prayer of the memorialists.

ALEX. C. BLOUNT,

D. A. VOGT,

AVIN OLIVER.

Which was received and read and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the town of Campbellton of Jackson county;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the acts creating liens in favor of builders, material men, mechanics, laborers and others.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was received and read, and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the School laws of Columbia, Suwannee, New River, Lafayette, Sumter and Nassau counties,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, VanZant, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--32.

Nays--None.

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So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Engrossed bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the town of Campbellton in Jackson county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--32.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the time of holding the Circuit Courts of the Middle Judicial Circuit of Florida,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the Chancery practice in this State in reference to granting orders of publication, &c.,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act enlarging the time for making demands on Railroad Companies for stock killed or injured and for other purposes,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate the compensation of Pilots at the Port of St. Marks,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to enable Railroad Companies to obtain the right of way,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to incorporate the town of Marianna,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to legalize the acts of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Columbia county and for other purposes,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of T. C. Bolling, administrator of R. A. Child, deceased,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by

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its title, and referred to the Committee on Claims and Accounts.

A bill to be entitled an act to declare Peas Creek a navigable stream,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Jacksonville Light Infantry of Jacksonville,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on Monday.

Senate resolution for the relief of L. I. Fleming,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Mays, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, VanZant, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--27.

Nay--Mr. Haddock--1.

So said resolution passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to empower William H. Webster, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate, and to contract and be contracted with,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on Monday.

A petition from sundry citizens of South Florida respecting the fisheries, was presented by the Speaker;

Which was read, and the petition with the accompanying bill referred to a Select Committee consisting of Messrs. Parker, Howell, Robinson, Canova, Bowne and Clyatt.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Ozias Buddington,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Claims and Accounts.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the pay of the Florida Volunteers and others who have not been paid for services actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians,

Was read the first time, and, on motion of Mr. Holland of Hernando, was read a second time by its title and referred to a Select Committee, consisting of Messrs. Blount, Parker and Lee.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the road law and to repeal a certain act relating to Santa Rosa county therein named,

Was read a second time and referred to the Committee on Internal Improvements.

On motion of Mr. Canova, the rules were waived and a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the German Savings and Building Association,

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Was taken up and the bill read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act declaring who shall be held and considered as orphans,

Was read a second time and ordered for a third reading on Monday.

Senate bill to be entitled an act in relation to the common school fund of Santa Rosa county,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Schools and Colleges.

A bill to be entitled an act concerning the office of the Clerk of the Supreme Court of this State,

Was read the first and second time by its title, the rule being waived, and referred to the Joint Committee on the Judiciary.

On motion, the rules were waived, and

A bill to be entitled an act to grant certain privileges to the Leon Artillery, and to provide an armory and accoutrements for the same,

Was read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on Militia.

A bill to be entitled an act to reorganize the county of Brevard, and for other purposes,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

Senate bill entitled an act to amend an act regulating pilots and pilotage of the bay of Pensacola,

Was read a second time, when

Mr. Blount offered an amendment to strike out the 7th section of the bill;

Which was adopted, and the bill ordered for a third reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Jacksonville Light Infantry of Jacksonville,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Militia.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act passed Nov. 21st, 1829, Sec. 3, (Thompson's Digest, page 242,) fixing the compensation of Auctioneers,

Was read the second time, and on motion of Mr. Holloman, was indefinitely postponed.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge of Probate and County Commissioners of New River county to draw and select the grand jurors from such persons as are qualified to serve as jurors,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

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On motion of Mr. Williams, the rule was waived, and Messrs. Holland of Franklin and Coffee were added to the Committee on Militia.

A bill to be entitled an act to charter the Southern Export and Import Company,

Was read the second time, and on motion, the House went into Committee of the Whole on said bill, Mr. Holland of Franklin in the Chair.

After some time spent therein, the Committee rose and reported the bill back to the House as amended and recommended its passage;

Which amendments were concurred in by the House, and the bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on Monday.

On motion of Mr. Bird, the House adjourned until Monday next, 12 o'clock M.

MONDAY, January 21st, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Mickler, the reading of the proceedings of Saturday was dispensed with.

The following bills were introduced without previous notice, viz:

By Mr. Blount:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to organize the Supreme Court of this State.

By Mr. Pooser:

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Big Spring Creek in Jackson county to Spring River, and make the same a navigable stream.

By Mr. Holland of Franklin:

A bill to be entitled an act respecting the sale of wines and spiritous liquors to slaves or free persons of color in the city of Apalachicola;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Clinton Thigpen;

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate an Insurance Company in the city of Apalachicola, to be called the Florida Home Insurance Company; also,

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the admission of Attorneys and Counsellors at Law in the Courts of the State of Florida;

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Which bills were receibed and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following resolution:

Resolved,The a Joint and Select Committee of three members be appointed by the House to act with a like Committee from the Senate to report a bill providing for Finances for this State; and that said Committee be instructed to invite gentlemen of financial abilities to appear before said Committee and confer with them for the best interest of the State; and the Treasurer and Comptroller are requested to furnish said Joint Committee with any information which they may require;

Which was adopted, and a Committee consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Robinson and Howell were appointed to inform the Senate of its adoption.

Mr. Blount, from a Select Committee, made the following report:

The Select Committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of the Florida Volunteers and others who have not been paid for service actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to

REPORT:

That they recommend that the entire fifth section be stricken from the said bill and the following be substituted therefor, to-wit:

SEC. 5. Be it further enacted, That there shall be made before the Judge of Probate satisfactory proof that the person or persons applying for the benefit of this act has or have actually rendered the service of the kind and for the time specified; to which the said Judge of Probate is required to certify the same, and to affix the proper seal of his office; upon the production of which certificate the Comptroller shall issue his warrants or script as aforesaid.

With this amendment the committee recommend that the bill do pass.

All of which is most respectfully submitted.

ALEX. C. BLOUNT,
JOHN PARKER,
JOSIAH A. LEE.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to allow A. J. Baker, of the county of Volusia, to practice medicine in said county,

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Was read the first time, the rule waived, read a second time by its title, and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Saturne Remerez and others, inhabitants of the county of Escambia,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the rule be waived to allow him to introduce a bill to be entitled an act requiring the Judges of the Supreme Court to hold a term of said Court at Pensacola;

Which was agreed to, and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to aid the citizens of this State in procuring arms and accoutrements, and for other purposes,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on Militia.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William H. Fannin,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on Claims.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Erasmus M. Thompson, of Hillsborough county, to practice law in the several courts of this State,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 18th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to facilitate the Express business;

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Thomas Jefferson Danford to Thomas Jefferson Cook and for other purposes; and

A bill to be entitled an act to alter the majority of women.

Very Respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the pilot laws of the port of Fernandina,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title, and on motion, referred to a Select Committee consisting of Messrs. Haddock, Blount and Love.

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Mr. Scott, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bill as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to charter the Southern Export and Import Company.

Respectfully submitted,

WM. H. SCOTT, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that the rules be waived in order that he, according to previous notice, be allowed to introduce

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Spencer T. Thomas of Hernando county;

Which was agreed to, and the bill introduced and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Williams moved that the rules be waived and he be allow-to introduce

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Maria de los Dolores Justiniani and Maria Isabel Justiniani;

Which was agreed to, and the bill introduced and placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of George G. Holt and Thaddeus Reece, of Wakulla county;

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to make Senean Brown, wife of Henry Brown, a free dealer;

Was read a third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Love, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--18.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Mays, Means, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott and Williams--14.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that the rule be waived, and that a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola and Mobile Rail Road and Manufacturing Company be read a second and third time by its title and put upon its passage;

Which was agreed to, and said bill taken up, read a first and second time, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of

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Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson aud Yates--29.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to repeal an act authorizing a bridge tax in Walton county,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second and third time by its title, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Mays, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Alabama and Florida Railroad Company in relation to the election of Directors,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the election laws in force in this State,

Was read a second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act authorizing and directing the Secretary of State to furnish the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Columbia county with a seal of office,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read the third time by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Lee, Love, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--27.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Road Laws, &c.;

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act act to incorporate the Town of Campbellton of Jackson County;

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Rules waived, read a third time by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, McKinnon, Means, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--27.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act creating liens in favor of builders, material-men, mechanics, laborers, and others;

Rules waived, read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--27.

Nay--Mr. Haddock--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to change and define the boundary line between the counties of Gadsden and Liberty;

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 21st, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following resolution, viz: Resolution for the relief of B. Frisbee and M. S. Murphy.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was received and read and the accompanying resolution placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to empower William H. Webster, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate and to contract and be contracted with,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bowne, Broxson, Hawes, Love, Parker and Wilkinson--6.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Haddock,

Page 136

Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Wells, Williams and Yates--20.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the Chancery practice in this State in reference to granting orders of publication, &c.,

Was read the second time and on motion referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act enlarging the time for making demands on railroad companies for stock killed and injured and for other purposes,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act declaring who shall be held and considered as orphans,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--31.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to reorganize the county of Brevard, and for other purposes,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--29.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act regulating Pilots and Pilotage in the port of Pensacola,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means,

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Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--28.

Nay--Mr. Love--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of the Florida Volunteers and others who have not been paid for services actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians,

Was read the second time and the amendment proposed there-to by the Select Committee adopted, and said bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Thomas J. Danford to Thomas Jefferson Cook, and for other purposes,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the time of holding the Circuit Courts of the Middle Circuit of Florida,

Was read a second time, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate the compensation of Pilots at the Port of St. Marks,

Was read the first time, and referred to the same Select Committee to which a bill to be entitled an act regulating Pilots and Pilotage at the Port of Fernandina was referred.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to incorporate the Town of Marianna, approved Jan. 8th, 1853;

Rule waived, read a second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

A bill to be entitled an act to enable Railroad Companies to obtain the right of way,

Was read the second time, and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

A bill to be entitled an act requiring the Judges of the Supreme Court to hold a term of said Court at Pensacola;

Rule waived, read the first and second times by its title, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to alter the majority of women,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to facilitate the express business,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Maria los Dolores Justiniani and Maria Isabel Justiniana,

Page 138

Was read the first and second times by its title, and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to organize the Supreme Court of this State,

Was read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Spencer T. Thomas of Hernando county;

Rules waived, read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on Claims.

The following communication was received from the Comptroller:

COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE,
TALLAHASSEE, Jan 21st, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: I have the honor herewith to transmit to the House of Representatives a statement of the Banks in this State, in accordance with the above resolution.

Respectfully,

R. C. WILLIAMS,
Comptroller.

STATEMENT

By the BANK OF ST. JOHNS, Jacksonville, Fla., January 1st, 1861, made in accordance with chapter 480, sections 26 and 27 of the Laws of Florida.

First--Capital stock certified, am't, . . . . . $125,000 00
Second--Value of real estate, . . . . . None.
Third--Shares of stock held, . . . . . None.
Fourth--Debts owing association, am'ts specified, . . . . . $84,671 61
12,468 40
97,140 01
Fifth--Debts owing by the association, amounts specified, . . . . . 46,258 29
6 50
46,264 79
Sixth--Debts not acknowledged, . . . . . None.
Seventh--Amount bound for security, . . . . . None.
Eighth--Amount of notes and circulation, and of loans and discounts, and amount of specie on hand:
Circulation, . . . . . 51,150 00
Loans and discount, . . . . . 84,671 61
Specie, . . . . . 15,021 24
Ninth--Amount July 1st, 1860, as specified:
Circulation, . . . . . 58,230 00
Specie, . . . . . 4,951 73
Page 139
Bills of other Banks, . . . . . 3,401 00
Due from other Banks, . . . . . 16,566 67
Loans and discounts, . . . . . 88,321 77
Tenth--Amount of loss, . . . . . None.
Eleventh--Description of public securities deposited with Comptroller as security for notes issued, par value:
Columbia county bonds, 8 per cent, . . . . . 73,550 00
City of Jacksonville bonds, 8 per cent., . . . . . 21,450 00
F. A. & G. C. Railroad 1st mortgage bonds, 7 per cent., . . . . . 30,000 00
125,000 00

Coupons paid to stockholders direct.

Signed,
A. M. REED, President.

Signed, J. H. H. BOURS, Cash'r.

JACKSONVILLE, E. FLA., Jan'y 1st, 1861.

Sworn to and subscribed before me this first day of January, A. D. 1861.

Signed, I. P. BOUSE,
Notary Public.

COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE, Jan'y 19th, 1861.

I do hereby certify, that the foregoing is a true and correct copy from the original on file in the Comptroller's office.

R. C. WILLIAMS,
Compt'r.

(COPY.)
ANNUAL STATEMENT

Of the STATE BANK OF FLORIDA, made in conformity with Act of Legislature, viz: "An Act to authorize the Business of Banking," sections 26 and 27 of said Act.

First--Amount of capital stock, . . . . . $300,000 00
Second--Value of real estate owned by Bank, . . . . . None.
Third--Shares of stock held as collateral, . . . . . None.
Fourth--Amount of debts due to the Bank, viz:
From Banks--Bank of America, . . . . . 2,087 75
Bank of Commerce, . . . . . 6,431 75
Bank of Charleston, . . . . . 163 14
Bank of Middle Georgia, . . . . . 6,072 13
From notes and bills of exchange, . . . . . 457,849 94
Fifth--Amount of debts owing by the Bank, viz:
On demand--Importers and Traders Bank, . . . . . 29,712 18
Depositors and others, . . . . . 71,560 96
Capital stock and profits on hand, . . . . . 338,175 74
Sixth--Amount of claims against the Bank not acknowledged, . . . . . None.
Seventh--Amount for which the Bank is bound as surety, . . . . . None.
Eighth--Amount of notes in circulation, . . . . . 85,265 00
Amount of loans and discounts, . . . . . 457,849 94
Amount of specie on hand, . . . . . 29,050 90
Ninth--Amount of circulation July 1st, 1860, . . . . . 86,350 00
Page 140
Am't loans and discounts July 1st, 1860, . . . . . 425,392 93
Am't specie July 1st, 1860, . . . . . 32,481 44
Tenth--Am't of losses, . . . . . None.
Am't dividends paid since Jan'y 1, 1860, . . . . . 20,000 00
Eleventh--Am't of bonds, public stocks deposited with Comptroller, viz:
Jefferson county bonds, . . . . . 60,950 00
Madison county bonds, . . . . . 14,300 00
Leon county bonds, . . . . . 12,600 00
Pensacola & Georgia Railroad bonds, . . . . . 58,200 00
Tallahassee Railroad bonds, . . . . . 76,700 00
Interest on all of above bonds paid as due.
The estimated value of the above bonds is, . . . . . 185,000 00

(E. & O. E.) Signed, WM. BAILEY, President.

W. R. PETTES, Cash'r.

TALLAHASSEE, January 1st, 1861.

Sworn to and subscribed before me this 19th day of January, 1861.

ANDREW J. HUDSON,
Notary Public.

I do hereby certify that the within is a true copy from the original on file in the Comptroller's office this 19th day of January, A. D. 1861.

R. C. WILLIAMS,
Comptroller.

Bank of Fernandina.--No Report.

Which was read and 80 copies ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that a Select Committee of one member from each sea port town and city in this State be appointed, to report a bill to this House regulating the duties and appointments of pilots, and a form of oath to be taken by pilots.

Which motion was agreed to.

Mr. Haddock moved that all bills relating to Pilotage be placed in the hands of the Committee to be appointed by the Speaker in pursuance of Mr. Holland's motion;

Which was agreed to and the reference ordered to be made.

On motion of Mr. Means, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 11 o'clock.

Page 141

TUESDAY, January 22, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Bird, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

On motion of Mr. Love, Mr. Holland of Hernando was excused from further attendance on the House until Wednesday, 30th inst.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the rule be waived, and he be allowed to introduce the following bills without previous notice, and that said bills be made the special order of the day:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Harbor and Bay of Apalachicola; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the tax laws of this State;

Which motion was agreed to, and said bills received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Clyatt moved that the rules be waived and he be allowed to introduce without previous notice a bill to be entitled an act to locate the county site of Levy county;

Which was agreed to, and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Coffee moved that the resolution for the relief of B. F. Whitner be taken up and placed first among the orders of the day, after the bills just introduced and made the special order by Mr. Holland of Franklin;

Which was agreed to, and said resolution placed among the orders of the day.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Call, McQueen and Bowers waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had concurred in the House resolution to go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller of Public Accounts with the amendment of the 23d inst., at 12 o'clock, M., instead of the 22d inst., at 7 o'clock, P. M.

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary of the House and Senate made the following report:

The Joint Committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the pleading and practice in the Courts of this State, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report:

That they recommend the bill be amended by striking out the fortieth section, and with this amendment that the bill be passed.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Page 142

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary to whom was referred the petition of his Honor, B. A. Putnam, Judge of the Circuit Court of the East Judicial Circuit of this State, soliciting the General Assembly that he be allowed pay for extra judicial services which he has performed in the Supreme Court of this State, required of him by law, which has been allowed to other Circuit Judges of this State for similar services, having had the same under consideration, instruct us to

REPORT:

That there remains no doubt of the services set out in said petition having been faithfully performed by the petitioner; that by reference to chapter 995, No. 137, of the published acts of the General Assembly of 1858-'59, it appears that $600 was allowed to his Honor, J. J. Finley, for extra services in holding Courts; and by reference to chapter 1093, No. 88, of the published acts of the General Assembly of 1859-'60, it will appear further that $400 was allowed to his Honor J. W. Baker and $400 to his Honor Thomas F. King, for extra judicial services in the Supreme Court, and as the petitioner only asks that the same ($400) be allowed to him for his said extra services, we can see no good reason why the petitioner's request should not be granted. We therefore recommend that four hundred dollars be allowed to Judge B. A. Putnam for extra judicial services in the Supreme Court performed by him, and that the same be provided for in the act which the present General Assembly shall pass, making appropriations for the expenses of the State Government for the fiscal year 1860-'61.

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which were received and read, and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

The Committee on Schools and Colleges, through Mr. Hawes, made the following report:

The Committee on Schools and Colleges, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act in relation to the common school fund in Santa Rosa county, beg leave to report that they have duly considered the same and recommend its passage.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was received and read and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

Page 143

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the tax laws of this State, Was taken up.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the rules were waived and the bill read the second and third times by its title, and the House went into Committee of the Whole for its consideration, Mr. Hawes in the Chair.

After some time spent therein, the Committee rose and through their Chairman reported the bill back to the House as amended and recommended its passage.

The amendment proposed by the Committee of the Whole was concurred in by the House.

On motion of Mr. Love, said bill was referred to the Joint and Select Committee of the House and Senate on Finance and Public Accounts to be appointed;

Which was agreed to.

The Speaker appointed on said Joint Finance Committee on the part of the House, Messrs. Love, Mays, Blount, Pooser and Bowne.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to improve the navigation of the harbor and bay of Apalachicola;

Came up.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin the rule was waived, and the bill read the second and third times by its title, and the House went into Committee of the Whole for its consideration--Mr. Canova in the Chair.

After some time spent therein the committee rose and through their chairman reported the bill back to the House as amended, and recommended its passage.

The amendment of the Committee of the Whole was concurred in by the House.

Mr. Love moved that said bill be referred to the Committee on Internal Improvements;

Upon which motion the yeas and nays were called for and were:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Clyatt, Coffee, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Love, Mays, Means, Price, Robinson, Wells, Williams and Yates--20.

Nays--Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Russell and Wilkinson--6.

So the motion was carried and said reference made.

The Speaker announced as the Committee on Pilotage, appointed in pursuance of a resolution adopted on yesterday, Messrs. Blount, Holland of Franklin, Canova, Haddock, Clyatt, Carter, Bowne, Howell, Bissell and Yates.

Page 144

Mr. Blount moved that the rule be waived and he be allowed to make the following motion:

That the rules of this House be so amended as to authorize the Speaker to appoint a standing committee to be entitled the Committee of Ways and Means, and also a committee to be entitled the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Which was agreed to and said motion adopted.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin the rule was waived and he was allowed to introduce the following bills:

A bill to be entitled an act to aid the civil authorities of corporate towns; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the auction laws of this State.

Which bills were placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Scott, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to allow A. J. Baker of the county Volusia to practice medicine in said county;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Alabama and Florida Railroad Company in relation to election of Directors;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the election laws in force in this State;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Maria de los Doloes Justiniani and Maria Isabel Justiniani;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Satrene Remerez, and others, inhabitants of the County of Esbambia.

Respectfully submitted,

W. H. SCOTT.

Which was received and read, and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

A resolution to pay Benjamin F. Whitner, Jr., for surveying and marking the boundary line between the States of Georgia and Florida;

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

The rules being waived, Mr. Holland of Franklin was allowed to introduce

A bill to be entitled an act governing vessels propelled in whole or in part by steam in this State;

Which was received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Blount moved that the rule be waived and that the bill to be entitled an act to amend the Pleading and Practice in the Courts in this State be now taken up;

Which was agreed to and said bill taken up and read the second

Page 145

time, and the amendment proposed by the Joint select Committee adopted.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following amendment:

SECTION 78. Be it further enacted, That this act shall not take effect until the first Monday of January, A. D. 1862.

Which was adopted and the bill ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Election laws in force in this State;

Was placed back upon its second reading and referred to the Committee on Elections.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the rule be waived, and that the vote on the Senate bill to be entitled at act to empower William H. Webster, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate, and contract and be contracted with be reconsidered;

Which was lost.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Maria de los Dolores Justiniana and Maria Isabel Justiniana,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Blount, Canova, Coffee, Dansby, Hawes, Hull, Lee, Love, Mickler, Newburn, Richardson, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--14.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Campbell, Carter, Collins, Mays, Means, Parker, Pooser, Robinson, Russell and Wells--11.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Satrene Remerez and others, inhabitants of the county of Escambia,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Canova, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Hull, Love, Oliver, Price, Russell, Scott and Wilkinson--14.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Bowne, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Howell, Mays, McCormick, Means, Parker, Pooser, Robinson, Wells, Williams and Yates--16.

So the bill was lost.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Alabama and Florida Railroad Company in relation to election of Directors,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Hull, Love, Mays, McCormick,

Page 146

Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--33.

Nays--None.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Parker moved that the House adjourn until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock;

Upon which the yeas and nays were called and were:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Mays, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Scott, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--23.

Nays--Messrs. Canova, Dansby, Haddock, Howell, Hull, Love, McCormick, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell and Wells--12.

So the House stood adjourned until to-morrow, 10 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, January 23d, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

Mr. Holland of Hernando arose from his seat and announced to the House, in a few appropriate and affecting remarks, the decease of Dr. BENJAMIN. W. SAXON, a delegate from the county of Hernando to the late State Convention, and one of the signers of the Ordinance of Secession. He spoke of the virtues of the deceased, his ardent and long devotion to the cause of Southern Independence and Southern Rights, and his connection with the public service in the States of South Carolina, of which he was a native, Alabama, and last in Florida. Though feeble in health and scarcely able to attend the daily sitting of the Convention, he was always found at his post, and it was to be feared that the love of his adopted State and desire to serve her may have carried him beyond the bounds of prudence and contributed to bring on his much to be lamented and untimely end.

Mr. Holland, on the conclusion of his remarks, offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That in respect to the memory of the late Dr. SAXON, a delegate to the State Convention from the county of Hernando, and one of the signers of the Ordinance of Secession, who departed this life in this City, on yesterday at 4 o'clock, P. M., that this House do now adjourn to meet again in this Hall at half-past three o'clock, when they will attend the burial obsequies of the

Page 147

deceased in a body; and that the members of this House wear a badge of mourning for thirty days;

Which was unanimously adopted.

On motion, the business of the House was adjourned until to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

THURSDAY, January 24, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Hernando, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

Mr. Campbell moved the reconsideration of the vote upon a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Satrene Remerez and others, inhabitants of Escambia, taken in this House on Tuesday, the 22d inst.;

Which was agreed to, and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Wilkinson gave notice that at some future day he would ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to clean out and improve the navigation of Yellow river, in West Florida.

The Speaker announced the following additional Standing Committees:

Committee on Ways and Means--Messrs. Blount, Russell, Bowne, Mays and Means.

Committee on Foreign Relations--Messrs. Pooser, Canova, Bird, Cole and Lee.

Mr. Love, in pursuance of previous notice, introduced a bill to be entitled an act to amend attachment laws now in force in this State;

Which was received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Canova offered the following resolution:

Be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Florida in General Assembly convened, That his Excellency the Governor be and he is hereby solicited to transmit to both Houses of the General Assembly any statement or return of the Bank of Fernandina which may be on file in his Department, as prescribed by the act incorporating said Bank, approved January 15, 1859.

Which was adopted.

The Committee on Claims, through Mr. Hawes, made the following report:

Page 148

The Committee on Claims, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of S. C. Bolling, administrator of the estate of R. A. Childs, deceased, having had the same under consideration, ask leave to

REPORT:

That evidence having been laid before the Committee to show that the said S. C. Bolling paid the taxes upon certain property belonging to the estate of R. A. Childs, deceased, through ignorance of the fact that the deceased had already paid the taxes upon the said property previous to his death, your Committee deem it an act of justice to refund the money thus erroneously paid into the Treasury, and therefore recommend that the bill do pass.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Also the following:

The Committee on Claims and Accounts, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William H. Fannin, having duly considered the same, ask leave to report:

That the object of the bill is simply to authorize the issue of a duplicate of scrip that has been lost, and there being ample provision in the bill to guard the State from loss, the Committee respectfully recommend the passage of the bill.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

The Special Committee reported the following:

The Special Committee to whom was referred a petition from the citizens of Hillsboro and Manitee counties, relative to protection of the fisheries on the coast of this State, beg leave respectfully to report the accompanying bill, and recommend the passage of the same.

JOHN PARKER, Chairman.

JOSEPH HOWELL,

A. A. CANOVA,

JAS. L. ROBINSON.

Which was received and read and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

The rules being waived, Mr. Holland of Hernando presented a petition from Spencer T. Thomas of Hernando county;

Which was received and read, and on motion referred to Committee on Claims.

Page 149

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to allow A. J. Baker, of the county of Volusia, to practice medicine in said county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Stewart, Wilkinson and Yates--30.

Nays--Messrs. Haddock, Hull, Robinson and Wells--4.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to charter the Southern Export and Import Company,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Love, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott and Wilkinson--28.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Bowne, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee and Yates--7.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Stewart, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bill as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Pleading and Practice in the Courts of this State.

Respectfully submitted,

JOHN Q. STEWART, Chairman.

Which was read.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Pleading and Practice of the Courts in this State,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--33.

Nay--Mr. Hull--1.

Page 150

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Call, Rogers and Davidson, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had just adopted a resolution to go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller this day at 12 o'clock, M., and requested the concurrence of the House therein.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Satrene Remerez and other inhabitants of Escambia county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Dansby, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McKinnon, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Price, Russell, Scott, Wilkinson and Yates--21.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Haddock, Mays, Means, Pooser, Robinson, Wells and Williams--11.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

The following communication was received from the Secretary of the State Convention respecting the ordinances of said Convention:

HOUSE OF DELEGATES,
TALLAHASSEE, January 23, 1861.

HON. JOHN. B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: I herewith, by direction of the Convention, transmit to your body certain ordinances and resolutions adopted at its late session, viz:

An Ordinance respecting Duties and Collectors;

An Ordinance continuing certain offices;

An Ordinance abolishing certain offices;

An Ordinance creating a Court of Admiralty at Key West;

An Ordinance giving the General Assembly power to abolish offices in certain cases;

An Ordinance respecting Courts;

An Ordinance amending the 11th section of the 6th article of the Constitution;

An Ordinance amending the 7th article of the Constitution of this State, entitled "Militia;"

An Ordinance providing for the organization of the Army of Florida;

An Ordinance construing certain clauses of the Constitution;

An Ordinance extending the Jurisdiction of the State of Florida over Forts, Arsenals, &c.;

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An Ordinance for the relief of certain persons of Calhoun and Franklin counties;

An Ordinance conferring certain powers on the General Assembly;

An Ordinance to remove certain disabilities under the 5th section of the 6th article of the Constitution;

An Ordinance repealing the 3d and 8th sections of the 6th article of the Constitution;

An Ordinance adopting certain laws of the United States;

An Ordinance authorizing the Governor to appoint W. H. Chase a Major General;

An Ordinance respecting postal arrangements;

An Ordinance to amend the 2d section of the 3d article of the Constitution;

An Ordinance authorizing the Governor to accept the services of certain persons, &c.

A Resolution instructing the Delegates to the Southern Convention;

A Resolution empowering S. R. Mallory, D. L. Yulee and Geo. S. Hawkins to act for the State as Commissioners, &c.; and

A Resolution vesting certain powers in the Legislature.

Respectfully,

WILLIAM S. HARRIS,
Secretary of the Convention.

Which was read.

The rules being waived the Joint Committee of the Judiciary of the House and Senate made the following report:

The Joint Committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to organize the Supreme Court of this State have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to

REPORT:

That they do not regard the changes contemplated in the present law by the provisions of the bill as calculated to advance the public interest, and therefore recommend that it do not pass.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to change the Chancery Practice in

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this State, in reference to granting orders of publication, &c., have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to Report:

That they regard the provisions of the bill salutary in their character, and therefore recommend its passage by the House.

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee,

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which were received and read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to change the time of holding the Circuit Courts of the Middle Circuit of Florida have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to

REPORT:

That they regard the provisions of the bill calculated to advance the interests of a portion of the Circuit without detriment to those of another, and therefore recommend that the bill do pass.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was received and read, and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

The rule being waived, Mr. Bird, from the Committee on Elections, made the following report:

The Committee on Elections to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the election laws in force in this State beg leave to

REPORT:

That they have had the same under consideration and recommend amendment of said bill by adding the following additional sections. With these amendments your Committee recommend the passage of said bill.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

P. B. BIRD, Chairman.

SEC. 2. Be it further enacted, That all officers to be elected, together with the names of the individuals to be voted for shall

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be endorsed upon the same piece of paper and deposited by the inspectors in a general box to be kept for that purpose.

SEC. 3. Be it further enacted, That the ballots shall be kept by the inspectors and returned to the Judge of Probate, as now required by law.

SEC. 4. Be it further enacted, That said ballots shall in no case be subject to the inspection of any person, unless in the case of contested elections, and then only by the party or parties contestant and that in the presence and under the supervision of the Judge of Probate or Clerk of the Circuit Court.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Coffee moved that the House concur in the Senate resolution to go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller at 12 o'clock, M;

The rules not being waived said motion was lost.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Erasmus M. Thompson, of Hillsborough county, to practice law in the several courts of this State,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

The rules being waived Mr. Williams offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That this House refuse to go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller of Public Accounts at this Session of the General Assembly;

Upon which the yeas and nays were called for, and were:

Yeas--Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Means, Mickler, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--17.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Love, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell, Scott and Wells--21.

So the resolution was lost.

Mr. Love moved that the rule be waived, and a bill to be entitled an act to change the time of holding the Circuit Courts in the Middle Judicial Circuit of Florida, be taken up, out of its regular order;

Which motion was agreed to, and said bill was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to alter the majority of women,

Was read the second time;

Upon motion of Mr. Coffee, the House went into Committee of the Whole on said bill--Mr. Haddock in the chair. After some time spent therein the Committee rose, and through their

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Chairman reported said bill back to the House, and recommended that it do not pass.

On motion of Mr. Mays said bill was indefinitely postponed.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of George G. Holt and Thaddeus Reece, of Wakulla county,

Was read a second time, and on motion referred to the Committee on Claims.

A bill to be entitled an act to allow William J. J. Duncan and Elizabeth Zipperer to establish a toll bridge across the Suwannee and Allapaha rivers,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mays, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--30.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to change and define the boundary line between the counties of Gadsden and Liberty,

Was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize the county of Polk from the counties of Hillsborough and Brevard,

Was read a second time, and the amendments proposed thereto by the Select Committee adopted, and the bill ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

The rule being waived, Mr. Holland of Hernando offered the following resolution:

Resolved by this House, That, the Senate concuring, we do go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller this evening at 4 o'clock;

Which was adopted, and on motion, Messrs. Holland of Hernando, Hawes and Cavova, were appointed a Committee to convey the same to the Senate and inform them of its adoption, and request their concurrence.

The committee returned and reported that they had performed that duty and were discharged.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize a new county to be called Baker county,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the admission of Attorneys and Counsellors at Law to Practice in the several Courts of the State of Florida,

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Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

The rule being waived, Mr. Love offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That five hundred copies of the Ordinances passed by the Convention, be printed for the use of the House;

Which was adopted.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Clinton Thigpin,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Big Spring Creek, in Jackson county, to Spring river,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate an Insurance Company in the city of Apalachicola, to be called the Florida Home Insurance Company,

Rule waived, read the first and second times by its title, and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to facilitate the Express business,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize William J. Tucker to assume the management of his own estate,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Thomas J. Danford to Thomas Jefferson Cook, and for other purposes,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Nepcy Williams to that of Nepcy Cheshire,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge of Probate and County Commissioners of New River county to draw and select the Grand Jurors from such persons as are qualified to serve as Jurors,

Was read a second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to aid the civil authorities in corporate towns,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act in relation to the Common School Fund of Santa Rosa county,

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Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Cavova, Campbell, Carter, Hawes, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Means, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, Stewart, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--22.

Nays--Messrs. Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Holland of Hernando, Mays, Oliver and Williams--7.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion of Mr. Parker, the House took a recess until half-past three o'clock, P. M.

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

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

A bill to be entitled an act to declare Peas Creek a navigable stream,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McKinnon, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as state.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act respecting the sale of wines and spiritous liquors to slaves or free persons of color, in the city of Apalachicola,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on Coporations.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Auction laws in this State,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to locate the county site of Levy county,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act governing vessels propelled in whole or in part by steam in this State,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

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The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 24th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has concurred in the House resolution in regard to going into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller of Public Accounts this evening at 4 o'clock.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PAKKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Mr. Love moved that the rule be waived, and Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Gen. William E. Anderson and others be taken up and made the special order of the House;

Which was agreed to, and said bill taken up and read the second time.

Mr. Love offered the following amendment to said bill:

SEC. 2. Be it further enacted, That whenever any account, contemplated by the first section of this act, shall be presented to the Comptroller, before said account shall be audited and allowed by him, he shall require the party presenting said account to make affidavit that the charges made for services performed were actually rendered, or the materials charged for actually furnished, and the prices charged are reasonable and just.

SEC. 3. Be it further enacted, That, in addition to the affidavit of said party, he shall also produce the certificate of the commanding officer or officers, by whose order the materials were furnished, or supplies procured, that the services were actually performed or materials furnished, at the times and places specified in said account, and that the prices charged therefor are reasonable and proper.

Which was adopted, and the bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the Chancery Practice in this State, in reference to granting orders of publication, &c.;

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of T. C. Bolling, Administrator of R. A. Child, deceased;

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Call, Davidson and Bowers, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had concurred in the House resolution to go into

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the election of Attorney General and Comptroller at 4 o'clock, P. M.

On motion, Messrs. Holland of Hernando, Richardson and Hawes were appointed a committee to inform the Senate that the House was now ready to proceed to the election of Attorney General and Comptroller, who returned and reported that they had performed that duty and were discharged.

The Senate entered the House, and the President by request of the Speaker took the Chair.

The President declared the object of the joint meeting to be, to elect an Attorney General and Comptroller of Public Accounts.

The joint meeting proceeded to the election of Attorney General.

Mr. Holland of Hernando nominated Mr. John B. Galbraith, of Leon county.

Mr. Pooser nominated Mr. T. T. Long, of Nassau county.

The vote was:

FOR GALBRAITH--Senate 7. House--Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Scott, Wells, Williams and Yates--21. Total 28.

FOR LONG--Senate 7. House--Messrs. Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell, Stewart and Wilkinson--17. Total 24.

Blank--Senate 2. House--Mr. Coffee--1. Total 3.

The President decided that there was no election, neither of the candidates having received the requisite number of votes.

The joint meeting proceeded to a second ballot.

The vote was:

FOR GALBRAITH--Senate 7. House--Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--25. Total 32.

FOR LONG--Senate 3. House--Messrs. Dansby, Mays, Robinson and Stewart--4. Total 7.

Blank--Senate 7. House--Messrs. Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Haddock, Hull, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price and Rassell--10. Total 17.

The President decided that there was no election, neither of the candidates having received the requisite number of votes.

Nominations being still in order,

Mr. Russell nominated Mr. M. D. Papy of Leon county.

Mr. Walker nominated Mr. D. P. Hogue of Leon county.

Mr. McCall nominated Mr. W. G. M. Davis of Leon county.

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The joint meeting proceeded to a third ballot.

The vote was:

FOR GALBRAITH--Senate 7. House--Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Oliver, Parker, Price, Richardson, Scott, Stewart, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--30. Total 37.

FOR LONG--Senate 2. House--Messrs. Mays and Pooser--2. Total 4.

FOR PAPY--Senate 6. House--Mr. Russell--1. Total 7.

FOR DAVIS--Senate 2. Total 2.

Blank--Senate none. House--Messrs. Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Hull, Newburn and Robinson--6.

The President then decided that Mr. John B. Galbraith, having received the requisite and constitutional majority of votes, was duly elected Attorney General of the State of Florida for the term of four years from the 25th of July, A. D. 1861.

The joint meeting then proceeded to the election of Comptroller of Public Accounts.

Mr. Bowne nominated Mr. Robert C. Williams of Leon county.

Mr. Finlayson nominated Mr. William Scott of Jefferson county.

Mr. McCall nominated Mr. Lewis E. Pyles of Alachua county.

The vote was:

FOR WILLIAMS--Senate 6. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Robinson, Scott, Wells, Williams and Yates--21. Total 27.

FOR PYLES--Senate 9. House--Messrs. Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Stewart and Wilkinson--17. Total 26.

FOR SCOTT--Senate 1. House--Messrs. Bird and Russell--2. Total 3.

Blank--Senate 2. Total 2.

The President decided that there was no election, neither of the candidates having received the requisite number of votes.

The joint meeting proceeded to a second ballot.

The vote was:

FOR PYLES--Senate 7. House--Messrs. Clyatt, Coffee, Collins,

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Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Stewart and Wilkinson--18. Total--25.

FOR SCOTT--Senate 3. House--Messrs. Bird and Russell--2. Total--5.

Blank--Senate 2. House none.

There being no election the joint meeting proceeded to a third ballot.

Nominations being still in order,

Mr. Bowers nominated Mr. E. L. T. Blake of Leon county.

Mr. Campbell nominated Mr. J. D. Westcott, jr., of Leon county.

Mr. Baldwin nominated Mr. John Beard of Leon county.

Mr. Walker nominated Mr. Lucien S. Duval of Leon county.

The vote was:

FOR WILLIAMS--Senate 4. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Scott, Wells, Williams and Yates--18. Total 22.

FOR PYLES--Senate 6. House--Messrs, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson and Wilkinson--16. Total 22.

FOR SCOTT--Senate 2. House--Messrs. Bird, Love and Russell--3. Total 5.

FOR BLAKE--Senate 1. Total 1.

FOR WESTCOTT--Senate none. House--Messrs. Campbell and Hawes--2. Total 2.

FOR BEARD--Senate 1. Total 1.

FOR DUVAL--Senate 3. Total 3.

Blank--Senate 1. Total 1.

There being no election the joint meeting proceeded to a fourth ballot.

The vote was:

FOR WILLIAMS--Senate 6. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Scott, Wells, Williams and Yates--18. Total 24.

FOR PYLES--Senate 7. House--Messrs. Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Stewart and Wilkinson--19. Total 26.

FOR SCOTT--Senate 1. House--Messrs. Bird and Russell--2. Total 3.

FOR WESTCOTT--Senate 1. House--Mr. Campbell--1. Total 2.

BLANK--Senate 3. Total 3.

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There being no election the joint meeting proceeded to a fifth bollot.

The vote was:

FOR WILLIAMS--Senate 6. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Scott, Wells, Williams and Yates--19. Total 25.

FOR PYLES--Senate 7. House--Messrs. Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Stewart and Wilkinson--18. Total 25.

FOR SCOTT--Senate 3.--House--Messrs. Bird and Russell--2. Total 5.

FOR WESTCOTT--House--Mr. Campbell--1. Total 1.

BLANK--Senate 1. Total 1.

There being no election, the Joint meeting proceeded to a sixth ballot.

Nominations being still in order, Mr. Love nominated Mr. Bolling Baker of Leon county.

The vote was:

FOR WILLIAMS--Senate 6. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Canova, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Scott, Wells, Williams and Yates--17. Total--23.

FOR PYLES--Senate 9. House--Messrs. Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson and Stewart--17. Total--26.

FOR SCOTT--Senate 1. House--Messrs. Bird and Russell--2. Total 3.

FOR BAKER--House--Messrs. Love and Wilkinson--2.

FOR WESTCOTT--House--Mr. Campbell--1.

FOR BLANK--Senate--1. House--Mr. Broxson--1. Total--2.

There being no election, the joint meeting proceeded to a seventh ballot.

The names of Messrs. Blake, Westcott and Beard were with-drawn.

The vote was:

FOR WILLIAMS--Senate 5. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Scott, Wells, Williams and Yates--18. Total 23.

FOR PYLES--Senate 6. House--Messrs. Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Stewart and Wilkinson--19. Total 25.

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FOR SCOTT--Senate 1. House--Messrs. Bird and Russell--2. Total 3.

FOR BAKER--Senate 5. House--Mr. Love--1. Total 6.

There being no election, the joint meeting proceeded to the 8th ballot.

The name of Mr. Scott was withdrawn.

The vote was:

FOR WILLIAMS--Senate 5. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Scott, Wells, Williams and Yates--19. Total 24.

FOR PYLES--Senate 7. House--Messrs. Bird, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Stewart and Wilkinson--20. Total 27.

FOR SCOTT--Senate 1. Total 1.

FOR BAKER--Senate 4. House--Mr. Love--1. Total 5.

There being no election, the joint meeting proceeded to the 9th ballot.

The vote was:

FOR WILLIAMS--Senate 7. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--20. Total 27.

FOR BAKER--Senate 2. House--Messrs. Bird and Love--2. Total 4.

There being no election, the joint meeting proceeded to a tenth ballot.

The vote was:

FOR WILLIAMS--Senate 7. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Robinson, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--21. Total 28.

FOR PYLES--Senate 8. House--Messrs. Bird, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell and Stewart--18. Total 26.

FOR BAKER--Senate 1.

There being no election the joint meeting proceeded to an eleventh ballot.

The vote was:

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There being no election, the joint meeting proceeded to the 12th ballot.

The vote was:

FOR WILLIAMS--Senate 7. House--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Robinson, Scott, Wells, Williams and Yates--22. Total 29.

FOR PYLES--Senate 8. House--Messrs. Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Stewart and Wilkinson--18. Total 26.

There still being no election, the President deciding that neither of the candidates had received the requisite number of votes.

On motion the joint assembly then adjourned.

On motion the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, a 10 o'clock.

FRIDAY, January 25th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Means, the reading of the proceedings of yesterday was dispensed with.

The following bills were introduced in pursuance of previous notice, viz:

By Mr. Wilkinson:

A bill to be entitled an act to clean out and improve the navigation of Yellow river, in West Florida.

By Mr. Howell:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Dr. Sam'l B. Todd.

By Mr. Hull:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William G. Parker.

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Which bills were received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Mays moved that the rules be waived and he be allowed to introduce without previous notice a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of the Treasury and of the creditors of the State;

Which was agreed to, and said bill received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Mays moved that A. B. Campbell, Door-keeper of the House of Representatives, be granted leave of absence after to-day until Monday next, 12 o'clock;

Which was agreed to and said leave of absence granted.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that Mr. J. L. Robinson of Jackson county be granted leave of absence for ten days;

Which was agreed to and said leave of absence granted.

Mr. Holland of Hernando, from the Committee on Corporations, made the following report:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom reference of a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the German Saving and Building Association was made, have had the same under consideration and beg to return the same to the House without amendment and recommend its passage.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 22, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has passed the following bills and resolution, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act concerning replevin;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of James C. McArthur, former Sheriff of Santa Rosa county;

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Martha Anne Barnes to that of Mary Harriet McClelland;

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate LaVilla Institute near Jacksonville, Florida;

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of George R. Clotfelter to George Washington Rosemon;

A bill to be entitled an act to change the time for holding the Circuit Courts for the Western Judicial Circuit;

A bill to be entitled an act to repeal so much of the act, approved January 7th, 1859, as consolidates the offices of Tax Assessor and Collector and Sheriff of Wakulla county;

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A bill to be entitled an act restoring Josiah Bird of Hamilton county to the right of suffrage, and other purposes;

Resolution for the relief of George B. Ellis of Alachua county.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was and the accompanying bills and resolution placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 24th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to facilitate Criminal Proceedings;

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize and empower Florida A. Stanley to assume the management of her own estate;

A bill to be entitled an act to change the mode of selecting Grand and Petit Jurors in this State.

House resolution in regard to Finance was lost.

Very Respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Haddock moved that the rule be waived and he be allowed to introduce the following bills:

A bill to be entitled an act to prevent persons from penning or detaining stock without the consent of the owner, in Nassau county;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws of Nassau county; also,

Which was agreed to, and said bills received and placed among the orders of the day.

The Committee on Indian Affairs, through Mr. Bissell, made the following report:

The Committee on Indian Affairs beg leave respectfully to

REPORT:

That they have made diligent enquiry into the existing relations with the remaining Indians in Florida, and present to the House the following statement of facts. They find that the Indians in number variously estimated at from one to two hundred men, besides women and children, reside mostly in the interior portions of the counties of Dade and Monroe. They occupy a section of country the most worthless for cultivation and the most inaccessible of any on the peninsula of Florida.

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They are in the habit of frequent friendly visits to the settlements of Miami and Fort Myers for the purposes of trade.

Their demeanor thus far is quiet and peaceable, but they manifest a fixed determination to live and die in the country.

The inhabitants of that section of country have ceased their apprehensions in regard to them, and your Committee cannot but be of the opinion that good policy at this time requires that these Indians should be kept quiet and undisturbed as long as possible, and for that purpose they would recommend that an agent should be appointed by the Governor to confer with them as to their wants and grievances, and to arrange with them the terms and boundaries of a reservation, to be set apart for their use; and they would further recommend that the present prohibitory laws upon Indian intercourse be repealed, except so far as relates to the sale of ammunition and ardent spirits.

THEODORE BISSELL, Chairman.

Which was received and read, and the bill accompanying the same placed among the orders of the day.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William H. Fanin,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate fishing on the coast of the State of Florida,

Was read the first time, and on motion was read the second time by its title, and 80 copies ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Clinton Thigpin,

Was read the second time by its title, and on motion referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of the Treasury and of the creditors of the State,

Was read the first and second time by its title, and on motion was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to facilitate the Express business,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Love, Mays, McKinnon, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--30.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

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Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Thomas J. Pansford to Thomas Jefferson Cook, and for other purposes,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Newburn, Parker, Price, Stewart and Wilkinson--8.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Mays, McKinnon, Means, Oliver, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Wells, Williams and Yates--22.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Nepsey Williams to Nepsey Cheshire,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Carter, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Means, Newburn, Price, Scott, Stewart and Wilkinson--19.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Mays, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Wells, Williams and Yates--15.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act governing vessels propelled in whole or in part by steam in this State,

Was read the second time, and on motion of Mr. Means, was referred to a Select Committee consisting of Messrs. Means, Canova and Blount.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the auction laws of this State,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to locate the county site of Levy county,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the attachment laws now in force in this State,

Was, the rule being waived, read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to make the office of Constable elective, and for other purposes,

Was read the first time and, on motion, rules waived, read the second time by its title and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

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Mr. Stewart, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to permit Erasmus Thompson of Hillsborough county to practice law in the several Courts of this State;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Road Laws in the county of Leon;

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge of Probate and County Commissioners of New River county to draw and select Grand Jurors;

A bill to be entitled an act to change and define the boundary line between the counties of Gadsden and Liberty;

A bill to be entitled an act to change the chancery practice in this State in reference to granting orders of publication;

Resolution to pay Benjamin F. Whitner, Jr., for surveying and marking the boundary line between the States of Georgia and Florida;

An act to change the name of Big Spring Creek in Jackson county to Spring river;

An act to authorize William J. Tucker to assume the management of his own estate;

A bill to be entitled an act to aid the civil authorities of corporate towns;

A bill to be entitled an act to change the time of holding the Circuit Courts of the Middle Circuit of Florida.

Respectfully submitted,

JOHN Q. STEWART, Chairman.

Which was read.

Mr. Love moved that the rules be waived and a bill to be entitled an act to change the chancery practice in this State in reference to granting orders of publication, &c., be taken up out of its regular order and placed back upon its second reading and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary;

Which was agreed to, and said reference ordered to be made.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that the rule be waived, and that a bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of the Florida Volunteers and others who have not been paid for services actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians be now taken up out of its regular order;

Which was agreed to, and said bill taken up, placed back upon its second reading and referred to a Select Committee.

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Resolution to pay Benjamin F. Whitner, jr., for surveying and marking the boundary line between the States of Georgia and Florida,

Was read the third time, and on motion of Mr. Mays, placed back upon its second reading.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Big Spring Creek in Jackson county to Spring River,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mays, McKinnon, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize William J. Tucker to assume the management of his own estate,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Canova, Campbell, Cole, Hawes, Howell, Hull, Newburn, Price and Wilkinson--9.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Blount, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Lee, Love, Mays, McKinnon, Means, Oliver, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Wells and Williams--18.

So the bill was lost.

A bill to be entitled an act to aid the civil authorities of corporate Towns,

Was read the third time, and on motion of Mr. Means, was placed back on its second reading, and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the times of holding the Circuit Courts of the Middle Circuit of Florida,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McKinnon, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--30.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion of Mr. Love, a Committee consisting of Messrs. Love, Russell and McKinnon were appointed to convey said bill to the Senate.

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Who after a short absence returned and reported that they had performed that duty, and were discharged.

A bill to be entitled an act to permit Erasmus M. Thompson of Hillsborough to practice law in the several Courts of this State,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, McKinnon, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, Stewart, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--Messrs. Coffee, Mays, Russell, Wells and Williams--5.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered to be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws in the county of Leon,

Was read the third time, and on motion of Mr. Oliver placed back on its second reading and referred to the Committee on Internal Improvements.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge of Probate and County Commissioners of New River county to draw and select Grand Jurors,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Broxson, Carter, Cole, Hawes, Howell, Hull, Lee, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Wells and Yates--14.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Coffee, Dansby, Mays, McKinnon, Means, Russell, Scott, Williams and Wilkinson--12.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to change and define the boundary line between the counties of Gadsden and Liberty,

Was read a third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bird, Canova, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Scott, Stewart and Wells--13.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Hawes, Mays, Means, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Williams and Yates--14.

So the bill was lost.

Mr. Bird moved that the House adjourned until half-past three o'clock;

Upon which the yeas and nays were called for, and were:

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Yeas--Messrs. Bird, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Dansby, Hull, Lee, Love, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Wells and Yates--16.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Mays, Means, Richardson and Williams--13.

So the motion was carried, and the House took a recess until half-past three o'clock, P. M.

3½ O'CLOCK P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

Mr. Love moved that the rules be waived and he be allowed, without previous notice, to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to enlarge and define the powers and practice of Courts of Equity in granting and dissolving injunctions and other summary process;

Which was agreed to and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Coffee moved that the rule be waived and the resolution for the relief of Benj. F. Whitner for surveying and marking the boundary line between the States of Georgia and Florida be placed back upon its second reading, and that the same be now taken up and he be allowed to offer a bill as a substitute therefor;

Which was agreed to and said substitute placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to enlarge and define the powers and practice of Courts of Equity in granting and dissolving injunctions and other summary process,

Was, rule being waived, read the first and second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the election laws in force in this State,

Was read a third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--25.

Nay--Mr. Hawes--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to compensate B. F. Whitner, Jr., for services in running and marking the boundary line between the States of Florida and Georgia,

Page 172

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Resolution for the relief of John M. Irwin,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Martha Anne Barnes to Mary Harriet McClelland,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate resolution for the relief of George B. Ellis of Alachua county,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act concerning replevin,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of James C. McArthur, former Sheriff of Santa Rosa county,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of George R. Clotfelter to George Washington Rosemon,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to repeal so much of the act approved Jan. 7th, 1859, as consolidates the offices of Tax Assessor and Collector and Sheriff of Wakulla county,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Dr. Samuel B. Todd,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to prevent persons from penning or detaining stock without the consent of owners, in Nassau county,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporte the LaVilla Institute near Jacksonville, Florida,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the German Building and Saving Association,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

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The rules being waived, a select Committee made the following report:

The Committee to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of the Florida Volunteers and others who have not been paid for services actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians, beg leave to report the bill back to the House, and with the following amendments recommend its passage:

Strike out the entire fifth section of the bill and instead thereof insert the following amendment:

SEC. 5. Be it further enacted, That the person or persons applying for the benefit of this act shall make affidavit before the Judge of Probate of the county in which he or they may reside that he or they has or have actually rendered the service of the kind and for the time specified, or that he or they has or have actually furnished the provisions, &c., for which he or they claim remuneration, which shall also be sworn to by three disinterested members of the company to which the claimants belonged, or for which the supplies were furnished or services rendered, and the claimant or claimants shall also make affidavit that he or they has or have never been paid for said services, &c., either by the late United States of America or by the State of Florida; after which the Judge of Probate shall certify that he has reason to believe that the persons making the affidavit aforesaid are the persons they represent themselves to be, and that he believes them to be men of veracity, and shall affix his proper seal of office to the same; upon the production of which certificate by the person so entitled or his agent or attorney, the Comptroller shall issue his warrant as aforesaid.

A. C. BLOUNT, Chairman.

JOHN PARKER,

JOSIAH A. LEE.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws of Nassau county,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of the Florida volunteers and others who have not been paid for services actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians,

Was read the second time, and the amendment proposed by the Select Committee adopted, and said bill, with amendment, ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to repeal in part the laws prohibiting intercourse with the Indians,

Page 174

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act restoring Isaiah Bird of Hamilton county to the right of suffrage and other privileges,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the times for holding the Circuit Courts for the Western Judical Circuit,

Was read the first time by its title and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Dr. Samuel B. Todd,

Was read the first time by its title and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize and empower Florida A. Stanley to assume the management of her own estate,

Was read the first time by its title and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the mode of selecting Grand and Petit Jurors in this State,

Was read the first time by its title and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to clean out and improve the navigation of Yellow river, in West Florida,

Was read the first time by its title and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to facilitate criminal proceedings,

Was read the first time by its title and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill for the relief of Wm. G. Parker, Sheriff of Suwannee county,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

On motion of Mr. Bird, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning 10 o'clock.

SATURDAY, January 26th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Bird, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

The following bill was introduced without previous notice, viz:

By Mr. VanZant:

Page 175

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Lake City and Blunt Ferry Railroad Company;

Which was placed among the orders of the day.

Notice was given of intention to introduce the following bill at some future day, viz:

By Mr. Haddock:

A bill to be entitled an act to so amend the Constitution as to remove the Capitol of the State of Florida from Tallahassee to Lake City.

Mr. Oliver moved that leave of absence be granted J. P. Carter, member from Wakulla county, during the day;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Coffee moved that a Standing Committee on Public Lands be raised;

Which was agreed to.

On motion of Mr. Broxson the rule was waived and he was allowed to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Elizabeth Lorett;

Which was placed among the orders of the day.

In pursuance of previous notice, Mr. Hull introduced a bill to be entitled an act to empower Lewis Clark to assume the management of his own estate;

Which was placed among the orders of the day.

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, through Mr. Pooser, made the following report:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having a bill before them for the relief of William G. Parker, Sheriff of Suwannee county, charged on the Comptroller's books with the sum of three hundred and eighty-eight dollars and thirty cents, for fines and costs in the case of William Cason, who was tried at the Circuit Court in Suwannee county and sent to the Jail of Columbia county, we, the committee as above stated, having all the evidences of the case before us and finding that agreeably to the decision of the Court, as above alluded to, the aforesaid William G. Parker did comply with the recquisition thereof, and did deliver the said William Cason to the Sheriff of Columbia county as the law required him to do, we therefore recommend that the bill do pass.

J. H. POOSER, Chairman.

Which was received and read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The Committee on Ways and Means, through Mr. Blount, made the following report:

The Committee of Ways and Means, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of the Treasury and Creditors of the State, have had the same under consideration and ask

Page 176

leave to report the accompanying bill as a substitute therefor, and recommend the passage of the same.

Respectfully submitted,

ALEX. C. BLOUNT, Chairman.

Which was recieved and read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Canova, from the Committee on Internal Improvements, made the following report:

The Committee on Internal Improvements, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Harbor and Bay of Apalachicola, ask leave respectfully to report the same back to the House, and recommend that the entire of sections three and four be stricken out, and that, being so amended, recommend the passage of the bill.

A. A. CANOVA, Chairman.

Which was received and read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Internal Improvements, to whom a reference was made of a bill to be entitled an act to amend the Road Laws, &c., beg leave to report the same back to the House with the following amendments, and recommend its passage:

Strike out the word "ten," in the fourteenth line and insert the word "two," and after the word dollars, in the same line, insert "per day for each and every hand subject to road duty for as many days as the law requires them to work;" also to strike out the word "county," in the seventeenth line and insert the word "counties;" also to insert after the word "Leon" the words "and Gadsden."

A. A. CANOVA, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Blount, from the Select Committee on Pilotage, made the following report:

The Select Committee to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to regulate the compensation of Pilots at the port of Saint Marks, and also a bill to be entitled an act to amend the Pilot laws for the port of Fernandina, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to

REPORT:

That the provisions of the bill to be entitled an act to regulate the compensation of Pilots at the port of Saint Marks are, in the opinion of the Committee, just and necessary. They therefore recommend that the said bill do pass.

Page 177

The Committee recommend the following amendments to the bill entitled an act to amend the Pilot laws for the port of Fernandina, to-wit:

From the 6th and 7th lines of the 3rd section, strike out the words "the sum of five hundred dollars" and insert the words "double pilotage."

From the 4th line of the 8th section strike out the word "ten" and insert the word "one."

With these amendments the Committee recommend that the bill do pass.

The Committee were further instructed to report a general Pilot law for the State. This is a subject environed with so much difficulty, owing to the peculiar nature of our sea coast and the obstacles to navigation at the entrance of some of our ports, which do not occur at others, that the committee believe that no general law can be framed which would meet the merits of each case and in which equal and substantial justice can be meted to all. They therefore ask to be discharged from the further consideration of this subject.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

ALEX. C. BLOUNT,

JAMES P. CARTER,

A. A. CANOVA,

JOSEPH HOWELL,

NEEDHAM YATES,

THEO. BISSELL,

G. L. BOWNE,

JOHN H. HADDOCK,

THOS. M. CLYATT.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to repeal in part the laws prohibiting intercourse with the Indians,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Walton county relative to the School Fund,

Was read a third time, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Hull, Lee, McKinnon, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker,

Page 178

Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--29.

Nays--None.

So the resolution passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

The following message was received from his Excellency the Governor:

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
TALLAHASSEE, Jan. 25th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--I herewith enclose a statement of the condition of the Bank of Fernandina on the 1st day of January, A. D. 1861, made by the Cashier thereof; a press of busines prevented my submitting it to the General Assembly at an earlier date.

Very respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

STATEMENT OF THE BANK OF FERNANDINA.
January 1st, 1861.

Liabilities--Capital Stock paid in, . . . . . $95,540 00
Circulation, . . . . . 33,100 00
Due to other Banks, . . . . . 39 76
Profits, . . . . . 3,359 22
Due to Depositors, . . . . . 16,388 57--148,427 55
Assets--Specie bills of specie paying Banks and deposits in specie paying Banks, . . . . . $31,842 79
Due by other Banks, . . . . . 352 06
Bills of other Banks, . . . . . 1,226 22
Bills receivable, . . . . . 109,462 02
Due from Individuals, . . . . . 3,934 34
Suspence account, . . . . . 1,610 12--148,427 55

A. H. COLE, President.

JOHN HODGES, Cashier.

Which was read, and 80 copies thereof ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

Mr. Means, from a Select Committee, made the following report:

The Select Committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act governing vessels propelled in whole or in part by steam in this State, ask leave to

REPORT:

That they have had the same under consideration and recommend that the second section of said bill be amended by striking out all after the word "his," in the 6th line of said section, and

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inserting thereafter "good moral character and qualifications for said office, signed and properly authenticated by said Board of Local Inspectors, or by the supervising inspectors of the late government of the United States," and also that a section be inserted, numbered

SECTION 4. Be it further enacted, That for the inspection of every vessel as aforesaid, said inspectors shall receive the sum of fifteen dollars, and for the issuing of every certificate of examination, or for the examination of every applicant for the office of engineer as aforesaid, said inspectors shall demand and receive as pay the sum of ten dollars.

With these amendments the committee recommend that the bill do pass.

G. W. MEANS,

A. A. CANOVA,

A. C. BLOUNT.

Which was read and the bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Hawes, from the Committee on Claims, made the following report:

The Committee on Claims to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of George G. Holt and Thaddeus Rees, of Wakulla county, having had the same under consideration, beg leave to

REPORT:

That the bill is to authorize the issue of duplicate warrants for originals lost. The Committee respectfully recommend the passage of the bill with the following amendment:

Strike out the last word "same" and insert the words "said duplicates and not to pay the originals."

All of which is respectfully submitted,

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read and the bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Lavilla Institute, near Jacksonville, Florida,

Was read the second time, and on motion, referred to the Committee on Schools and Colleges.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws of Nassau county,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to prevent persons from penning and detaining stock without the consent of owners in Nassau county,

Page 180

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Bank of Alachua, located at Fernandina,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of George R. Clotfelter to George Washington Rosemon,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to repeal so much of the act approved Jan'y 7th, 1859, as consolidates the offices of Tax Assessor and Collector and Sheriff of Wakulla county,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on Monday.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of James C. McArthur, former Sheriff of Santa Rosa county,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on Monday.

Resolution for the relief of Geo. B. Ellis, of Alachua county,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on Monday.

Senate bill to be entitled an act concerning replevin,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read the third time by its title, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--28.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Stewart, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bill as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Gen. William E. Anderson and others.

Respectfully submitted,

JOHN Q. STEWART, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Was read a third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Dansby, Holland of

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Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--28.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Martha Ann Barnes to that of Mary Harriet McClelland,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to clean out and improve the navigation of the Yellow river, in West Florida,

Was, the rules being waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Internal Improvements.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to restore Isaiah Bird of Hamilton county to the right of suffrage, and for other purposes,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second and third times by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Williams and Wilkinson--25.

Nays--Messrs. Mays, Parker, and Yates--3.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to facilitate criminal proceedings,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read a third time by its title, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mays, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Russell, Williams and Wilkinson--20.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Bowne, Canova, Love, Oliver, Price, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wells and Yates--12.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion of Mr. Love, a Committee of three was appointed consisting of Messrs. Love, Russell and Dansby, to convey a bill to the Senate just passed by the House, entitled an act for the relies of Gen. William E. Anderson and others, and request the concurrence of the Senate in the House amendment thereto;

Which Committee after a short absence returned and reported that they had performed that duty and were discharged.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the mode of selecting Grand and Petit Jurors in this State,

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Was read the second, and 80 copies ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize and empower Florida A. Stanley to assume the management of her own estate,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Dr. Samuel B. Todd,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Claims.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the times of holding the Circuit Court of the Western Judicial Circuit,

Was read the second time, and on motion of Mr. Broxson, referred to a Select Committee, consisting of Messrs. McKinnon, Broxson, Pooser and Wells.

Mr. Stewart, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to locate the county site of Levy county;

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the German Building and Saving Association;

A bill to be entitled an act to organize Baker county; and

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of T. C. Bolling, administrator of R. A. Childs, deceased.

Respectfully submitted,

JOHN Q. STEWART, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Lake City and Blunt Ferry Railroad Company;

Rule waived, read the first and second times by its title, and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

On motion of Mr. Williams the rule was waived and Mr. Bird of Jefferson was granted leave of absence until Tuesday, the 29th.

A bill to be entitled an act to locate the County Site of Levy county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--30.

Nays--None.

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So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the German Saving and Building Association,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bird, Blount, Bowne, Cavova, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Hull, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--21.

Nays--Messrs. Bissell, Haddock, Howell, Lee, Love, Mays and McKinnon--7.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

The rules being waived, Mr. Bird moved that Mr. Coffee of Madison be excused from attendance on the House until Tuesday the 29th instant;

Which was agreed to.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize Baker county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Stewart, VanZant, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--23.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Love, Mays, Scott and Williams--8.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion of Mr. Hawes the rule was waived and Mr. Love was excused from attendance on the House until Monday next, at 12 o'clock.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of T. C. Bolling, Administrator of R. A. Child, deceased,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McKinnon, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Wells and Wilkinson--29.

Nay--Mr. Campbell--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Stewart, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

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The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to compensate B. F. Whitner, Jr., for services in running and marking the boundary line between the States of Florida and Georgia;

Resolution for the relief of John M. Irwin; and,

Respectfully submitted,

JOHN Q. STEWART, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Russell moved that the rule be waived and he be allowed to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the town of Monticello of Jefferson county, according to previous notice;

Which was agreed to and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Bowne, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, Stewart, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--23.

Nays--Messrs. Hull, Mays, Russell and Wells--4.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Mr. Holland moved that a Committee be appointed to convey said bill to the Senate and inform that body of its passage and request their concurrence therein.

The Speaker appointed Messrs. Holland of Hernando, Williams and Stewart said Committee.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Davidson, Finlayson and Bowers, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had passed the House bill to change the time of holding the Circuit Courts of the Middle Circuit of Florida as amended and requested the concurrence of the House in said amendments.

Mr. Bird moved that the House adjourn until 10 o'clock, Monday morning;

Upon which the yeas and nays being called for, were:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Campbell, Coffee,

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Collins, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Love, Mays, Scott, Stewart, VanZant and Wilkinson--17.

Nays--Messrs. Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Dansby, Lee, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Wells and Yates--15.

So the House adjourned until Monday morning, 10 o'clock.

MONDAY, January 28th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Williams, the reading of the journal of Saturday's proceedings was dispensed with.

Mr. Wilkinson gave notice that he would, on some future day, ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for the payment of physicians who are summoned to attend Coroner's juries, approved January 11th, 1855.

Mr. Blount moved that the rules be waived and he be allowed to introduce a bill, without previous notice, entitled an act for the better preservation of the State Judicial Library;

Which was agreed to and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Hawes, from the Committee on Claims, made the following report:

The Committee on Claims and Accounts, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Spencer T. Thomas, have carefully examined the same and beg leave to

REPORT:

That the bill is intended to pay the said Spencer T. Thomas a sum of money out of the treasury for labor and materials furnished for the construction of certain buildings belonging to the "Seminary east of the Suwannee," at Ocala; that all of the buildings of that Seminary were presented, unincumbered, to the State by the citizens of Ocala as an inducement to the Legislature to locate the said Seminary in said town. The Committee, therefore, are of opinion that there can be no just claim against the State for expenses incurred in the erection of those buildings; and, further, had the Board of Education authorized the erection of those buildings, it would be contrary to the usual policy of the Legislature to appropriate money out of the treasury to defray the expenses of the same, as there is a specific fund

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for the establishment and maintenance of that Seminary. The Committee therefore recommend that the bill do not pass.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Claims and Accounts to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Ozias Buddington, have had the same under consideration, and ask leave to

REPORT:

That the bill has been in the possession of the Committee for two weeks without any information in regard to it from any quarter, and as there is no evidence within the bill itself to show the necessity for its passage, the committee beg to return the bill back to the House.

G. E. HAWES, Cha'n.

Which was received and read and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. McKinnon, from a Select Committee, made the following report:

The Select Committee to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to change the time for holding the Circuit Courts for the Western Judicial Circuit, have had the same under consideration, and ask leave to report the following amendment:

Strike out the 10th, 11th, 12th and 13th lines of the first section, and insert after the word "Monday," in the 9th line, the words "in March, for the County of Holmes, on the first Tuesday after the third Monday in March; for the County of Washington on the first Tuesday after the fourth Monday in March."

With these amendments, the Committee recommend that the bill do pass.

N. J. McKINNON,

H. H. WELLS,

C. L. BROXSON,

A. C. BLOUNT,

J. H. POOSER.

Which was received and read and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A resolution for the relief of John M. Irwin,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Hull,

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Lee, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Stewart, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--27.

Nays--Messrs. Bissell, Campbell, VanZant and Wells--4.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to compensate B. F. Whitner, jr., for services in running and marking the boundary line between the States of Florida and Georgia,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Hull, Lee, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Stewart, VanZant, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--28.

Nay--Mr. Wells--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of George G. Holt and Thaddeus Reese of Wakulla county,

Was read the second time, and the amendments proposed by the Committee on Claims adopted, and the bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the Pilot laws for the Port of Fernandina,

Was read the second time, and the amendments proposed by by the Select Committee on Pilotage adopted, and the bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate the compensation of Pilots at the Port of St. Marks,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Wm. G. Parker, Sheriff of Suwannee county,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to empower Lewis Clark to assume the management of his own estate,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Elizabeth Lovett,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

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A bill to be entitled an act to provide for a permanent circulating medium for the citizens of Florida,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and 80 copies thereof ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

A bill to be entitled an act governing vessels propelled in whole or in part by steam in this State,

Was read the second time, and the amendments proposed thereto by the Select Committee adopted, and the bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the times of holding the Circuit Courts of the Middle Judicial Circuit of the State of Florida,

Came up, and the amendment proposed by the Senate adopted by the House and the bill ordered to be enrolled.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize and empower Florida A. Stanley to assume the management of her own estate,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Hull, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Scott and Wilkinson--23.

Nays--Messrs. Lee, Williams and Yates--3.

So the bill passed--titled as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Martha Ann Barns to that of Mary Harriet McClelland,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Hull, Lee, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, Wilkinson and Yates--25.

Nay--Mr. Williams--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Canova moved that the rules be waived and that a bill to be entitled An act to regulate fishing on the coasts of the State of Florida be taken up and placed among the orders of the day;

Which was agreed to and said bill taken up and read a second time and the following amendment offered by Mr. Blount:

That the 8th section of said bill be amended by adding thereto the words, "and such license shall include and be applicable to one boat, smack or other water craft only;"

Which was adopted and the bill with amendment ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

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Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of George R. Clotfelter to George Washington Rosemon,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Clyatt, Dansby, Hawes, Hull, Newburn, Price and Wilkinson--9.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Bowne, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Collins, Cole, Howell, Lee, McKinnon, Pooser, Richardson, Scott and Williams--15.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to repeal so much of an act passed January 7th, 1859, as consolidates the offices of Tax Assessor and Collector and Sheriff of Wakulla county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, McKinnon, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Hull moved that the rule be waived, that he may be allowed to introduce without previous a bill to be entitled an act making Capt. Simeon Sparkman a citizen of Columbia county;

Which motion was agreed to, and said bill received and placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of James C. McArthur, former Sheriff of Santa Rosa county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Campbell, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Stewart, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--25.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate resolution for the relief of George B. Ellis of Alachua county,

Was placed back on its second reading and referred to the Committee on Claims.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the town of Monticello in Jefferson County,

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Was read the first time, the rule waived read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the times for holding the Circuit Courts for the Western Judicial Circuit,

Was ordered to be engrossed with amendments for third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Spencer T. Thomas of Hernando County,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act making Simeon Sparkman a citizen of Columbia County,

Was read the first and second times and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the better preservation of the State Judicial Library,

Was read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

On motion of Mr. Hawes, the House adjourned until 10 o'clock to-morrow, A. M.

TUESDAY, January 29th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

On motion of Mr. Stewart the reading of the Journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that Mr. Bowne be granted leave of absence and excused from further attendance on this House during the present session;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Wilkinson, in pursuance of previous notice, introduced the following bill:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for the payment of physicians who are summoned to attend Coroners' juries, approved January 11th, 1855;

Which was received and placed among the orders of the day.

Notice was given of intention to introduce the following bill:

By Mr. Russell:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of Jefferson county to sell their stock in the Pensacola and Georgia Rail-road Company.

The joint Judiciary Committee made the following report:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to authorize Henry C. Grovenstine to

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plead and practice law, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed us to report:

That not seeing any particular merit in the exception proposed by this bill to the general rules of the law, they have instructed us to return the bill to the House for its consideration and ask to be discharged from further consideration of the subject.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was received and read, and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

The Committee on Engrossed Bills, through Mr. Stewart, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed:

A bill to be entitled an act to prevent persons from penning or detaining stock without the consent of the owner in Nassau county.

A bill to be entitled an act to make the office of constables elective, and for other purposes.

A bill to be entitled an act to repeal in part the laws prohibiting intercourse with the Indians.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the auction laws of this State.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws in the counties of Leon and Gadsden.

Respectfully submitted,

JOHN Q. STEWART, Chairman.

Which was read.

Mr. Canova, from the Committee on Internal Improvements, made the following report:

The Committee on Internal Improvements, to whom was referred Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the road law and to repeal a certain act relating to Santa Rosa county, ask leave to report the same back to the House, with the following amendments: Strike out of the second and third lines, in the second section, the words, "of the respective counties of this State," and insert "county of Santa Rosa."

Strike out of the sixth line of same section the words, "their respective counties," and insert "the county of Santa Rosa."

Strike out of the twelfth line of same section the words, "respective Boards," and insert the word "Board."

With these amendments, the passage of said bill is recommended.

A. A. CANOVA, Chairman.

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Which was read and the accompanying bill was placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Hernando, from the Committee on Corporations, made the following report:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to enable Railroad Companies to obtain the right of way, have had the same under consideration and beg leave to report the bill back to the House with the following amendment:

Amend by adding a section to be numbered

SEC. 5. Be it further enacted, That all costs that may accrue in summoning jurors to assess the damages to the owner of said land, shall in all cases be paid by the Railroad Company interested therein.

With this amendment, the Committee recommend the passage of the bill.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read and said bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act enlarging the time for making demands on Railroad Companies for stock killed or injured, beg leave respectfully to return the same without amendment and recommend its passage.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Florida Home Insurance Company of Apalachicola, having had the same under consideration, report the same back to the House with the following amendments and recommend its passage:

In the 8th line of the 3d section, strike out the words "and sell property of all roads," and insert the words, "all such property as may be necessary to carry into effect the object of this act;" also, in the 12th and 16th lines of same section, strike out the words, "or the United States." In the 20th, 21st and 22d lines of the 7th section, strike out the words, "to purchase and discount notes and bills of exchange."

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom reference of a bill to be entitled an act respecting the sale of vinous and spiritous

Page 193

liquors to slaves or free persons of color in Apalachicola was made, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to report the same back to the House, and recommend that the entire third section be stricken out, and with this amendment that said bill do pass.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to incorporate the Alachua County Railroad Company, have had the same under consideration and beg leave to report it back to the House with the following amendments:

Strike out the entire second section and substitute therefor

SEC. 2. Be it further enacted, That the capital stock of said Company shall be two hundred thousand dollars, to be divided into shares of one hundred dollars each.

Strike out the words "or of the United States," from the 14th line of section 8th.

Strike out from the 11th line of the 12th section the words "or other property."

Strike out from the twenty-fourth line of same (12th) section the words "or ownership of the materials in question;" and add to same section, after the words "aforesaid," the words, "Provided, That said jury thus summoned by the Sheriff shall assess the value of the land only over which said road may run for a distance of sixty feet, to be measured on each side from the centre of said road."

Strike out from the 13th section all after the word "lands," in the seventh line.

Strike out the entire 18th section.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the town of Marianna, approved January 8th, 1853, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to report the following amendments:

Strike out all after the word "jury," in the 22d line, to the word "and," in the 26th line of the 2d section.

Strike out all after the word "sidewalks," in the 31st line, to the word "and," in the 34th line of the 3d section.

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Strike out all after the words "real estate," in the 42d line, to the word "and," in the 44th line of the same section.

Strike out all after word "persons," in the 53d line, to the words "to provide for," in the 55th line of the same section.

Strike out all after the word "party," in the 77th line of the same section.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was received and read and the accompanying bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the town of Monticello, have had the same under consideration, and ask leave to report the same back to the House, with the recommendation that said bill do pass.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 26th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following bills and resolution, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide a remedy to enforce the lien of ship wrights, ship chandlers, and others against ships, vessels, steamboats or other water craft;

House bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Town of Campbellton of Jackson county; and,

House resolution relative to the price of the public lands in this State.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and the Senate bill ordered to be placed among the orders of the day and the House bill and resolution ordered to be enrolled.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 29th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act relating to foreign guardians;

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A bill to be entitled an act to protect occupants or settlers upon the public lands of the State of Florida in their possession of and to their improvements thereon;

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the issue of bonds to the extent of one million dollars by the Commonwealth of Florida;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of M. D. Papy and others; and,

A bill to be entitled an act to increase the compensation of the Solicitors of this State.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read, and the bills ordered to be placed among the orders of the day.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws in the county of Leon and Gadsden;

On motion of Mr. Williams, was laid over until to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to repeal in part the laws prohibiting intercourse with the Indians,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Mays, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--36.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to prevent persons from penning or detaining stock, without the consent of the owner, in Nassau county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Mays, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker. Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Stewart, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--34.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

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Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the mode of selecting Grand and Petit Jurors in this State,

Came up on its second reading, and on motion of Mr. Pooser, the House went into a Committee of the Whole for its consideration--Mr. Hawes in the Chair.

After some time spent therein the committee rose and through their Chairman reported the bill back to the House as amended, and recommended its passage.

Said amendments ordered to be engrossed, and the bill ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Call, Finlayson and Bowers, waited upon the House and informed them that they had been appointed to confer with a similar committee on the part of the House to wait upon the Governor and inquire of his Excellency if the interest of the State required the present General Assembly to remain in session longer than Monday, the 4th of February next.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Spencer T. Thomas of Hernando county;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of George G. Holt and Thaddeus Rees of Wakulla county;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William H. Fanin;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws of Nassau county; and

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate the compensation of Pilots at the Port of St. Marks.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was received and read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide a permanent circulating medium for the citizens of Florida,

Was read the second time, and on motion of Mr. Russell, the House went into a Committee of the Whole for its consideration--Mr. Means in the Chair.

After some time spent therein, the committee rose and through their Chairman reported the bill back to the House as amended, and recommended its passage.

Said bill with amendments ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

The rule being waived, Mr. Means moved that David Mizell be excused from further attendance on the House during the

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present session of the Legislature; and that Mr. Means be allowed to collect the amount due Mr. Mizell from the State of Florida for the time he was in attendance;

Which was adopted.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 29th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has passed the following House bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to locate the county site of Volusia county; and,

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Big Spring Creek in Jackson county to Spring river.

Very Respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and said bills ordered to be enrolled.

Mr. Haddock moved that the House adjourned until 3 o'clock;

Upon which the yeas and nays were called for, and were:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Dansby, Haddock, Holloman, Lee, Mickler, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell and Wilkinson--17.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Coffee, Collins, Howell, Love, Mays, McKinnon, Means, Newburn, Parker, Vogt, Williams and Yates--15.

So the motion was carried, and the House took a recess until 3 o'clock, P. M.

3 O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

On motion of Mr. Means, a Committee consisting of Messrs. Means, Blount and Lee was appointed to act with a similar Committee on part of the Senate to wait upon the Governor and confer with him as to the expediency of the present General Assembly remaining in session longer than Monday next.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws of Nassau county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins,

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Haddock, Howell, Hull, Lee, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson and Yates--20.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Holloman, Mays, Russell, Wells and Wilkinson--6.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate the compensation of Pilots for the Port of St. Marks,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Mays, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--32.

Nay--Mr. Love--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Wm. H. Fannin,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--30.

Nays--Messrs. Bowne, Collins, Love and Mays--4.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of George G. Holt and Thaddeus Rees of Wakulla county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Cole, Dansby, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Wilkinson and Yates--24.

Nays--Messrs. Campbell, Collins, Love and Wells--4.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

The rule being waived, Mr. Williams moved that the Committee on the Militia be excused from further attendance upon the House until to-morrow morning;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the amendment

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adopted by the House to the following Senate bill as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to change the times for holding the Circuit Courts of the Western Judicial Circuit.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying engrossed amendment placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Spencer T. Thomas of Hernando county,

Was read a third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Holland of Hernando, Lee, Love, Parker and Yates--5.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Holloman, Hull, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Wells and Wilkinson--26.

So the bill was lost.

The rule being waived, Mr. Blount offered the following resolution:

Be it resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Florida in General Assembly convened, That the Governor of this State be and he is hereby empowered to fill, by appointment and commission, any vacancy which may occur in the office of Major General of the Army of Florida, by death, resignation or otherwise.

Which was read the first time, rule waived, read the second and third times by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Cole, Dansby, Means, Mickler, Parker, Pooser, Russell, Stewart, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--18.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Bowne, Broxson, Collins, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Newburn, Oliver, Price, Scott and Vogt--14.

So the resolution was adopted--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the time for holding the Circuit Courts for the Western Judicial Circuit,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker,

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Pooser, Price, Russell, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--29.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

House bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of Physicians who are summoned to attend Coroner's Juries, approved January 11th, 1855,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Henry C. Grovenstine to plead and practice law,

Was read the second time by its title and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the town of Monticello, Jefferson county,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the issue of bonds to the extent of one million of dollars by the Commonwealth of Florida,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act relating to foreign guardians,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide for enforcing the lien of ship wrights, ship chandlers and others against ships, vessels, steamboats or other water craft,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to protect occupants or settlers upon the public lands of the State of Florida in their possession of and to their improvements thereon,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to increase the compensation of the solicitors of this State,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of M. D. Papy and others,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

On motion of Mr. Williams, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

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WEDNESDAY, January 30th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

On motion of Mr. Holloman, the reading of the proceedings of yesterday was dispensed with.

Notice was given of intention to introduce the following bills at some future day, viz:

By Mr. Canova:

A bill to be entitled an act requiring certain statements to be made in the reports which the several Banks of this State are required to make to the Governor and Comptroller of this State.

By Mr. Parker:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the recording of the marks and brands of beef cattle, drove or shipped from the counties of Sumter, Hillsborough and Manatee.

The Committee on Schools and Colleges, through Mr. Hawes, made the following report:

The Committee on Schools and Colleges, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Lavilla Institute near Jacksonville, Florida, having carefully considered the same, ask leave to report, that they consider the bill a meritorious one and recommend its passage.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The Committee on Claims, through Mr. Hawes, made the following report:

The Committee on Claims and Accounts, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Dr. Samuel B. Todd, having examined the same, ask leave to report, that the object of this bill is to pay Dr. Samuel B. Todd for services rendered in the volunteer service against the Indians, and as a general bill making provision for the payment of all claims for such services is now under the consideration of this Legislature, the committee deem the passage of this special bill unnecessary.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holloman, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report the following bills and resolutions as correctly enrolled, viz:

An act to establish the records of the county of Columbia and for other purposes;

An act to authorize the Judge of the Middle Circuit of Florida to hold an extra term of the Circuit Court in Hamilton county;

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An act to change the time of holding the Circuit Courts in the Middle Judicial Circuit of the State of Florida;

An act to incorporate the Town of Campbellton;

A resolution for the relief of B. Frisby and J. M. Murphy; and

A resolution relative to the price of public lands in this State.

D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

Which was read.

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary of the House and Senate made the following report:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act requiring the Judges of the Supreme Court to hold a term of said Court at Pensacola, have had the same under consideration, and instructed us to

REPORT:

That, while there are good reasons why there should be a term of the Supreme Court held in each year, in each Judicial Circuit of the State, there are no good reasons which have suggested themselves that have induced the Committee to think or feel that a term of said Court should be holden but at one place in each Judicial Circuit in each year; and while it is highly probable that Pensacola would be the most suitable place, and easiest of access in the Western Judicial Circuit, yet, not having any evidence before the Committee that the people of the West, who are interested in the matter, desire it changed from Marianna to Pensacola, nor does the bill propose such a thing, your Committee, from these facts, do not recommend the passage of the bill.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the better preservation of the State Judicial Library, have had the same under consideration and have instructed us to

REPORT:

That they recommend the passage of the bill with the following amendments, that is to say, strike out the second section,

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and in the sixth line of the third section strike out the words "twenty-five," and insert the word "fifteen."

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Vogt from the Committee on Engrossed Bills made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate fishing on the coast of Florida;

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Town of Monticello, Jefferson, County, in this State;

A bill to be entitled an act to organize the County of Polk from the Counties of Hillsborough and Brevard;

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Henry C. Grovenstine to plead and practice law;

A bill to be entled an act for the relief of William J. Parker, Sheriff of Suwannee County;

A bill to be entitled an act making Capt. Simeon Sparkman a citizen of Columbia County;

Also the amendments to the following Senate bill:

A to be entitled an act to amend the Pilot Laws for the Port of Fernandina.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the Pilot Laws for the Port of Fernandina,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Vanzant, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--33.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed, title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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Mr. Coffee moved that the rules be waived and he be allowed to make a motion that Messrs. Williams, McKinnon and Coffee, members of the Military Committee be excused from attendance on the House to-day.

Which was agreed to and said leave of absence granted.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Henry C. Grovenstine to plead and practice law,

Was read the third and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Canova, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Price, Richardson, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wilkinson and Yates--24.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Holloman, Love, Mays, Means, Pooser, Russell, Vogt and Wells--13.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William G. Parker, Sheriff of Suwannee County,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--32.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act making Capt. Simeon Sparkman a citizen of Columbia county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--34.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate fishing on the coast of Florida,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

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Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--33.

Nays--Messrs. Bissell and Campbell--2.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the town of Monticello, Jefferson county, in this State,

Was, on motion, placed back on its second reading and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Davidson, Jones and Bowers, waited upon the House and requested that they would return to the Senate a bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Addison to construct a dam across the Ocklockonee river.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize the county of Polk from the counties of Hillsborough and Brevard,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Cole, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Stewart, VanZant, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--22.

Nays--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Campbell, Dansby, Hawes, Holloman, Love, Mays, Means, Russell and Vogt--11.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws in the counties of Leon and Gadsden,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--28.

Nays--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Mays and VanZant--4.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the road law and repeal a certain act relating to Santa Rosa county herein named,

Was read a second time, and amendments proposed thereto by the Committee on Internal Improvements adopted, and the bill ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

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A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the town of Monticello, Jefferson county, in this State,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Vogt and Yates--31.

Nay--Mr. Howell--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

The following bills, coming up among the orders of the day, on motion, were laid on the table:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the criminal laws of this State;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Clinton Thigpin; and

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of the harbor and bay of Apalachicola.

A bill to be entitled an act to enlarge the time for making demands on Railroad Companies for stock killed or injured and for other purposes,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to enable Railroad Companies to obtain the right of way,

Was read the second time, and the amendment proposed thereto by the Committee on Corporations adopted.

The rule being waived, Mr. Mays offered the following amendment:

Strike out the words "a majority of whom" and insert the word "which," in the 10th line, 1st section.

Which was adopted, and the bill, with amendments, ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for the payment of Physicians who are summoned to attend Coroners' Juries, approved January 11th, 1855,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill entitled an act relating to foreign guardians,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide a remedy to enforce the lien of ship chandlers and others against ships, vessels, steamboats or other water craft,

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Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be an act to authorize the issue of bonds to the extent of one million of dollars by the Commonwealth of Florida,

Was read the second time, and the further consideration of the same deferred until Friday next.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to increase the compensation of the solicitors of this State,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read a third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Canova, Means, Mickler and Russell--4.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--29.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered to be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to protect occupants or settlers upon the public lands of the State of Florida in their possessions and to their improvements thereon,

Was read the second time and on motion referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to make offices of Constable elective by the people, and for other purposes,

Came up on its third reading, but, on motion, was placed back on its second reading and the following amendment offered by Mr. Howell:

SEC. 12. Be it further enacted, That the provisions of this act shall not be of force or effect in the Southern Judicial District of the State;

Which was lost, and the bill ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Dr. Samuel B. Todd,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Lavilla Institute,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of M. D. Papy and others,

Was read a second time and referred to Committee on Claims.

Mr. Canova moved that the rules be waived, and that a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate Jacksonville Light Infantry, referred

Page 208

to the Committee on Militia, be withdrawn from said Committee and referred to the Committee on Corporations;

Which was agreed to and said reference ordered to be made.

Mr. Blount moved that the member from Walton, (Mr. McKinnon,) be excused from further attendance upon the service of this House during its present session;

Which motion was lost.

On motion of Mr. Bird, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

THURSDAY, January 31st, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

On motion of Mr. Coffee, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

The rules being waived, the following bills and resolution were introduced without previous notice, viz:

By Mr. Lee:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the election of Tax Assessor and Collector for the county of Sumter and other purposes.

By Mr. Blount:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the service of civil process in certain cases; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the security of the citizens of this State transacting business with foreign corporations.

By Mr. Newburn:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of those counties which have subscribed for stock in the several Railroads in this State; also,

Resolution in relation to the public lands of this State;

Which were received to, and said bills and resolution placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Canova moved that the rule be waived and he be allowed to introduce a bill to be entitled an act requiring certain statements to be made in the reports which the several banks of this State are required to make to the Governor or Comptroller of this State;

Which was agreed to, and said bill received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Love moved that Mr. McKinnon, member from Walton County, be granted leave of absence and excused from further

Page 209

attendance on this House during the present session, and that a vote taken on yesterday refusing such leave of absence now be reconsidered;

Which was agreed to and said vote reconsidered and the motion adopted to grant such leave of absence.

And on motion the rule was waived and Mr. Love introduced a resolution for the relief of Neil J. McKinnon, member from Walton County;

Which was read the first time, rule waived, read a second and third times by its title and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--35.

Nays--None.

So the resolution was adopted.

On motion, a committee consisting of Messrs. Blount, Love and Coffee, were appointed to convey said resolution to the Senate and request their concurrence.

Mr. Howell offered the following resolution:

That the Comptroller be requested to furnish the House with a statement of the amount of taxes assessed for the year 1860, the amount paid in and amount of taxes due on account of revenue at the present time, and a statement of the amount due from each county; also, a statement from the Treasurer of the disbursement since his last report;

Which was adopted.

Mr. Williams moved that the rule be waived and he be allowed, without previous notice, to introduce a bill to be entitled an act in relation to crimes and misdemeanors;

Which was agreed to and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

In pursuance of a motion to that effect, the Speaker announced, as an additional Standing Committee of the House, a Committee on Public Lands, consisting of Messrs. Coffee, Pooser, Canova, McCormick and Bissell.

Mr. Bellamy, from the Committee on Finance and Public Accounts, made the following report:

The Committee on Finance and Public Accounts have had under consideration a bill to be entitled an act to amend the Tax Laws of the State, and instruct me to report the same back to the House and recommend that it do pass.

B. W. BELLAMY, Chairman.

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Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for the payment of physicians who are summoned to attend Coroners' Juries, approved January 11th, 1855;

A bill to be entitled an act enlarging the time for making demands on Railroad Companies for stock killed or injured, and for other purposes;

A bill to be entitled an act to enable Railroad Companies to obtain the right of way; and,

A bill to be entitled an act to change the mode of selecting Grand and Petit Jurors in this State.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was received and read and said bills placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holloman, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report the following bills as correctly enrolled, viz:

An act to change the name of Big Spring Creek, in Jackson county, to Spring river; and,

An act to permanently locate the county site of Volusia county.

D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

Which was read.

The following report was received from the Joint Committee of the Judiciary of the House and Senate:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act concerning the office of Clerk of the Supreme Court, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed us to report the accompanying substitute, and recommend its adoption in lieu of the original bill.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was received, and the accompanying bill and substitute placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to enlarge and define the powers and

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practice of Courts of Equity in granting and dissolving injunctions and other summary process, together with the substitute therefor, heretofore reported, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed us to report that they herewith submit a substitute, the adoption of which they recommend in lieu of the original bill and substitute.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee,

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

That whenever in any equity cause pending in any of the Courts of this State any injunction or other summary order has been granted, and the defendant by his answer shall have denied the statement of the bill, either party thereto shall have the right to introduce evidence in support or denial of the bill or answer, before the injunction or other summary order shall be dissolved, and the Chancellor shall dissolve or continue the order according to the weight of the evidence.

Which was received, and the accompanying bill and substitutes placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act regulating the admission of attorneys and counsellors at law in the Courts of the State of Florida, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed us to report that they have perceived no reason to change the present law in relation to the admission of attorneys to practice law, by the mode proposed to be adopted by the bill, and therefore they return the bill to the House, and recommend that it do not pass.

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee,

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was received and the bill ordered to be placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the attachment laws now in force in this State, have had the same under consideration and have instructed us to report that they herewith submit a substitute, and recommend the adoption of it in lieu of the original bill.

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee,

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

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Which was received, and the accompanying bill and substitute placed among the orders of the day.

The Joint Committee of the House and Senate on Military Affairs made the following report:

The Joint Committee on Military Affairs, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to aid the citizens of this State in procuring arms and accoutrements and for other purposes,

REPORT:

That the policy proposed by said bill is not only incompatible with the financial condition of the State, but would in effect relinquish the whole control of arming the State into the hands of individuals, and make the State liable to be defrauded to an indefinite extent.

JOS. JOHN WILLIAMS,
Chairman House Committee,

J. W. McQUEEN,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was received and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Joint Select Committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to grant certain privileges to the Leon Artillery, and to provide an armory and accoutrements for the same,

REPORT:

That while they are disposed to give every encouragement and aid to Volunteer Companies compatible with the general policy of the State in relation to such matters, they do not deem it proper or just to grant particular privileges and advantages to any one company, or make any exception, without cogent reasons, to the general laws governing the militia of the State. The Committee cannot therefore recommend the passage of the bill.

JOS. JOHN WILLIAMS,
Chairman House Committee.

J. W. McQUEEN,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Joint Select Committee on Military Affairs, to which was referred a Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for a State uniform and flag, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to

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REPORT:

That they recommend that the bill do pass, with the following amendments:

In the fifth line of section one, for the word "procure" substitute the word "adopt;" and, in the same line, between the words "a" and "uniform," insert the word "State;" and in the same line and the following strike out the words "for the Volunteers of this State."

In the fourth line of section second, substitute "sized buttons" for the word "sizes."

In the third section, after the word "that," in the first line, strike out the word "all;" also, in the third line the word "all;" and in the sixth line, after the word "uniform," strike out to the word "shall," in the seventh line; and strike out all after the word "years," in the ninth line.

In section four, strike out all after the word "character," in the fifth line.

JOS. JOHN WILLIAMS,
Chairman House Committee.

J. W. McQUEEN,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was read and the bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 29, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has passed the following bills and resolution, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to amend an act to authorize the appointment of measurers and inspectors, and for other purposes;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of James McCormick;

A bill to be entitled an act concerning roads and highways in St. Johns county;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the law of this State regulating the issue of the process of garnishment;

House bill to be entitled an act to amend the school laws of Columbia, Suwannee, New River, Lafayette, Nassau and Sumter counties, with amendments;

House bill to be entitled an act for the relief of A. D. Rogero, Sheriff of St. Johns county;

House bill to be entitled an act to allow Matthew L. McKinney to assume the management of his own estate;

House bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Addison

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to construct a dam across the Ochlocknee river for the purpose of erecting a mill;

House bill to be entitled an act to re-organize the county of Brevard and for other purposes;

House bill to be entitled an act to amend the act creating liens in favor of builders, material men, mechanics, laborers and others;

House bill to be entitled an act to repeal an act authorizing a bridge tax in Walton county;

House bill to be entitled an act authorizing and directing the Secretary of State to furnish the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Columbia county with seal of office;

House bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola and Mobile Railroad and Manufacturing Company;

A bill to be entitled an act governing the County Commissioners of Nassau county in certain cases;

A bill to be entitled an act to empower the Judges of the Circuit Courts of this State to authorize minors to assume the management of their own estates, to contract and be contracted with, and to plead and be impleaded;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the law of this State in relation to Coroners and Juries of Inquest:

A bill to be entitled an act to permit A. E. Hodges to establish a ferry across the Withlacoochee river;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the city of Fernandina;

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Chipola river and other purposes;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws of this State in relation to elections;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph Atzerotte;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Dr. James D. Smith;

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of the county site of Holmes county from Hewitt's Bluff to that of Gay Hill, and for other purposes therein expressed;

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of Washington county to establish a ferry across Holmes Creek;

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola Gas Light Company;

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the college of St. Augustine to be located at St. Augustine;

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Marine and Fire Insurance Company of Pensacola;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Edward M. West, Justice of the Peace of Leon county;

A bill to be entitled an act to relieve the Town of Milton of

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the limits of fifty per cent. in taxation within the corporate limits of said Town, and for other purposes;

House bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Howell A. Baisden, former Sheriff and Tax Collector of Putnam county; also,

Resolution relating to the Florida and Georgia boundary line.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and the House bills ordered to be enrolled, and Senate bills and resolution placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 30th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to establish the Commercial Bank of Lake City;

A bill to be entitled an act combining the offices of Sheriff and Tax Assessor of Jefferson County;

A bill to be entitled an act to establish fees of Notaries Public in certain cases;

A bill to be entitled an act to alter and change the time of holding the several terms of the Supreme Court;

A bill to be entitled an act for the benefit of Ellis W. Hawkins of Santa Rosa County;

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Weekiva Creek and Clay Spring Run, and reclaim the Swamp and Overflowed lands on said streams;

A bill to be entitled an act concerning Pilotage for the Port of Cedar Keys;

House bill entitled an act for the relief of Walton County relative to the School Fund.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PAKKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the House bill ordered to be enrolled and Senate bills placed among the orders of the day.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the mode of selecting grand and petit jurors in this State,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter,

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Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Newburn, Pooser, Richardson, VanZant, Vogt, Wells and Wilkinson--23.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Broxson, Hawes, Oliver, Russell, Scott, Williams and Yates--8.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to enable Railroad Companies to obtain the right of way,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--27.

Nays--Messrs. Coffee and Mays--2.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act extending the time for making demands on Railroad Companies for stock killed or injured, and for other purposes,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--35.

Nay--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for the payment of Physicians who are summoned to attend Coroner's Juries, approved January 11, 1855,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Dansby, Hawes, Hull, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Russell, Stewart, Vogt and Wilkinson--14.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Oliver, Price, Richardson, Scott, VanZant, Wells, Williams and Yates--24.

So the bill was lost.

Mr. Means from the Committee appointed to wait upon his Excellency the Governor and inquire of him as to the expediency

Page 217

of an adjournment of the General Assembly on Monday next, offered the following

REPORT.

That the Southern Convention meets at Montgomery on February 4th, for the purpose of adopting a plan both for a provisional and permanent government, that the latter it will probably require them some time to mature, and when matured and adopted by the Southern Convention, must be submitted to our own State Convention for ratification. But a plan for a Provisional Government there is every reason to believe will be agreed upon on the first or second day after the meeting of the Southern Convention, which will be substantially the Constitution of the late United States, and will not require to be ratified by any other body before it will go into operation. Should this be the case, the General Assemby of Florida will be immediately called upon to provide for the election of President and Vice President, and members of Congress, and perhaps perform other duties which cannot now be known until after the action of said Southern Convention. Inasmuch as the preservation of our domestic peace and the hope of avoiding a war between the two sections is dependent upon the speedy organization of such a Government for the seceding States, it is evident that the duties thus devolved upon the General Assembly are so absolutely important that unless it is in session at the time, the Governor would be compelled to call that body together again immediately.

In view of these facts the Committee are of the opinion that unless the General Assembly can anticipate with reasonable certainty the action of said Southern Convention, and provide in advance for the election of those Federal officers and the performance of those duties which it may become necessary for Florida to elect or perform, the public interest will absolutely prohibit their adjournment, inasmuch as the mileage of members alone, which would be incurred by an extra session rendered necessary by said adjournment, would be equal to the expense of several weeks of actual session.

The Committee have further to report, that there seems to be a large amount of legislation devolved upon them by the ordinances of the late Convention, and it would seem to be premature even to discuss the question of an adjournment, when as yet not a solitary bill has been introduced into either House in pursuance of those ordinances.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

G. W. MEANS,
Chairman House Committee.

Which was read.

Page 218

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Chain, Brokaw and Watlington, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had concurred in the House resolution for the relief of N. J. McKinnon;

Which resolution was ordered to be enrolled.

A bill to be entitled an act requiring the Judges of the Supreme Court to hold a term of said Court at Pensacola,

Was, on motion, laid on the table.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Elizabeth Lovett,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to make the office of Constable elective, and for other purposes,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Dansby, Hawes, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Price, Russell and Vogt--16.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Mays, Oliver, Pooser, Richardson, Scott, VanZant, Wells, Williams and Wilkinson--21.

So said bill was lost.

A bill to be entitled an act to empower Lewis Clark to assume the management of his own State,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

The rule being waived, Mr. Holloman, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report the following resolution as correctly enrolled:

Resolution in favor of Neil J. McKinnon.

D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

Which was read.

The Speaker appointed Messrs. Love, Hawes and Oliver a Committee to return a bill to the Senate entitled a bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Addison to construct a dam across the Ocklockonee river, in pursuance of a request made by them on yesterday.

Senate bill to incorporate the Lavilla Institute, near Jacksonville, Florida,

Was read a third time, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull,

Page 219

Lee, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--34.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide a remedy to enforce the lien of ship chandlers and others against ships, vessels, steamboats or other water craft,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--33.

Nays--None.

So the bill was lost.

Senate bill to be entitled an act in relation to foreign guardians,

Was read a third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--33.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Town of Marianna, approved Jan'y 8th, 1853,

Was read the second time, and the amendments proposed by the Committee on Corporations refused to be concurred in, and the bill ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

On motion, the House took a recess until half-past three o'clock P. M.

3½ O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

Mr. Love introduced the following resolution:

Resolution limiting the time of introducing bills in the House of
Representatives of a local nature.

Be it resolved, That from and after Saturday, the 2nd day of

Page 220

February next, no bill of a local character shall be introduced or entertained except by the unanimous vote of the House;

Which was adopted.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the security of the citizens of this State transacting business with foreign corporations,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of those counties which have subscribed for stock in the several Railroads in this State,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on Corporations, and 80 copies ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

A bill to be entitled an act concerning the office of Clerk of the Supreme Court of this State,

Was read the second time, and the substitute proposed by the Joint Judiciary Committee adopted and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the law of this State regulating the issue of the process of garnishment,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Mr. Blount gave notice that he would on some future day ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to vest the several Circuit Courts of the State hereinafter named with the powers which were exercised by the late District Court of the late United States for the Northern District of Florida, and to provide for a transfer to said Circuit Courts of the records of the late District Court of the late United States for the Northern District of Florida, and for the cognizance and adjudication by said Circuit Courts of all matters which were pending in the said late District Court of the late United States, and for other purposes.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to amend an act to authorize the appointment of Measurers and Inspectors, and for other purposes,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act concerning roads and highways in St. Johns county in this State,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of James McCormick,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

Page 221

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bill as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide a permanent circulating medium for the citizens of Florida.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Senate resolution relating to the Florida and Georgia boundary line,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to relieve the Town Council of the town of Milton of the limits of fifty per cent. in taxation within the corporate limits of said town, and for other purposes,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the College of St. Augustine, to be located at St. Augustine,

Was read the first time, rule waived read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Schools and Colleges.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Marine and Fire Insurance Company of Pensacola,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Edward M. West, Justice of the Peace of Leon County,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Claims.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide a permanent circulating medium for the citizens of Florida,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mays, Means, Mickler, Pooser, Price, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt and Wilkinson--26.

Nays--Messrs. Bissell, Broxson, Cole, Hawes, Holloman, Love, Newburn, Oliver, Richardson, Scott and Yates--11.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Love gave notice that he would on to-morrow ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to regulate the mode and manner of admitting persons to practice law in the several Courts of Law and Equity in this State;

Also a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the several Banks

Page 222

and Agencies of this State to suspend specie payment, and to suspend judicial sales under decrees and executions.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of Washington County to establish a Ferry across Holmes Creek,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola Gas Light Company,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws of this State in relation to elections,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Elections.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph Atzerotte,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Dr. James D. Smith,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the city of Fernandina,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to permit A. E. Hodges to establish a ferry across the Withlacoochee river,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the law of this State in relation to Coroners and juries of inquest,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the service of civil process in certain cases,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act governing the County Commissioners of Nassau county in certain cases,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to enlarge and define the jurisdiction

Page 223

and establish certain rules of practice in the Courts of Equity in this State,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act in relation to crimes and misdemeanors,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to establish the fees of Notaries Public in certain cases,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act concerning Pilotage for the Port of Cedar Keys,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Weekiva creek and Clay Spring river and reclaim the Swamp and Overflowed Lands on said streams,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Internal Improvements.

Senate bill to be entitle an act to change the name of the county site of Holmes county from Hewit's Bluff to that of Gay Hill, and for other purposes therein expressed,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title, whereupon Mr. Broxson offered the following amendment:

Strike out the words Gay Hill and insert the words Cerro Gordo wherever the words Gay Hill appears in said bill,

Which was adopted and the bill and amendment ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the benefit of Ellis W. Hawkins of Santa Rosa county,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

Senate bill to be entitled an act combining the offices of Sheriff and Tax-Assessor of Jefferson county,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to alter and change the time of holding the several terms of the Supreme Court,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to establish the Commercial Bank of Lake City,

Page 224

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to empower the Judges of the Circuit Courts of this State to authorize minors to assume the management of their own estates, to contract and be contracted with and to plead and be impleaded,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Chipola river and for other purposes,

Was read the first time, the rule waived, read the second time and referred to the Committee on Internal Improvements.

A bill to be entitled an act requiring certain statements to be made by the several Banks of this State to the Governor and Comptroller,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Attachment Laws now in force in this State,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time substitute of the Judiciary Committee adopted, and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

The following resolution in relation to the Public Lands of this State was offered by Mr. Newburn:

WHEREAS, The extensive sea board and the present sparse population of the State of Florida necessarily renders her defence, either by her own citizens or by any Confederation of which she may form a part, an exceedingly onerous task, which may, however, be greatly lightened by the completion of the Railroads now in progress, between Tampa Bay and Fernandina, and Pensacola and Jacksonville; AND, whereas, It is confidently believed that this result could certainly be secured by some additional assistance in the shape of a further land grant; Therefore,

Resolved, That the delegates to this State to the Southern Convention are hereby requested, if the public lands become a subject for the consideration of said Convention, to obtain from it, if possible, a relinquishment of all claim to the late United States' lands in the State of Florida, and more particularly to all lying within fifteen miles of the lines of railroad herein indicated.

Which was read.

On motion of Mr. Bird the House adjourned until to-morrow, 10 o'clock, A. M.

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FRIDAY, February 1st, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

On motion of Mr. Bird, the reading of the journal of yerterday's proceedings were dispened with.

Mr. Bellamy moved that the Judiciary Committee be requested to report at an early day as possible, either by bill or otherwise, what legislation is necessary to carry into effect the ordinances passed by the late Convention;

Which was adopted.

Mr. Mays moved that the bill to be entitled an act to amend the Criminal laws of this State be taken up from the table and placed among the orders of the day;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Blount moved that the vote taken on yesterday on the bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of Physicians who are summoned to attend Coroners Juries, approved Jan'y 11th, 1855, be reconsidered;

Which was agreed to, and said bill taken up and placed among the orders of the day.

Hr. Howell moved that Mr. Parker be excused from attendance on the House until Monday next;

Which was agreed to.

The following bills were introduced in pursuance to previous notice, viz:

By Mr. Blount:

A bill to be entitled an act to vest the several Circuit Courts hereinafter named with the powers which were possessed by the late District Courts of the late United States, and for other purposes.

By Mr. Parker:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for taking the marks and brands of cattle drove or shipped from the counties of Sumpter, Hillsborough and Manatee;

Which was placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Newburn moved that the bill to be entitled an act for the relief of those counties which have subscribed for stock in the several Railroads in this State be taken from the Committee on Corporations, to which it was referred on yesterday, and referred to a Select Committee;

Which was agreed to, and Messrs. Newburn, Russell and Oliver appointed said Committee.

Mr. Hawes, from the Committee on Claims, made the following report:

The Committee on Claims and Accounts to whom was referred

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a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of M. D. Papy and others, having had the same under consideration, beg leave to

REPORT:

That the object and intention of this bill is to pay M. D. Papy, Attorney General; Dyke & Carlisle, printers, and the several deputy clerks of the Supreme Court for extra services, in furnishing, preparing and printing the reports of the Supreme Courts. As there is no doubt in the minds of the Committee as to the amount of services rendered and the necessity for it, and this Legislature having already paid the Chief Clerk of the Supreme Court for similar services, the Committee recommend that the bill do pass.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Claims and Accounts, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Edward M. West, Justice of the Peace of Leon county, having had the same under consideration, beg leave to

REPORT:

That the bill is intended to pay the said West the costs of his court as Justice of the Peace, in certain cases, in which the State was a party and against whom the costs were justly assessed. The Committee therefore recommend that the bill do pass.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill was placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Hawes, from the Committee on Schools and Colleges made the following report:

The Committee on Schools and Colleges, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the College of St. Augustine, to be located at St. Augustine, have had the same under consideration, and beg leave to report that they recommend the passage of the bill.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was received and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

The Joint Judiciary Committee made the following report:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act in relation to crimes and misdemeanors, have had the same under consideration and have instructed

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me to report the accompanying amendments to the bill--that is to say:

In the sixth line, strike out the word "the" and insert "any."

In the same line, strike out the words "of another person" and insert "not his own."

In the twelfth line, strike out all after the word "not" to the end of the section and insert "exceeding double the value of the timber so cut, fell or destroyed, at the discretion of the Court: Provided, This act shall not apply to any settler upon the public lands who shall cut or fell timber on the same merely for the purposes of clearing land for cultivation or necessary plantation purposes, and in all indictments under this act for trespass on private property there, shall be a prosecutor set at the foot of the indictment, who shall be liable for costs on failure to convict."

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to provide for service of civil process in certain cases, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report the same back to the House and recommend its passage.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was received and read, and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act concerning the office of Clerk of the Supreme Court of this State;

A bill to be entitled an act governing vessels propelled in whole or in part by steam in this State;

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Elizabeth Lovett;

A bill to be entitled in act to empower Lewis Clarke to assume the management of his own estate;

Also amendments to the following Senate bills, viz:

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A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of the county site of Holmes county from Hewitt's Bluff to that of Gay Hill, and for other purposes therein expressed; and,

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road law and to repeal a certain act relating to Santa Rosa county herein named.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Bird, from the Committee on Elections, made the following report:

The Committee on Elections, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws of this State in relation to elections, have had the same under consideration and beg leave to report, that the provisions of said bill which materially alter or amend the election laws now in force in this State are not, in the opinion of your Committee, of sufficient importance as to make the passage of the bill necessary. Your Committee therefore recommend that the bill do not pass.

P. B. BIRD.

Which was read and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Lee, from a Special Committee, made the following report:

The Special Committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to provide for the election of a Tax-Assessor and Collector for Sumter county, and for other purposes, have had the same under consideration and have, from examination, found that there have been Tax-Assessors and Collectors elected for said county for the last five or six years, who have discharged the duties of said office, given bond, &c., and that the present Tax-Assessor and Collector has given bond and discharged the duties of said office for last year under the impression that he was authorized so to do, when in reality he is not liable in law upon his bond for said taxes, and that if it is considered doubtful by the tax-payers to whom the taxes should be paid, much trouble will be had to collect them, therefore, to obviate this difficulty, this bill was introduced. We therefore beg leave to report the bill back to the House and recommend that it do pass.

J. A. LEE, Chairman,

JOSEPH HOWELL,

C. L. BROXSON.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Hernando, from the Committee on Corporations, made the following report:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate Lake City and Blunt Ferry

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Railroad Company, have had the same under consideration and beg leave to report the bill back to the House with the following amendments:

Strike out all after the word "divided," in the 7th line of the second section, and insert therefor the words, "into shares of one hundred dollars each."

Strike out from the 16th line of the 12th section the words "or other property;" also strike out from the 33d and 34th lines of the same section the words "or ownership of the materials." Further amend same section by adding after the word "aforesaid," in the last line of said section, the words "provided that said jury thus summoned by the Sheriff shall assess the value of the land only on which said road may run for a distance of sixty feet on each side from the centre of said road bed."

Strike out all after the word "lands," in the 10th line of 13th section.

Strike out the entire 18th section.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was received and read and said bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to empower Lewis Clark to assume the management of his own estate,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Clyatt, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Price, Stewart, VanZant, Wilkinson and Yates--18.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Holloman, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Oliver, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Vogt, Wells and Williams--21.

So the bill was lost.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Elizabeth Lovett,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Wilkinson and Yates--25.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Carter,

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Coffee, Collins, Love, Mays, Means, Oliver, Richardson, Vogt, Wells and Williams--15.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act concerning the office of Clerk of the Supreme Court,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--35.

Nays--Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Holloman and Wells--3.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act governing vessels propelled in whole or in part by steam,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, VanZant, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--Messrs. Bissell, Broxson, Carter, Holloman, Hull, Love, Oliver, Richardson, Scott and Wells--10.

So the bill passed--titled as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Rogers, Brokaw and Call, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate have concurred in the first and second House amendments to the Senate bill to change the mode of selecting Grand and Petit Jurors in this State, but have declined to concur in the residue of said amendments, and request the House to recede therefrom or to appoint a Committee of Conference.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of the county site of Holmes county from Hewitt's Bluff to Gay Hill,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--32.

Nay--Mr. Mays--1.

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So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion of Mr. Russell, the rule was waived, and he was allowed to offer the following resolution:

Be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Florida in General Assembly convened, That the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Fund be requested to inform this House whether the several Railroad Companies in this State, accepting the benefits of the "Act to provide for and encourage a liberal system of Internal Improvements in this State," approved Jan'y 6th, 1855, have, in compliance with the 11th Section of said Act, made semi-annual reports of gross receipts and net earnings of the several roads during construction, and how much of said proceeds have been paid by each Company into the Trust Fund towards the payment of interest of Bonds issued by said Company;

Which was adopted.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws and to repeal a certain act relating to Santa Rosa county herein named,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--32.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate resolution relating to the Florida and Georgia boundary line,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read a third time by its title, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Love, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--33.

Nays--None.

So the resolution passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

The rule being waived, Mr. Love moved that Mr. Bird be excused from further attendance on the House during the day;

Which was agreed to.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of James McCormick,

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Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

Senate bill to be entitled an act concerning roads and highways in St. Johns county in this State,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to authorize the appointment of Measurers and Inspectors and for other purposes,

Was read a second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide for the better preservation of the State Judicial Library,

Was read the second time and on motion referred to a Select Committee consisting of Messrs. Russell, Holland of Franklin, Means, Pooser and Cole.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for a State Uniform and Flag,

Was read the second time and the report of the Joint Select Committee on Militia concurred in, the rule waived, read the third time by its title and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, VanZant, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--28.

Nays--None.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act concerning Pilotage for the port of Cedar Keys,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to establish the fees of Notaries Public in certain cases,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read the third time by its title, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--25.

Nays--Messrs. Howell, Love, Mays and VanZant--4.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act governing the County Commissioners of Nassau County in certain cases,

On motion was laid on the table.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws of this State relating to Coroners and Juries of Inquest,

Was read the second time, and on motion laid on the table.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to permit A. E. Hodges to establish a ferry across the Withlacooche river,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read a third time by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Lee, Love, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--33.

Nays--Mr. Howell--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered to be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the city of Fernandina,

Was read the second time, and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of Washington county to establish a Ferry across Holmes creek,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read a third time by its title and put upon its passage, on which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--33.

Nays--None.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act requiring certain statements to be made by the several Banks of this State to the Governor and Comptroller,

Was read the second time, and on motion referred to a Select Committee, consisting of Messrs. Russell, Holloman, Holland of Hernando, Canova and Haddock.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to empower the Judges of the Circuit Court of this State to authorize minors to assume the management of their own estates, to contract and be contracted with and to plead and be impleaded,

Page 234

Was read the second time, whereupon

Mr. Haddock moved its indefinite postponement.

Upon which motion, the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Canova, Carter, Coffee, Cole, Haddock, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Mays, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt and Williams--19.

Nays--Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Russell, Wilkinson and Yates--16.

So the motion was carried.

Mr. Williams moved a reconsideration of the vote just taken on said bill;

Which was carried and the bill placed back among the orders of the day.

The rule being waived, Mr. Holland of Hernando, from the Committee on Corporations, made the following report:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom reference of a bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the city of Fernandina was made, have duly considered the same, and being satisfied with the justice of its provisions, report same back to the House without amendment and recommend its passage.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was received and read, and the bill accompanying the same placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to establish the Commercial Bank of Lake City,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act combining the offices of Sheriff and Tax-Assessor of Jefferson county,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read a third time by its title, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--31.

Nays--Messrs. Oliver, Stewart and VanZant--3.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Criminal laws of this State,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for the

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payment of Physicians who are summoned to attend Coroners Juries, approved Jan'y 11th, 1855,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Vogt and Wilkinson--21.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Broxson, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Hull, Love, Means, Richardson, Wells, Williams and Yates--15.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the College of St. Augustine, to be located at St. Augustine,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Edward M. West, Justice of the Peace of Leon county,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow at 10 o'clock.

A bill to be entitled an act for taking the marks and brands of cattle drove or shipped from the counties of Sumter, Hillsborough and Manatee,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to vest the several Circuit Courts hereinafter named, with the powers which were possessed by the late District Courts of the late U. S., and for other purposes,

Was read the first time, the rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the act entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Harbor and Bay of Apalachicola,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize a Volunteer Corps in in the Counties of Franklin and Calhoun,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act in relation to Customs and Collectors at the Ports of Florida,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

On motion of Mr. Campbell, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

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SATURDAY, February 2nd, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

On motion of Mr. VanZant the reading of the Journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Dawkins, Walker and Ingram, waited upon the House and requested the return of a bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of the Florida Volunteers and others, who have not been paid for services actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians.

On motion, Messrs. Love, Williams and Hawes were appointed said Committee to return said bill to the Senate.

Mr. Haddock moved that the Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act governing the County Commissioners of Nassau county in certain cases be taken up and placed among the orders of the day;

Which was agreed to.

The rule being waived, the following bills were introduced without previous notice, viz:

By Mr. Holland of Franklin:

A bill to be entitled an act governing the trial of slaves and free persons of color in this State;

A bill to be entitled an act governing divorces in this State;

A bill to be entitled an act regulating wharfage in the city of Apalachicola; and,

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the fees of Port Wardens of the city of Apalachicola, and for other purposes.

By Mr. Canova:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to regulate the pilotage of St. Johns bar.

By Mr. Galbraith:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the 22d Section of the Act to provide for and encourage a liberal system of Internal Improvements in this State, approved Jan'y 6th, 1855.

By Mr. Means:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize suits at common law to be instituted against married women in Florida, and for other purposes.

Which bills were received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Russell moved that the Sergeat-at-Arms in the House of Representatives have leave of absence after 2 o'clock to-day until Monday next, 12 o'clock, M.;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Oliver moved that Mr. Carter, member from Wakulla, be

Page 237

granted leave of absence from to-day 12 o'clock, untill Monday, 12 o'clock;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Coffee moved that Mr. Mays of Madison be excused from attendance on this House till Tuesday, next one o'clock;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. VanZant moved to reconsider the vote on the resolution of the House preventing local bills from being introduced after to-day;

Which was lost.

Mr. Newburn moved that the bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Thomas Jefferson Fillmore Ault, to Thomas Jefferson Fillmore Johns, be taken up and placed among the orders of the day;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Blount moved that the bill to be entitled an act providing the mode of selecting Grand and Petit Jurors, be placed first among the orders of the day;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Hawes moved that Mr. Love be excused from further attendance on the House during the day;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Vogt offered the following resolution:

Resolved. That the General Assembly of the State of Florida adjourn sine die on Friday, the 8th inst., at 12 M.

On motion, the consideration of the same was postponed until Wednesday, next.

Mr. Love offered the following resolution:

Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Florida in General Assembly convened, That the Secretary of State be requested to furnish to the General Assembly a correct and full catalogue and list of all books in the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Libraries of this State of which he is Librarian, and a memoranda of all books which have been extracted and lost from said Library, and of the general condition and care of said Library at his earliest convenience;

Which was adopted.

The Committee on Claims, through Mr. Hawes, made the following report:

The Committee on Claims and Accounts, to whom was referred a resolution for the relief of George B. Ellis, Sheriff of Alachua county, having had the same under consideration, beg leave to

REPORT:

That it appears from evidence laid before the Committee that George B. Ellis, Sheriff of Alachua county, stands charged on

Page 238

the books of the Comptroller's office for fines assessed against individuals to the amount of the sum specified in the resolution, which fines he has been unable to collect. The intention of this resolution is to relieve him of the charge. The Committee recommend the passage of the resolution.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying resolution placed among the orders of the day.

The committee on Proposition and Grievances, through Mr. Pooser, made the following report:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances having before them a Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Ellis W. Hankins, of Santa Rosa county, to be allowed to practice physic in said county of Santa Rosa, and make charges as a practicing physician, and, after having maturely considered the case before us, we recommend that the bill do pass.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Which was read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Canova, from the Committee on Internal Improvements, made the following report:

The Committee on Internal Improvements, to whom a Senate bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Weekiva creek and Clay Spring river; also, a bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Chipola river, and for other purposes, were referred, have had the same under consideration, and, believing them proper objects of improvement under provisions of the Internal Improvement Act, ask leave to report both bills back to the House and recommend the passage of the same.

A. A. CANOVA, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Russell, from a Select Committee, made the following report:

The undersigned Special Committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act requiring certain statements to be made by the several Banks of this State to the Governor and Comptroller, having carefully examined the various provisions contained in said bill, and believing them essential, beg leave respectfully to report said bill back to the House without amendment, and recommend its passage.

J. S. RUSSELL, Chairman,

A. A. CANOVA,

N. W. HOLLAND,

JOHN H. HADDOCK,

D. W. HOLLOMAN.

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Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 31st, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has this day concurred in the House amendment to a bill to be entitled an act to amend the Pilot laws for the port of Fernandina.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was received and read.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
January 31st, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Hydrant Water Company at Pensacola;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Major General Benjamin Hopkins;

House bill entitled an act to allow A. J. Baker of the county of Volusia to practice medicine in said county; and

House bill entitled an act to authorize William J. J. Duncan and Elizabeth Zippera to establish a toll bridge across the Suwanee and Alapaha rivers.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and the Senate bills ordered to be placed among the orders of the day and the House bills ordered to be enrolled.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 1st, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has passed the following House bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of the Florida volunteers and others who have not been paid for services

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actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians.

Very Respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read and the bill ordered to be enrolled.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 1st, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has concurred in House amendments to a bill to be entitled an act to change the times for holding the Courts of the Western Judicial Circuit.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read.

Also the following

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 1st, 1861.

HON. JOHN. B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has this day passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to establish the Bank of Tallahassee at Tallahassee;

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of costs by plaintiffs in certain cases;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to require licenses to be taken out by persons and subjects not hitherto taxed, approved January 12th, 1849;

A bill to be entitled an act for the enforcement of the laws of this State;

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Florida Mutual Fire and Marine Insurance Company;

House bill to be entitled an act to declare Peas creek a navigable stream.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and the Senate bills ordered to be placed among the orders of the day, and the House bill which had passed the Senate, ordered to be enrolled.

Mr. Holloman, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

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The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report the following bills and resolutions as correctly enrolled, viz:

An act to reorganize the county of Brevard, and for other purposes;

An act authorizing and directing the Secretary of State to furnish a seal of office to the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Columbia county;

An act for the relief of Howell A. Baisden, former Sheriff and Tax-Collector of the county of Putnam;

An act for the relief of A. D. Rogero, Sheriff of St. Johns county;

An act to repeal an act authorizing a bridge tax in Walton county;

An act to allow Matthew L. McKinney to assume the management of his own estate;

An act to amend the acts creating liens in favor of builders, material men, mechanics, laborers and others;

An act to amend the Schools Laws of this State so far as has reference to the counties of Columbia, Suwannee, New River, Lafayette and Sumter;

An act for the relief of Walton county relative to the School Fund;

An act to incorporate the Pensacola and Mobile Railroad and Manufacturing Company.

D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

Which was read.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

The Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the mode of selecting Grand and Petit Jurors in this State, which was returned to the House on yesterday by a Committee from the Senate, the Senate refusing to concur in the House amendment thereto, was first taken up;

On motion, the House not receding from its amendments, a Committee consisting of the Judiciary Committee was appointed as a Committee of Conference to confer with the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of M. D. Papy and others,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Mays, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Russell, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--24.

Nays--Messrs. Hull, VanZant and Wells--3.

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So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Mays moved that the bill just passed be reconsidered;

Which was agreed to, and on motion, the further consideration of the same postponed until Tuesday next.

On motion, the rule was waived, and Mr. Holland of Franklin without previous notice was allowed to introduce a bill to be entitled an act for the defence of the Port of Apalachicola;

Which was placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for taking the marks and brands of cattle drove or shipped from the counties of Sumpter, Hillsborough and Mannatee,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the service of civil process in certain cases,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize a volunteer corps in the counties of Franklin and Calhoun,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act in relation to customs and collectors at the ports of Florida,

Which was read the first time, rule waived, read the second and third times by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--32.

Nays--None.

So the bill was adopted--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to incorporate the town of Marianna, approved January 8th, 1853;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to improve the navigation of the harbor and bay of Apalachicola;

A bill to be entitled an act to enlarge and define the jurisdiction and establish certain rules of practice of the Courts of Equity in this State;

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A bill to be entitled an act to amend the criminal laws of the State; and

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the attachment laws now in force in this State.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was received and read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to enlarge and define the jurisdiction and establish certain rules of practice in the Courts of Equity in this State,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Russell, Scott, Williams and Wilkinson--24.

Nays--Messrs. Wells and Yates--2.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Criminal Laws of this State,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Wells, Williams and Wilkinson--27.

Nay--Mr. Yates--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to improve the navigation of the Harbor and Bay of Apalachicola,

Was on motion placed back on its second reading; and

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the House went into Committee of the Whole for its consideration, Mr. Canova in the Chair.

After some time spent therein, the Committee arose and through their Chairman, reported the bill back to the House.

Upon the question of the adoption of the amendments proposed by the Committee on Internal Improvements, the yeas and nays were called for and were as follows:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando,

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Hull, Mays, Means, Mickler, Oliver, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams, and Yates--21.

Nays--Messrs. Coffee, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Lee, Newburn, Pooser, VanZant, Wells and Wilkinson--9.

So the amendment was adopted.

The following amendment to said bill was offered by Mr. Holland of Franklin:

SEC. 3. Be it further enacted, That the city of Apalachicola shall have power and they are hereby authorized to levy and collect a tax for the payment of said bonds, and the interest thereon upon all goods, wares and merchandize received at the port of Apalachicola as imports or exports, and provide for said taxation by ordinances of the city of Apalachicola.

Upon which, the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Newburn and Pooser--3.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Mays, Means, Mickler, Oliver, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--21.

So the amendment was lost.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following amendment to said bill:

SEC. 3. Be it further enacted, That the county of Franklin be and it is hereby relieved from paying State taxes for five years: Provided, however, That said county shall pay its own jurors and Court expenses;

Upon which, the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Lee, Pooser, Russell, Wells and Wilkinson--8.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Holland of Hernando, Mays, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Price, Richardson, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--16.

So the amendment was lost, and the bill with amendment of Committee on Internal Improvement ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on Monday.

The rule being waived, Mr. Russell moved that Messrs. Bellamy and Scott have leave of absence until Tuesday next, one o'clock;

Which was agreed to.

The rule being waived, Mr. Russell moved that Mr. Holloman be placed on the Committee of Ways and Means in place of Mr. Bowne, excused;

Which was agreed to.

The rule being waived, Mr. Holland of Franklin asked that the bill concerning the navigation of the harbor and bay of Apalachicola just ordered to be engrossed be returned to him.

Which was agreed to.

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On motion, the House adjourned until Monday morning, 10 o'clock.

MONDAY, February 4th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

On motion of Mr. Stewart, the reading of the journal of Saturday's proceedings was dispensed with.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 2d,

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has passed the following resolution, viz: Joint resolution to speed the publication of the laws.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PAKKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read, and the resolution ordered to be placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 2d, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has instructed me to return to the House the following bill passed the Senate on yesterday, and returned to the Senate to-day without amendments, viz:

House bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of the Florida Volunteers and others, who have not been paid for services actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and the bill ordered to be enrolled.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to incorporate the Town of Marianna, approved Jan'y 8th, 1853,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

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Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--24.

Nays--Messrs. Bissell and Clyatt--2.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Holloman, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report the following bills as correctly enrolled, viz:

An Act to allow A. J. Baker of the County of Volusia to practice medicine in said County;

An Act to authorize William L. J. Duncan and Elizabeth Zipperer, to establish a Toll-Bridge across the Suwannee and Alafia rivers.

D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

Which was read.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for taking of the marks and brands of cattle driven or shipped from the counties of Sumter, Hillsborough and Manatee;

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the service of civil process in certain cases; and,

A bill to be entitled an act to organize a Volunteer Corps in the counties of Franklin and Calhoun.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was received and read and said bills placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the taking of the marks and brands of Cattle drove or shipped from the counties of Sumter, Hillsborough and Manatee,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Clyatt, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--27.

Nay--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the service of Civil process in certain cases,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Clyatt, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--27.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the issue of Bonds to the extent of one million of dollars by the Commonwealth of Florida,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.

Senate bill to be entitled an act concerning roads and highways in St. Johns county, in this State,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Clyatt, Dansby, Hawes, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the law of this State regulating the issue of the process of garnishment,

Was, the rule being waived, read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the rules be waived to allow him to introduce a bill to be entitled an act for the government of the military forces of the State of Florida,

Which was agreed to and said bill received and ordered to be placed among the orders of the day.

On motion, the rule was waived and said bill read the first and second times by its title and referred to a Select Committee, consisting of Messrs. Holland, Russell, Coffee, Williams and Bissell.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to amend an act to authorize the appointment of measurers and inspectors and for other purposes,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Clyatt, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of

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Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--28.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize a volunteer corps in the counties of Franklin and Calhoun,

Was read the third and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Lee, Newburn, Pooser, Price, VanZant, Wells and Wilkinson--9.

Nays--Messrs. Bissell, Broxson, Campbell, Clyatt, Collins, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Oliver, Richardson, Stewart, Vogt, Williams and Yates--17.

So the bill was lost.

Senate bill to be entitled an act concerning pilotage for the port of Cedar Keys,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bissell, Campbell, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the city of Fernandina,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to establish the Commercial Bank of Lake City,

Came upon its third reading, and on motion, the rule waived, and the bill placed back upon its second reading, and sundry amendments offered and adopted, and the bill read the third time by its title, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--28.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed as amended--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Page 249

The following communication relative to Revenue and Taxation, was received from the Comptroller of Public Accounts:

AMOUNT OF REVENUE ASSESSED FOR 1860. AM'T OF REVENUE PAID IN FROM 1ST JAN'Y, 1860, TO 4TH FEB'Y, 1861.

Alachua, $7,800 22 $6 70

Brevard,

Calhoun, 1,004 68 1,004 68

Columbia,

Clay, 1,062 23 453 32

Dade,

Duval, 4,209 70 4,053 39

Escambia, 2,737 99

Franklin, 3,367 38 3,367 38

Gadsden, 8,415 00

Hamilton, 3,393 32 3,162 59

Hillsborough, 2,502 42 2,502 42

Hernando, 2,448 88 2,038 74

Holmes, 455 77 388 02

Jackson, 9,866 23 10 25

Jefferson, 10,130 81 10,130 81

Leon, 15,887 24 12,515 30

Levy, 1,026 88 1,026 88

Liberty, 1,152 10 583 20

Lafayette, 728 13

Madison, 7,274 18 6,943 70

Monroe, 1,918 51 1,918 50

Manatee,

Nassau, 3,726 77 3,296 47

New River, 2,211 01

Orange, 749 63 356 87

Putnam, 1,786 03 530 81

St. Johns, 1,659 58 56 25

Sumter, 1,380 13 1,170 46

Suwannee, 1,615 97 1,615 97

Santa Rosa, 1,377 06

Taylor, 609 91 609 91

Volusia, 760 02 380 12

Washington, 1,111 53 922 00

Wakulla, 2,364 09 2,364 09

Walton, 1,113 70 1,113 70

Marion, 4,527 11 3,273 14

$108,997 15 $67,352 73

COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE,
TALLAHASSEE, February 4th, 1861.

There have been some partial payments made by Sheriffs of fines not included in this statement, but will be embodied in the Treasurer's report.

R. C. WILLIAMS,
Comptroller,

Page 250

TREASURY OFFICE,
TALLAHASSEE, February 1, 1861.

HON. J. B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of House of Representatives:

SIR:--I respectfully submit a statement of the quarter ending yesterday, showing the amount received into and disbursed from the Treasury since last report, ending 31st October, 1860:

Received on revenue 1860, . . . . . $59,555 46
Received on revenue 1859, . . . . . 344 92
Received on revenue 1861, . . . . . 72 66
Received on revenue 1855, . . . . . 653 54
Received on licenses, . . . . . 804 00
Received on fines, . . . . . 660 00
Received on auction tax, . . . . . 439 70
$62,530 28
Which has been disbursed as follows:
For tenth General Assembly, . . . . . $7,128 34
For General Convention, . . . . . 10,030 95
For Jurors and Witnesses, . . . . . 1,6292 20
For criminal prosecutions and contingent expenses Circuit Courts, . . . . . 12,018 29
For interest on State debt, . . . . . 5,200 00
For Judicial Department, . . . . . 7,375 00
For Executive Department, . . . . . 900 00
For Military Department, . . . . . 75 00
For Contingent Fund, . . . . . 1,805 57
For Supreme Court, . . . . . 127 80
For maintainance of lunatics, . . . . . 210 60
For post mortem examinations, . . . . . 249 50
For Presidential election, . . . . . 90 60
For public property, . . . . . 252 38
For balance, . . . . . 774 05
$62,530 28

Respectfully,

C. H. AUSTIN,
Treasurer.

Which was read, and 80 copies of the same ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

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The following message was received from his Excellency the Governor:

EXECUTIVE DEPARTEMENT,
TALLAHASSEE, Feb'y 2d, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--I have approved and signed the following bills and resolutions, viz:

An act to change the name of Big Spring Creek in Jackson county to Spring River;

Resolution in favor of Neil J. McKinnon;

An act to change the time of holding the Circuit Courts in the Middle Judicial Circuit of the State of Florida;

An act permanently to locate the county site of Volusia county;

Resolution suggesting a reduction of the price of land to the Trustees of the Internal Improvement Fund;

An act to incorporate the Town of Campbellton;

An act to authorize the Judge of the Middle Circuit of Florida to hold an extra term of Circuit Court in Hamilton county; and,

An act to re-establish the records of the county of Columbia, and for other purposes.

Very respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

Which was read.

Also the following:

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
TALLAHASSEE, Feb. 2d, 1861.

Gentlemen of the Senate and
House of Representatives:

The people of the State having declared themselves a sovereign and independent nation, the duty of providing by law proper measures for the defence of that sovereignty and independence is, by the Constitution, cast upon the Executive and Legislative branches of the Government of the State, and it is particularly my duty to call your attention to such matters as may seem to me to justify the belief that the State is in danger from any foe, and to call on you to unite with me in defending her from injury. The occurrences of the last two months sufficiently indicate, that this State and any others of the slaveholding States which have or yet may decide to separate from any political connection with the non-slaveholding States of the late American Union, will not be permitted to accomplish such separation in a peaceable manner, and that they must maintain the independence which they assert and claim to have the right to assume, by a show of force, perhaps by an actual resort to arms, however powerful may be

Page 252

the argument on which we rely to justify our separation. However much we may be convinced of our right to adopt the course which, as a people we have determined to pursue, to avert from us and our posterity the calamities which we feared would befall us and them from the continuance of a government, in a just share of the power of which we could not reasonably expect to enjoy--although the wrong and injuries we had experienced, without any adequate redress from the government of the United States were such as rendered the advantages we derived from it no adequate compensation for the evils to which it left us exposed; and although, we as a free, enlightened and christian people, have, after long suffering, and expostulation with those who sought to injure us under the forms of legislation, and under the shield of the Union, have been driven to the exercise of the right to reassume to our State the powers delegated to the Federal Union of States which existed under the Constitution of the United States, which right is plain and incontestible by any of the principles upon which the independence of the American Colonies was placed by the illustrious men who framed and adopted the declaration of the reasons which governed the people of the Colonies in their action; yet it is manifest that the inhabitants of the non-slaveholding States are hardening their hearts against all signs and evidences which justify our exodus from among them, and that like Egyptians of old, they are not willing that we should depart in peace from our state of bondage, but in the spirit of the oppressor, they seek to tighten their grasp upon a people who have been to them an abundant source of profit and advantage, and are preparing their host to follow after and to return us to a captivity, the latter end of which must be worse than the first. Whilst President Buchanan has officially declared that he has no power to employ the military and naval forces under his control in any overt act of hostility against any of the States which have dissolved their connection with the late Federal Union--yet it is apparent that he supports officers of the army under his control in the hostile occupation of portions of the territory of this State, and our sister State of South Carolina--permits his General and members of his Cabinet to set on foot military expeditions against us, reinforce forts, order men-of-war to hover on our coast in hostile array, and has advised Congress to pass laws for the purpose of collecting revenue from imposts into our State by means of armed vessels. This conduct of President Buchanan, which is totally at war with our claim of independence and sovereignty, is not only recognized to be correct and supported by the Representatives of the non-slaveholding States sitting in Congress at Washington, and claiming to be the Congress of the United States, but they have, by speech and votes, manifested a firm resolve to disregard

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the act of the people done in Convention, dissolving the political ties which united us with the people whom they represent, and declare their purpose so soon as they can attain further power by the inauguration of a President elected by themselves, without the voice and in direct opposition to the will of our people, to use all the military and naval power which they may be enabled to acquire the possession and control of, to subjugate our people and those of the States concurring with us, and to compel us to submit to that government which we resolved to throw off because its further continuance menaced the destruction of our rights and liberties. We have unmistakable evidence of every kind that is significant and reliable, that the people of the non-slaveholding States sustain the action and declared purposes of those whom they chose by a large majority of their voices to represent them and rule us. We have seen Legislature of the great States of New York, Ohio and Massachusetts, passing resolutions pledging men and money to aid in fastening upon us again the chains with which they hope to attach us forever to a condition of bondage and vassalage to an unfriendly people. No friendly voice was lifted in the councils of these States to defend our action and to maintain our right to throw off a government which, in our opinions, no longer conferred on us those blessings of peace and domestic tranquility which it was founded to secure. No one was heard to utter that truth which our ancestors had inserted in their declaration of independence, "that all governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed." Of all the mighty thousands of Northern men whom we were beseeched to trust to as a sufficient means to guard us against the ruin which we foresaw in the impending ascendancy of the Black Republican party, not even a respectable minority in the Legislatures alluded to opposed their votes to such foul acts of unfriendly power. No lover of human liberty was heard to exclaim, wherever people calling themselves Republicans were, through their Representatives, offering to furnish the means to compel millions of their fellow men, their equals, and lately their fellow-citizens, to submit to a government under which they honestly believed they could not enjoy their admitted and just rights. No Burke, no Barre, no Fox declared against acts of tyranny, far more odious and cruel than those which a North and a Bute perpetrated under the authority of a crown, and which found illustrious patriots ready to denounce in the hearing of the mighty monarch who sat on the throne of Great Britain. We are not only assured that force of arms is to be employed to compel us to pass under the yoke of Black Republican rule, by the evidences I have alluded to, derived from legislative proceedings of the State Legislatures and of representative men in Congress from non-slaveholding States, but daily the press and the pulpit

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pour forth denunciations against our people and earnestly count the days yet to lapse when they fervently hope to see their representative man, Abraham Lincoln, enthroned at Washington in undisputed possession of all the machinery of government, supported by the military chieftain, who, like Napoleon at Paris, coolly and deliberately, without remorse or hesitancy, plants the cannon that is to mow down, at his word of command, his fellow-citizens, whom a love of liberty may urge to make an effort to save the tomb of Washington from remaining in the keeping of those who have forgotten his precepts and have, by the organization of a sectional party, destroyed the Government and buried the spirit of the Constitution. We are forewarned of coming attacks upon our political and civil liberties, and shall we not be forearmed? We have yet heard but the mutterings of the thunder, but the storm is not afar off. It may pass by us, but let us be prepared to meet it firmly, and avert from our people the injury with which it threatens them. Let us remember the voice of that illustrious southerner, whose mortal remains lie entombed on the banks of the Potomac, who counselled us in "time of peace to prepare for war." Let us arm for the contest, and perchance, by a show of our force and our readiness for the combat, we may escape the realities of war. Already our brethren of the Southern States are arming--we too have made some preparation, but much remains undone. We see that even the slaveholding States of Missouri, Tennessee, Virginia and North Carolina, which have not yet cut loose the ties which connect them politically with the non-slaveholding States, are arming for the contest. In Virginia the people are ahead of the Legislature, and have, in their county meetings, empowered the county authorities to put the militia on a war footing, and have raised funds for the purchase of arms and ammunition. All these signs and tokens warn us to be ready to defend our rights. With the notes of hostile preparation sounding in our ears, with the example of our brethren (whose fate we must share) to stimulate us, is it not our duty to prepare to sustain, by our arms, what we have determined upon in our counsels?

We who were emulous of being foremost in dissolving the Union, should not be laggard in preparing for the contest. We have taken the field. Our flag is unfurled at Pensacola, where our gallant troops, standing shoulder to shoulder with the brave volunteers from our sister States, who, with a noble, generous chivalry, stand ready to obey our orders and co-operate with us most cordially in our time of need. Let us make provisions to keep them under arms and to call out and support them by others should they be needed. The State expects us to do our duty, the people will do theirs. I invite you therefore to lend me your aid and to unite with me in providing for the calling into service

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such a number of troops as may be equal to our defence, when assisted as we shall be by our sister States, who are preparing to unite their political fortunes with ours.

I also suggest to you that you should make special appropriations for the pay and maintenance of as many troops as may be called into service, and for the purchase of munitions of war, transportation of troops, and other expenses incidental to the defences of the State.

The States of Louisiana, Mississippi, Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina, which have dissolved their connection with the late federal Union, have elected delegates to meet with those sent from this State to the Convention to be held at Montgomery, Alabama, on the fourth day of this month, being the day suggested by a majority of the seceding States. We may expect, therefore, that the Convention will at an early day form a provisional government for the States represented, and call for troops and money from the confederates. The quota of Florida will not be large, but we should proceed to organize the force which we are likely to be called on to furnish, and appropriate the means necessary for the maintenance and pay of them and our quota of the expense of the common defence.

I am not able to lay before you an estimate of the amount necessary, but will readily confer with Committees of your bodies with a view to ascertain what sum of money may be required therefor.

Very Respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

Which was read, and on motion of Mr. Russell, 500 copies were ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Lake City and Blounts Ferry Railroad,

Was read the second time, and the amendments proposed by the Committee on Corporations adopted, and the bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the election of a Tax Assessor and Collector for Sumter county, &c.,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act in relation to crimes and misdemeanors,

Was read the second time, and the amendments proposed by the Joint Committee on the Judiciary adopted, and the bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Edward M. West, Justice of the Peace of Leon county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

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Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--27.

Nay--Mr. Coffee--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

The following communication was received from the Treasurer:

TREASURY OFFICE,
TALLAHASSEE, Feb. 4, 1861.

HON. J. B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--Agreeable to a House resolution, I herewith submit a statement shewing the amount of Interest paid upon the Bonds of the several Railroad Companies of the system; also amounts reserved from them on net earnings account and sinking fund account.

THE FLORIDA RAILROAD.

Amount in'ts paid for this Co., . . . . . $195,895 00
Add am'nt land dividend and stock in'ts reported by this Co., . . . . . 19,265 91
$215,160 91
For which has been received on net earning account, . . . . . $ 9,636 82
In stock certificates, . . . . . 130,100 00
139,736 82
Due the Fund, . . . . . $ 75,424 09

Coupons due March 1, 1861 for $1680 have been sent from this Co., in addition to above, to be applied to their net earning account, but not yet admitted to credit by Trustees of the Fund.

THE PENSACOLA AND GEORGIA RAILROAD.

Am't of ints. paid for the Company, . . . . . $43,497 75
Am't rec'd on net earnings acc't, . . . . . $8,200 00
Certificates of stock rec'd, . . . . . 26,900 00
35,100 00
Due Fund, . . . . . $8,397 75

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THE FLORIDA, ATLANTIC AND GULF CENTRAL RAILROAD.

Am't int. paid for this Company, . . . . . $24,815 00
Am't rec'd on net earnings acc't, . . . . . $6,198 71
Am't certified stock, . . . . . 16,300 00
22,498 00
Due Fund, . . . . . $2,317 00

THE TALLAHASSEE RAILROAD.

This Company have paid in on Sinking Fund acc't, $6,635 00

Respectfully,

C. H. AUSTIN,
Treasurer of the Fund.

Which was read, and on motion of Mr. Blount, 80 copies of the same ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

The following communication was received from the Secretary of Internal Improvement Board:

TALLAHASSEE, Feb'y 4th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: In answer to House resolution inquiring whether the several Railroads accepting the provisions of the "Act to encourage a liberal system of Internal Improvements in this State," have made semi-annual reports of gross receipts and net earnings as provided by the 11th section, I am instructed by the Trustees to communicate the statement of their reports as on file.

The Florida, Atlantic and Gulf Central Railroad Company have reported from Jan'y 1st, 1859, to July 1st, 1860, (at which time their road was finished,) as follows:

Gross receipts, . . . . . $49,818 84
Deduct expenses, . . . . . 37,476 11
Leaves net earnings, . . . . . 12,342 73

The Pensacola and Georgia Railroad Company have reported from commencement of their road to July 1st, 1860, as follows:

Gross receipts, . . . . . $44,955 66
Deduct Expenses, . . . . . 35,968 05
Leaves net earnings, . . . . . 9,987 61

The Florida Railroad Company have reported from the 1st of March, 1858, to 31st of August, 1859, as follows:

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Gross receipts, . . . . . $70,383 72
Deduct expenses, . . . . . 56,508 67
Leaves nett earnings, . . . . . 13,875 05

All of which is respect'y submitted,

Your obedient servant,

F. L. VILLEPIGUE,
Sec'y Board Trus. In't Imp. Fund.

Which was read, and 80 copies ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the College of St. Augustine to be located at St. Augustine,

Was read a third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate resolution for the relief of George B. Ellis of Alachua county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--27.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Alachua Railroad Company,

Was read the second time and the amendments offered by the Committee on Corporations were adopted, and the bill, with the amendments, ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Wekiver creek and Clay Spring river, &c.

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Chipola river and for other purposes,

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Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act requiring certain statements to be made by the several Banks of this State to the Governor and Comptroller,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the benefit of Ellis W. Hankins of Santa Rosa county,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Russell and Wilkinson--20.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Coffee, Vogt, Williams and Yates--5.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Hydrant Water Company of Pensacola,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Russell, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--none.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Major General Hopkins,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to require licenses to be taken out by persons and subjects not hitherto taxed, approved Jan'y 12th, 1849,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the rule was waived, and he was allowed to introduced the following resolutions:

Resolved by the House of Representatives of the State of Florida, That this House will use all its constitutional power to aid the Governor in support of the honor and safety of this State, and in the support of the Government created by the Convention of the people of Florida; and that a special Committee of three

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members be appointed by the House to wait on his Excellency and inform him of the passage of this resolution.

Resolved further, That a special Committee of five be appointed, to whom shall be referred the special message of his Excellency, and who shall confer with a like Committee from the Senate, and shall wait on his Excellency and confer with him on the measures that may be necessary to defend the State of Florida; and that the Seaate be requested to appoint a like Committee to act with the House Committee.

Which were read the first and second times, rule waived, read the third time and adopted.

The Speaker in pursuance of the first resolution appointed Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Mickler and Blount such Committee.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Florida Mutual Fire and Marine Insurance Company,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Russell, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for the payment of costs by plaintiffs in certain cases,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the enforcement of the laws of this State,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and referred to the Committee to the on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to establish the Bank of Tallahassee at Tallahassee,

Read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

A bill to be entitled an act for the defence of the port of Apalachicola,

Was read the second time and referred to a Select Committee, consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Blount and Pooser.

A bill to be entitled an act regulating wharfage in the city of Apalachicola,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

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A bill to be entitled an act to authorize suits at common law to be instituted against married women in Florida, and for other purposes,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act relative to the trial of slaves and free persons of color in this State,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act governing divorces in this State,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to regulate the pilotage of St. Johns bar,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the fees of Port Wardens of the city of Apalachicola and for other purposes,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the 22d section of the act to provide for and encourage a liberal system of internal improvements in this State, approved January 6th, 1855.

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

On motion of Mr. Bird, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

TUESDAY, February 5th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

On motion of Mr. Means, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

The rule being waived, the following bills were introduced without previous notice, viz:

By Mr. Means:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the appointment of Constables and defining the duties of Justices of the Peace in certain cases.

By Mr. Holland of Franklin:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the public expenditures.

By Mr. Williams:

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A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the raising of two regiments of Infantry and one of Cavalry or mounted Riflemen.

By Mr. Galbraith:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for a Digest of the Ordinances and Statutes of this State;

Which were received and the bills ordered to be placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland, from the Committee on Corporations, made the following report:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred the following bills, have carefully examined the same and recommend their passage, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola Gas Light Company;

A bill to be entitled an act to relieve the Town Council of the Town of Milton of the limits of fifty per cent. in taxation within the corporate limits of said Town;

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Marine and Fire Insurance Company of Pensacola; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the security of the citizens of this State transacting business with foreign corporations.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, through Mr. Pooser, made the following report:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having for consideration a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Dr. Jas. D. Smith of Hillsborough county, to grant unto the said Jas. D. Smith permission to practice medicine in the county aforesaid, and to receive a reasonable compensation for the same. We therefore, after having due consultation, recommend that the bill do pass.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having under consideration a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of James McCormick and others, to allow him to peddle goods so as to enable him to procure a living for himself and family, he being an invalid and not able to labor, the Committee having duly consulted, recommend that the said bill do pass.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Page 263

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having before them Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph Atzerotte and many petitioners of Manatee county, having duly considered the case before them, do agree and recommend that the said bill do pass.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The Committee of Conference appointed on the part of the House on the consideration of sundry amendments made by the House to a Senate bill entitled an act to change the mode of selecting Grand and Petit Jurors in this State, made the following report:

The Committee of Conference on the bill to be entitled an act to change the mode of selecting Grand and Petit Jurors

REPORT:

They have agreed to all the House amendments, with the following addition, in the 9th section, 1st line, of printed bill, after the word "that," insert "in all capital cases the Court in its discretion may order special venires, and"; after the word "all," same line, same section, insert "such"; after the word "whole" insert the word "undrawn."

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

A. C. BLOUNT,
Chairman House Committee.

Which was read and the amendments proposed therein adopted, and the bill as amended ordered to be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Canova, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report as correctly Enrolled the following bills, viz:

An act to provide for the payment of the Florida Volunteers and others who have not been paid for services actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians;

An act to declare Pease Creek a navigable steam.

A. A. CANOVA, Chairman.

Which was read.

The Committee on Public Lands made the following report:

The Committee on Public Lands having the subject of Lands

Page 264

under consideration, direct me to report the accompanying bill to the House and ask its passage.

Respectfully submitted,

C. C. COFFEE, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Franklin, from a Select Committee, made the following report:

The Special Committee to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the defence of the Port of Apalachicola, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to

REPORT:

That the Port of Apalachicola is entirely undefended by fortifications, water batteries, or any other means to repel aggression from the sea-board--that from its peculiar geographical position, defences of that character would involve more expense than the present pecuniary ability of the State can sustain, and your Committee are under the impression that the bill herewith submitted will provide the only possible means of defence which the present emergency demands. They, therefore, recommend the accompanying bill as a substitute, and that the same do pass.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. P. HOLLAND, Chairman.

A. C. BLOUNT,

J. H. POOSER.

Which was received, and the accompanying bill and substitute placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 2d, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following House bill with amendments, viz:

House bill to be entitled an act to amend the Pleading and Practice in the Courts of this State.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the Senate amendments thereto adopted by the House and said bill ordered to the enrolled.

Also the following:

Page 265

SENATE CHAMBER, Feb'y 2d, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has passed the following bill, viz:

House bill to be entitled an act to organize Baker county.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the bill ordered to be enrolled.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER, Feb'y 4th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Halstead H. Hoeg and assignees:

A bill to be entitled an act requiring of Circuit Courts to set specific days for the trial of cases wherein three or more witnesses are subpoened;

A bill to be entitled an act to secure certain rights to married women;

House bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Alabama and Florida Railroad Company in relation to election of Directors;

House bill to be entitled an act to organize the county of Polk from the counties of Hillsborough and Brevard, with amendments;

House bill to be entitled an act to permit Erasmus Thompson of Hillsborough county to practice law in the several Courts of this State;

A bill to be entitled an act in relation to the admission of attornies.

Also the following resolution:

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate and the Chief Clerk of the House be and they are hereby authorized to despatch the engrossed copies of bills, after the same shall have been duly enrolled, to the Governor's Secretary, to be by him retained until the laws shall have been finally copied, and afterwards deposited in the office of Secretary of State.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read, and the House bills ordered to be enrolled, and Senate bills and resolution placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

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SENATE CHAMBER,
February 4th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following constitutional amendment bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the amended Constitution of the State of Florida in relation to the sessions of the General Assembly;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the 7th section of the 13th article of the Constitution of this State.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Franklin, from a Select Committee, made the following report:

The Select Committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the government of the military forces of the State of Florida, beg leave to

REPORT:

That they recommend that the bill do pass with the following amendment:

SEC. 3. Be it further enacted, That no officer shall receive pay for any servant, whether on duty or not, but shall be entitled to draw one ration for each servant in actual service.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. P. HOLLAND, Chairman,

JAS. S. RUSSELL,

C. C. COFFEE,

THEO. BISSELL,

JOS. JOHN WILLIAMS.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Russell, from a Select Committee, made the following report:

The Select Committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the better preservation of the State Judicial Library, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to report the same back to the House without amendment and recommend that the said bill do pass.

JAS. S. RUSSELL,

JACOB H. POOSER,

G. W. MEANS,

A. S. COLE.

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Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The rule being waived, Mr. Canova, from the Committee on Internal Improvements, made the following report:

The Committee on Internal Improvements, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to clear out and improve the navigation of Yellow river, in West Florida, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to

REPORT:

That, upon examination of the provisions of this act, they are satisfied that the State and its citizens are fully protected thereby. They therefore recommend that the said bill do pass, with the following amendment, to wit:

Insert the words "for three months" between the word "notice" and the word "in," in the thirty-first line of the 10th section.

A. A. CANOVA, Chairman.

Which was received and read and said bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Hernando, from the Committee on Corporations, made the following report:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to aid the civil authorities of corporate towns, having examined the same and deeming the passage of such an act unnecessary, ask leave to report the same back to the House with a recommendation that it do not pass.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

Joint resolution to speed the publication of the laws,

Was read the first time, and on motion, was indefinitely postponed.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Williams moved that the rule be waived and he be allowed to introduce the following bill without having given previous notice:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the act of 1851 providing for the establishment of two Seminaries of Learning;

Which was agreed to, and said bill received and placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to require licenses to be taken out by persons and subjects not hitherto taxed,

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Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize suits at common law to be instituted against married women in Florida, and for other purposes,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Major General Benjamin Hopkins,

Was read a second time when Mr. Russell moved the indefinite postponement of the same, upon which the yeas and nays being called, the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Broxson, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, McCormick, Means, Pooser, Russell, Vogt, Wells and Williams--19.

Nays--Messrs. Blount, Canova, Clyatt, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Lee, Love, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Richardson, VanZant, Wilkinson and Yates--14.

So the bill was indefinitely postponed.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Alachua County Railroad Company; and

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Lake City and Blount Ferry Railroad Company.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was received and read, and said bills placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Alachua County Railroad,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--33.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Lake City and Blount Ferry Railroad Company,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--33.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Weekiva creek and Clay Spring river, and reclaim the Swamp and Overflowed lands on said streams,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Russell, Wilkinson and Yates--24.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Holland of Franklin, Oliver, Scott, Vogt, Wells and Williams--7.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the rule was waived, and he was allowed to introduce a bill to be entitled an act giving Justices of the Peace jurisdiction in all sums not exceeding one hundred dollars exclusive of interest and costs;

Which was received, and placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Chipola river and for other purposes,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Russell, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates--25.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Oliver and Vogt--3.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the fees of Port Wardens of the city of Apalachicola, and for other purposes,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

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A bill to be entitled an act regulating wharfage in the city of Apalachicola,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to regulate the pilotage of St. Johns bar,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Marine and Fire Insurance Company of Pensacola,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read a third time by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--27.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to relieve the town Council of the town of Milton of the limits of fifty per cent. in taxation within the corporate limits of said town, and for other purposes,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola Gas Light Company,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read a third time by its title and put upon its passage, on which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the security of citizens of this State transacting business with foreign corporations,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph Atzerotte,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Dr. James D. Smith,

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Was read a second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the rule be waived and that he be allowed to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws of this State with regard to the offence of malicious mischief;

Which was agreed to and said bill received and placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of James McCormick,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--28.

Nays--Messrs. Haddock, Means and Vogt--3.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that the rule be waived in order that he be allowed to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Withlacoochee river and for reclaiming the swamp and overflowed land on said river;

Which was agreed to, and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the duties of Registers and Receivers of Public Lands in this State, and for other purposes,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and 80 copies ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

A bill to be entitled an act for the defence of the port of Apalachicola,

Was read the second time, and the substitute reported by a Select Committee adopted, rule waived, read a third time by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nay--Mr. Bissell--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the raising of two regiments of Infantry and one of Cavalry or Mounted Riflemen,

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Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and referred to a Select Committee of three, consisting of Messrs. Blount, Holland of Franklin and Williams.

On motion, 80 copies of said bill were ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

The Speaker appointed, as the Special Committee of five, in pursuance of a resolution relating to the Governor's Message respecting State defences adopted on yesterday, Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Blount, Love, Canova and Hawes.

On motion, a committee, consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Wells and Price, were appointed to inform the Senate of the adoption of the resolution above referred to on yesterday by the House.

The rule being waived, Mr. Hawes gave notice that he would on to-morrow ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to empower the Treasurer of the State to employ a clerk.

The rule being waived, Mr. Hawes offered the following resolution:

Resolution authorizing the Treasury to make temporary arrangements to meet the present expenses of the State;

Upon the question of its passage, the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--31.

Nay--Mr. Holland of Franklin--1.

So the resolution was adopted.

On motion, Messrs. Blount, Love and Scott were appointed a Committee to convey said resolution to the Senate and request their concurrence.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Rogers, Davidson and Jones waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had referred the special message of his Excellency the Governor to the Committee on Militia of the Senate, who would act as a joint Committee with the same Committee of the House.

A bill to be entitled an act for the government of the military forces of the State of Florida,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the better preservation of the State Judicial Library,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for a digest of the ordinances and statutes of this State,

Page 273

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the act of 1851, providing for the establishment of two Seminaries of Learning,

Was read the first time, the rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Schools and Coleges.

A bill to be entitled an act providing for the appointment of Constables, and defining the duties of Justices of the Peace in certain cases,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the Public Expenditures,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to secure certain rights to Married Women,

Was read the first time, the rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act requiring of Circuit Courts to set specific days for the trial of causes wherein three or more witnesses are subpoenaed,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act in relation to the admission of Attorneys;

The rule waived, read first and second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Halstead H. Hoeg and assignees;

Rule waived, read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on Claims.

A bill to be entitled an act giving Justices of the Peace jurisdiction in all sums not exceeding one hundred dollars, exclusive of interest and costs;

Rule waived, read the first and second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for Stay of Executions;

Rule waived, read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws of this State with regard to malicious mischief;

Rule waived, read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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Senate bill to be entitled an act governing the County Commissioners of Nassau County in certain cases,

Was read the second time.

Mr. Haddock offered the following amendment: Strike out in the 7th line of the 1st section the words, "or at the town of Fernandina;"

Which was adopted, and the bill ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the amended Constitution of the State of Florida in relation to the sessions of the General Assembly,

Was read three times as of the first day and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the 7th section of the 13th article of the Constitution of this State,

Was read three times as of the first day and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate an Insurance Company in the City of Apalachicola, to be called the Florida Home Insurance Company,

Was read the second time and the amendments proposed thereto adopted.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following amendment to said bill:

Amend the bill by striking out the words "Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Dollars," in the 1st section, and insert "Two Millions," and strike out the words "Ten Dollars" in the 19th line of the 2d section, and insert "One Dollar."

Which was adopted, and said bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Was read the second time, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of M. D. Papy and others,

Was read the second time, and the following amendment offered by Mr. Blount: Strike out the entire second section;

Which was adopted and the bill ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Withlacooche river and reclaim the swamp and overflowed lands on said river;

Rule waived, read first and second times by its title.

Page 275

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved to amend said bill by adding the words, "and the Apalachicola river;"

Which was adopted.

Mr. Blount moved to amend said bill by adding the words, "Escambia river" after the words Apalachicola river;

Which was lost.

On motion said bill was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

On motion, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, February 6th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

On motion, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

The rule being waived, the following bill was introduced without previous notice, viz:

By Mr. Love:

A bill to be entitled an act to prohibit negroes and others than white men from being employed as samplers of cotton;

Which was placed among the orders of the day.

The following bills were introduced in pursuance of previous notice, viz:

By Mr. Love:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide the mode and manner of giving notice in actions of ejectment.

By Mr. Hawes:

A bill to be entitled an act to empower the Treasurer to employ a Clerk.

Which were received, and said bills placed among the orders of the day.

The following report was received from the Joint Committee of the Judiciary of the House and Senate:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the 22d section of the act to provide for and encourage a liberal system of Internal Improvement in this State, approved Jan'y 6th, 1855, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report the same back to the House and recommend its passage.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Page 276

Which was read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to authorize suits at common law to be instituted against married women in Florida, and for other purposes, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to recommend the Senate bill upon the same subject in lieu of the House bill referred as aforesaid.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee,

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to vest the several Circuit Courts heretofore named with the powers which were possessed by the late District Court of the United States, and for other purposes, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report, that they recommend a bill from the Senate referred to the Committee to be acted upon in lieu of the House bill referred as aforesaid.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee,

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws of this State with regard to malicious mischief, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the bill back to the House and recommend its passage.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee,

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

Page 277

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 5th, 1861.

HON. JOHN. B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has this day passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act providing for carrying the mails;

A bill to be entitled an act relative to the Common School Fund of Washington and Holmes counties;

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the order in which cases shall be tried in the Circuit Courts;

A bill to be entitled an act requiring Railroad Companies to maintain proper cattle guards and railroad crossings;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for writs of error in criminal cases;

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of Hillsborough county to borrow money;

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Joseph H. Rowe, Wm. J. Keyser and others, owners of wharf property at Milton, Santa Rosa county, to establish and charge rates of wharfage;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Donald Cameron, Justice of the Peace for Leon county;

A bill to be entitled an act to prevent breaches of trust by Telegraph Operators;

A bill to be entitled an act for a stay of executions; and

A bill to be entitled an act in relation to Sheriffs.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was received and read and said bills placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 5th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following bill, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act fixing the pay of the members of the General Assembly.

Very Respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was received and read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

Page 278

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 5th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has passed the following bills and resolution, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act still further defining the duties of the Trustees of the Internal Improvement Fund;

A bill to be entitled an act to encourage the formation of mounted and cavalry companies in this State for military services;

A bill to be entitled an act to establish the Bank of Commerce at Fernandina;

House bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for the payment of physicians who are summoned to attend Coroners' juries, approved January 11, 1855;

House bill to be entitled an act extending the time for making demands on Railroad Companies for stock killed or injured, and for other purposes;

House bill to be entitled an act for the relief of T. C. Bolling, administrator;

House bill to be entitled an act to regulate the compensation of pilots at the port of St. Marks;

House bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws of Nassau county;

House bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the town of Monticello, Jefferson county, in this State;

House bill to be entitled an act to locate the county site of Levy county;

House bill to be entitled an act for the relief of George G. Holt and Thaddeus Rees of Wakulla county;

House bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Addison to construct a dam across the Ocklocknee river, for the purpose of erecting a mill;

Substitute to House bill to be entitled an act to prevent persons from penning or detaining stock, without the consent of the owner, in Nassau county; and

House resolution for the relief of John M. Irwin.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and the Senate bills and substitute ordered to be placed among the orders of the day, and the House bills and resolution which had passed the Senate ordered to be enrolled.

The substitute to the House bill entitled an act to prevent persons from penning or detaining stock without the consent of the

Page 279

owner, in Nassau County, mentioned in the message from the Senate,

Was taken up and adopted, and the same ordered to be enrolled.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of contractors surveying public Lands in this State;

A bill to be entitled an act for the better preservation of the State Judicial Library;

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the security of the citizens of this State transacting business with foreign corporations;

A bill to be entitled an act in relation to Crimes and Misdemeanors;

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the fees of Port Wardens of the City of Apalachicola, and other purposes;

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the election of Tax Assessor and Collector for Sumter County and for other purposes:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to regulate the Pilotage of St. Johns bar;

A bill to be entitled an act requiring certain statements to be made by the several Banks of this State, to the Governor and Comptroller.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the rule be waived to allow him to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to establish a Bank in the City of Apalachicola, to be called the Western Bank of Florida:

Which was agreed to, and said bill received and placed among the orders of the day.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of contractors surveying public lands in this State,

Came upon its third reading, and on motion, was placed back on its second reading, and referred to the Committee on Internal Improvements.

A bill to be entitled an act for the better preservation of the State Judicial Library,

Page 280

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, McCormick, Oliver, Pooser, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--30.

Nays--Messrs. Mays and Richardson--2.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the security of the citizens of this State in transacting business with foreign corporations,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Means, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Wilkinson--27.

Nays--Messrs. Bissell, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Love, Mays, McCormick, VanZant and Yates--7.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act in relation to crimes and misdemeanors,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Vogt, Williams and Wilkinson--27.

Nays--Messrs. Campbell, Haddock, VanZant and Yates--4.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Davidson, Jones and Magbee waited upon the House and requested the return of a bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Addison to construct a dam acres the Ocklockonee river, for the purpose of erecting a mill.

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the fees of Port Wardens of the city of Apalachicola, and for other purposes,

Was read the third and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of

Page 281

Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, Means, Mickler, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams Wilkinson and Yates--28.

Nay--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the election of a Tax-Assessor and Collector for Sumter county, and for other purposes,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, Mays, Mickler, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--29.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to regulate the pilotage at St. Johns bar,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Mickler, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--33.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act requiring certain statements to be made by the several Banks of this State to the Governor and Comptroller,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Mickler, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--29.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the rules be waived and he be allowed to introduce the following resolution:

A resolution to aid Volunteers of the State of Florida;

Which was agreed to, and said resolution read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on Militia.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the 7th section of the 13th article of the Constitution of this State,

Was read three times as of the second day and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the amended Constitution of the State of Florida in relation to the sessions of the General Assembly,

Was read three times as of the second day and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

On motion, the Speaker appointed a Committee consisting of Messrs. Love, Bird and Scott, to return a bill to the Senate to be entitled an act authorizing James Addison to construct a dam across the Ocklockonee river for the purpose of erecting a mill, as required by them.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to require licenses to be taken out by persons and subjects not hitherto taxed, approved January 12, 1849,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams, and Wilkinson--24.

Nays--Messrs. Hawes, Howell, Holloman and Yates--4.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to relieve the Town Council of the Town of Milton of the limits of fifty per cent. in taxation within the corporate limits of said Town and for other purposes,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph Atzerotte,

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Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Clyatt, Collins, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Lee, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Russell and Vogt--17.

Nays--Messrs. Coffee, Cole, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Mays, McCormick, Richardson, Scott, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--11.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief Dr. James D. Smith,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Mickler, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Stewart and Wilkinson--20.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Broxson, Coffee, Dansby, Haddock, Holloman, Hull, Love, Mays, Newburn, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--14.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act governing the County Commissioners of Nassau County in certain cases,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of M. D. Papy and others,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, Mays, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--31.

Nay--Mr. Hull--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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Mr. Williams moved that the rules be waived and he be allowed to move a reconsideration of the vote upon a bill entitled an act for the relief of Maj. Gen. Benjamin Hopkins, taken on yesterday;

Which was not agreed to.

Senate resolution relative to the copying of the laws,

Was, on motion, laid on the table.

A bill to be entitled an act respecting the sale of vinous or spiritous liquors to slaves or free persons of color in the city of Apalachicola,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to empower the Treasurer of this State to employ a clerk,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill entitled an act to provide for the mode and manner in giving notice in actions of ejectment,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for carrying the mails,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to a Select Committee, consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Mays, Blount, Pooser and Canova.

Senate bill to be entitled an act relative to the common school fund of Washington and Holmes counties,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Schools and Colleges.

Senate bill to be entitled an act regulating the order in which cases shall be tried in the Circuit Courts,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act requiring Railroad Companies to maintain proper cattle guards and railroad crossings,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of Hillsborough county to borrow money,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize Joseph H. Rowe, Wm. J. Keyser and others, owners of wharf property at Milton, in Santa Rosa county, to establish and charge rates of wharfage,

Was, the rule being waived, read the first time by its title and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

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Senate bill to be entitled an act to establish the Bank of Commerce at Fernandina,

Was, the rule being waived, read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for a stay of execution,

Was, the rule being waived, read the first time by its title and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Donald Cameron, Justice of the Peace for Leon county,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to prevent breaches of trust by telegraph operators,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for writs of error in criminal cases,

Was, the rule being waived, read the first and second times by its title and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to establish a bank in Apalachicola to be called the Western Bank of Florida,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to encourage the formation of mounted riflemen and cavalry companies in this State for military service,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act still further defining the duties of the Trustees of the Internal Improvement Fund,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on Internal Improvements.

Senate bill to be entitled an act in relation to sheriffs,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act fixing the pay of the members of the General Assembly,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

On motion, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

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THURSDAY, February 7th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

On motion, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

The rule being waived, the following bill was introduced without previous notice:

By Mr. Parker:

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Peas Creek, and to drain the Swamp and Overflowed lands thereon:

Which was received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Love moved that Mr. Wilkinson from Santa Rosa county be excused for the balance of the session, after Saturday, 9th inst.;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Hawes, from the Committee on Schools and Colleges, made the following report:

The Committee on Schools and Colleges, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the act of 1851, providing for the establishment of two Seminaries of Learning, having had the same under consideration ask leave to report an amendment to the bill of an additional section, viz:

SEC. 3. Be it further enacted, That all the provisions of this act be equally applicable to the Seminary East of the Suwannee located at Ocala.

With this amendment the Committee respectfully recommend that the bill do pass.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Hawes, from the Committee on Claims, made the following report:

The Committee on Claims, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Halstead H. Hoeg and assignees, having had the same under consideration, beg leave to report the bill back to the House and respectfully recommend that the same be referred to the Committee on the Judiciary as a more appropriate Committee.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read, and the reference recommended by the Committee ordered to be made.

Mr. Blount, from the Committee on Ways and Means, made the following report:

The Committee of Ways and Means to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the issue of bonds to the extent of one million of dollars by the Commonwealth of Florida, have had the same under consideration, and ask leave to report

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the same back to the House with the following amendments, and recommend the passage of the same:

From the 11th line of the 2d section strike out the words "one million" and insert the words "five hundred thousand."

Strike out all after the word "dollars" in the 12th line of the same section.

Strike out the entire 3d section and substitute the following as section third:

Be it further enacted, That the bonds and coupons on any bonds issued in pursuance of this act shall be received by the receivers of the several land offices of this State, in payment of all lands purchased by the holders thereof: Provided, No such coupon shall be so received more than three months prior to the time at which the same is due and payable.

And as section fifth,

Be it further enacted, That the monies arising from the sales of all the lands not otherwise appropriated belonging to the State of Flordia, be, and the same are hereby set apart and appropriated for the payment of the interest which may accrue upon said bonds, and for the purpose of creating a sinking fund for the redemption of said bonds as they may respectively fall due.

The Committee further report that the provisions of the bill to be entitled an act to provide for the public expenditures, are in the opinion of the Committee fully embraced in the above mentioned bill; they therefore recommend that said bill do not pass.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

A. C. BLOUNT, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bills and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Pooser, from the Committee on Propositions and Grievances, made the following report:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having for consideration a bill to be entitled an act to prohibit negroes, or others than white men, from being employed as samplers of cotton, beg leave to report that they have duly considered the merits of the case, and do jointly agree that the bill do pass.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Which was received and read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having for consideration a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Clinton Thigpen, Sheriff of Franklin County, for monies due him from the State, for the board of Jurors, Prisoners, &c.; and after duly considering the case before us, we recommend that the bill do pass.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

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Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 5th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following bill, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Criminal Laws of this State, and to provide for the punishment of abusive words.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws of this State with regard to malicious mischief,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to amend the 22d section of an act to provide for and encourage a liberal system of Internal Improvements in this State, approved January 6th, 1855,

Was read the second time and 80 copies ordered to be printed.

A bill to be entitled an act to vest the several Circuit Courts hereinafter named, with the powers which were possessed by the late District Court of the late United States,

Was read the second time and on motion laid on the table.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate an Insurance Company in the city of Apalachicola to be called the Florida Home Insurance Company;

A bill to be entitled an act regulating wharfage in the city of Apalachicola;

A bill to be entitled an act to provide the mode and manner of giving notice in actions of ejectment;

A bill to be entitled an act respecting the sale of vinous or spiritous liquors to slaves or free persons of color; and,

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A bill to be entitled an act for the government of the military forces of the State of Florida.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize suits at common law to be instituted against married women in Florida, and for other purposes,

Came up on its second reading, and the Senate bill to be entitled an act to secure certain rights to married women substituted therefor, as recommended by the Committee on the Judiciary, and the bill ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the government of the military forces of the State of Florida,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Wilkinson and Yates--31.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

On motion, a Committee, consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Lee and Yates, were appointed to convey said bill to the Senate.

A bill respecting the sale of vinous or spiritous liquors to slaves or free persons of color in the city of Apalachicola,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Wilkinson and Yates--32.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 6th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has this day passed the following bills and resolution, viz:

Page 290

A bill to be entitled an act to prevent citizens of those States which have passed Bank Suspensions and Stay Laws from collecting debts in this State;

A bill to be entitled an act providing for the Representation of this State in the Southern Confederacy;

A bill to be entitled an act for the punishment of those persons who pretend to hold offices in this State not recognized by the laws thereof, and for other purposes;

A bill to be entitled an act to empower the Judges of Probate of Washington and Holmes Counties to draw certain School Funds;

A bill to be entitled an act declaring of what estate Widows shall be endowed;

A bill to be entitled an act supplementary to an act to establish the Planters and Mechanics Bank of Pensacola;

House bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the German Building and Savings Association;

House bill to be entitled an act governing vessels propelled in whole or in part by steam in this State with amendments;

A resolution relative to the adjournment of the Legislature of this State.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read, and the House bills which had passed the Senate ordered to be enrolled and the Senate bills and resolution ordered to be placed among the orders of the day.

On motion the Senate joint resolution relative to adjournment of the General Assembly on Thursday next, the 14th inst.,

Was taken up and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bissell, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Holland of Franklin, Holloman, Hull, Love, Means, and Russell--8.

So the resolution was adopted.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Blount, from a Select Committee, made the following report:

The Select Committee to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the raising of two regiments of infantry and one of cavalry or mounted riflemen, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to report:

That the third ordinance passed by the Convention recently in

Page 291

session vests the Governor of this State with all the powers possessed by the President of the late United States, both civil and military; under this ordinance the Governor has of right power for executing those proposed to be granted him by this act, and which he can at all times exercise, unless controlled by the action of the Legislative department of the government. From a critical examination of the laws of the late United State, together with the provisions of this bill, this Committee is satisfied that the power of the Governor in relation to the military arm is much restricted and controlled, and that the Treasury of the State will in no event be burdened with the support of the regiments proposed to be raised, save and except in cases of actual necessity for the employment of this force.

The Committee recommend the accompanying sections, numbered 5 and 6, as amendments to said bill, and with the same that said bill do pass.

A. C. BLOUNT,

D. P. HOLLAND,

J. J. WILLIAMS.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide the mode and manner of giving notice in actions of ejectment,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, McCormick, Means, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Scott, VanZant, Vogt and Wilkinson--28.

Nays--Messrs. Haddock, Newburn, Russell and Yates--4.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act regulating wharfage in the city of Apalachicola,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered to be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate an Insurance Company

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in the city of Apalachicola to be called the Florida Home Insurance Company,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Clyatt, Collins, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to empower the Treasurer to employ a Clerk,

Was read the second time.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved the reference of the bill to a Select Committee;

Which was lost.

On motion, the bill was laid on the table.

Senate bill to be entitled an act regulating the order in which cases shall be called in the Circuit Courts,

Came up on its third reading and, on motion, placed back on its second reading and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. McCall, Simkins and McQueen, waited upon the House and returned a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Commercial Bank of Lake City, and requested the House, upon the part of the Senate, to recede from the amendments made thereto by the House.

The bill was taken up.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the House do recede from its amendments;

Which was lost.

On motion, the bill was referred to the Joint Committee on the Judiciary of the House and Senate.

Mr. Holland of Hernando then offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That the Attorney General be requested to furnish, at as early day as possible, to this House, his written opinion in regard to the power of the General Assembly of this State to constitutionally charter a Bank with a smaller capital stock than one hundred thousand dollars, and whether it is requisite that said capital stock of one hundred thousand dollars be paid in specie before said Bank can lawfully go into operation;

Which was adopted.

Mr. Wilkinson moved that the Senate bill entitled an act to amend the law of this State in relation to Coroners and juries of

Page 293

inquest, which was laid on the table, be taken up and placed among the orders of the day;

Which was agreed to.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of Hillsborough county to borrow money,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Wilkinson and Yates--23.

Nays--Messrs. Coffee, Hull, Love, Mays and Vogt--5.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act governing vessels propelled in whole or in part by steam in this State was taken up, the same having passed the Senate with sundry amendments;

Which amendments were not concurred in by the House.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to clear out and improve the navigation of Yellow river in West Florida,

Was read the second time and Mr. Holland of Franklin moved to amend by adding the words Apalachicola river wherever Yellow river occurs in the bill;

Which was lost and the amendments proposed by the Committee on Internal Improvements were adopted, and the bill, as amended, ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

The following message was received from the Senate;

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 7th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has passed the following House resolution, with amendments, viz:

A resolution authorizing the Governor and Treasurer to make temporary arrangement to meet the present expenses of the State.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read and the resolution taken up and amendments made thereto by the Senate concurred in, and the same ordered to be enrolled.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize Joseph H. Rowe,

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W. J. Keyser and other owners of wharf property at Milton, in Santa Rosa county, to establish and charge rates of wharfage,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bissell, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--25.

Nays--Messrs. Love and Mays--2.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide for the stay of executions,

Was read the second time.

On motion of Mr. Holloman, the House went into Committee of the Whole for its consideration, Mr. Canova in the Chair.

After some time spent therein, the Committee rose and reported the bill back to the House as amended.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the bill do lie on the table;

Upon which, the yeas and nays being called, the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mays, Oliver, Parker, Price, Richardson and Williams--17.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Haddock, Hawes, Love, Pooser, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Wilkinson and Yates--13.

So the motion was carried and the bill laid on the table.

On motion, the House took a recess until 3 o'clock, P. M.

3 O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

The rules being waived, the Joint Committee on the Judiciary made the following report:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred the following bills, viz: A bill to be entitled an act for the enforcement of the laws of this State; a bill to be entitled an act to empower the Judges of the Circuit Courts of this State to authorize minors to assume the management of their own estates, to contract and be contracted with and to plead and be impleaded; a bill to be entitled an act to amend the law of this State regulating the issue of the process of garnishment; a bill to be entitled an act in relation to the admission of attorneys, and a bill to be entitled an act to alter and change the time of holding the several terms of the Supreme Court, have had the same

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under consideration and have instructed me to report the same to the House and recommend their passage.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS,
Chairman House Committee.

GEO. W. CALL,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was read and said bills and placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act fixing the pay of members of the General Assembly,

Was read a third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker and Mr. Love--2.

Nays--Messrs. Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Wilkinson and Yates--24.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act in relation to Sheriffs,

Was read the third time and placed back on its second reading and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act requiring Railroad Companies to maintain proper cattle guards and railroad crossings,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Mays, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt and Wilkinson--26.

Nays--Messrs. Canova, Love, VanZant and Yates--4.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for writs of error in criminal cases,

Was passed over informally, to come up on its third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the public expenditures,

Was on motion laid on the table.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the law of this State in relation to Coroners and juries of inquest,

Was on motion referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the issue of bonds

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to the extent of one million of dollars by the Commonwealth of Florida,

Was passed over informally, to come up on its third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Clinton Thigpin,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to prevent breaches of trust by Telegraph Operators,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Donald Cameron, Justice of the Peace for Leon county,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the raising of two regiments of Infantry and one of Cavalry or Mounted Riflemen,

Was read the second time, and the amendments proposed by the Select Committee adopted, and the bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Peas creek and to drain the swamp and overflowed lands thereon,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on Internal Improvements.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for the representation of this State in the Southern Confederacy,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the criminal laws of this State and to provide for the punishment of abusive words,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide for the punishment of those persons who pretend to hold offices in this State not recognized by the laws thereof, and for other purposes,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to empower the Judges of Probate of Washington and Holmes counties to draw certain school funds,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act declaring of what estate widows shall be endowed,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

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Senate bill to be entitled an act supplemental to an act to establish the Planter's and Merchant's Bank at Pensacola;

Rule waived, read the first and second time by its title and the following amendments offered by Mr. Blount: Strike out the second section of said bill;

Which was adopted, and the bill ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to prohibit negroes and others than white persons from being employed as Samplers of Cotton,

Was read the second time and the following amendment offered by Mr. Love: Strike "five hundred dollars" and insert in lieu thereof, "one hundred dollars";

Which was adopted and the bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change and alter the times of holding the several Terms of the Supreme Court,

Was read the second time and the following amendments were offered by Mr. Holland of Franklin:

Sec. 4. Be it further enacted, That no appeal or writ of error shall lie or be permitted to the Supreme Court in any case, civil or criminal, which cause has been determined by a jury, or upon which a jury have rendered a verdict.

Sec. 5. Be it further enacted, That all laws and parts of laws conflicting with this act, be, and they are hereby repealed.

Upon which the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Campbell, Carter, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Hull, Parker and Pooser--7.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Love, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Richardson, VanZant, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--20.

So the amendments were lost, and the bill ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act in relation to the admission of Attorneys,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws of this State regulating the issue of the process of garnishment,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the enforcement of the laws of this State,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to empower the Judges of the

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Circuit Court of this State to authorize minors to assume the management of their own estates, to contract and be contracted with, and to plead and be impleaded,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the amended Constitution of the State of Florida in relation to the sessions of the General Assembly,

Was read three several times as of the third day and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, VanZant, Vogt and Wilkinson--35.

Nays--Messrs. Russell, Williams and Yates--3.

So the bill having received the constitutional majority, was passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the 7th section of the 13th article of the Constitution of this State,

Was read three several times as of the third day and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--32.

Nays--None.

So the bill, having received the constitutional majority, was passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

FRIDAY, February 8th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispened with.

Mr. Love moved that the bill to be entitled an act to provide for stay of executions be taken from the table;

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Which was agreed to, and said bill taken up and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that Mr. Lee of Sumter be excused from further attendance on this House during the present session of the General Assembly after Tuesday next;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Pooser moved that Mr. Wells of Washington county be granted leave of absence after to-day for the remainder of the session;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that Mr. Hawes be excused from attendance on the House to-morrow;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Oliver moved that Mr. Carter be granted leave of absence on to-morrow;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Holland of Hernando, from the Committee on Corporations, made the following report:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to establish the Bank of Tallahassee at Tallahassee, have had the same under consideration, and ask leave to report the same back to the House with the following amendments:

Insert after the word "dollars" in the 5th line of the 1st section, the words "or be less than one hundred thousand dollars."

Insert the word "and" after the word "bank," in the 2d line of the 4th section.

Insert the word "letters" in the 99th line of the 6th section, between the words "and" and "of."

Amend the 8th section by striking out all after the word "creditors" in the 4th line, and add, "in their individual capacity for all debts which said bank in its corporate capacity may fail or be unable to pay and discharge."

From the 3d line of the 16th section strike out the words "one million" and insert the words "five hundred thousand."

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was received and read and the accompanying bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Canova, from the Committee on Internal Improvements, made the following report:

The Committee on Internal Improvements, to whom was referred House bill entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Withlacoochee river; also, a bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Peas creek, having had the same under consideration, ask leave to report same back to the House and recommend their passage.

A. A. CANOVA, Chairman.

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Which was received and said bills placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on Internal Improvements, to whom a bill entitled an act to provide for the payment of contractors surveying public lands in this State was referred, beg leave to

REPORT:

That though the 21st ordinance passed by the State Convention requires the Surveyor General of the late Federal Government to deliver over to the Register of Public Lands at St. Augustine all papers and property appertaining to said office, and authorizes the Register to carry on to completion all contracts for surveys heretofore made, yet, as this ordinance has no reference to such contracts as may have been completed before its passage, and the public lands so surveyed having not yet been appropriated or turned over to the Internal Improvement Fund of the State, the Committee are of opinion that the expense of such surveys on contracts completed, or about to be completed, should be paid out of the Treasury of the State. They therefore report the bill back to the House and recommend its passage.

A. A. CANOVA, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Franklin, from a Select Committee, made the following report:

The undersigned Select Committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for providing for conveying the mails, ask leave to

REPORT:

That they consider the bill a good one in many respects, but, upon careful examination and close scrutiny, such as its great importance to the interest of the State demands, they find some of its provisions objectionable, occasioned probably from the difficulties attending incipient legislation of this kind, and not from any desire to do injustice to any section of the State or fail to give it a due share of mail facilities upon the most economical basis possible. From the best information they have been able to obtain upon the subject, the passage of the bill in its present form would incur unnecessary expense to the State and seriously inconvenience a large portion of citizens resident in the Eastern portion of it. They therefore deem it advisable to propose sundry amendments to the same, to wit:

Strike out, in the 3d line of the 5th section, the word "Jacksonville" and insert "Palatka."

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Strike out, in the 4th line of the same section, the word "five" and insert "two;" also strike out all after the word "therefor," in the 5th line of said section.

Strike out the word "Fernandina," in the 5th line of section 9th, and insert "Palatka."

Strike out the word "now," in the 6th line of same section, and insert "heretofore."

Strike out the word "by," in the 7th line, and insert "on."

Strike out the words "ten thousand," in the 9th line, and insert "seven thousand five hundred;" also strike out all in said section after the word "service," in the 10th line.

Strike out the entire of section 12th.

Strike out, in the 3d and 4th lines of section 17th, the words, "equal to the present rate of the late United States postage," and insert the words of "ten cents for letters not exceeding half ounce weight, and in proportion thereto."

Strike out the entire of section 20th and substitute the following:

Be it further enacted, That the Governor may make any additional rules or regulations, not inconsistent herewith, for carrying on the mail service, and shall discharge all the duties pointed out in the third section of the nineteenth ordinance of the late Convention.

By the adoption of these amendments the latitude of expenses which the Governor would be authorized to pay post routes, affecting which the amendments are proposed, would be reduced several thousand dollars, as also be of greater service and convenience to the people of the several sections interested in said routes.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. P. HOLLAND, Chairman,

A. C. BLOUNT,

A. A. CANOVA,

J. H. POOSER.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Hawes, from the Committee on Scools and Colleges, made the following report:

The Committee on Schools and Colleges, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act in relation to the Common School Fund of Washington and Holmes counties, having had the same under consideration, ask leave to report: That this bill, being local in its application and almost identical with one passed during the present session in relation to the Common School Fund in another county of this State, and your Committee finding

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nothing objectionable in it, they respectfully recommend its passage.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 7th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has concurred in the House amendments to the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of M. D. Papy and others;

A bill to be entitled an act governing the County Commissioners of Nassau County in certain cases.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 7th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate a Company to construct a Railroad from St. Andrews to some point on the line of Georgia or Alabama, in West Florida;

A bill to be entitled an act prescribing the form of an oath of allegiance;

A bill to be entitled an act providing for the maintainance of the light houses on the seaboard;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of F. L. Dancy, late Surveyor General, and for other purposes;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the attachment laws;

And House bill to be entitled an act concerning the office of the Clerk of the Supreme Court of this State: and

House bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to incorporate the town of Marianna, approved January 8th, 1853.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and the Senate bills ordered to be placed among the orders of the day and the House bills ordered to be enrolled.

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Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER, Feb'y 7th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has passed the following House bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Elizabeth Lovett;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William H. Fannen;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William G. Parker, Sheriff of Suwannee County;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Road Laws in the Counties of Leon and Gadsden:

A bill to be entitled an act to enable Railroad Companies to obtain the right of way;

A bill to be entitled an act making Capt. Simeon Sparkman a citizen of Columbia County.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the bills ordered to be enrolled.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER, Feb'y 7th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for the incorporation of Insurance Companies;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of the Pensacola and Georgia Railroad Company;

House bill to be entitled an act to regulate Fishing on the coast of Florida, with amendments;

House bill to be entitled an act to authorize Henry C. Grovenstine to Plead and Practice Law;

House bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Satrene Ramirez and others, inhabitants of the county of Escambia.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read, and the House bills ordered to be enrolled, and Senate bills placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holloman, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report;

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report the following bills as correctly enrolled, viz:

An act to amend the Road Laws of Nassau County;

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An act for the relief of George G. Holt and Thadeus Rees of Wakulla County;

An act concerning the office of the Clerk of the Supreme Court of this State;

An act to organize Baker County;

An act to amend the charter of the Alabama and Florida Railroad Company in relation to election of Directors;

An act to organize the County of Polk from the Counties of Hillsborough and Brevard;

An act to regulate the compensation of Pilots at the Port of St. Marks;

An act to permit Erasmus Thompson of Hillsborough County to practice law in the several counties of this State;

An act extending the time for making demands on Railroad Companies for Stock killed or injured, and for other purposes;

An act to amend the Pleading and Practice in the Courts of this State.

D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

Which was read.

Mr. Scott moved that a Committee be appointed to wait upon the Senate and request the return of a Senate bill entitled an act to fix the pay of members of the General Assembly, which was lost in this house on yesterday;

Which was adopted.

Messrs. Scott, Means and Oliver were appointed said Committee.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the duties of Registers and Receivers of public lands in this State, and for other purposes,

Was read the second time, and on motion of Mr. Coffee the House went into a Committee of the Whole for its consideration, Mr. Mays in the Chair.

After some time spent therein, the Committee rose and through their Chairman reported the bill back to the House as amended.

The report of the Committee of the Whole was concurred in by the House.

The following amendment was offered by Mr. Holland of Hernando:

Strike out the entire second section and insert therefor:

Be it further enacted, That the said Registers and Receivers shall continue in office until the tenth day of January, A. D. 1862.

Which, after some discussion, was withdrawn.

Mr. Canova offered the following amendment:

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To amend the 16th section, by striking out the words two thousand and insert, after the word receive, in the 2d line, the words "in addition to his present salary, six hundred."

Which was adopted.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved to strike out the 16th section;

Upon which, the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Price, Russell, VanZant and Vogt--16.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Coffee, Collins, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Scott, Williams and Wilkinson--20.

So the motion was lost.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved to strike out the 2d section;

Which was adopted.

The bill as amended was ordered for a third reading on tomorrow.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Call, McCall and Abercrombie, waited upon the House and requested the concurrence of the House in a Senate resolution for the relief of A. B. Noyes and others.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to clean out and improve the navigation of Yellow river, in West Florida;

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the raising of two regiments of infantry and one of cavalry or mounted riflemen;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws of this State with regard to malicious mischief;

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of William Henry Fitts to William Henry Bull;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the act of 1851, providing for the establishment of two Seminaries of Learning;

A bill to be entitled an act to prohibit negroes, or others than white men, from being employed as samplers of cotton; and

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Clinton Thigpin.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was received and read and said bills placed among the orders of the day.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Ingram, Brokaw and Baldwin, waited upon the House, returning a bill

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to be entitled an act fixing the pay of the members of the General Assembly.

Senate resolution for the relief of A. B. Noyes and others,

Was taken up and read, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Scott, VanZant, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--35.

Nays--None.

So the resolution was adopted.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

The rule being waived, Mr. Williams, from the Committee on the Militia, made the following report:

The Committee on the Militia, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to aid the volunteer companies of the State of Florida, have had the same under consideration, and recommend its passage.

JOS. JOHN WILLIAMS, Chair'n.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the attachment laws in force in this State,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Love, Mays, Means, Newburn, Price, Richardson and Russell--18.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Cole, Holland of Hernando, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--9.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of contractors surveying public lands in this State,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Parker, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--28.

Nay--Mr. Love--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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A bill to be entitled an act to clean out and improve the navigation of Yellow River in West Florida,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson and Russell--20.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Coffee, Cole, Love, Mays, Means, Oliver, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--14.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws of this State with regard to malicious mischief,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Mays, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Vogt and Williams--26.

Nays--Messrs. Hull, Love, Russell, Scott, VanZant and Yates--6.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the raising of two Regiments of Infantry and one of Cavalry or Mounted Riflemen,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--27.

Nays--Messrs. Love and Russell--2.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

And, on motion, a Committee, consisting of Messrs. Holland, Bellamy and Campbell, were appointed to convey said bill to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the act of 1851, providing for the establishment of two Seminaries of Learning,

Was read a third time, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Hull, Love, Newburn, Oliver, Parker,

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Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--27.

Nays--None.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to prohibit negroes or others than white men from being employed as samplers of cotton,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Mays, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant and Yates--27.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved a reconsideration of the vote just taken on said bill;

Which was lost.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Clinton Thigpin,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Hull, Love, Mays, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, VanZant, Williams and Yates--25.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act in relation to the common school fund of Washington and Holmes counties,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the auction laws of this State,

Was read the second time, and on motion, referred to a select Committee consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Mays, Blount, Love and Pooser.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to empower Judges of the Circuit Court of this State to authorize minors to assume the management of their own estates, to contract and be contracted with and to plead and be impleaded,

Was read a third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Dansby, Love, Means, Pooser, Russell and Scott--6.

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Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Mays, Newburn, Price, Richardson and Yates--18.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion, the House took a recess until half past 3 o'clock.

3½ O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the 22d section of the act to provide for and encourage a liberal system of Internal Improvements in this State, approved Jan'y 6th, 1855,

Was read the second time, and passed over informally.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the enforcement of the laws of this State,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Hawes, Howell, Hull, Love, Mays, Oliver and Price--7.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Lee, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--23.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to alter and change the time of holding the several terms of the Supreme Court,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Coffee, Collins, Holloman, Love, Mays, McCormick, Vogt and Williams--8.

Nays--Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Russell, Wilkinson and Yates--17.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act in relation to the admission of Attorneys,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read a third time by its title and put upon its passage, on which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland

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of Hernando, Pooser, Richardson, Williams and Wilkinson--16.

Nays--Messrs. Bellamy, Clyatt, Collins, Haddock, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Price, Russell, Scott, VanZant and Yates--19.

So the bill was lost.

A bill to be entitled an act supplemental to an act to establish the Planters and Mechanics Bank of Pensacola,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--32.

Nays--None.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Donald Cameron, Justice of the Peace for Leon County,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Hull, Lee, Love, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--28.

Nays--Messrs. Coffee, Holloman and VanZant--3.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Resolution to aid the Volunteers of the State of Florida,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to prevent breaches of trust by Telegraph Operators,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Hull, Mays, Pooser, Price, VanZant, Vogt and Williams--11.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, McCormick, Means, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Wilkinson and Yates--26.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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On motion, the rule was waived and Mr. Galbraith allowed to introduce a resolution authorizing the payment of United States' Treasury warrant No. 5253.

Upon the adoption of the resolution the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Russell, Vogt, Wilkinson and Yates--25.

Nays--None.

So the resolution passed--title as stated.

On motion, Messrs. Vogt, Cole and Means were appointed a Committee to certify the same to the Senate.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Rogers, Simkins and Watlington, waited upon the House and requested the House to send to the Senate all bills or resolutions pending in the House relating to Military Affairs, that both Houses may act upon all military affairs pending before each House at once.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to empower the Judges of Probate of Washington and Holmes counties to draw certain School funds,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Schools and Colleges.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the punishment of those persons who pretend to hold offices in this State not recognized by the laws thereof, and for other purposes,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for writs of error in criminal cases,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Broxson, Clyatt, Coffee, Cole, Hawes, Holloman, Hull, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--25.

Nays--Messrs. Campbell, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Lee and Parker--5.

So the bill was adopted--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to secure certain rights to married women,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Clyatt, Hawes, Holloman, Hull, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Scott and Vogt--11.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson,

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Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--23.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act declaring of what estate widows shall be endowed,

Was read the second time, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Blount moved to adjourn until 10 o'clock A. M., Monday;

Upon which motion the ayes and noes were called for by Messrs. Williams and Coffee, and were as follows:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Cole, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Parker, Richardson, VanZant, Wilkinson and Yates--12.

Nays--Messrs. Bellamy, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, Vogt and Williams--19.

So the motion was lost.

On motion of Mr. Williams, the House took a recess until 7 o'clock, P. M.

7 O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to prevent citizens of those States which have passed bank suspension bills and stay laws from collecting debts in this State,

Was read the second time.

Mr. Canova moved to indefinitely postpone said bill, upon which motion the yeas and nays were called for by Messrs. Mays and Love, and were:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Howell, Lee, Love, McCormick, Mickler, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Williams and Wilkinson--23.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Coffee, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Holloman, Hull, Mays, Means, Newburn, Vogt and Yates--13.

So the motion was carried, and the bill postponed indefinitely.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate a company to

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construct a railroad from St. Andrews to some point on the line of Georgia or Alabama in West Florida,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the issue of bonds to the extent of one million dollars by the Commonwealth of Florida,

Was read the second time, and on motion of Mr. Love, was made the special order for to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the criminal laws of this State and to provide for the punishment of abusive words,

Was read the second time.

Mr. Mays moved to lay the bill on the table;

Upon which motion the yeas and nays were called for by Messrs. Russell and Hull, and were,

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holloman, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Mickler, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--22.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Campbell, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Means, Pooser and VanZant--10.

So the motion prevailed.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to establish the Bank of Tallahassee at Tallahassee,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

The rule being waived, Mr. Holland of Hernando, from the Committee on Corporations, made the following report;

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to establish a Bank in the city of Apalachicola to be called the Western Bank of Florida, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to report the same back to the House with the following amendments:

Insert the words "nor less than one hundred thousand" after the word "thousand," in the second line of the second section, and strike out the words "three thousand," in the third line of same section.

Insert after the word "of," in the 41st line of the same section, the words, "one hundred thousand dollars in."

Strike out all after the word "all," in the 69th line of same section, and insert the words "the debts of said Bank."

Strike out all after the word "open," in the 10th line of the 3d section, and insert the words, "for sixty days consecutively, and if more than three hundred thousand dollars of stock are subscribed for and paid in in specie, then and in that event it shall

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be the duty of the said Commissioners to scale the same pro rata: Provided, That no subscription shall be reduced below two shares."

After the word "aforesaid," in the 5th line of the 7th section, insert the words, "may cause the same to be protested, and upon the protest thereof the said notes or bills shall bear an interest of twelve per cent. per annum till paid, and the said creditor or holder may."

Strike out the word "to" after the word "immediately," in the same line of the same section.

After the word "elsewhere," in the 83d and 84th lines of the 7th section, insert "Provided, That the said agencies in the State of Florida shall in all cases pay specie on demand at the place of business in which the principal Bank would be required so to do."

With the above amendments, the Committee recommend the passage of the same.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

The rule being waived, Mr. Williams introduced a resolution relative to the employment of Edward Powell in the military service of this State;

Which was placed among the orders of the day.

The rule being waived, Mr. Blount moved that Mr. Broxson be excused for the balance of the session;

Upon which motion the yeas and nays being called for, were:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Dansby, Hawes, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson and Wilkinson--15.

Nays--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Canova, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Holloman, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Parker, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--21.

So the motion was lost.

Mr. Hawes moved that the House adjourn till Monday, 10 o'clock, A. M.;

Upon which motion the yeas and nays being called for, were:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Cole, Hawes, VanZant, Wilkinson and Yates--7.

Nays--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt and Williams--29.

So the motion was lost.

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On motion of Mr. Bird, the House adjourned until to-morrow, 10 o'clock, A. M.

SATURDAY, February 9th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

On motion, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

Mr. Yates moved the reconsideration of a vote taken on a Senate bill on yesterday to be entitled an act in relation to the admission of Attorneys;

Which was lost.

Mr. Coffee moved that the vote on Senate bill to be entitled an act to secure certain rights to married women be reconsidered;

Which was lost.

Mr. Mays moved that the rule be waived, so that he may be allowed to introduce without previous notice a bill to be entitled an act to provide additional safe-guards for persons and property upon the Railroads in this State;

Which was agreed to, and said bill received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Canova moved that the Speaker of the House be authorized to employ additional assistance if deemed necessary to engross and enroll bills passed by the House;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Holloman, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report as correctly Enrolled the following bills and resolution, viz:

An act for the relief of Wm. G. Parker, Sheriff of Suwannee county;

An act to authorize Henry C. Grovenstine, a minor, to plead and practice law;

An act for the relief of T. C. Bolling, as administrator of R. A. Child, deceased;

Resolution for the relief of John M. Irwin;

An act to locate the county site of Levy county;

An act to provide for the payment of physicians who are summoned to attend coroners juries;

An act making Simeon Sparkman a citizen of Columbia county;

An act to change the name of Elizabeth Lovett;

An act to regulate fishing on the coast of the State of Florida;

An act to incorporate the German Building and Saving Association.

D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

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Which was read.

Mr. Mays, from the Committee on the Judiciary, made the following report:

The Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Halstead H. Hoeg and his assignees, have had the same under consideration, and instructed me to

REPORT:

That no facts have come to the knowledge of the Committee that indicate the propriety or necessity of such legislation, as the bill contemplates, and they therefore return the bill to the House, and ask to be discharged from its consideration.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS, Chairman.

Which was read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the law of this State regulating the issue of the process of garnishment, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the bill back to House with an accompanying amendment to be numbered as section 4, and with this amendment to recommend the passage of the bill.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the punishment of those persons who pretend to hold offices in this State not recognized by the laws thereof, and for other purposes, and a bill to be entitled an act declaring of what estate widows shall be endowed, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the bills back to the House and recommend their passage.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act regulating the order in which cases shall be tried in the Circuit Courts, and a bill to be entitled an act to amend the law in relation to coroners and juries of inquest, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report

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the bills back to the House with a recommendation that they do not pass.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS, Chairman.

Which was read, and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER, Feb'y 8th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has this day passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act providing a mode of instituting suits against counties;

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Jacksonville, St. Augustine and Indian River Railroad Company;

A bill to be entitled an act transferring causes from the late District Courts to the Circuit Courts;

A bill to be entitled an act to declare who are citizens of the State of Florida;

A bill to be entitled an act to reduce the costs of criminal prosecutions;

A bill to be entitled an act providing for the publication of certain laws;

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Florida and Georgia Railroad Company;

House bill to be entitled an act to provide for taking of the marks and brands of cattle driven or shipped from the counties of Sumter, Hillsborough and Manatee;

House bill to be entitled an act to provide for the service of civil process in certain cases; and,

Substitute for House bill to be entitled an act to compensate B. F. Whitner, Jr., for services in running and marking the boundary line between the States of Florida and Georgia.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the Senate bills ordered to be placed among the orders of the day and the House bills which had passed the Senate ordered to be enrolled.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER, Feb'y 8th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has this day passed the following bill and resolution, viz:

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A bill to be entitled an act to repeal in part the laws prohibiting intercourse with the Indians; and,

Resolution for the benefit of the College of St. Augustine.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and resolution placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER, Feb'y 9th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has passed the following bill and resolution, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to encourage and facilitate internal improvements and regulate partnerships for that purpose; and,

House resolution authorizing the payment of United States Treasury warrant No. 5253.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day, and the House resolution which had passed the Senate ordered to be enrolled.

The Senate substitute for the House bill to be entitled an act to compensate B. F. Whitner, Jr., for his services in running and marking the boundary line between the States of Georgia and Florida was taken up.

On motion to adopt the same, the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Holland of Hernando, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--23.

Nays--Messrs. Haddock, Howell, Hull, Lee, Russell and VanZant--6.

So the substitute was adopted and the bill ordered to be enrolled.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved to reconsider the vote of yesterday on the bill to be entitled an act to alter and change the time of holding the several terms of the Supreme Court of this State;

Which was agreed to, and said bill taken up and, on motion, placed back on its second reading and referred to a Select Committee,

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consisting of Messrs. Blount, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Mays and Means.

The following message was received from his Excellency the Governor:

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
TALLAHASSEE, Feb'y 9th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--I have approved and signed the following acts, viz:

An act authorizing and directing the Secretary of State to furnish a seal of office to the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Columbia county;

An act for the relief of A. D. Rogero, Sheriff of St. Johns county;

An act to allow M. L. McKinny to manage his own estate;

An act for the relief of Howell A. Baisden;

An act to re-organize the county of Brevard;

An act to amend the school laws of this State so far as has reference to the counties of Columbia, Suwannee, New River, Lafayette, Nassau and Sumter;

An act for the relief of Walton county;

An act to amend the acts creating liens in favor of builders, material men, &c.;

An act to allow A. J. Baker to practice medicine;

An act to declare Peas creek a navigable stream;

An act to amend the road laws of Nassau county;

An act to incorporate the Pensacola and Mobile Railroad and Manufacturing Company;

An act concerning the office of Clerk of the Supreme Court;

An act to amend the charter of the Alabama & Florida Railroad Company;

An act to repeal an act authorizing a bridge tax in Walton county;

An act to organize the county of Polk from the counties of Hillsborough and Brevard;

An act to organize a new county to be called Baker county;

An act extending the time for making demands on Railroad Companies;

An act to regulate the compensation of pilots at the port of St. Marks;

An act for the relief of George G. Holt and Thaddeus Rees;

An act to permit E. M. Thompson to practice law; and

An act to amend the pleading and practice in the Courts of this State.

Very respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

Which was read.

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Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the duties of Registers and Receivers of Public Lands in this State, and for other purposes;

A bill to be entitled an act to vest the several Circuit Courts of this State hereinafter named with the powers which were possessed by the late District Court of the United States and for other purposes;

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the public expenditures; also

A resolution to aid the Volunteer Companies of the State of Florida.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was received and read and accompanying bills and resolution placed among the orders of the day.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the issue of bonds to the extent of One Million of Dollars, by the Commonwealth of Florida.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the House went into Committee of the Whole for its consideration, Mr. Love in the Chair.

Came up on its second reading.

After some time spent therein, the Committee rose, and through their Chairman reported the bill back to the House as amended, and recommended its passage.

The amendments proposed by the Committee on Ways and Means were adopted by the House, and on motion, the rules being waived, the bill was read the third time by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, McCormick, Means, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt and Williams--26.

Nays--Messrs. Love, Mays, Newburn and Yates--4.

So the bill passed--title as amended.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for a Stay of Executions,

Came up on its second reading, after some discussion and the

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proposing of sundry amendments thereto, Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that the bill be indefinitely postponed;

Upon which motion the yeas and nays were called for by Messrs. Oliver and Holland of Hernando, and were as follows:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Canova, Cole, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Mays, Mickler, Oliver, Pooser, Richardson, Williams and Yates--13.

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Coffee, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Love, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Price, Russell, Scott and Vogt--17.

So the motion was lost.

Mr. Love offered the following amendment: Strike out the words "and undiminished in intrinsic value"; also, strike out "and that if the property levied upon is insufficient to pay the execution and costs, the defendant will pay for the use of the same from the date when said sale would have taken place but for this act, to the day of sale, such sum as may be lawfully adjudged to be reasonable and proper to go in satisfaction of the said execution and costs, and the balance, if any, refunded to the defendant in execution;"

Which was adopted.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following amendment:

Provided, however, That no suit shall be brought in law or equity, nor writ of fi. fa. or decree in equity shall issue or be levied upon the property of any person or persons who is employed in actual military service, or who is on actual military duty of the State of Florida, so long as such service or duty exists;

Which was adopted.

Also the following:

Provided further, That no citizen of any State which has passed a stay law or suspension law, shall be permitted to levy upon or sell any portion of the property of any citizen of this State, or to assgn any choses in action, or in any way whatever assign or sell any claim, judgment, decree, debt or demand, against any citizen of this State so long as the State of the creditor or plaintiff has a suspension law or stay law in force; and all such assigns shall be void and convey no title whatever.

Upon which the yeas and nays being called for the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Canova, Holland of Franklin and Oliver--3.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Coffee, Cole, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--24.

So the amendment was lost.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved to amend by inserting after the

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word "State," in the 3d line of 1st section, the words "on any contract entered into after the fifteenth day of February, 1861," also strike out the word "two," in the same line after the word "sixty," and insert "seven" instead;

Which was lost.

Mr. Canova offered the following amendment to said bill:

Wherever the word "sixty-two" occurs in said bill, the same be stricken out and "seventy-five" be inserted in lieu thereof;

Which was lost.

Mr. Mays offered the following amendment:

In the 5th line after the word "attorney" insert "shall pay all costs that have accrued;"

Which was lost.

Mr. Holloman moved that the bill be made the special order for Tuesday next;

Which was agreed to.

The rules being waived, Mr. Williams moved that Mr. Bird of Jefferson be excused from attendance on this House until Tuesday next, 10 o'clock;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Holloman, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report the following resolution as correctly enrolled, viz:

A resolution to authorize the Governor and Treasurer to make temporary arrangements to meet the present expenses of the State.

D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

Which was read.

A bill to be entitled an act to vest the several Circuit Courts hereinafter named with the powers which were possessed by the late District Court of the United States, and for other purposes,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mays, Means, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered to be certified to the Senate.

A resolution relative to the employment of Edward Powell in the military service of this State,

Was put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Holland of Franklin,

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Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--28.

Nays--None.

So the resolution was adopted.

On motion, a committee consisting of Messrs. Bird, Williams and Holland of Franklin, were appointed to convey said resolution to the Senate, and request their concurrence therein.

On motion of Mr. Coffee, the rule was waived, and he was allowed to make the following motion:

That Mr. Holloman of Gadsden be excused from further attendance on this House until Tuesday next, 12 o'clock;

Which was agreed to.

The following communication was received from the Attorney General:

ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE,
TALLAHASSEE, 9th February, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The following resolution, adopted by the House of Representatives, has been communicated to me by the Clerk, viz:

"Resolved, That the Attorney General be requested to furnish, at as early a day as possible, to this House, his written opinion in regard to the power of the General Assembly of this State to constitutionally charter a Bank with a smaller capital stock than one hundred thousand dollars, and whether it is requisite that said capital stock of one hundred thousand dollars be paid in specie before said Bank can lawfully go into operation."

The sixth section of the thirteenth article of the Constitution ordains that "the capital stock of any Bank shall not be less than one hundred thousand dollars, and shall be created only by the actual payment of specie therein; and no Bank shall borrow money to create or add to its capital or to conduct its business, and no loans shall be made on stock."

In my opinion, this provision of the Constitution is fairly susceptible of but one interpretation. If it has any operation at all, it must be understood as requiring that the capital stock of any Bank to be chartered by the General Assembly shall not be less than one hundred thousand dollars, and that this amount shall consist of specie actually paid in. The language is, the capital stock shall not be less than one hundred thousand dollars, not consisting simply of subscriptions or of authority to extend subscriptions to that amount, but created by the actual payment of specie. The capital stock under this provision, whatever may be the amount of it, can exist only by the payment of specie, and, according to my understanding of the Constitution, it was intended

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that no Bank should be chartered with a less capital than one hundred thousand dollars. The payment of the capital stock in specie is an essential requisite to the existence of a Bank, and, if this be so, how can a Bank be said to possess the required capital, if less than the minimum sum only is paid in? Any other construction would render the provision without practical meaning or effect; for, whilst nominally the capital stock might be fixed at not less than one hundred thousand dollars, a Bank might proceed and continue to the end of its charter with an actual capital of only fifty thousand dollars, or any other less sum.

By a slight transposition of words, we may probably be enabled better to understand what was intended by this provision, thus: The capital stock of any Bank shall be created only by the actual payment of specie therein, and shall not be less than one hundred thousand dollars. If, therefore, the payment of specie therein is the only mode of creating the capital stock of any Bank, and such Bank must have a capital stock of not less than one hundred thousand dollars, it seems to follow that the General Assembly cannot authorize a Bank, chartered by them, to go into operation with less than one hundred thousand dollars of its capital stock paid in, without coming in conflict with the provision of the Constitution referred to.

I am, very respectfully, &c.,

M. D. PAPY.

Which was read.

On motion, the House adjourned until Monday, 10 o'clock, A. M.

MONDAY, February 11th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

On motion, the reading of the journal of Saturday's proceedings was dispensed with.

The rule being waived, the following bills were introduced without previous notice, viz:

By Mr. Dansby:

A bill to be entitled an act to exempt telegraph operators from public duties except in cases of insurrection or actual invasion.

By Mr. Holland of Franklin:

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Apalachicola river and to reclaim the Swamp and Overflowed lands on said river.

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Which bills were received, and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Vogt moved that a Committee of three be appointed to act with a similar Committee on the part of the Senate to prepare a general appropriation bill to meet the expenses of the General Assembly and State, for the fiscal year 1861;

Which was agreed to, and Messrs. Vogt, Lee and Canova were appointed said Committee, who were also requested to act as a Committee to inform the Senate of the adoption of said motion, and request their concurrence.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the rule was waived, and he was allowed to introduce a bill to be entitled an act regarding the sale of spiritous liquors to slaves, and for other purposes;

Which was placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Canova, from the Committee on Internal Improvements, made the following report:

The Committee on Internal Improvements, to whom was referred a Senate bill to be entitled an act still further defining the duties of the Trustees of the Internal Improvement Fund, have had the same under consideration, and have requested me as their Chairman to report the same back to the House without amendment.

A. A. CANOVA, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Blount, from a select Committee, made the following report:

The Select Committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to alter and change the time of holding the several terms of the Supreme Court, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to report the same back to the House with the following amendments, and recommend the passage of the same:

Strike out from the 8th line of the 1st section, all after the word "beginning," and insert the words "on the third Monday in March."

Strike out from the 10th line of same section, all after the word "beginning," and insert the words "on the first Monday in December."

Strike out from the 12th line of same section, the word "second," and insert the word "first."

Strike out from the 16th line of same section the word "March," and insert the word "February."

All of which is respectfully submitted,

A. C. BLOUNT,

G. W. MEANS,

D. P. HOLLAND,

D. H. MAYS,

N. W. HOLLAND.

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Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 11th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following bills and resolutions, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act giving the State a right of appeal and peremptory challenges in criminal cases;

A bill to be entitled an act to repeal the 9th and 16th sections of an act entitled an act to amend the Militia and Patrol Laws of this State, approved Dec. 22, 1859;

House bill to be entitled an act to provide the mode and manner of giving notice in actions of ejectment;

House bill to be entitled an act to provide for the election of Tax-Assessor and Collector for Sumter county, and for other purposes;

House bill to be entitled an act in relation to Crimes and Misdemeanors;

House bill to be entitled an act respecting the sale of vinous or spiritous liquors to slaves or free persons of color in Apalachicola and Fernandina, with amendments;

House bill to be entitled an act for the better preservation of the State Judicial Library, with amendments;

House bill to be entitled an act to incorporate an Insurance Company in the City of Apalachicola, to be called the Florida Home Insurance Company, with amendments;

House resolution relative to State Librarian; and

Senate resolution in relation to land warrants.

The following House bill was indefinitely postponed by the Senate, viz:

House bill to be entitled an act to provide for the security of the citizens of this State transacting business with foreign corporations.

Very Respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and the House bill to be entitled an act for the better preservation of the State Judicial Library mentioned in said message as amended by the Senate was taken up and the amendments concurred in, and the bill as amended ordered to be enrolled.

Also a House bill to be entitled an act to incorporate an Insurance Company in the City of Apalachicola, to be called the Florida Home Insurance Company, mentioned in said message

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as amended by the Senate was taken up, and the House concurred therein, and the bill as amended ordered to be enrolled;

Also a House resolution relative to a State Librarian, mentioned in said message as amended by the Senate was taken up and the House concurred therein, and the resolution as amended ordered to be enrolled;

Also a House bill to be entitled an act respecting the sale of spiritous and vinous liquors to slaves or free persons of color in the City of Apalachicola, mentioned in said message as am ended by the Senate, was taken up and the House concurred therein, and the bill as amended ordered to be enrolled.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 9th, 1861.

HON. JOHN. B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has this day passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to aid Hillsborough County in building or assisting to build a Railroad;

House bill to be entitled an act regulating the fees of Port Wardens of the City of Apalachicola, and other purposes, with amendments;

House bill to be entitled an act for the defence of the Port of Apalachicola;

House bill to be entitled an act regulating Wharfage in the City of Apalachicola, with amendments.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and the Senate bill ordered to be placed among the orders of the day, and the House bill to be entitled an act regulating Wharfage in the City of Apalachicola mentioned in said message as amended by the Senate was taken up and the House concurred therein, and the bill as amended ordered to be enrolled;

House bill to be entitled an act regulating the fees of Port Wardens of the city of Apalachicola, and for other purposes mentioned in said message as amended by the Senate,

Was taken up and the House concurred therein, and the bill as amended ordered to be enrolled.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 9th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has concurred in House amendments to a

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bill to be entitled an act supplemental to an act to establish the Planters' and Merchants' Bank of Pensacola.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read.

The following communication was received from his Excellency the Governor:

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
TALLAHASSEE, Feb'y 11th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--I respectfully recommend the following nominations for the advice and consent of the General Assembly, viz:

FRANKLIN COUNTY.

Port Wardens at Apalachicola--Edward Williams, Henry Swain, Francis Pike, B. L. Turner, Federick N. Fuller, John Coupe and Robert D. Munn.

Cotton Weighers--Thomas Matthews, Simeon K. Bull, R. L. Harrison, J. J. Flanders, Wm. D. McClay and Geo. L. Brockenbrough.

Commissioners of Pilotage--J. L. Dunham, James P. Penn, Benj. Ellison, Joseph Atkins and James J. Griffin.

ESCAMBIA COUNTY.

Port Wardens--John Campbell, J. W. Hall, C. G. Barclay, W. L. Cozens and Wm. H. Baker.

Auctioneer--Joseph Sierra, Jr.

Keeper of Spanish Archives--F. de la Rua.

GADSDEN COUNTY.

Auctioneer--John A. Bissell.

Very respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

Which was read and the nominations advised and concurred in by the House.

Mr. Canova, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report as being correctly enrolled the following bills and resolution, viz:

An act to provide for the service of civil process in certain cases;

An act to repeal in part the law prohibiting intercourse with Indians;

An act to amend the road laws, &c.;

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Resolution authorizing the payment of United States Treasury warrant No. 5253;

An act to compensate B. F. Whitner, Jr., for services in surveying the boundary line between the States of Florida and Georgia;

An act to enable Railroad Companies to obtain the right of way; and

An act for the relief of William H. Fannin.

A. A. CANOVA.

Which was read.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the duties of Registers and Receivers of public lands in this State, and for other purposes,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Price, Vogt and Williams--22.

Nays--Messrs. Holland of Franklin, VanZant and Yates--3.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

On motion, a Committee consisting of Messrs. McCormick, Vogt and Canova were appointed to convey the bill to the Senate and request their concurrence.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for providing for carrying the mails,

Came upon its second reading, and on motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the House went into a Committee of the Whole for its consideration--Mr. Blount in the Chair.

After some time spent therein, the Committee rose, and through their Chairman reported the bill back to the House as amended, and recommended its passage.

The House concurred in the report of the select Committee on said bill, Holland of Franklin, Chairman.

On motion, the bill was read the third time by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Price, Richardson, VanZant, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates--25.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

On motion, a Committee consisting of Messrs. Holland of

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Franklin, Broxson and Lee were appointed to convey said bill to the Senate and request their concurrence in the House amendments thereto.

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Peas Creek, and to drain the Swamp and Overflowed lands thereon,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

The rule being waived, Mr. Holland, from the Committee on Corporations, made the following report:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate a Company to construct a Railroad from St. Andrews Bay to some point on the line of Georgia or Alabama in West Florida,

REPORT:

That the corporate privileges and powers granted to said Company by said bill are usual and proper. Your Committee do not express any views as to the general policy of granting said charter, or the effect of the same on the general system of Internal Improvement in the State, not deeming it within their province, and would recommend that the bill be referred to the Commitmittee on Internal Improvement if the House desires further investigation in regard to the subject.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to establish the Bank of Tallahassee at Tallahassee,

Was read the second time, and the amendments proposed by the Committee on Corporations adopted, and the bill ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Withlacooche river and reclaim the swamp and overflowed lands on said river,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the trial of negroes in criminal cases, and for other purposes,

Was read the first time.

On motion to waive the rules to read said bill the second and third times by its title and put it upon its passage, the yeas and being called for, the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Blount, Campbell, Carter, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Richardson, VanZant and Vogt--15.

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Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Broxson, Haddock, Howell, Oliver, Price, Williams and Yates--9.

So the motion was lost and the bill ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Rogers, Dawkins and Finlayson, waited upon the House and informed them that they had been appointed to return sundry bills to the House relative to providing a circulating medium for the citizens of Florida and request the immediate action of the House thereon.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that said bills be made the special order of business for 7 o'clock this evening;

Which was agreed to.

A bill to be entitled an act to allow Jefferson Felmer Ault to change his name to Jefferson Felmer Johns,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the 22d section of an act to provide for and encourage a liberal system of Internal Improvements in this State, approved January 6th, 1855,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Carter, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Hull, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Price, Richardson, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--27.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

On motion, a Committee, consisting of Messrs. Williams, Means and Scott, was appointed to convey said bill to the Senate.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Magbee, Simkins and Abercrombie, waited upon the House and informed them that they had been appointed to return a bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Addison to construct a dam across the Ocklockonee river for the purpose of erecting a mill, and inform the House that the Senate had refused to recede from its amendments thereto.

The Senate substitute for a House bill to be entitled an act to prevent penning or detaining stock without the consent of the owners in Nassau, Alachua, Wakulla and St. Johns counties,

Was adopted by the House and ordered to be enrolled.

A bill to be entitled an act defining who may make the affidavits required in suits of attachment and garnishment,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Catherine A. Joiner,

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Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Carter, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Hull, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Price, Richardson, Scott, Stewart and Yates--27.

Nays--Messrs. Campbell, Coffee, VanZant and Williams--4.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for the Incorporation of Insurance Companies,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the Attachment Laws,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for the Representation of this State in the Southern Confederacy,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of F. L. Dancy, late Surveyor General, and for other purposes,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for the maintenance of Light Houses on the sea-board,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act prescribing the form of an Oath of Allegiance,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of the Pensacola and Georgia Railroad,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time and the following amendment offered by Mr. Blount: Insert the words "and all other Railroad Companies in this State having Railroad iron under bond," after the words "Pensacola and Georgia Railroad Company;"

Which was adopted.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following amendment:

Be it further enacted, That the benefits of the first section of this act shall extend to any person or persons, or to any goods, wares or merchandise of every character.

Upon which the yeas and nays being called the vote was:

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Yeas--Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Howell, Lee and Parker--4.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Richardson, Scott and Williams--24.

So the amendment was lost.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following amendment:

Add after the last word in the first section, the words "and the several Collectors are hereby authorized to extend the benefits of this act to any person or persons, and to all wares and merchandise of every character."

Upon which the yeas and nays being called, the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Campbell, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Hull, Oliver, Price, Stewart and VanZant--9.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Hawes, Lee, Love, Mays, Mickler, Newburn, Richardson, Scott and Yates--18.

So the amendment was lost.

Mr. Canova offered the following amendment: Add after the word "St. Marks," "or other ports in the State";

Which was adopted.

Mr. Scott moved that the bill be read a third time by its title and put upon its passage;

Which was lost.

The bill was ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to establish a Bank in the City of Apalachicola to be called the Western Bank of Florida,

Was read the second time and the amendments offered thereto by the Committee on Corporations adopted, and the bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Mr. Oliver moved the reconsideration of a vote on a bill to be entitled an act fixing the pay of the members of the General Assembly;

Which was agreed to, and on motion, the bill was referred to a Select Committee, consisting of Messrs. Oliver, Love, Collins, Howell and VanZant.

Senate bill to be entitled an act relative to the Common School Fund of Washington and Holmes counties,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Price, Richardson, VanZant and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

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So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to encourage the formation of mounted and cavalry companies in this State for military service,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Canova, Collins, Cole, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Oliver, Parker, Price, Richardson, Scott, Stewart, Vogt and Williams--20.

Nays--Messrs. Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Haddock, Hawes, Love, Mays, VanZant and Yates--10.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide additional safeguards for persons and property upon the railroads in this State,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act regulating the order in which cases shall be tried in the Circuit Courts,

Was read the second time.

Mr. Blount offered the following amendments:

Strike out "criminal" wherever it occurs; and add,

Be it further enacted, That there shall also be kept a criminal docket, on which shall be entered every criminal case pending in Court in the order in which the indictments or presentments were presented to the Court, which docket shall be peremptorily called in its order, commencing on some day of the term, to be determined by the Court, and at the said calling it shall be the duty of the Court to try or dismiss each case, unless the solicitor or defendant shall show good cause for a continuance or for a postponement unto a later day of the same term; but nothing herein contained shall prevent the Court from assigning any day specially for the trial of any criminal cause.

Which was adopted, and the bill ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the law of this State in relation to coroners and juries of inquest,

Came upon its second reading, and on motion, was laid on the table.

On motion, the House took a recess until 3 o'clock, P. M.

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3 O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws of this State regulating the issuing of the process of Garnishment,

Was read the second time and the report of the Judiciary Committee adopted, and the bill ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Mr. Holland of Franklin, from a Select Committee, made the following report:

The select Committee to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the auction laws of this State, beg leave to

REPORT:

That the taxes now imposed by law upon goods sold by auction in this State yield but a very small revenue in the aggregate to the State, while they assist in preventing shipment and sales by auction of foreign cargoes of coffee, sugar, syrup, salt, cigars, fruits, and a variety of goods of daily use. The present auction tax yielded the State from the report of the Treasurer, $439.70. While it has given the State so little aid it has been most deleterious to commerce by preventing shipments of foreign goods being ordered so that they might be sold at public auction, which will not be done while the laws compel the vendor to pay more than three times the amount that he would have to pay to sell his cotton. When a law yields no comparative benefit to the State compared to the injury it inflicts upon commerce, it is the opinion of the undersigned that wise legislation should provide for its repeal. Your Committee therefore report the following amendment:

Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert the following:

That all laws and parts of laws which provide or create for a tax of any character whatever, upon goods sold by auction in this State, be and they are hereby repealed: Provided, however, That commissions of Auctioneers shall continue to be charged at the same rates as now by law provided, as if this act had not been passed.

D. P. HOLLAND, Chairman.
S. B. LOVE,
A. C. BLOUNT.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide for the punishment of those persons who pretend to hold offices in this State not recognized by the laws thereof, and for other purposes,

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Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Oliver, Parker, Price, Scott, VanZant, Vogt and Yates--25.

Nay--Mr. Love--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act declaring of what estate Widows shall be endowed,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Halstead Hoeg and assignees,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to reduce the cost of criminal prosecutions,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Florida and Georgia Railroad Company,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to declare who are citizens of the State of Florida,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to encourage and facilitate internal improvements and regulate partnerships for that purpose,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing a mode of instituting suit against counties,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Call, Brokaw and Simpkins, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had passed a substitute for the House bill to be entitled an act regulating the duties of Registers and Receivers of public lands in this State, and for other purposes, and requested the concurrence of the House therein.

Senate bill to be entitled an act transferring causes from the late District Courts to the Circuit Courts,

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Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for the publication of certain laws,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Jacksonville, St. Augustine and Indian river Railroad Company,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate resolution for the benefit of the college at St. Augustine,

Was read and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Oliver, Parker, Price, Richardson, Scott, VanZant, Williams and Yates--26.

Nays--None.

So the resolution passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Resolution to aid the volunteer companies of this State,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Oliver, Parker, Price, Richardson, Scott, VanZant, Williams and Yates--28.

Nays--None.

So the resolution passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to exempt telegraph operators from military, road and patrol duties,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Apalachicola river, and to reclaim the swamp and overflowed lands on said river,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act still further defining the duties of the Trustees of the Internal Improvement Fund,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

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Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bill as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to enlarge and define the jurisdiction and establish certain rules of practice of the Courts of Equity in this State.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to enlarge and define the jurisdiction and establish certain rules of practice of the Courts of Equity of this State,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Parker, Price, Richardson, Scott, VanZant and Williams--25.

Nay--Mr. Yates--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to aid Hillsborough county in building or assisting to build a railroad,

Was read the first time, the rule waived, read the second time by its title and on motion referred to a Select Committee consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Howell and Broxson.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to repeal the 9th and 16th sections of an act entitled an act to amend the Militia and Patrol laws of this State, approved December 22, 1859,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate Resolution relating to Land Warrants,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act giving the State a right of appeal and peremptory challenges in criminal cases,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate substitute to the House bill regulating the duties of Receivers and Registers of Public Lands in this State, and for other purposes,

Was taken up, and on motion referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

On motion, the vote on the motion making the Senate substitute for the House bill providing for a permanent circulating

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medium for the citizens of Florida was reconsidered, and the bill taken up with the substitute.

The House refused to concur in the substitute and the same ordered to be certified to the Senate.

On motion of Mr. Mays, the rules were waived and the bill to be entitled an act to provide additional safeguards for persons and property upon Railroads in this State was taken up, read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

On motion, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

TUESDAY, February 12th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispened with.

Mr. Bellamy moved that a Committee be appointed to inform the Senate that the House declines to concur in the substitute offered by the Senate for House bill to be entitled an act to provide a permanent circulating medium for the citizens of Florida, and to request that a Committee be appointed by the Senate to confer with a similar Committee on the part of the House touching the same;

Which was adopted, and Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Love, Mays and Pooser were appointed said Committee.

Mr. Coffee, from the Committee on Public Lands, made the following report:

The Committee on Public Lands, to whom a reference was made of a bill to be entitled an act regulating the duties of Registers and Receivers of Public Lands in this State, as also the Senate substitute proposed for the same, have had the same under consideration, and regarding the substitute as complicated and inefficient, have instructed me as their Chairman to report the same back to the House with the recommendation that the House do not concur in the substitute proposed, but adhere to the bill reported by your Committee as passed the House.

Respectfully submitted,

C. C. COFFEE, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and substitute placed among the orders of the day.

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Mr. Hawes, from the Committee on Schools and Colleges, made the following report:

The Committee on Schools and Colleges, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to empower the Judges of Probate of Washington and Holmes counties to draw certain School Funds, having had the same under consideration, ask leave to report, that as no information has been placed before them to show the necessity for the passage of such an act, they desire to return the bill to the House without any recommendation whatever.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Mays, from the Committee on the Judiciary, made the following report:

The Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for the payment of costs by plaintiffs in certain cases, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report the bill back to the House and recommend the passage of the same.

Respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

The Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the following bills, to-wit: a bill to be entitled an act to reduce the costs of criminal prosecutions; a bill to be entitled an act requiring of the Circuit Courts to set specific days for the trial of causes wherein three or more witnesses are subpoened; a bill to be entitled an act to provide for a digest of the ordinances and statutes of this State; a bill to be entitled an act giving Justices of the Peace jurisdiction in all sums not exceeding one hundred dollars, exclusive of interests and costs; a bill to be entitled an act giving the trial of slaves and free persons of color in this State; a bill to be entitled an act governing divorces in this State; a bill to be entitled an act giving the State a right of appeal and peremptory challenges in criminal cases, and a bill to be entitled an act prescribing the form of an oath of allegiance, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report that they regard the provisions of most of these bills unwise, some of them unnecessary, and others again inexpedient at the present time, and therefore they recommend that they do not pass.

Respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bills placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

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The Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act providing for the publication of certain laws, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to report an amendment to the second section of the bill, to-wit:

Strike out the words "five thousand" in said section and insert "fifteen hundred;"

And in the fourth section strike out the words "two hundred and fifty," and insert "five hundred."

With these amendments we recommend the passage of the bill.

Respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Franklin, from a Select Committee, made the following report:

The Select Committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to aid Hillsborough county in building or assisting to build a railroad, beg leave to

REPORT:

That they have examined the bill and believe that the same should be granted to said county, because of the great benefit it would afford to a large section of our State who should be assisted whenever the public interests will justify it. They, therefore, recommend that the said bill do pass.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. P. HOLLAND, Chairman,
C. L. BROXSON,
JOSEPH HOWELL.

Which was received and read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Canova, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report the following bills and resolution as correctly enrolled, viz:

An act to provide for the election of Tax-Assessor and Collector for Sumter county;

An act to provide the mode and manner of giving notice in actions of ejectment;

An act respecting the sale of vinous or spiritous liquors to slaves or free persons of color in the cities of Apalachicola and Fernandina;

An act to authorize James Addison of Leon county to construct a dam across the Ocklockonee river in Leon county;

An act to prevent persons from penning or detaining stock without the consent of the owner in Nassau, Alachua, Wakulla and St. Johns counties;

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An act regulating the fees of Port Wardens of the city of Apalachicola;

An act to amend an act to incorporate the town of Marianna;

An act in relation to crimes and misdemeanors;

An act for the relief of Satrene Remerez and others, inhabitants of the county of Escambia;

Resolution relative to State Librarian; and

An act to incorporate the town of Monticello.

A. A. CANOVA.

Which was read.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 11th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has indefinitely postponed the following House bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the attachment laws now in force in this State;

A bill to be entitled an act to prohibit negroes or others than white men from being employed as samplers of cotton.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 11th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has this day passed the following bills and resolutions, viz:

House bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Alachua county Railroad Company, with amendments;

Senate resolution in relation to military laws;

Resolution for the relief of Dr. Wm. S. Jones; and

House bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Clinton Thigpin.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the House bill entitled an act to incorporate the Alachua Railroad Company, mentioned in said message as amended by the Senate, was taken up and the House concurred therein, and the bill as amended, with the House bill entitled an act for the relief of Clinton Thigpin, ordered to be enrolled, and

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the Senate resolutions ordered to be placed among the orders of the day.

The rule being waived, Mr. Love, from a Select Committee, made the following report:

The majority of the Select Committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act fixing the pay of members of the General Assembly, have had the same under consideration and respectfully report that they recommend the passage of the same.

S. B. LOVE,

JOHN A. J. COLLINS,

GARRETT VANZANT,

JOSEPH HOWELL.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 11th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has refused to concur in House amendments to Senate bill to be entitled an act for providing for carrying the mails.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read, and on motion of Mr. Canova the House refused to recede from its amendments to Senate bill to be entitled an act for providing for carrying the mails, and a Committee of Conference consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Canova and Hawes, were appointed to confer with a similar Committee on the part of the Senate.

A committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Call, Dawkins and Magbee, waited upon the House and informed that body that they had been appointed a committee to act with the committee appointed on the part of the House to confer upon a bill to be entitled an act to provide a permanent circulating medium for the citizens of Florida.

The rule being waived, Mr. Oliver from a Select Committee made the following report:

As one of the committee to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act fixing the pay of members of the General Assembly, have had the same under consideration, and offer the following amendment to said bill: Strike out in the sixth line of the first section the word "five," and insert in lieu thereof the word "four"; with this amendment I recommend the passage of said bill.

Respectfully submitted,

AVIN OLIVER, Chairman.

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Which was received and read and the bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 11th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following bills, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to prevent the collection of debts in certain cases from debtors in this State;

House bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to regulate the Pilotage of St. Johns Bar;

House bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Lake City and Blount Ferry Railroad Company, with amendments.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and the House bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Lake City and Blount Ferry Railroad Company mentioned in said message as amended, was taken up and the amendment concurred in by the House, and the bill as amended ordered to be enrolled, and Senate bill placed among the orders of the day.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Rogers, Ingram and Jones, waited upon the House and informed them that they had been appointed a Committee to inform the House that the Senate had passed a bill to be entitled an act reorganizing the military force of this State, and had also adopted the House resolution to provide for the appointment of a Major General in the army of Florida.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the duties of Registers and Receivers of public lands in this State, and for other purposes,

Was taken up.

On motion, the House refused to adopt the Senate substitute for said bill.

A Committee, consisting of Messrs. Coffee, Pooser and Yates, were appointed to inform the Senate thereof.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the law of this State regulating the issue of the process of garnishment,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Hull,

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Means, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Scott, VanZant and Williams--18.

Nays--Messrs. Coffee, Haddock, Howell, Mickler, Parker, Richardson and Yates--7.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Watlington, Chain and Abercrombie, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had refused to concur in the House amendments to a Senate bill to authorize the issue of bonds to the extent of one million of dollars by the commonwealth of Florida.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Call, Brokaw and Magbee, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate would insist upon its substitute for a House bill to be entitled an act regulating the duties of Registers and Receivers of public lands in this State, and for other purposes.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to repeal the ninth and tenth sections of an act to amend the militia and patrol laws of this State, approved December 22, 1859,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Militia.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the auction laws of this State,

Came up on its second reading, and the amendments reported by the Select Committee adopted, and the bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bills as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide additional safeguards for persons or property upon the Railroads in this State;

A bill to be entitled an act to allow Jefferson Felmer Ault to change his name to Jefferson Felmer Johns;

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Apalachicola river and to reclaim the swamp and overflowed lands on said river;

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Withlacoochee river and reclaim the swamp and overflowed lands on said river; and,

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Peas creek and to drain the swamp and overflowed land thereon.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

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Which was read and said bills and placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of the Pensacola and Georgia Railroad Company,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Love, Mays, Means, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--26.

Nay--Mr. Coffee--1.

So the bill passed--title amended "and for other Railroad Companies in this State."

On motion, a committee consisting of Messrs. Love, Cole and Scott were appointed to convey said bill to the Senate and request their concurrence in the House amendments thereto.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide for the representation of this State in the Southern Confederation,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Love, Mays, Means, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--25.

Nays--Messrs. Canova and Holland of Hernando--2.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of F. L. Dancy, late Surveyor General of the State of Florida,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

Senate bill to be entitled an act relative to the maintenance of the Light Houses on the Sea board,

Was read the second time, the rule waived read the third time by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--29.

Nays--None.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the Attachment Laws,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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A bill to be entitled an act to allow Jefferson Felmer Ault to change his name to Jefferson Felmer Johns,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Holland of Franklin, Hewell, Hull, Lee, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Scott, Williams and Yates--24.

Nays--Messrs. Coffee and Mays--2.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Peas Creek and to drain the swamp and overflowed lands thereon,

Was read a third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, VanZant, Williams and Yates--25.

Nays--Messrs. Coffee, Haddock, Love, Mays and Means--5.

So said bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Withlacoochee river, and reclaim the swamp and overflowed lands on said river,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott and Yates--20.

Nays--Messrs. Coffee, Collins, Haddock, Love, Mays and Means--6.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Apalachicola river and to reclaim the swamp and overflowed lands on said river,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Lee, Love, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser and Price--16.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Coffee, Collins, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Mays, McCormick, Means, Oliver, Richardson, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--15.

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So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide additional safeguards to persons and property upon the railroads in this State,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Vogt, Williams and Yates--27.

Nay--Mr. Bissell--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for the incorporation of Insurance Companies,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the trial of negroes in criminal cases and for other purposes,

Was read the second time, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act defining who may make the affidavits required in suits of attachment and of garnishment,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read the third time by its title, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Scott, Vogt and Williams--23.

Nays--Messrs. Howell, Parker and Yates--3.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the sale of spiritous liquors to slaves and for other purposes,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Vogt, from the Committee on Engrossed Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bill as correctly engrossed, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act to establish a Bank in the city of Apalachicola, to be called the Western Bank of Florida.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was received and read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

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Senate bill to be entitled an act to establish the Bank of Tallahassee at Tallahassee,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Love, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--26.

Nays--Messrs. Carter and Mays--2.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to exempt Telegraph Operators from military, road and patrol duties,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read the third time by its title, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Howell, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Vogt, Williams and Yates--30.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to alter and change the time of holding the several terms of the Supreme Court,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Love, Mays, McCormick, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Williams and Yates--28.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate a company to construct a Railroad from St. Andrews to some point on the line of Georgia or Alabama in West Florida,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read a third time by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Love, McCormick, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell and Vogt--20.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Coffee, Collins, Oliver, Scott, Williams and Yates--8.

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So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to establish a Bank in the city of Apalachicola to be called the Western Bank of Florida,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Love, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--27.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

On motion, a Committee consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Howell and Parker, were appointed to convey said bill to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act still further defining the duties of the Trustees of the Internal Improvement Fund,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Hull, Love, Mays, McCormick, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--29.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate resolution in relation to land warrants,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read a third time by its title and put upon its passage, on which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Hull, McCormick, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant and Yates--25.

Nays--Messrs. Coffee and Love--2.

So the resolution passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act declaring of what estate widows shall be endowed,

Was read the third time, and on motion, the rule was waived, and placed the bill back upon its second reading.

Mr. Russell offered the following amendment to said bill:

Insert after the words "no child," in the 8th line "the widow shall be entitled to the whole estate."

Upon which, the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

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Yeas--Messrs. Broxson, Dansby, Hawes, Hull, Newburn, Price, Russell and VanZant--8.

Nays--Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Carter, Coffee, Cole, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Love, Mays, Mickler, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Scott, Williams and Yates--17.

So the motion was lost.

Mr. Mays offered the following amendment:

At the end of the last section insert the following:

Provided, however, That nothing contained in this act shall be so construed as to interfere with rights vested under and by virtue of the provisions of the act or acts hereby repealed.

Which was adopted.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved to lay the bill on the table;

Upon which the yeas and nays were called for, and were:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, McCormick, Mickler, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Russell, Williams and Yates--21.

Nays--Messrs. Hawes, Hull, Love, Mays, Means, Newburn, Pooser, Price, VanZant and Vogt--10.

So the motion was carried, and the bill laid on the table.

On motion, the House took a recess until 3 o'clock.

3 O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

The rule being waived, Mr. Mays, from the Committee on the Judiciary, made the following report:

Mr. Mays, from the Committee on the Judiciary, made the following report:

The Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to establish the Commercial Bank of Lake City, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report the bill back to the House with the following amendments, to wit:

In the sixth line of section one strike out the words "twenty thousand dollars" and insert the words "paid in," and erase the words "are paid;" and, in the second line of section second strike out the words "and twenty thousand dollars" and insert the words "and paid in," and erase the words "are paid in" in the same line and same section.

Respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

Page 352

Mr. Coffee moved that the rule be waived, to allow him to make the following motion:

That Mr. Collins of Taylor be excused from further attendance on this House from to-day, for the remainder of the present session;

Which was agreed to and the motion adopted.

The rule being waived, Mr. Canova moved that an additional number of three members be appointed by the House to confer with the Senate Committee on the bill providing for carrying the mails, referred this day;

Which was agreed to, and Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Russell and Mickler appointed.

On motion of Mr. Canova, the rule was waived, and he was allowed to introduce without previous notice a bill to be entitled an act to change the time of holding the Courts within the Eastern Judicial Circuit of the State of Florida;

Which was received and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Halstead Hoeg and assignees,

Was read the third and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mickler, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell and Scott--20.

Nays--Messrs. Haddock, Love, Mays, McCormick, Oliver and Yates--6.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act for the stay of executions,

Was read the second time.

Mr. Canova moved the indefinite postponement of the bill;

Upon which the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Canova, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Mays, Mickler, Oliver, Richardson and Williams--11.

Nays--Messrs. Blount, Campbell, Coffee, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Love, McCormick, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt and Yates--20.

Said motion was lost.

Mr. Love moved that the rule be waived and the bill be read a third time by its title and put upon its passage;

Which motion was lost.

The bill was ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

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Mr. Holloman, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report as correctly Enrolled the following bills, viz:

An act for the relief of Clinton Thigpin;

An act regulating wharfage in the city of Apalachicola;

An act for the defence of the Port of Apalachicola;

An act for the better preservation of the State Judicial Library;

An act to provide for the taking of marks and brands of cattle driven or shipped from the counties of Sumter, Hillsborough and Manatee; and

An act to incorporate an Insurance Company in the city of Apalachicola to be called the Florida Home Insurance Company.

D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

Which was read.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the rule was waived and the Senate bill to be entitled an act re-organizing the military forces of this State was taken up.

On motion of Mr. Love the House went into a Committee of the Whole for its consideration--Mr. Canova in the chair.

After some time spent therein, the committee rose and reported the bill back to the House, through their chairman, as amended, and recommended its passage.

On motion, the House concurred in the amendment proposed by the Committee of the Whole.

On motion the rule was waived and the bill was read the third time by its title, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Oliver, Parker, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--22.

Nays--Messrs. Hawes, Love, Mays and Pooser--4.

So the bill passed as amended--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to encourage and facilitate Internal Improvements, and regulate Partnerships for that purpose,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Cole, Hawes and Scott--4.

Nays--Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Love, Mays, Means, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Vogt, Williams and Yates--23.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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Senate bill to be entitled an act regulating the order in which cases shall be tried in the Circuit Courts,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Means and Vogt--10.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Coffee, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Love, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant and Yates--16.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Call, Chain and Jones, waited on the House and requested the House to return to the Senate a bill to be entitled an act to amend the election laws of this State.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Magbee, McQueen and Brokaw, waited upon the House and returned a bill to be entitled an act to amend the election laws of this State with amendments, and requested the concurrence of the House therein.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to reduce the costs of criminal prosecutions,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to empower the Judges of Probate of Washington and Holmes counties to draw certain school funds,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing a mode of instituting suits against counties,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Magbee, Dawkins and Chain, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had passed a bill to be entitled an act encouraging the cultivation of tropical fruits; and a bill to be entitled an act granting land warrants to volunteers of Florida and for other pur-poses, and requested the concurrence of the House therein;

Which were received, and said bills placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act requiring of Circuit Courts to set specific days for the trial of causes, &c.,

Was read the second time, and, on motion of Mr. Means, was indefinitely postponed.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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A bill to be entitled an act to provide for a digest of the ordinances and statute laws of this State,

Was read a second time, and on motion, was laid on the table.

A bill to be entitled an act giving Justices of the Peace jurisdiction in all sums not exceeding one hundred dollars, exclusive of interest and cost,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bissell, Campbell, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Parker, Scott and Yates--11.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Canova, Carter, Coffee, Holland of Hernando, Love, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, VanZant and Williams--17.

So the bill was lost.

A bill to be entitled an act governing the trial of slaves and free persons of color in this State,

Was read the second time.

Mr. Love moved its indefinite postponement;

Upon which motion, the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Love, Mays, Means, Mickler, Price, Richardson, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--22.

Nays--Messrs. Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Hull, McCormick, Oliver, Parker, Pooser and Russell--9.

So the motion was carried and the bill was indefinitely postponed.

A bill to be entitled an act governing Divorces in this State,

Was read the second time.

Mr. Love moved the indefinite postponement of the bill, upon which the yeas and nays were called for by Messrs. Love and Holland of Franklin, and were:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Carter, Coffee, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Love, Mays, Oliver, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--17.

Nays--Messrs. Campbell, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holloman, Parker, Pooser, Price and Richardson--10.

So the motion prevailed and the bill was postponed indefinitely.

Senate bill to be entitled an act prescribing the form of an Oath of Allegiance,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

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Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Campbell, Carter and Dansby--4.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Canova, Coffee, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--23.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to provide for the payment of costs by plaintiffs in certain cases.

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for the publication of certain laws,

Was read the second time, the amendments recommended by the Committee on the Judiciary adopted, and the bill as amended ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to aid Hillsborough county in building or assisting to build a Railroad,

Was read the second time and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate resolution in relation to military laws,

Was read first time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

Resolution for the relief of Dr. Wm. S. Jones,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Love, Mays, Mizell, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Williams and Yates--29.

Nays--None.

So the resolution passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the time of holding the Courts within the Eastern Judicial Circuit of the State of Florida,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

The House bill to be entitled an act regulating the duties of Registers and Receivers of Public Lands in this State, with the Senate substitute, was taken up.

On motion, a Committee of Conference, consisting of Messrs. Coffee, Holloman and Vogt, was appointed to act with a similar committee on the part of the Senate.

The following message was received from the Senate:

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SENATE CHAMBER,
February 12th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following bills, viz:

House bill to be entitled an act to clean out and improve the navigation of Yellow river in West Florida;

House bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of contractors and surveyors of public lands in this State, with amendments.

The following bill was lost in the Senate:

House bill to be entitled an act to amend the laws of this State with regard to malicious mischief,

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read and the amendments concured in, and the bills ordered to be enrolled.

On motion, Mr. Holland of Franklin was allowed to spread on the journal an amendment offered by him yesterday to Senate bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Jacksonville, St. Augustine and Indian river Railroad Company, as follows:

Be it further enacted, That there shall be built a branch Railroad from Quincy to Apalachicola, and said branch road shall be entitled to all the rights and benefits, and built in the same manner as the laws of this State now provide for the main road from Quincy to Tallahassee.

On motion, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, February 13th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

On motion, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

Mr. Love moved the reconsideration of the vote of yesterday indefinitely postponing the bill to be entitled an act requiring Judges of the Circuit Courts to set specific days for trial causes, &c.;

Which was agreed to, and said bill taken up and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holloman offered the following resolution:

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, That hereafter no member of this House shall be allowed to speak more than

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five minutes on any bill or any other subject of discussion without the consent of two-thirds of the members present;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Holloman, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report the following bills as correctly enrolled, viz:

An act to amend an act entitled an act to regulate pilotage of St. Johns bar; and

An act to provide for the payment of contractors surveying public lands in this State.

D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

Which was read.

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, through Mr. Pooser, made the following report:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having before them a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of F. L. Dancy, late Surveyor General, and for other purposes, having examined the bill in all its bearings in connection with the act of the State Convention, we therefore recommend that the bill do pass.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Franklin, from a Committee of Conference on the part of the House, made the following report:

The undersigned, members of the Committee of Conference, who have had under consideration the Senate bill entitled an act for providing for carrying the mails and House amendments adopted thereto, beg leave to

REPORT:

That they have conferred together and duly canvassed the merits of both the bill and amendments proposed thereto, and are of opinion that the bill should not pass without the said amendments. They, therefore, endorse the report of the Select House Committee proposing the same, and fully concur in the views and opinions therein taken of the subject; that it matters not whether the mail service contemplated by this bill is to be performed by and at the expense of the State or of the Southern Confederation, it is of equal moment and importance that said service should be performed upon the most economical plan to afford the greatest mail facilities to the people of the State, and if the bill is simply intended (as contended by some) as a basis by which a Southern Congress is to establish mail service on the routes indicated therein, as the wish of the people expressed by their Legislature, its importance is, if anything, increased instead

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of diminished. We should, therefore, consider so important a matter well before consenting to beget the establishment of unnecessary and expensive routes to be paid by a new government requiring all of its resources, however economically it may be administered, to say nothing of the concomitant ill effects resulting from the want of an efficient and regular mail service upon the various interests of the people at large.

It is a mistake, however, to suppose that this bill merely indicates to the Southern Confederation the lines or routes desired by the people of the State established by said Confederacy. The transmission of mails within the State is indispensable, and if no provision is made by the Southern Confederation the State must do it herself. The object of this bill seems to provide for that, and if it is necessary to economize when the Southern Confederation is to pay for this, how much greater the necessity when the same is payable out of the State Treasury? In a matter of such vital importance to the whole State, the Legislature should be actuated by a desire to free it from all possible embarrassments, instead of laying schemes to pay large compensation to contractors, tending thereby to bankrupt its Treasury still more.

In addition to the amendments proposed to said bill by the Select House Committee, the attention of the undersigned has been directed to its second section, which is regarded as objectionable in this: that it not only authorizes but makes it the duty of the Governor to contract for the carrying of the mails on the several railroads in this State, at a rate not to exceed $77 per mile for a daily mail and $66 per mile for one six times a week.

It will be seen by this, in addition to the inconvenience of a route as proposed in (section fifth of) said bill from Savannah to Fernandina and thence to Jacksonville, would simply, over the Florida and Central Railroads, from Fernandina to Jacksonville, a distance of sixty-six miles, cost for a daily service over fifty thousands dollars, and in proportion for a less grade, which, although tending to enrich the contractors, would tend to bankrupt the State Treasury. It may be contended or said that this sum would not be paid. Why then authorize it to be paid and leave a gap of this kind open? The route as proposed by the House amendments would obviate the necessity of any railroad service between the said points of Fernandina and Jacksonville, and by providing for the transmission of the mails triweekly from Savannah to Palatka by steamers, touching at and supplying all Post Offices on the Georgia coast to Fernandina, and from thence all intermediate Post Offices to Palatka on the St. Johns river, for a sum not to exceed fifteen thousand dollars, (the sum heretofore paid by the Federal Government for the said service,) every facility would be afforded and the wishes of the greatest number of the people regarded.

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In conclusion, your committee recommend the following amendment, to be inserted after the word "service" in the 4th line of the 7th section:

"That the Governor shall procure a tri-weekly mail, to be carried by four horse coaches from Marianna via Abbe Spring to Ochesee in Calhoun county, and to establish a Post Office at Abbe Springs," that section of country being destitute of mail facilities.

Also recommend that the House recede from the amendments proposed by the Special Committee, by striking out the words "ten cents for letters not exceeding half ounce weight and in proportion thereto," and adopt the 17th section of the Senate bill.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. P. HOLLAND,

A. A. CANOVA,
House Committee,

A. S. BALDWIN,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was read and the accompanying bill and amendments placed among the orders of the day.

The Committee of Conference on the part of the House and Senate on a House bill to be entitled an act regulating the duties of Registers and Receivers of public lands in this State made the following report:

The Committee of Conference on the House bill entitled an act regulating the duties of Registers and Receivers of public lands in this State, and for other purposes, and the Senate substitute therefor entitled a bill to be entitled an act abolishing the offices of United States Registers of lands and Receivers of public moneys, recommend the passage of the Senate substitute, with the following amendment:

Strike out "Tax-Collectors" wherever it occurs and insert "Clerks of Circuit Courts."

Strike out "one," in the second line of the fourth section and insert "two and a half."

Add section 17, viz:

Be it further enacted, That if the Judges of Probate and Clerk of any Court in this State, or either of them, shall refuse to accept the additional duties devolved upon them by this act, the lands in said county shall be liable to entry only at the office of the Register of State Lands in Tallahassee, who shall, in such

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case and for such county, discharge all the duties herein enjoined on the Judges of Probate and Clerks so refusing to qualify.

GEO. W. CALL,

JAS. W. McQUEEN,

W. B. JONES,
Senate Committee.

D. W. HOLLOMAN,

D. A. VOGT,
House Committee.

I agree to the amendment but dissent from the Senate substitute, believing it comes in conflict with 7th ordinance.

C. C. COFFEE.

Which was read and the bill and substitute placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 12th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has this day passed the following bill, viz:

House bill to be entitled an act to establish a Bank in the city of Apalachicola to be called the Western Bank of Florida.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and said bill ordered to be enrolled.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 12th, 1861.

HON. JOHN. B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has concurred in the House amendments to a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of the Pensacola and Georgia Railroad Company.

Very Respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read and the bill as amended ordered to be enrolled.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 13th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has passed the following bills and resolution, viz:

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A bill to be entitled an act in regard to Telegraph Companies;

House bill to be entitled an act to amend the 22d section of the act to provide for and encourage a liberal system of Internal Improvements in this State, approved January 6th, 1855;

House bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Apalachicola river and to reclaim the swamp and overflowed lands on said river;

House bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Withlacoochee river and reclaim the swamp and overflowed lands on said river;

House bill to be entitled an act to improve the navigation of Peas creek and to drain the swamp and overflowed lands thereon;

House bill to be entitled an act to amend the act of 1851, providing for the establishment of two seminaries of learning;

House bill to be entitled an act to provide additional safeguards for persons and property upon the railroads in this State;

House bill to be entitled an act to allow Thomas Jefferson Felmer Ault to change his name to Thomas Jefferson Felmer Johns, and for other purposes, with amendments;

Joint resolution in relation to Edward Powell and Henry Douglass.

House bill to be entitled an act defining who may make the affidavits required in suits of attachment and of garnishments was lost in the Senate.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the Senate bill ordered to be placed among the orders of the day, and the House bills ordered to be enrolled.

The rules being waived, the Joint Committee on the Judiciary. made the following report:

The Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act regarding the sale of spiritous liquors to slaves, and for other purposes, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to

REPORT:

That the principal provisions of this bill meet the approbation of the Committee, and they believe that they would make a salutary amendment of the law on that subject as it now exists. They therefore report the bill back to the House without amendment.

D. H. MAYS, Chairman.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

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The rule being waived, the Committee on Corporations made the following report:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to establish the Bank of Commerce at Fernandina, have had the same under consideration and report that they find the corporate powers granted by said bill to be constitutional and proper.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Which was read, and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The following communication was received from his Excellency the Governor:

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
TALLAHASSEE, Feb'y 12th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--I have approved and signed the following acts and resolutions, viz:

Resolution for the relief of John M. Irwin;

An act to authorize Henry C. Grovenstine, a minor, to plead and practice law;

An act to change the name of Elizabeth Lovett;

An act to amend the road laws, &c.;

An act to repeal in part the law prohibiting intercourse with the Indians;

An act to regulate fishing on the coast of the State of Florida;

An act to locate the county site of Levy county;

An act to incorporate the German Saving and Building Association;

An act for the relief of Wm. G. Parker, Sheriff of Suwannee county;

An act making Captain Simeon Sparkman a citizen of Columbia county;

An act to amend an act to provide for the payment of physicians who are summoned to attend coroners juries, approved January 11th, 1855;

An act for the relief of T. C. Bolling, as administrator of the estate of R. A. Child, deceased;

An act for the relief of Wm. H. Fannin;

An act to compensate B. F. Whitner, Jr., for services in running the boundary line between the States of Florida and Georgia;

Resolution authorizing the payment of United States Treasury Warrant No. 5253;

An act to provide for the service of civil process in certain cases.

Very respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

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Which was read.

Also the following:

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
TALLAHASSEE, Feb'y 12th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--I respectfully recommend the following nominations for the advice and consent of the General Assembly:

SANTA ROSA COUNTY.

Auctioneer--John G. McLean.

LIBERTY COUNTY.

Auctioneer--James Kelly.

GADSDEN COUNTY.

Auctioneer--John Wilson.

Very Respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

Which was read and the nominations advised and concurred in by the House.

Also the following:

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
TALLAHASSEE, Feb'y 11th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--I respectfully recommend the following nominations for the advice and consent of the General Assembly, viz:

MONROE COUNTY.

Auctioneers--William H. Ward and Alexander Patterson.

Very respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

Which was read and the nominations advised and concurred in by the House.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 12th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has concurred in House amendments to a bill to be entitled an act to amend the law of this State regulating the issue of the process of garnishment; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to alter and change the time of holding the several terms of the Supreme Court.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Page 365

Which was read.

The rule being waived, the Committee of Conference of the Senate and House, on a Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the issue of bonds to the extent of one million of dollars by the Commonwealth of Florida, made the following report:

The joint Committee on part of the Senate and House, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the issue of bonds to the extent of one million of dollars by the Commonwealth of Florida, report that they have had the same under consideration, and recommend all after the first section be stricken out, and ask that the bill do pass.

B. W. BELLAMY,
Chairman House Committee.

JAS. T. MAGBEE,
Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was received and read and the accompanying bill and placed among the orders of the day.

The rule being waived, Mr. Bellamy, from the Committee of Conference on the part of the House, made the following report:

The joint Committee of the Senate and House, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act providing for the issue of Treasury notes, and also a bill to be entitled an act to provide a permanent circulating medium for the citizens of Florida, have held a conference upon the same, and being unable to agree, for the sake of having the matter settled, we consented that the former bill be withdrawn and that the latter be amended by inserting 1862 in lieu of 1861, and the same be reported with full liberty to each member of the Committee to vote on the same as to him may appear proper and right.

BURTON W. BELLAMY,

ALEX. C. BLOUNT,

S. B. LOVE,

JACOB H. POOSER,

D. H. MAYS,
House Committee.

JAMAS T. MAGBEE,

TILLMAN INGRAM,

D. C. DAWKINS,

GEO. W. CALL,

W. W. McCALL,
Senate Committee.

Which was read and the accompanying bills and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Vogt from the Committee on Engrossed Bills made the following report:

The Committee on Engrossed Bills report the following bill as correctly engrossed, viz:

Page 366

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the auction laws of this State.

Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

Which was read.

A bill to be entitled an act to allow Thomas Jefferson Filmer Ault to change his name to Thomas Jefferson Filmer Johns,

Was taken up, and the House refused to concur in the Senate amendments thereto.

On motion, a committee on said bill to confer with a similar committee on the part of the Senate relative thereto, was appointed, consisting of Messrs. Newburn, Campbell and Dansby.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to aid Hillsborough County in building or assisting to build a Railroad,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Carter, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, McCormick, Newburn, Parker, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt and Yates--21.

Nays--Messrs. Campbell, Coffee, Love, Mays, Pooser and Scott--6.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled on act providing for a Stay of Executions,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Blount, Campbell, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Love, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt and Yates--19.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Canova, Carter, Coffee, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Mays, Oliver, Richardson and Williams--15.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Blount presented the following Telegraphic dispatches from the Florida Delegation in the Montgomery Southern Convention to his Excellency the Governor:

MONTGOMERY, February 10, 1861.

Governor M. S. PERRY:

Provisional Government is now in operation and needs no Senators, but Permanent Government will probably supercede

Page 367

it soon, therefore Senators to Congress of permanent Government of Confederate States of America might be elected and thus save an extra session of the Legislature; this, however, is not for us to dictate.

JACKSON MORTON,

J. PATTON ANDERSON,

J. B. OWENS.

MONTGOMERY, February 11, 1861.

Governor M. S. PERRY:

We are now of opinion a permanent constitution will be adopted and referred to States for ratification in next ten days, therefore think it would be well for Legislature to elect Senators.

J. PATTON ANDERSON,
JACKSON MORTON,
J. B. OWENS.

Which were read, and on motion, ordered to be spread on the journal.

Mr. Mays moved that a Committee be appointed to convey to the Senate a Senate bill to be entitled an act to establish the Commercial Bank at Lake City and inform that body that the House had refused to recede from its amendments thereto;

Which was agreed to, and Messrs. Mays, Blount and Russell were appointed said Committee.

On motion, a Committee, consisting of Messrs. Mays, Pooser and Holloman were appointed to convey to the Senate a Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide for a stay of executions in this State which had passed the House as amended and request the concurrence of the Senate in said amendments.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the auction laws of this State,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Williams and Yates--18.

Nays--Messrs. Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Oliver, Richardson and Russell--9.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

On motion, a Committee, consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Pooser and Howell were appointed to convey said bill to the Senate.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Rogers, Brokaw and McQueen, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had refused to concur in the House amendments to a Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide for a stay

Page 368

of executions and requested the House to recede from its amendments thereto.

Mr. Holloman, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report the following bills as correctly enrolled, viz:

An act to clean out and improve the navigation of Yellow river in West Florida;

An act to amend the election laws of this State; and

An act to incorporate the Alachua county Railroad Company.

D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

Which was read.

The rule being waived, Mr. Holloman offered the following resolution:

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly go into the election of two Senators to represent this State under the Government of the "Confederate States of America," when formed, this evening, at the hour of seven o'clock;

Upon which the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Mays, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--26.

Nays--Messrs. Haddock, Hawes and Love--3.

So the resolution was adopted.

On motion, a Committee consisting of Messrs. Russell, Haddock and Holloman, were appointed to convey said resolution to the Senate, and request their concurrence.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Call, Brokaw and McQueen, waited upon the House and informed them that an error in the amendment of the House bill to be entitled an act to organize a new county to be called Baker county having been detected, which fixes the time for holding the Court in said county on the same day as the Court in Suwannee county, in the same Circuit, and that the Senate has passed a bill to be entitled an act fixing the time for holding the Courts in the counties of Baker and Nassau, in which they ask the concurrence of the House.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to prevent the collection of debts in certain cases from debtors in this State,

Was read a third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Campbell, Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt and Yates--20.

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Nays--Messrs. Bissell, Haddock, Lee, Love, Means and Richardson--6.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to provide for the payment of costs by plaintiffs in certain cases,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Campbell, Dansby, Hull, Love, Newburn and Pooser--6.

Nays--Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Coffee, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mays, Means, Oliver, Price, Richardson, VanZant, Williams and Yates--19.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered to be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to reduce the costs of criminal prosecutions,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Hull--1.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Canova, Carter, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--25.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act giving the State a right of appeal and peremptory challenges in certain cases,

Came up on its third reading.

On motion, said bill was placed back on its second reading.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following amendment thereto:

Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert, "The State shall be entitled to ten peremptory challenges in cases of felony and two peremptory challenges in cases of misdemeanor: Provided, however, That the State shall not be permitted to place jurors at the foot of the pannel;"

Which was adopted.

On motion, the bill was read a third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Campbell, Coffee, Cole, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holloman, Lee, Love, Oliver, Pooser, Russell, Scott, Vogt and Williams--17.

Nays--Messrs. Blount, Canova, Carter, Dansby, Haddock,

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Holland of Hernando, Hull, Mays, Means, Newburn, Price, Richardson, VanZant and Yates--14.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

On motion, a committee consisting of Messrs. Love, Holland of Franklin and Blount, were appointed to convey said bill to the Senate and request their concurrence in the House amendments.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for the publication of certain laws,

Came up on its third reading, and the amendments proposed by the Committee on the Judiciary concurred in.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the bill be put back on its second reading;

Which was lost.

The bill was then read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Coffee, Holloman, Love and Mays--4.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Williams and Yates--23.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion the House took a recess until 3 o'clock, P. M.

3 O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

Mr. Love moved that the House recede from its amendments to the Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide for a stay of executions;

Upon which the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bird, Blount, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Love, McCormick, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt and Yates--18.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Cole, Lee, Mickler, Oliver and Richardson--11.

So the House receded from its amendments.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved to reconsider the vote on the Senate bill to be entitled an act prescribing the form of an oath of allegiance;

Which was lost.

On motion, the rule was waived, and Mr. Russell was allowed to introduce the following resolution:

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WHEREAS, The General Assembly of Florida has failed to provide either for the defence of the State or for the expenses of the Government, and has passed a resolution providing that this General Assembly shall adjourn sine die, when should it be done, it will become the imperative duty of the Executive to immediately reconvene the General Assembly; therefore--

Resolved, That this House will not adjourn until the Treasury note bill, the bond bill, and the military bills shall become laws, and not until all acts which shall be passed shall have been enrolled and signed; and to accomplish the same, this House will sit night and day, if necessary.

Upon the question of its adoption, the yeas and nays were called for, and were:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Coffee, Cole, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holloman, McCormick, Oliver, Russell and Scott--13.

Nays--Messrs. Bellamy, Carter, Dansby, Haddock, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, VanZant, Vogt and Yates--16.

So the resolution was lost.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the Senate bill to be entitled an act to provide for the issuing of Treasury notes be now taken up and made the special order of the day;

Which was agreed to, and said bill taken up and the report of the Committee of Conference on the part of the House and Senate concurred in by the House and the amendments therein proposed adopted.

On motion a committee consisting of Messrs. Russell, Blount and Holloman were appointed to wait upon the Senate and inform them of the action of the House on said bill and request their concurrence.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 13th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has this day passed the following bills and resolution, viz:

House bill to be entitled an act to amend the attachment laws now in force in this State;

House bill to be entitled an act requiring certain statements to be made by the several Banks of this State to the Governor and Comptroller;

House bill to be entitled an act to vest the several Circuit Courts of this State hereinafter named with the powers which

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were possessed by the late district Courts of the United States, and for other purposes;

Senate bill to be entitled an act relative to Stevedores at Jacksonville, and for other purposes;

House bill to be entitled an act to amend the Auction Laws of this State, with amendments;

Senate resolution for the relief of A. L. Woodward.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the Senate bill and resolution ordered to be placed among the orders of the day and the House bills which had passed the Senate ordered to be enrolled, and House bill to be entitled an act to amend the Auction laws of this State mentioned in said message as amended by the Senate, was taken up and the Senate amendments thereto concurred in by the House and the bill ordered to be enrolled.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, a bill to be entitled an act regulating the duties of Registers and receivers of Public Lands, was taken up and made the special order of the day.

On motion, the report of the Committee of Conference of the House and Senate was concurred in by the House and the amendments there proposed adopted, and the Senate bill to be entitled an act to abolish the offices of United States Receivers of public monies and Registers of public lands,

Was taken up and read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bird, Dansby, Hawes, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Price and Vogt--11.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Canova, Carter, Coffee, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Love, McCormick, Means, Oliver, Pooser, Richardson, Scott, VanZant and Yates--18.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion, a committee consisting of Messrs. Russell, Bird and Blount were appointed to wait upon the Senate and request transmission of a Senate bill to be entitled an act authorizing the issue of Bonds to the extent of one million of dollars by the Commonwealth of Florida to the House.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to establish the Bank of Commerce at Fernandina,

Came up on its second reading.

On motion the rule was waived, and the bill read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin,

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Holland of Hernando, Hull, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Williams and Yates--27.

Nay--Mr. Coffee--1.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act regarding the sale of spiritous liquors to slaves and for other purposes,

Was read the second time and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

On motion, the rule being waived, Mr. Vogt, Chairman of the Committee on the appropriation bill on the part of the House, introduced the following bill, viz:

A bill to be entitled an act making appropriations for the expenses of the State government for the fiscal year of 1860 and 1861;

Which was placed among the orders of the day.

Senate bill to be entitled an act fixing the pay of members of the General Assembly,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Carter, Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Love, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Price, Russell, Scott, VanZant and Williams--21.

Nays--Messrs. Blount, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Mays, Mickler, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Stewart, Vogt and Yates--16.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Call, Rogers and Magbee, waited upon the House with a Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the issue of bonds to the extent of one million of dollars by the commonwealth of Florida and requested the concurrence of the House to certain amendments accompanying the bill which had been made by the Senate.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Rogers, Finlayson and Davidson, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had refused to concur in the House amendments to a Senate bill to be entitled an act reorganizing the military forces of this State and requested the House to recede therefrom.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the House refused to recede from its amendments to said bills and a Committee of conference was appointed, consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Williams, Bird, Coffee and Hull, to confer with a similar Committee on the part of the Senate on said bill.

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Mr. Holloman, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report the following bills as correctly enrolled, viz:

An act to improve the navigation of the Withlacoochee river and reclaim the swamp and overflowed lands on said river;

An act to provide additional safeguards for persons and property upon the railroads in this State;

An act to improve the navigation of the Apalachicola river and to reclaim the swamp and overflowed lands on said river;

An act to improve the navigation of Peas creek and to drain the swamp and overflowed lands thereon;

An act to amend the act of 1851 providing for the establishment of two seminaries of learning;

An act to incorporate the Lake City and Blount Ferry Railroad Company.

D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

Which was read.

On motion of Mr. Russell, a Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the issue of bonds to the extent of $500,000 by the Commonwealth of Florida was taken up and made the special order of the day, and the House concurred in the report of the Committee of Conference on the part of the Senate and House and agreed to the amendments proposed by the Senate, and the bill was put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Years--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Mickler, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott and Vogt--28.

Nays--Messrs. Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Stewart, Williams and Yates--5.

So the bill passed--title as amended.

On motion, a Committee consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Howell and Yates, were appointed to convey said bill to the Senate and inform them of the action of the House thereon.

A bill to be entitled an act making appropriations for the expenses of the State Government for the fiscal years of 1860 and 1861,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second and third times by its title and put upon its passage upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt and Williams--31.

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Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

On motion, a Committee consisting of Messrs. Vogt, Means and Mickler, were appointed to convey said bill to the Senate.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 13th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has passed the following bill:

A bill to be entitled an act to enlarge and define the jurisdiction and establish certain rules of practice of the Courts of equity in this State.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The following message was received from his Excellency the Governor:

EXECUTIVE CHAMBER,
TALLAHASSEE, Feb'y 13th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--I have approved and signed the following bills:

An act respecting the sale of vinous or spiritous liquors to slaves or free persons of color in the city of Apalachicola and Fernandina;

An act to provide the mode and manner of giving notice in actions of ejectment;

An act in relation to crimes and misdemeanors;

An act regulating wharfage in the city of Apalachicola;

An act to provide for the taking of marks and brands of cattle driven or shipped from the counties of Sumter, Hillsborough and Manatee;

An act to amend an act to incorporate the town of Marianna, approved January 8th, 1853;

An act to authorize James Addison of Leon county to construct a dam across Ocklockonee river in Leon county;

An act for the better preservation of the State Judicial Library;

An act to provide for the payment of the Florida Volunteers and others who have not been paid for services actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians;

An act for the defence of the port of Apalachicola;

An act to incorporate the town of Monticello;

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An act for the relief of S. Remirez and others, inhabitants of Escambia county;

An act for the relief of Clinton Thigpin;

Resolution relative to State Librarian;

An act regulating the fees of Port Wardens at Apalachicola;

An act to prevent persons from penning or detaining stock without the consent of the owners in Nassau, Alachua, Wakulla and St. Johns counties;

An act to provide for the election of Tax-Assessor and Collector for Sumter county; and,

An act to incorporate an Insurance Company in the city of Apalachicola.

Very respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

Which was read.

Also the following:

EXECUTIVE CHAMBER,
TALLAHASSEE, Feb'y 13th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--I respectfully recommend the following nominations for the advice and consent of the General Assembly:

DUVAL COUNTY.

Commissioners of Pilotage for the St. Johns river and bar--Thos. O. Holmes, Samuel Fairbanks, Cyrus Bisbee, Charles Summers and Hardy H. Phillips.

Port Wardens for the Port of Jacksonville--Francis A. Goulden, Michael Hearn, J. Henry Burton, Morris Keil, Wm. H. Hickman and R. H. Watson.

Auctioneer--Geo. C. Acosta.

Very respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

Which was read and the nominations advised and concurred in by the House.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to empower the Judges of Probate of Washington and Holmes counties to draw certain school funds,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--28.

Nays--None.

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So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate resolution relative to Edward Powell and Henry Douglas,

Was put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt and Yates--25.

Nay--Mr. Campbell--1.

So the resolution was adopted.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing a mode of instituting suits against counties,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Holland of Franklin and McCormick--2.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Dansby, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Mays, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--23.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act requiring the Circuit Courts to set specific days for the trial of causes when three or more witnesses are subpoened,

Was read the second time, rule waived, read the third time by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bird, Carter, Coffee, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Holloman, Love, McCormick, Means, Oliver, Pooser, Scott, Vogt and Williams--14.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Clyatt, Haddock, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mays, Mickler, Price, Richardson, Russell and Yates--16.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act declaring who shall be considered citizens of the State of Florida,

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Dansby, Means and Pooser--5.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Haddock, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Love, Mays, Mickler, Oliver, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Williams and Yates--21.

So the bill was lost.

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Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 13th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has passed the following House bill, viz:

House bill to be entitled an act making appropriations for the expenses of the State Government for the fiscal year 1860 and 1861.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and said bill ordered to be enrolled.

On motion, the House took a recess until 7 and a half o'clock.

7½ O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

Senate bill to be entitled an act encouraging the cultivation of tropical fruits,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second and third times by its title, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Holland of Franklin, Mickler, Parker and Scott--8.

Nays--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Canova, Carter, Coffee, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Price, Richardson, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--23.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion, the rule was waived, and Mr. Williams, from the Committee on the Militia, made the following report:

The Committee on the Militia to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to repeal the 9th and 16th sections of an act entitled an act to amend the militia and patrol laws of this State, approved December 22d, 1859, have had the same under consideration and recommend the passage of the bill.

JOS. JOHN WILLIAMS, Chair'n.

Which was read and the accompanying bill placed among the orders of the day.

The rule being waived, Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following resolution:

Page 379

Joint Resolution as to adjournment.

Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Florida, That the time for the adjournment of this General Assembly is hereby extended until midnight of the 14th of February.

On motion, the consideration of said resolution was postponed until to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act in regard to Telegraph Companies,

Came up on its first reading.

On motion, said bill was read the second time by its title.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following amendment:

Provided, however, That this act shall not extend to foreign corporations or foreign telegraph companies, but shall only apply to telegraph companies organized under the laws of the State;

Which was adopted.

On motion, the rule being waived, said bill was read the third time by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Hull, Mays, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Price and Russell--16.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Canova, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Oliver, Richardson, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--14.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

On motion, a Committee, consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Howell and Price, were appointed to convey said bill to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act fixing the times for holding the Circuit Courts in the counties of Baker and Nassau,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second and third times by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--30.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate resolution for the relief of A. L. Woodward,

Was read the first time the rule waived, read the second and third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount,

Page 380

Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Holland of Hernando, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--27.

Nay--Mr. Haddock--1.

So the resolution passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

On motion, a committee consisting of Messrs. Williams, Coffee and Blount, were appointed to carry said resolution to the Senate.

A committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Rogers, McQueen and Magbee, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had concurred in the report of the Committees of Conference of the House and Senate on a Senate bill to be entitled an act reorganizing the military forces of this State, and House amendments thereto, and requested the House to concur in said report of the Committee of Conference.

The bill was taken up and the report of the Committee of Conference and the amendments they proposed concurred in by the House.

On motion, a committee consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Russell and Love, were appointed to inform the Senate of the action of the House thereupon.

Senate bill to be entitled an act relative to Stevedores at Jacksonville and Pensacola and for other purposes,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the second and third times and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Love, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, VanZant, Vogt, Williams and Yates--29.

Nays--None.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Call, Brokaw and Chain, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had passed a House bill to be entitled an act providing for a permanent circulating medium for the citizens of Florida with sundry amendments, and requested the concurrence of the House therein.

The bill was taken up, and on motion the House refused to concur in the amendments proposed by the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act granting land warrants to the volunteers of Florida and to provide for the payment for lost horses while in public service and for other purposes,

Page 381

Was read the first time, rule waived, read the sscond time by its title.

Mr. Russell moved its indefinite postponement;

Which was agreed to.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

The following message was received from his Excellency the Governor:

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
TALLAHASSEE, Feb'y 13th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--Since communicating informally the telegrams received last night from Montgomery, the enclosed additional dispatch has been handed me of a later later date.

In view of the fact that a permanent government will soon be organized, it is important that provision should be made for the representation of Florida therein, and I submit to the General Assembly the propriety of electing Senators at once, without subjecting the State to the expense of an extra session of the Legislature for that purpose.

Very respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

MONTGOMERY, Feb'y 13th, 1861.
JAMES ABERCROMBIE, JR.:

Dispatch received. Permanent Constitution be ready ten days to submit.

It is a matter for you to decide. Elect now or have a called session to do so.

An election now I am advised will be constitutional.

JACKSON MORTON.

Which was read, and on motion ordered to be spread upon the journal.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 13th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has refused to concur in the House amendments to the bill to be entitled an act in regard to telegraph companies.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Page 382

Which was read.

Mr. Mays moved that a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of F. L. Dancy, late Surveyor General, and for other purposes, be taken from the table and placed among the orders of the day;

Which was lost.

On motion, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock.

THURSDAY, February 14th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment--a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispened with.

Mr. Blount moved that the Speaker of this House be authorized to adjourn the same sine die, at 12 o'clock to-night;

Which was adopted.

The resolution offered by Mr. Holland of Franklin on yesterday relative to extending the time of the adjournment of the General Assembly to 12 o'clock to-night,

Was taken up and adopted, and a committee consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Williams and Love, were appointed to convey said resolution to the Senate.

Mr. Holloman, from the Committee on Enrolled Bills, made the following report:

The Committee on Enrolled Bills ask leave to report the following bills and resolution as correctly enrolled, viz:

An act to allow Thomas Jefferson Filmer Ault to change his name to Thomas Jefferson Filmer Johns, and for other purposes;

An act to amend the Attachment Laws now in force in this State;

An act to enlarge and define the jurisdiction and establish certain rules of practice of the Courts of Equity in this State;

An act to amend the Auction Laws of this State;

An act making appropriations for the expenses of the State Government for fiscal year 1860 and 1861;

An act requiring certain statements to be made in the reports which the several banks of this State are required to make to the Governor or Comptroller of this State;

An act to establish a Bank in the City of Apalachicola, to be called the Western Bank of Florida;

An act to amend the 22d section of the act to provide for and

Page 383

encourage a liberal system of Internal Improvements in this State;

An act to vest the several Circuit Courts of this State with the powers which were possessed by the late District Courts of the late United States.

D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

Which was read.

Mr. Bellamy moved a reconsideration of the vote concerning the report of the Committee of Conference on a Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for the issue of Treasury notes;

Upon which the yeas and nays being called, the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Campbell, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Hull, Love, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Scott, Vogt, Williams and Yates--19.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Cole, Haddock, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Parker and Russell--12.

So the vote was reconsidered.

The following communication was received from his Excellency the Governor:

EXECUTIVE CHAMBER,
TALLAHASSEE, Feb. 14, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of House of Representatives:

SIR--I have approved and signed the following bills, viz:

An act to amend an act to regulate the pilotage of St. Johns Bar and River, approved January 1, 1857;

An act to provide for the payment of contractors surveying public lands in this State;

An act to incorporate the Alachua Railroad Company;

An act to clean out and improve the navigation of Yellow river, in West Florida;

An act to improve the navigation of the Withlacoochee river, and to reclaim the swamp and overflowed lands on said stream;

An act to improve the navigation of Pease Creek and to drain the swamp and overflowed lands thereon;

An act to amend the act of 1851 providing for the establishment of two Seminaries of Learning;

An act to provide additional safe guards for persons and property upon the Railroads of this State;

An act to improve the navigation of the Apalachicola river and to reclaim the swamp and overflowed lands on said stream;

An act to incorporate the Lake City and Blount Ferry Railroad Company.

Very Respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

Which was read.

Page 384

Also the following:

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
TALLAHASSEE, Feb. 14, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of House of Representatives:

SIR--I respectfully recommend the following nominations for the advice and consent of the General Assembly:

MONROE COUNTY.

Auctioneer--Geo. W. Furgerson.

SUWANNEE COUNTY.

Auctioneer--Andrew McClelland.

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Auctioneer--Curey Taylor.

Very Respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

Which was read and the nominations advised and consented to by the House.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following resolution:

Resolved by the House of Representatives of the State of Florida, That the Speaker shall have a correct copy of the bill to be entitled an act for providing for carrying the mails, as amended by the House, prepared, together with the report of the select Committee of the House thereon, and the report of the Conference Committee which was made to this House, made by the Clerk of this House, duly attested and signed by the Speaker; and that the foregoing papers, together with this resolution, be sent by the Speaker to the President of the Confederated States of America, with the request, on behalf of this House, that whenever that Government provides for carrying the mails it will have the mail service carried in Florida as in the amended bill reported to this House by the Conference Committee, and signed by the majority of the House Committee, and by one of the three Senators of the Senate Committee; that in the opinion of this House the said mail service provided in the foregoing amended bill is absolutely necessary and the most economical.

Which resolution was unanimously adopted.

Mr. Love offered a resolution relative to the cultivation of tropical fruits in this State;

Upon the question of its adoption, the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Lee, Love, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott and Vogt--22.

Page 385

Nays--Messrs. Bird, Mays, McCormick, Stewart, Williams and Yates--6.

So the resolution passed--title as stated.

On motion, a Committee consisting of Messrs. Love, Russell and Bellamy were appointed to convey said resolution to the Senate.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 14th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following resolution, viz:

Joint resolution for the relief of Robert L. Bruce, and others.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and said resolution taken up and read the first time, rule waived, read the second time by its title, and the following amendment offered by Mr. Williams:

"Add the name of A. B. Campbell, Door-Keeper of the House;"

Which was adopted, and the resolution was then read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Mays, McCormick, Means, Micklea, Oliver, Pooser, Richardson, Scott, Williams and Yates--25.

Nays--None.

So said resolution passed--title as stated.

On motion, a Committee consisting of Messrs. Williams, McCormick and Bird were appointed to convey said resolution to the Senate.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Watlington, Abercrombie and Rogers, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had passed a House resolution relative to the cultivation of tropical fruits in this State.

On motion, Messrs. Bellamy, Williams and Cole were appointed to wait upon the Senate and request the return of a Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for the issuing of Treasury notes.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Call, Ingram and Davidson, waited upon the House and returned the Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for the issuing of Treasury note.

Page 386

On motion, the Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for the issuing of Treasury notes was taken up.

Mr. Bellamy moved to amend by inserting "five hundred thousand" in lieu of "one million" in the 1st section;

Which was adopted.

Mr. Bellamy moved to amend said bill by striking out the "6th section;"

Which was adopted.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved to amend said bill by inserting after the word "enumerated" in the 4th line of the 4th section the words "so long as said banks shall continue to pay specie on demand for their bills;"

Which was adopted.

Also the following:

Strike out in the 5th line of the 5th section the words "person or persons;"

Which was adopted.

Also the following:

Strike out the words "nor any person or persons" in 2nd line of 5th section;

Which was adopted.

Mr. Bellamy offered the following amendment:

That where "May, 1861," appears insert "January, 1862;"

Which was adopted.

Mr. Holland of Hernando offered the following amendments:

Strike out all after the word "par," in the 7th line of the 7th section down to the word "but," in the 11th line of said section.

Strike out the words "twenty-five" in the 6th line of 5th section and insert "one thousand;"

Strike out from the 7th line the words "one hundred" and insert "five thousand;"

Which were adopted.

Also the following:

Strike out the "9th section;"

Upon which the yeas and nays being called for the vote was:

Yeas--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Clyatt, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Mays, Means, Stewart and Williams--10.

Nays--Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Holloman, Love, McCormick, Mickler, Pooser, Russell, Scott and Vogt--16.

So the amendment was lost.

A committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Call, Rogers and Davidson, waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had concurred in the House resolution relative to adjournment to-night.

Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for the issue of Treasury Notes,

Page 387

Was read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas--Messrs. Bellamy, Campbell, Clyatt, Dansby, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Holloman, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott and Vogt--15.

Nays--Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Carter, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Mays, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Williams and Yates--13.

So the bill passed--title as stated.

On motion a committee, consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Bellamy and Blount, was appointed to carry said bill to the Senate.

The following resolution was offered by Mr. Blount:

Resolved, That this House does hereby express its unanimous thanks for the able, dignified and impartial manner in which the Hon. J. B. Galbraith has presided over the deliberations of the House;

Which was adopted.

The following address was delivered by the Hon. John B. Galbraith, Speaker of the House:

Gentlemen of the House of Representatives:

The time having nearly arrived when we have determined to conclude this Session of the General Assembly, I desire for myself and the other officers of the House to acknowledge the kindness and consideration which we have received from you, and to return you our sincere and heartfelt thanks for the same. Since the time when we first assembled here great events have transpired in the history of our country and our State. The nation to which we formerly belonged has been destroyed and this State has resumed her sovereignty and vindicated her rights and her honor. In these great transactions you have acted an important and controling part, and I am proud to say that the records of this House prove the zeal and honesty of your efforts for the public welfare. You have found, gentlemen, that the duties of a conscientious legislator were neither few nor easy, and in the extraordinary circumstances in which we have been placed, the common labor of legislation has been vastly increased and new and unprecedented matters have required our action. Your reward for these labors will consist almost exclusively in the consciousness that you have discharged your duty honestly and to the best of your ability. If we have not accomplished all that should have been done at this Session, we have the satisfaction of knowing that we have done our utmost towards it, actuated by an honest zeal for the public good.

We have been acting a part in historical events. When years shall have rolled by and others occupy these places, the acts that

Page 388

we have done will be canvassed by impartial minds, and the verdict of posterity will be made up for or against us, as the effects of our labors shall be for good or evil. Our session has been marked by extraordinary harmony and good will, and I am rejoiced to see that that jealousy between the different sections of our State which has produced its evil in past years is on the wane. We are one people, with one political destiny; we should be united as brothers and make the welfare of our State the paramount consideration. With emotions of gratitude and respect, I bid you farewell, hoping that that Providence which controls the ultimate effects of men's actions, may direct ours for the benefit and prosperity of our people.

On motion, the House took a recess until 3 o'clock, P. M.

3 O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session--a quorum present.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 14th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has concurred in the House amendments to Senate bill to be entitled an act providing for the issue of Treasury notes.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read.

Also the following;

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 14th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:--The Senate has concurred in House amendment to joint resolution for the relief of Robert L. Bruce and others.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of the Senate,

Which was read.

Also the following:

Page 389

SENATE CHAMBER,
February 14th, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--The Senate has passed the following resolution, viz:

Resolved, That the General Assembly of Florida have heard with pleasure of the selection of the Convention at Montgomery of the Hon. Jefferson Davis and Alexander H. Stephens, as President and Vice President of the Southern Confederation; and that in the selection of these two distinguished statesmen, they recognize that burial of former political differences which is so much to be desired by all true lovers of their country.

Resolved further, That this General Assembly recognizes the Hon. Jefferson Davis as the Chief Magistrate of the Southern Confederation, and as such as being entitled to exercise the same powers and privileges at all points and in all respects within the limits of the State of Florida, as the President of the late United States could have exercised, while Florida was a member of that Confederation.

Very respectfully,

B. F. PARKER,
Secretary of Senate.

Which was read, and said resolution taken up and concurred in by the House.

On motion, the House took a recess until 9 o'clock, P. M.

9 O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session.

The following communication was received from his Excellency the Governor:

EXECUTIVE CHAMBER,
TALLAHASSEE, Feb. 14, 1861.

HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH,
Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR--I have approved and signed the following bills and resolutions:

An act to establish a bank in the City of Apalachicola, to be called the Western Bank of Florida;

Resolution in relation to Edward Powell and Henry Douglas;

An act to change the name of Thomas Jefferson Filmer Ault, of New River County, to Thomas Jefferson Filmer Johns, and for other purposes;

Page 390

An act to amend the attachment laws now in force in this State;

An act to amend the 22d section of the act to provide for and encourage a liberal system of Internal Improvements in this State, approved January 6, 1855;

An act to enlarge and define the jurisdiction and to establish certain rules of practice in the Courts of Equity of this State;

An act to vest the several Circuit Courts of this State hereinafter named, with the powers which were possessed by the late District Court of the United States for the Northern District of Florida and to provide for a transfer of the records of the same and for other purposes;

An act requiring certain statements to be made in the reports which the several banks of this State are required to make to the Governor or Comptroller of this State;

An act making appropriations for the expenses of the State Government for the fiscal year 1861;

An act to authorize the Board of Port Wardens of the Port of Jacksonville and Pensacola, and for other purposes;

Resolution for the relief of A. L. Woodward;

Resolution for the benefit of the College of St. Augustine;

An act fixing the pay of members of the General Assembly.

Very Respectfully,

M. S. PERRY.

Which was read.

On motion, a Committee consisting of Messrs. Bissell, Campbell and Dansby were appointed to act with a similar Committee on the part of the Senate to wait upon his Excellency the Governor, and inquire if he had anything to communicate to the General Assembly before its adjournment.

After a short absence the committee returned and reported that his Excellency had nothing further to communicate and were discharged.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Magbee, Simkins and Dawkins waited upon the House and informed them that the hour having arrived for the adjournment of the General Assembly, the Senate was now ready to adjourn.

The hour of adjournment having arrived, the Speaker declared the House adjourned sine die.

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FOREIGN IMPORTS FROM 1ST JANUARY, 1859, to 1st AUGUST, 1860.	VALUE.
Salt,	$19,101 36
Sundries,	4,685 47
Molasses,	9,529 49
Total value of invoices,	$33,316 32

SHIPPED FROM 1st SEPTEMBER, 1859, TO 1ST AUGUST, 1860.	No. Bales of Cotton.	Value of Cotton.
To Liverpool,	52,577	$2,832,524 19
To Liverpool,	391	28,230 57
To Gibralter,	2,068	116,200 00
To Havre, France,	1,420	81,396 50
To St. Petersburgh, Russia,	2,634	151,219 07
Total foreign cotton trade,	59,090	$3,209,570 33

For Jurors and Witnesses.		For Criminal Prosecutions and Contingent Expenses Circuit Courts.
1854	$10,033 10	$13,520 81
1855	11,901 35	12,216 22
1856	15,220 22	11,560 88
1857	16,096 51	11,974 41
1858	16,558 01	8,377 32
1859	18,931 27	14,952 21
1860	30,296 84	21,818 87

1860. DR.
Nov. 1.--To balance per report of Nov. 1, 1859,	$20,423 77
To amount received on account of revenue, 1856,	39 51
To amount received on account of revenue, 1857,	1,773 99
To amount received on account of revenue, 1858,	6,858 49
To amount received on account of revenue, 1859,	93,263 94
To amount received on account of revenue, 1860,	2,352 06
To amount received on account of Licenses,	6,554 51
To amount received on account of Fines,	2,685 38
To amount received on account of Auction Tax,	2,285 96
To amount received on account of Contingent Fund,	16 00
To amount received on account of Rent,	60 00
To amount received on account of Sale of Books,	5 00
To Balance,	4 43
	$136,323 04
1859. CR.
Nov. 1--By amount of warrants paid and other disbursements, viz:
For sinking fund of State Bond account,		$ 5,000 00
For Executive Department,		6,100 00
For Judicial Department,		25,186 02
For Military Department,		168 38
For Indian Hostilities of 1849,		755 60
For Jurors and State Witness,		30,296 84
For Criminal Prosecutions and contg. exps. Circuit Courts,		21,818 87
For Contingent Fund,		5,000 00
For Supreme Court contingent expenses,		1,898 84
For Adjourned Session of Ninth Gener l Assembly, viz:
Pay of Members, Officers, &c	$12,957 00
Pay to Floridian & Journal, printing,	2,251 70
Pay to Florida Sentinel, printing,	2,038 20
Pay to McDougall & Co., Stationary, &c.	455 58	--17,702 48

For Maintenance of Lunatics,	3,036 00
For Interest on State Bonds,	10,079 60
For Interest on State Scrip,	5,434 68
For J. W. Baker, Judge, extra judicial services,	400 00
For T. F. King, Judge, extra judicial services,	400 00
For Post Mortem examinations,	634 70
For Protection of public property and repairs of Capitol,	954 90
For Special act of relief,	1,163 50
For Taxes refunded Jesse M. Willis,	39 38
For Rent, &c., refunded E. E. Blackburn U. S. Marshal, (with recourse upon the General Government),	178 00
For Survey of County lines of Washington, Jackson and Calhoun counties, to determine venue,	75 25
	$136,323 04

1859.	DR.
Nov. 1.	--To balance per report of this date,		$17,484 07
11.	--To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register,		894 60
Dec. 6.	--To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register,		978 88
1860.
Jan. 9.	--To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register,		978 34
Feb. 11.	--To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,		3,264 69
Mch. 9.	--To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,		874 75
April 4.	--To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,		987 58
25.	--To amount received from T. W. Brevard, Comptroller,		835 00
May 8.	--To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,		2,588 40
Aug. 4.	--To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,		2,265 35
Oct. 4.	--To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,		1,376 74
	--To amount Interest received,		9,292 41
			$41,820, 70
1860.	CR.
Jan. 9.	--By Cash paid quarter salary of D. S. Walker, Register,		$ 175 00
Mch. 31.	--By Cash paid T. W. Brevard, Comptroller for investment,		15,037 05
April 7.	--By Cash paid quarter salary of H. A. Corley, Register,		175 00
July 10.	--By Cash paid quarter salary of H. A. Corley, Register,		175 00
	--By Cash paid Warrant for Dyke & Carlisle,		4 00
	--By Cash paid Warrant for H. A. Corley, Register, interest for disbursement,		9,100 92
	--By Cash paid Warrant for T. W. Brevard, Comptroller,		64 50
	--By Cash paid Warrant for H. Archer,		48 16
Oct. 6.	--By Cash paid Warrant for C. Findeisen,		3 00
	--By Cash paid quarter salary of H. A. Corley, Register,		175 00
	--By Cash paid Warrants of Comp., int. to School Teachers,		3,740 58
	--By balance on hand,		13,122 04
			$41,820 70
1860.
Nov. 1.	--To balance cash on hand,		$13,122 04
	Other assets, viz:
	State stock,	$41,500 00
	Bond of city of Tallahassee,	3,300 00
	Bond of Gadsden county,	2,071 37
	Land notes,	194 22--	47,065 59
			$60,187 63

COUNTIES.	No. Children.	Amount.	Remarks.
Escambia,	650	$270 18	Amount apportioned for each child a little over 41-57 cents.
Santa Rosa,	1,044	434 00
Walton,	520	216 13
Washington,	466	193 70
Holmes,	331	137 60
Jackson,	1,946	808 85
Calhoun,	250	103 92
Franklin,	506	210 33
Gadsden,	1,062	441 42
Liberty,	265	110 15
Leon,	1,210	505 00
Wakulla,	501	208 25
Jefferson,	839	348 73
Madison,	973	404 44
Taylor,	160	66 50
Lafayette,	160	66 50
Hamilton,	651	270 60
Columbia,	1,745	725 32
Nassau,	351	145 89
Duval,	1,602	665 88
Alachua,	900	374 09
Marion,	929	386 15
Sumter,	233	96 85
St. Johns,	452	187 88
Putnam,	507	210 73
Orange,	220	91 44
Volusia,	208	86 46
Brevard,	100	41 56
Levy,	272	113 05
Hernando,	269	112 80
Hillsborough,	700	290 96
Manatee,	148	61 51
Monroe,	590	245 23
	20,760	$8,630 10

		SWAMP LANDS.			INTER'L IMP. LANDS.
MONTH.	No. Acres Sold.	A't. Cash Payme't.	Amt. Bonds Received.	No. Acr's Sold.	A't. Cash Payme't.	Amt. Bonds Received.
November, 1858,	2,928.01	$1106 43	$3,418 53	480.22	$287 85	$768 44
December, 1858,	3,432.08	1721 33	3,551 73	80.19	52 00	139 15
January, 1859,	4,373.94	2572 23	4,367 91	242.82	179 00	482 65
February, 1859,	6,537.45	2881 48	7,497 00	210.08	133 00	357 48
March, 1859,	2,730.62	2499 51	1,180 60	232.36	190 11	193 54
April, 1859,	1,364.77	1645 25	--	160.14	289 00	--
May, 1859,	3,211.97	3688 02	239 50	160.98	339 24	--
June, 1859,	1,837.35	2320 92	Credit system abolished.	131.15	71 91	195 26
July, 1859,	3,039.42	4020 06		40.17	96 66	--
August, 1859,	2,140.40	2639 30		197.02	107 05	291 99
September, 1859,	2,097.19	2342 11		119.84	79 15	213 90
October, 1859,	1,996.24	2256 17		78.94	44 00	117 32
November, 1859,	2,465.45	3057 48		80.02	44 24	119 26
December, 1859,	2,991.53	3465 68		200.07	153 18	413 19
January, 1860,	2,460.56	3001 65		40.00	71 90	--
February, 1860,	2,759.59	3076 14		160.12	125 18	338 73
March, 1860,	1,772.78	2093 60		118.72	65 66	176 98
April, 1860,	2,490.50	Received by C. H. Austin, Treasurer.		80.00	Received by C. H. Austin, Treasurer.	Credit system abolished.
May, 1860,	1,210.63			2751.02
June, 1860,	1,519.26			1321.00
July, 1860,	1,566.23			240.00
August, 1860,	1,331.23			704.14
September, 1860,	2,296.15			120.37
October, 1860,	1,520.60
	60,073.95		$20,255 27	7949.37		$3,807 89

MONTH.	Cash Payments.	Notes Paid.	Inter. on Notes.	TOTAL.
November, 1858,	$1,394 28	$3,013 63	$65 27	$4,473 18
December, 1858,	1,773 33	2,997 54	30 71	4,801 58
January, 1859,	2,751 23	4,699 69	148 08	7,599 00
February, 1859,	3,014 48	5,814 74	4 80	8,834 02
March, 1859,	2,689 62	3,359 60	49 09	6,098 31
April, 1859,	1,934 25	2,201 46	6 96	4,142 67
May, 1859,	4,027 26	3,079 02	10 57	7,116 85
June, 1859,	2,392 83	2,920 92	69 38	5,383 13
July, 1859,	4,116 72	2,690 63	16 88	6,824 23
August, 1859,	2,746 35	2,301 30	44 77	5,092 42
September, 1859,	2,421 26	1,165 30	39 21	3,625 77
October, 1859,	2,300 17	4,384 08	535 06	7,219 31
November, 1859,	3,101 72	4,320 19	126 02	7,547 93
December, 1859,	3,618 86	3,609 34	22 30	7,250 50
January, 1860,	3,073 55	3,601 57	37 62	6,712 74
February, 1860,	3,201 32	6,032 41	103 50	9,337 23
March, 1860,	2,159 26	3,248 36	31 97	5,439 59
Total,	$46,716 49	$59,439 78	$1,342 19	$107,498 46

1858.	DR.
Nov. 1.--	To balance per report of this date,	$ 14,895 99
3.	To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,	2,703 11
Dec. 6.	To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,	4,458 18
16.	To amount received from Florida Railroad Company for 50 per cent. net proceeds of receipts from 1st March to 31st August,	261 19
1859.
Jan. 3.	To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,	4,801 58
26.	To amount received from Tallahassee R. R. Company 6 months int. on $5,600 bonds,	196 00
	To amount received from same, interest on $3000 bonds of sinking fund,	105 00
	To amount received from same, on sinking fund account,	130 00
27.	To amount received from I. B. Stone, sheriff Calhoun county on loan to said county in 1853,	300 00
Feb. 5.	To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,	7,599 00
9.	To amount received from Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company, for 50 per cent. net proceeds of receipts to December 1, 1858,	2,000 00
18.	To amount on hand, notes	221 94
April 6.	To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,	11,881 33
May 2.	To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,	4,142 67
June 3.	To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,	7,066 85
22.	To amount received from Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company for 50 per cent net proceeds of receipts to 31st ultimo,	1,200 00
Sep. 3.	To amount received from Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad Company for 50 per ct. net proceeds of receipts to July 1, 1859,	883 71
Oct. 6.	To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,	20,975 65
Nov. 1.	To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,	7,219 31
10.	To amount received from Gov. Perry, a United States Treasury Warrant No. 1262--No. 811 as a part of the land reclamation of this fund from the General Government,	42,038 55
		$133,080 86
1858.	CR.
Nov. 3.--	By cash paid Randolph & Wells, on account contract for selecting lands,	$1,047 79
15.	By amount paid W. A. Forward, Chairman Board of Commissioners, on account of a survey for a canal between Indian and St. John's Rivers,	1,000 00
Dec. 6.	By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract	1,531 91
10.	By amount paid to Charleston Mercury for advertising for proposals to cut St. John's and Indian River Canal,	36 00
18.	By amount paid S. Turman's bill for advertising change in price of swamp lands,	2 50
1859.
Jan. 3.	By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract	2,104 17

5.	By amount paid interest on $18,000 of Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company bonds for 6 months,	630 00
17.	By amount paid McDougall & Hobby for stationary for salesman's office,	46 00
18.	By amount paid Geo. Damon for a desk for Secretary's office,	15 00
	By amount paid qr. salary of officers, viz:
	D. S. Walker, salesman, 200 00
	M. D. Papy, secretary, 100 00
	C. H. Austin, treasurer, 125 00--	425 00
25.	By amount paid Wm. A Forward, Chm'n Board Commissioners on account survey of Canal between St. Johns and Indian rivers,	1,000 00
Feb. 4.	By amount paid interest on $127,000 bonds of the Pensacola & Georgia
	Railroad Company, 4,445 00
	Exchange, 22 23--	4,467 23
	By amount paid interest on $1000 bond of Florida Railroad Company, 35 00
	Exchange, 18--	35 18
	By amount paid Randolph & Wells on account contract,	2,772 22
9.	By amount paid Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company, making the rate of investment in their bonds equal with the other Roads,	2,000 00
10.	By amount paid M. Nash, P. M., postage bill for Salesman's office,	46 46
19.	By amount paid John Bradford, Eng. balance for services rendered for examination upon Fla. Railroad,	100 00
24.	By amount paid interest on $86,000 bonds
	Florida Railroad Company, 3,010 00
	Exchange, 15 05--	3,025 05
24.	By amount paid interest on $10,000 bonds
	Florida Railroad Company, 350 00
	Exchange, 1 75--	351 75
25.	By amount paid T. W. Brevard, Comptroller, for School and Seminary Fund, in the exchange of $50,000 of Tallahassee R. R. Co. Bonds for same amount of Florida R. R. Co. Bonds, being the difference in the accumulated interest,	1,166 66
Mch. 17.	By amount paid Florida Peninsular advertising change in price of Swamp Lands,	5 00
	By amount paid Randolph and Wells on account contract,	2,620 73
	By amount paid Interest on $2.000 Bonds of Pen. & Geo. R. R. Company,	70 00
	By amount paid interest an $10,000 Fla. R. R. Co. (two instalments,)	700 00
22.	By amount paid Marianna Patriot, advertising change in price of swamp lands,	7 50
	By amount paid Jacksonville Standard for same,	6 50
	By amount paid interest on $628,000
	Fla. R. R. Co. bonds, $21,980 00
	Exchange, 109 90--	22,089 90

	By amount paid interest on $1,000 bond of Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co. 35 00
	Exchange, 17--	35 17
	By amount paid interest on $1,000 bond of Fla. R. R. Co., 35 00
	Exchange, 17--	35 17
30.	By amount paid interest on $6,000 bonds of Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co.,	210 00
April 2.	By amount paid Independent Press, publishing change in price of Swamp lands,	5 00
8.	By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract,	2,610 49
	By amount paid quarter salaries of officers, viz.:
	D. S. Walker, salary to 1st inst. $248 87
	M. D. Papy, salary to 1st inst. 100 00
	C. H. Austin, salary to 1st inst. 125 00--	473 87
25.	By amount paid Jacksonville Republican, advertising change in price of swamp lands,	6 50
May 2.	By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract,	1,828 43
June 3.	By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract,	3,266 28
13.	By amount paid Milton Courier, advertising change in price of swamp lands,	5 00
Sept. 8.	By amount paid quarter salaries of officers, viz.:
	D. S. Walker, Salesman, $300 00
	F. L. Villepigue, Secretary, 100 00
	C. H. Austin, Treasurer, 125 00--	525 00
15.	By amount paid interest on $12,000 bonds of Florida Railroad Company, 420 00
	Exchange, 4 20--	424 20
	By amount paid interest on $175,000 Pen. & Geo. Railroad bonds, 6,125 00
	Exchange, 61 25--	6,186 25
17.	By amount paid interest on $10,000 Florida Railroad bonds, (2 instal.)	700 00
Oct. 6.	By amount paid qr. salary officers, viz:
	D. S. Walker, Salesman, 300 00
	F. L. Villepigue, Secretary, 100 00
	C. H. Austin, Treasurer, 125 00--	525 00
	By amount paid Florida Sentinel bill printing for Salesman's office,	45 00
	By amount paid M. Nash, P. M. postage for same	20 35
	By amount paid Randolph & Wells on account contract,	3,222 95
	By amount paid interest on $743,000 of Florida Railroad Company bonds 26,005 00
	By amount paid interest on $66,000 of Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad bonds, 2,310 00
	By amount paid State Bank of Florida, Exchange on above 331 80
	Interest on above 280 00--	28,926 80
31.	By amount paid Randolph & Wells on account contract,	2,143 84
	By amount paid M. Nash, P. M., postage bill for Salesman's office,	46 86
	By amount balance interest paid State Bank,	28 65
	By balance,	34,506 71
		133 080 86

1859.	DR.
Nov.--1.	To balance,		$34,506 71
Dec. 5.	To amount received from D. S. Walker, Salesman,		7,547 95
7.	To amount received from Tallahassee Railroad on sinking fund account,		40 00
1860.
Jan. 6.	To amount received from D. S. Walker, Salesman,		7,250 50
Feb. 6.	To amount received from H. A. Corley, Salesman.		6,663 31
20.	To amount received from Florida Railroad Company, as half net earnings, for periods ending 1st March and September, 1859		6,676 33
24.	To amount received from Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad Company, on account one-half net earnings,		1,400 00
March 1.	To amount received on land notes,		229 44
4.	To amount received from H. A. Corley, Salesman,		5,439 59.
April 14.	To amount received from Pen. & Geo. Railroad Company, as one-half net earnings, period ending November 30, 1859,		2,000 00
20.	To amount received from Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad Company, on account one-half net earnings,		175 00
July 30.	To amount received from same, on account same,		870 00
Oct. 4.	To amount received from same, on account same,		2,870 00
	To amount received from bills payable,		19,000 00
31.	To amount received from land sales,		24,891 00
	To amount received from land notes,		8,672 20
			$128,232 03
1859.	CR.
Dec. 5.--	By amount paid Randolph & Wells on account of selecting lands,		3,051 23
23.	By amount paid Pensacola Gazette, advertising change in price of swamp lands,		7 50
	By amount paid Milton Courier for same,		5 00
1860.
Jan. 6.	By amount paid officers salary, viz:
	D. S. Walker, Salesman,	300 00
	F. L. Villepigue, Secretary,	100 00
	C. H. Austin, Treasurer,	125 00--	525 00
16.	By amount paid Floridian & Journal advertising change in price of swamp lands,		7 50
23.	By amount paid Wm. Law, Esq., Att'y, for legal opinion relation to the power of a majority of the Board of Trustees,		500 00
31.	By amount paid interest on $87,000 of the Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company,		3,045 00
Feb. 8.	By amount paid two instalments on Bond 116 Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co.		70 00
9.	By amount paid interest on $22,000 Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co. bonds, viz.: 21st July, 1859, coupons; 22d January, 1860, do,		1,505 00
24.	By amount paid interest on $40,000 Fla., At. & Gulf Cen. R. R. Co. bonds,		1,400 00
March 7.	By amount paid McDougall & Hobby, bill stationary for Salesman's office,		61 13
	By amount paid interest on $10,000 Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co. bonds,		350 00

8.	By amount paid M. Nash, P. M., postage bill Salesman's office,		32 55
	By amount paid interest on $1,012,000 Florida R. R. Co. bonds,		35,420 00
	By amount paid interest on $71,000 Fa., At. & Gulf Cen. R. R. Co. bonds,		2,485 00
	By amount paid interest on $82,000 Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co. bonds,		2,870 00
	By amount paid advertising in New York and express transportation,		7 50
	By amount paid exchange balance,		42 29
28.	By amount paid interest on $10,000 Florida R. R. Co. bonds,		350 00
April 2.	By amount paid interest on $8,000 Fla., At. & Gulf Cen. R. R. Co. bonds,		280 00
12.	By amount paid do. on $1,000 do. do. do.		35 00
17.	By amount paid do. on $2,000 do. do. do.		70 00
18.	By amount paid quarter salaries officers, viz.:
	H. A. Corley, Salesman,	$300 00
	F. L. Villepigue, Secretary,	100 00
	C. H. Austin, Treasurer,	125 00--	525 00
20.	By amount paid interest on $5,000 Fla., At. & Gulf R. R. Co. bonds,		175 00
May 2.	By amount paid Fla., At. & Gulf R. R. Co., balance on net earnings account,		17 28
20.	By amount paid bill Florida Dispatch advertising sale of lands,		24 00
	By amount paid Floridian & Journal, blanks for Salesman,		22 50
July 16.	By amount paid M. Nash, P. M., postage account Salesman's office,		23 15
19.	By amount paid quarter salary officers, viz:
	H. A. Corley, Salesman,	200 00
	F. L. Villepigue, Secretary,	100 00
	C. H. Austin, Treasurer,	200 00--	500 00
30.	By amount paid interest on 24,000 dollars Florida Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad Company Bonds,		840 00
August 2.	By amount paid bill Florida Peninsular, advertising public sale lands,		10 00
	By amount paid bill Eastern Herald for same,		24 00
	By amount paid bill Home Companion for same,		15 00
Oct. 4	By amount paid quarter salary officers, viz:
	H. A. Corley, Salesman,	200 00
	F. L. Villepigue, Secretary,	100 00
	C. H. Austin, Treasurer,	200 00--	500 00
	By amount paid W. D. Moseley, Ch. Indian River and St. Johns Canal Company, to meet interest on bonds of said company,		4,000 00
	By amount paid interest on $1,198,000
	Florida R. R. Company Bonds,	41,930 00
	Exchange,	419 30
	Advertising and Express transportation,	650 00--	42,355 80
	By amount paid interest on $340,000
	Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central
	Railroad Company Bonds,	11,900 00
	Exchange,	90 30
	Advertising and Express,	4 25--	11,994 55

	By amount paid interest on $172,000
	Pen. & Geo. Railroad Co. bonds,	$6,020 00
	Exchange,	60 20
	Advertising and Express,	3 05--	6,083 25
	By amount paid on account of bills payable,		8,706 04
	By balance,		498 35
			$128,433 62
1860.
Nov. 1.--	To balance,		$498 35

AMOUNT OF REVENUE ASSESSED FOR 1860.		AM'T OF REVENUE PAID IN FROM 1ST JAN'Y, 1860, TO 4TH FEB'Y, 1861.
Alachua,	$7,800 22	$6 70
Brevard,
Calhoun,	1,004 68	1,004 68
Columbia,
Clay,	1,062 23	453 32
Dade,
Duval,	4,209 70	4,053 39
Escambia,	2,737 99
Franklin,	3,367 38	3,367 38
Gadsden,	8,415 00
Hamilton,	3,393 32	3,162 59
Hillsborough,	2,502 42	2,502 42
Hernando,	2,448 88	2,038 74
Holmes,	455 77	388 02
Jackson,	9,866 23	10 25
Jefferson,	10,130 81	10,130 81
Leon,	15,887 24	12,515 30
Levy,	1,026 88	1,026 88
Liberty,	1,152 10	583 20
Lafayette,	728 13
Madison,	7,274 18	6,943 70
Monroe,	1,918 51	1,918 50
Manatee,
Nassau,	3,726 77	3,296 47
New River,	2,211 01
Orange,	749 63	356 87
Putnam,	1,786 03	530 81
St. Johns,	1,659 58	56 25
Sumter,	1,380 13	1,170 46
Suwannee,	1,615 97	1,615 97
Santa Rosa,		1,377 06
Taylor,	609 91	609 91
Volusia,	760 02	380 12
Washington,	1,111 53	922 00
Wakulla,	2,364 09	2,364 09
Walton,	1,113 70	1,113 70
Marion,	4,527 11	3,273 14
	$108,997 15	$67,352 73

House Journal--10th Sess. A Journal of the Proceedings of the House of Representatives of the General Assembly of the State of Florida, at Its Tenth Session, Begun and Held at the Capitol, in the City of Tallahassee, on Monday, November 26, 1860: Electronic Edition.