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Journal of the House of Delegates of the State of Virginia, for the Extra Session, 1861.
Message of the Governor of Virginia, and Accompanying Documents:

Electronic Edition.

Virginia. General Assembly. House of Delegates.


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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
2000.

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Source Description:
(title page) Journal of the House of Delegates of the State of Virginia, for the Extra Session, 1861.
Virginia. General Assembly. House of Delegates.
321, i-lv p.
Richmond
William F. Ritchie, Public Printer
1861
Call number 2356 Conf (Rare Book Collection, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)


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JOURNAL
OF THE
HOUSE OF DELEGATES
OF THE
STATE OF VIRGINIA,
FOR THE
EXTRA SESSION, 1861.

RICHMOND:
WILLIAM F. RITCHIE, PUBLIC PRINTER.
1861.


Page 3

JOURNAL.

MONDAY, JANUARY 7, 1861.

        A majority of the members appearing, the SPEAKER called the house to order at 12 o'clock.

        Prayer was offered by Rev. Mr. Duncan of the Methodist church.

        The proclamation of the governor convening the general assembly, was read as follows:

BY THE GOVERNOR--A PROCLAMATION.

        Whereas, by the constitution of this commonwealth, the governor is invested with the authority to convene the general assembly, "when in his opinion the interests of the commonwealth require it:"

        And whereas, at the last session of the legislature, a large amount of the public business was left in an unfinished condition, for want of time to complete the same: and whereas since that time a contract has been entered into by the James river and Kanawha company, for the sale of its entire line of improvement, with all its franchises and immunities, including the large interest held therein by the commonwealth, and with stipulations for the completion of the entire work, and it is necessary that the contract, if approved, should be ratified by the general assembly, to give validity and force to the agreement so made:

        And whereas, by the appointment of electors, a majority of whom are known to be favorable to the election of sectional candidates as president and vice-president of the United States, whose principles and views are believed by a large portion of the southern states to be in direct hostility to their constitutional rights and interest, and in consequence thereof, great excitement prevails in the public mind, and prudence requires that the representatives of the people of this commonwealth should take into consideration the condition of public affairs, and determine calmly and wisely what action is necessary in this emergency:

        Therefore, I, John Letcher, governor, by virtue of the authority aforesaid, do hereby require the senators and delegates of the two houses of the general assembly of the commonwealth to convene at the capitol in the city of Richmond, on Monday the 7th day of January, A. D. 1861, at 12 o'clock, to legislate upon such subjects as they may deem necessary and proper.


Page 4

        Given under my hand as governor, and under the seal of the commonwealth at Richmond, on the 15th day of November 1860, and in the 85th year of the commonwealth.

(Signed) JOHN LETCHER.

By the Governor:
(Signed) GEO. W. MUNFORD,
Secretary of the Commonwealth.


        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND, a committee, consisting of Messrs. Haymond, Tomlin and Reid, were appointed to wait on the governor, and inform him that the house being now organized, was ready to receive any communication which he might be pleased to transmit; and subsequently Mr. HAYMOND reported that they had performed the duty assigned them, and that the governor would make a communication to the general assembly at once.

        The message of the governor was then presented by the SPEAKER, and was read.

        [For message, see Doc. No. 1, appended to this volume.]

        On motion of Mr. BOREMAN, the message was laid on the table, and fifteen hundred extra copies ordered to be printed.

        Mr. BASSEL submitted the following joint resolution:

        Resolved, by the general assembly of Virginia, that the Union being formed by the assent of the states respectively, and being consistent only with freedom and the republican institutions guaranteed to each, cannot and ought not to be maintained by force.

        That the government of the Union has no power to declare or make war against any of the states which have been its constituent members.

        That any effort by that government to coerce any state to reunion or submission, whether under the claim of enforcing the laws against citizens or otherwise, should and will be esteemed by Virginia, from community of interests and relations, as war on her likewise, to be resisted to the utmost of her means and power.

        Mr. ROBERTSON moved as a substitute for the foregoing resolution, that so much of the governor's message as refers to the coercion of a state by the government of the United States, be referred to a committee of fifteen, with instructions to report immediately; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. ROBERTSON, Mr. HOFFMAN and Mr. WILSON severally submitted resolutions; which were ordered to be referred to said committee.

        The SPEAKER announced the committee as follows: Messrs. Robertson, Bassel, Yerby, Seddon, Hopkins, Chapman, Martin, Wood, Anderson, Cowan, Duckwall, Ball, Grattan, Welch and Carter.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER,

        Resolved, that a committee of fifteen be appointed, with instructions to report, at the earliest practicable time, a bill, providing for a convention of the people of Virginia.


Page 5

        On motion of Mr. ANDERSON,

        Resolved, that so much of the governor's message as relates to the James river and Kanawha company, be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation, with instructions to enquire into the expediency of incorporating the Virginia canal company, upon the basis of the executory agreement entered into by Messrs. Bellot des Minières, Brothers and Company with the said James river and Kanawha company on the first day of September 1860.

        On motion of Mr. JONES of Gloucester,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files, engrossed bill 133, and all other engrossed bills, whether reported from the house or senate, reported from the committee on finance, and not acted upon by the house; and that they be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. MYERS,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of amending the charter of the Bank of Richmond.

        On motion of Mr. FROST,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the relief of the securities of Joshua H. Staats, late sheriff of Jackson county.

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of authorizing the speedy construction of a rail road from the state arsenal at Lexington to some point on the Central rail road.

        On motion of Mr. RIDDICK,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of authorizing the Norfolk and Petersburg rail road to construct a branch of their road.

        On motion of Mr. MONTAGUE,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of amending the 25th section of the act of last session, entitled an act imposing taxes for the support of government, passed March 31, 1860, so as to authorize persons resident of this state engaged as colporteurs in selling Bibles, religious publications, tracts, &c. to be exempted from the operation of said act.

        On motion of Mr. LUCAS,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of this house, bill 160 of the last session, and the petition pertaining thereto, for the relief of Enoch Atkins; and that the same be referred to the committee of claims.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the enactment of a stay law.

        On motion of Mr. JONES of Gloucester,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of amending the act passed April 6, 1858, regulating foreign insurance companies within this commonwealth, so as to require some security for the payment of their policies.


Page 6

        On motion of Mr. KEEN,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of legalizing the suspension of the banks of the commonwealth.

        On motion of Mr. JONES of Appomattox,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw from the files of the house, the petition of Thomas B. Paulett; and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. ALDERSON,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of authorizing the Little Kanawha navigation company to extend their improvement to the falls of the Little Kanawha in the county of Braxton.

        On motion of Mr. MILLER of Shenandoah,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the relief of John J. Grandstaff, late sheriff of the county of Shenandoah.

        On motion of Mr. SAUNDERS,

        Resolved, that the petition of the council of the city of Richmond, for the extension of the corporate limits of said city, together with the plan of extension and accompanying papers, be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. SAUNDERS presented a paper connected with the foregoing resolution; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. GILMER of Pittsylvania, presented the petition of the officers of company A, 101st regiment Virginia militia, praying reimbursement for money expended by them in the purchase of accoutrements; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. CASSIN,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw house bill 228 from the files of this house, and that the same be referred to the committee on claims.

        On motion of Mr. KNOTTS,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation be instructed to enquire into the expediency of incorporating a company to construct a turnpike road from the Three forks of Sandy, Roane county, to Arnoldsburg in Calhoun county.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN presented the petition of the trustees of Alleghany college, for a loan from the Literary fund to repair the recent loss by fire; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of schools and colleges.

        On motion of Mr. LEFTWICH,

        Resolved, that house engrossed bill 120 be withdrawn from the files, and referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. LOCKRIDGE,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of changing the eastern terminus of the Slavin's cabin and Summersville turnpike road.


Page 7

        On motion of Mr. NEWTON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to release John H. Taliaferro the title of the commonwealth to 556¼ acres of land in the county of Hanover, improperly sold for taxes.

        On motion of Mr. LOCKE,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to James W. Campbell, late sheriff of the county of Jefferson, a portion of his commission forfeited by failure to pay into the treasury state revenue according to law.

        On motion of Mr. WARD,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of repealing sections 28, 29, 30, 31 and 32 of chapter 58 of the Code of Virginia, 1860.

        On motion of Mr. SMITH of Kanawha,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending so much of chapter 47 of the Code of Virginia for 1860 as applies to the formation of new counties.

        On motion of Mr. MILLER of Lee,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to the securities of John H. Allen, late sheriff of Lee county, an amount of money paid by them into the treasury.

        On motion of Mr. GRAHAM,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 51 of last session, and have the same referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. HOLDWAY,

        Resolved, that bill 174 be withdrawn from the files of the house and referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. JONES of Appomattox,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw from the files of the house, the petition of Nathan H. Hancock and others, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. ALDERSON,

        Resolved, that house bill 358 be withdrawn from the files, and referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. MONG,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of incorporating the Berkeley border guards volunteer company.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON of Jefferson,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of reimbursing Edward McKabe for losses sustained in consequence of being shot in repelling the John Brown invaders.

        On motion of Mr. BOREMAN,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of authorizing the election of an additional constable in the courthouse district of the county of Wood.

        Mr. KAUFMAN presented the petition of citizens of the Valley of


Page 8

Virginia, asking the junction of the Winchester and Potomac rail road with the Manassas gap rail road; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        Mr. CRANE presented the petition of the 107th regiment of Virginia militia; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        Mr. PORTER presented the memorial of the Holliday's cove turnpike company, asking amendments of their charter; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        Mr. CASSIN presented the petition of Alfred J. Bear and others, asking to be relieved from the payment of a suretyship; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. BASKERVILL,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of granting relief to the securities of W. H. Blanch, late sheriff of Mecklenburg, by refunding a sum of money.

        On motion of Mr. CASSIN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill refunding to Benjamin Cunningham certain taxes improperly paid by him to the commonwealth.

        On motion of Mr. KNOTTS,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of increasing the capital stock of the Gilmer and Ritchie turnpike company.

        On motion of Mr. SHANNON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to report a bill to release James V. Thomas from the payment of a fine.

        On motion of Mr. SAUNDERS,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending the charter of the city of Richmond.

        On motion of Mr. MONTAGUE,

        Resolved, that the committee of schools and colleges enquire into the expediency of incorporating Montgomery female college in the county of Montgomery.

        On motion of Mr. RICHARDSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of so amending the bill passed at the last session, entitled a bill to provide for the assessment on persons and property, so as to exempt from assessments incomes and other salaries.

        On motion of Mr. WATSON,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house of last session, bill 272, and that the same be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. ALDERSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of releasing the securities of Winston Shelton, sheriff of Nicholas county, from the payment of damages.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER, the chair was vacated until 5 o'clock P. M.


Page 9

EVENING SESSION.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN moved a suspension of the rules, with a view to reconsider the vote of the house by which the resolution providing for a committee to report a bill for the call of a convention was adopted; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Cassin, Christian, Crane, Dickenson, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, C. H. Gilmer, Hackley, Holdway, Keen, Lockridge, Matthews, D. Miller, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Porter, Reid, Richardson, Segar, Staples, Thompson and Watts--31.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Baskervill, Bentley, Boisseau, Booker, Carpenter, Childs, Claiborne, Collier, Crump, Evans, Friend, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Hanly, Haymond, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Leftwich, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Phelps, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, West, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--71.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of providing by law for the availability of the appropriation made at last session for the arming of the state, and of an appropriation thereto not exceeding ten millions of dollars.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON of Jefferson,

        Resolved, that that part of the governor's message recommending an amendment to section 11th of chapter 212 of the Code, be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. WOOLFOLK,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw from the files of the house, senate bill 125 of the last session, and that the same be referred to the committee of privileges and elections.

        On motion of Mr. CASSIN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill refunding to Samuel A. McMechen and John G. Harness certain taxes erroneously paid by them to the commonwealth.

        Mr. YERBY presented the memorial of Thos. C. Bunting and others, asking to be released from a forfeited recognizance; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. ROBERTSON, from the committee to whom was referred so much of the governor's message as relates to the coercion of a state by the general government, presented the following resolutions:

        Resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that the Union being formed by the assent of the sovereign states respectively, and being consistent only with freedom and the republican institutions guaranteed to each, cannot and ought not to be maintained by force.

        That the government of the Union has no power to declare or make war against any of the states which have been its constituent members.


Page 10

        Resolved, that when any one or more of the states has determined or shall determine, under existing circumstances, to withdraw from the Union, we are unalterably opposed to any attempt on the part of the federal government to coerce the same into reunion or submission, and that we will resist the same by all the means in our power.

        Mr. WATTS moved that the resolutions be laid on the table and printed; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. COWAN demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        The question being on agreeing to the resolutions, Mr. McDOWELL demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Ball, Baskervill, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Reid, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--112.

        NOES--Messrs. Boreman, Morris, Porter, Richardson and Watts--5.

        On motion of Mr. FROST, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 8, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Duncan of the Methodist church.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under the resolution of the house adopted on yesterday, in reference to the call of a state convention: Messrs. Kemper, Haymond, Barbour, Chapman, Rutherfoord, Christian, Gibson of Hampshire, Jones of Gloucester, Carpenter, Davis, Hoffman, Kyle, Baskervill, Frost and Wilson.

        Mr. KEMPER moved that the committee have leave to sit during the session of the house; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. JONES of Gloucester demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morgan, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord,


Page 11

Saunders, Scott, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--101.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Ball, Boreman, Burks, Cassin, Christian, Dickenson, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, Holdway, Keen, Lockridge, Massie, Matthews, McKenzie, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pretlow, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson and Watts--29.

        On motion of Mr. RIVES, Mr. Barbour (at his own request) was excused from further service on the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs be instructed to enquire into the propriety of building an arsenal for the deposit of arms at some suitable point in the northwestern portion of this state, and have leave to report by bill or otherwise.

        On motion of Mr. JONES of Gloucester,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the expediency of providing by law for raising an adequate amount of money for military purposes and for purposes of state defence.

        On motion of Mr. RICHARDSON,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw from the files of the last session of the house of delegates, senate bill 204, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. BOOKER,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of dividing the state into twelve divisions, and that the brigades comprising the old divisions be so rearranged as to conform to the new divisions.

        On motion of Mr. MATTHEWS,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the propriety of refunding to James Scott of Greenbrier county a sum of money improperly assessed on account of delinquent land tax.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of incorporating the Home savings bank of the city of Richmond.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of amending the 4th section of the act incorporating the Jefferson insurance company.

        On motion of Mr. MORRIS,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 386, and that the same be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. HUNTT,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw from the files of the house, senate bill 100 of the last session, for the relief of Hiram Brower, and that the same be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        Mr. CHILDS presented the proceedings of a public meeting in the county of Fauquier; which were ordered to be laid on the table.


Page 12

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire into the expediency of authorizing the auditor of public accounts to pay the amount of a claim of J. A. Waddell for advertising militia orders.

        On motion of Mr. DUCKWALL,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, the petition of Henry Willard in reference to an erroneous assessment of the property of Benjamin and Isaac Deford in the county of Morgan; also bill 132 on the same subject; and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of establishing an arsenal in the town of Danville.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing the credentials of the Hon. A. F. Hopkins and F. M. Gilmer, jr. Esq., commissioners from the state of Alabama; which on motion of Mr. GIBSON of Jefferson, were laid upon the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 8.

        Mr. SEDDON submitted the following joint resolution; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put and decided in the affirmative.

        Resolved by the general assembly, that a committee of five on the part of the house and three on the part of the senate, be appointed to receive and confer with the commissioners from the sovereign state of Alabama, and ascertain at what time it will suit their convenience to address the general assembly.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee on the part of the house: Messrs. Seddon, Anderson, Hopkins, Bassel and Lundy.

        Ordered, that Mr. SEDDON carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the president of the board of commissioners to audit and pay expenses of the invasion of the state; which, on motion of Mr. COWAN, was laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 9.

        On motion of MARTIN of Henry,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the propriety of amending an act passed at the last session of the legislature, limiting the common stem of the extension of the Richmond and Danville rail road, and the North Carolina Coalfield rail road, to ten miles, and report by bill or otherwise.

        Mr. CRANE presented the petition of Matthew Wormley, praying to be refunded a sum of money improperly paid in the year 1857-8; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. BASKERVILL,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of granting to B. W. Love and Isaac Burnett, free persons of color, the privilege of enslaving themselves, without compensation to the state.

        Mr. WARD presented the petition of Wm. Dunlap and others, for


Page 13

the incorporation of the Capon springs company; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. BISBIE submitted the following preamble and resolutions, which, on his motion, were laid on the table:

        Whereas, the immense coast line of Virginia is necessarily unprotected against the incursion of an armed enemy or marauders, by which every portion of our territories bordering on the ocean, rivers and harbors of the commonwealth, are liable to danger and devastation: And whereas both the political and financial condition of the state requires that the promptest, most efficient and most economical system of coast defence should be adopted: And whereas the other manifest duties of the committee on military affairs preclude that full examination of this subject which its vast importance demands: Therefore,

        Resolved, that a special committee of seven be appointed by the SPEAKER for the purpose of examining into and reporting upon:

        1st--The points more especially requiring fortifications; and the promptest and most economical mode of construction.

        2nd--Whether the merchant marine of the state does not contain elements of a defence, which, at a small expense, could be made a most efficient and valuable defence to the coast, rivers and harbors of the commonwealth; and report the same to this house for action.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of establishing an arsenal in the town of Danville.

        On motion of Mr. WEST,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs be instructed to enquire into the propriety of providing by law for the equitable distribution of public arms in the various sections of this commonwealth.

        On motion of Mr. MONTAGUE,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of this house, bill 61 of the last session, and that the same be referred to the committee of claims.

        On motion of Mr. McGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to John Lester a certain sum of money paid by him on account of an erroneous assessment of his property in the county of Henrico, and of correcting the assessment thereof.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON of Jefferson,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the payment of a certain account of P. A. Entler, for services rendered the state.

        Mr. ANDERSON presented a preamble and resolutions, adopted by the people of Botetourt in a public meeting held on the 10th of December 1860; which were read.

        Mr. SEDDON moved that the preamble and resolutions be entered upon the journal. Pending the consideration of which, a motion to adjourn having been made and withdrawn,

        Mr. MAGRUDER submitted the following resolutions; and the question


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being on agreeing thereto, was put, and the resolutions unanimously adopted.

        1. Resolved, that the house of delegates of Viriginia have received, with deep sensibility and regret, intelligence of the death of their late fellow member, William Garth of Albemarle.

        2. Resolved, that the officers and members of this house will wear the usual badge of mourning for 30 days as a testimony of the profound respect entertained for the deceased.

        3. Resolved, that the clerk of this house be requested to forward a copy of these resolutions to the family of the late William Garth, Esq.

        Mr. CRUMP submitted the following resolutions; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and the resolutions were unanimously adopted:

        1. Resolved, that this house have learned with regret that since the last session death has removed from our midst our late fellow member, D. P. Taylor of Nottoway.

        2. Resolved, that we tender to his family our profound sympathy in their affliction, and as a mark of respect for his memory, will wear the usual badge of mourning for 30 days.

        3. Resolved, that as a further mark of respect, this house will now adjourn.

        Ordered, that the house be adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 9, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Duncan of the Methodist church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, January 8, 1861.

        The senate has agreed to a resolution for the appointment of a joint committee to consider what measures should be adopted by the general assembly of Virginia in the present condition of affairs.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        The joint resolution communicated from the senate, was taken up and agreed to.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bill:

        No. 1. A bill to amend the 4th section of an act incorporating the Jefferson insurance company.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bills:

        No. 2. A bill for the construction of a branch of the Central rail road to Lexington.

        No. 3. A bill to change the eastern terminus of the Slavin's cabin and Summerville turnpike.


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        No. 4. A bill making an appropriation for improving the Wilderness road in Greenbrier and Nicholas counties.

        No. 5. A bill to amend the charter of the Winchester and Potomac rail road company.

        The SPEAKER appointed the following members to fill vacancies upon the standing committees:

        Committee for courts of justice, Mr. Staples; on military affairs, Messrs. Crump and Burks; of claims, Mr. Sherrard; on finance, Mr. Wood; on the armory, Messrs. Morgan and Preston; on library, Mr. Nelson; on lunatic asylums, Mr. Booker; of privileges and elections, Messrs. Staples and Jett; to examine the first auditor's office, Mr. Booker; to examine the clerk's office, Mr. Nelson; to examine the second auditor's office, Mr. Jett.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the special committee upon the call of a convention, presented the following bill:

        No. 6. A bill to provide for electing members of a convention, and to convene the same; which on his motion, was read the first time.

        Mr. KEMPER moved that the bill be read a second time this day; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. WOOLFOLK demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, two-thirds concurring, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycootz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Hopkins, Hunter, James, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Seddon, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--109.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Cassin, Christian, Collier, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferrill, Frost, Harrison, Holdway, Huntt, Jett, Massie, McKenzie, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Reid, Segar, Sherrard, I. N. Smith, Thompson, Walker, A. Watson and Watts--30.

        Mr. JONES of Appomattox moved to amend the bill in the first section, so as to provide for holding the election of members of the convention on the "4th" instead of the "7th" of February 1861; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. ROBERTSON demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. JONES of Appomattox, the roll was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bailey, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Huntt, Hunter, James, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Kyle, Leftwich, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, T. Martin, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Shannon, Sibert, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--71.


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        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Arnold, Ball, Ballard, Bentley, Booker, Boreman, Burks, Cassin, Christian, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Jett, Johnson, Keen, Knotts, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McKinney, McKenzie, D. Miller, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Scott, Segar, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wood and Yerby--66.

        Mr. COLLIER submitted the following amendment to the 1st section of the bill:

        "Be it enacted by the general assembly, that it shall be the duty of the officers who were appointed to conduct elections for county officers in May last, at the places established for holding elections for members of the general assembly, to open polls to ascertain the sense of the people of the commonwealth, whether there shall be a convention to consider and propose such measures as may be expedient for this commonwealth to adopt in the present crisis of state and national affairs, and to elect delegates to such convention. The said election shall be held on the 4th day of February in the year 1861."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. SEDDON demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON, the roll was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Arnold, Ball, Ballard, Bentley, Bisbie, Boreman, Brown, Caperton, Cassin, Christian, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Jett, Johnson, Knotts, Kyle, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, W. Martin, Matthews, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Scott, Segar, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker and West--60.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bailey, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Boisseau, Booker, Burks, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Huntt, Hunter, James, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Leftwich, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Medley, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morgan, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Preston, Pretlow, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Shannon, Sibert, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, Wilson, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--80.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Nolley of the Methodist church.

        A message was received from the senate, by Mr. BRANNON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to the joint resolution upon the subject of the coercion of a state, and a resolution for a joint committee to confer with the commissioners of Alabama.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing a telegraphic dispatch received from the president


Page 17

of the convention of the state of Mississippi, announcing the secession of that state from the Union; which was read, and on motion of Mr. DUCKWALL, laid on the table and ordered to be printed.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee on the part of the house, under the joint resolution in relation to the present crisis of state and national affairs: Messrs. Barbour, Caperton, Segar, Rives, Tomlin, Collier, Gilmer of Pittsylvania, Burks, Duckwall, Miller of Shenandoah, Wallace, Bassel, Hopkins, Robertson and Haymond.

        Subsequently, Mr. ROBERTSON presented a report.

        Mr. ROBERTSON submitted certain joint resolutions in relation to the preservation of the peace of the country; which, on motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN, were referred to a committee, with leave to sit during the session of the house.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under the motion: Messrs. Robertson, Yerby, Bass, Christian, Anderson, Magruder, Smith of Taylor, Witten and Newton.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, presented the following bill:

        No. 7. A bill to amend the charter of the city of Richmond.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of schools and colleges, presented the following bill:

        No. 8. A bill to incorporate the Montgomery female college.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 9. A bill amending and re-enacting the 8th section of an act imposing taxes for the support of government, passed March 31, 1860.

        No. 10. A bill fixing the mode of settlement with the sheriff of the county of Jefferson.

        No. 11. A bill refunding to Benjamin and Isaac Deford a certain sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment.

        No. 12. A bill to amend and re-enact the 25th section of an act entitled an act imposing taxes for the support of government, passed March 31, 1860.

        On motion of Mr. EDGINGTON,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of this house, bill 407 of the last session, and that the same be referred to the committee of schools and colleges.

        Mr. EDGINGTON presented a memorial of the trustees of West Liberty academy in the county of Ohio; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of schools and colleges.

        Mr. WALKER presented the petition of Capt. Kenney of the Rockingham rifles; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        Mr. HAYMOND presented the petition of John H. Showalter, praying for the refunding to him of a sum of money; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        No. 6. A bill for electing members of a convention, and to convene the same, on its second reading, being the unfinished business of yesterday, was taken up, on motion of Mr. KEMPER.


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        Mr. THOMPSON moved to amend the bill, by striking out the first section, and inserting in lieu thereof the following:

        "Be it enacted by the general assembly, that it shall be the duty of the superintendents and officers who were appointed to superintend elections for county officers in May last, at the places established for holding elections for members of the general assembly, to open polls for deciding the question of convention or no convention; which convention, if called by the voice of the people, shall consider and propose such measures as may be expedient for this commonwealth to adopt in the present crisis of state and national affairs. The said election shall be held on the 4th day of February in the year of our Lord 1861."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. SEDDON demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        Mr. WATTS submitted the following amendment:

        "And provided further, that if said convention, which shall assemble on the day mentioned in the above section, shall make or pass any ordinance authorizing and directing the withdrawal of this state from this confederacy, or any ordinance authorizing and directing her connection with any other state or states of this Union, it shall, before any such ordinance shall take effect, be first submitted to and ratified by the citizens of this commonwealth."

        Mr. KEEN submitted the following amendment to the amendment:

        "At the same time, the said commissioners shall open a poll to take the sense of the qualified voters upon the question as to whether any action of said convention changing the organic law of this state or dissolving our connection with the Union, shall be submitted to the voters of the commonwealth, for their ratification or rejection."

        And the question being on agreeing to the amendment to the amendment, Mr. SEDDON demanded the previous question; and the question being, Shall the main question be ordered? was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Boisseau, Burks, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, James, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Kyle, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, McDowell, McGehee, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Shannon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, West, Wilson and Woolfolk--65.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Ball, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Caperton, Cassin, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Harrison, Hackley, Holdway, Jett, Keen, Knotts, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Magruder, Massie, Matthews, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, D. Miller, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Saunders, Scott, Segar, Sherrard, Sibert, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, Wingfield, Wood and Yerby--68.

        Pending the consideration of the amendments, Mr. ROBERTSON moved a suspension of the rules, with a view to pass by the pending business, in order to take up the resolutions reported from the committee in relation to the peace of the country; and the question


Page 19

being on agreeing thereto, Mr. RICHARDSON demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        The question being on agreeing to the resolutions reported from the committee, Mr. COWAN demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        The resolutions are as follows:

        "Resolved, by the general assembly of Virginia, that in view of the imminent danger of civil war, this assembly, in behalf of the commonwealth of Virginia, ask respectfully, on the one hand, of the president of the United States, and on the other, of the authorities of each of the southern states, to the end, that if possible, peace may yet be preserved; that they will reciprocally communicate assurances in response to the general assembly of Virginia, now in session, that the status quo of all movements tending to occasion collision, and concerning the forts and arsenals of the nation, shall, on either hand, be strictly maintained for the present, except to repel any actual aggressive attempt.

        2. That the governer of the commonwealth be requested to communicate these resolutions, by telegraph, immediately to the president of the United States, and each of the governors of the southern states."

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the foregoing resolutions to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. GILMER of Hampshire, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Duncan of the Methodist church.

        Mr. McGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bills:

        No. 13. A bill to amend an act passed April 6, 1858, entitled an act to amend and re-enact an act entitled an act for regulating foreign life insurance companies within this commonwealth, passed March 6th, 1856.

        No. 14. A bill to amend an act passed March 30, 1860, entitled an act making regulations concerning licenses.

        No. 15. A bill for the relief of Edward McCabe of Harpers Ferry.

        No. 16. A bill releasing the commonwealth's claim to a certain island in Chesapeake bay to Edward J. Poulson.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bills:

        No. 17. A bill to incorporate the Arnoldsburg and Sandy turnpike company.


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        No. 18. A bill to incorporate the Lynchburg and North Carolina rail road company.

        No. 19. A bill to extend the improvement of the Little Kanawha river to the falls thereof, in the county of Braxton.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, presented a report adverse to the petition of Capt. Kenney of the Rockingham rifles.

        Mr. KAUFMAN presented the petition of Capt. James Long and others, asking that leave be given to Henry Guard to peddle some articles without license, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. KAUFMAN presented the petition of Col. C. E. Shryock and others, asking that compensation be paid the drummer and fifer for services rendered to the 51st regiment of Virginia militia, and asked that the same be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        Mr. ORGAIN presented the petition of Paul A. Farley, for the refunding of a peddler's license, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN presented the petition of Walker Fitch, a free negro, for an act to allow him to become a slave, and asked that the same be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN presented the petition of B. M. Smith of Prince Edward, for relief from the payment of a fine inadvertently incurred, and asked that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        The house resumed the consideration of

        No. 6. A bill to provide for electing members of a convention, and to convene the same, with the pending amendments thereto; and the question being on agreeing to the amendment submitted by Mr. KEEN to the amendment submitted by Mr. WATTS to the first section of the bill, Mr. KEMPER demanded the previous question; and the question being, Shall the main question be now ordered? was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bailey, Baskervill, Bassel, Boisseau, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Edwards, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, Graham, Haymond, Huntt, James, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, T. Martin, McGehee, J. R. Miller, Mong, Morgan, Newton, Orgain, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Shannon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tyler, Ward, West, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--47.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Arnold, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Bass, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Cassin, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Hunter, Jett, Keen, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, J G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Saunders, Scott, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, Wingfield, Wood and Yerby--94.

        Mr. KEEN, by leave of the house, withdrew the amendment to the amendment. Mr. WATTS, by like leave, withdrew the amendment.

        Mr. KEEN submitted the following amendment to the first section of the bill:


Page 21

        "At the same time, the said superintendents and officers shall open a separate poll to take the sense of the qualified voters as to whether any action of said convention dissolving our connection with the federal Union, or changing the organic law of the state, shall be submitted to the people for ratification or rejection; and in order to ascertain the sense of the voters upon the question aforesaid, the said officers shall cause to be kept a poll, to be headed "Upon the question of referring such action to the people for their decision;" which said poll book shall have two columns--one headed "For referring to the people," and the other "Against referring to the people;" and the names of those who vote for the former shall be written under the former heading, and those who vote for the latter, under the latter heading. When the said officers meet as aforesaid, they shall ascertain and make return of the number of persons voting for each proposition. They shall forthwith send to the clerk of their respective counties or corporations a copy thereof, whose duty it shall be to transmit immediately a copy thereof to the president of the convention at Richmond, and also to the governor of the commonwealth."

        Mr. DUCKWALL submitted the following amendment to the amendment:

        "Provided, however, that the vote so taken in each county or election district respectively, shall be considered only as declaratory of the popular voice of the electors of such county or election district, and as a popular instruction by the electors of such county or election district to their own delegate or delegates to the convention."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. EVANS demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        The question being on agreeing to the amendment submitted by Mr. KEEN, Mr. KEEN demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. BOREMAN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Arnold, Ball, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Cassin, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Jett, Johnson, Keen, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Magruder, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, D. Miller, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Rives, Saunders, Scott, Segar, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Walker, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, Wood and Yerby--77.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Anderson, Bailey, Ballard, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Boisseau, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hunter, James, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, McDowell, McGehee, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Shannon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, Wilson, Wingfield, Witten and Woolfolk--62.

        Mr. HAYMOND moved a suspension of the rules, with a view to reconsider the vote by which the amendment was adopted; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. CARTER demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.


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        On motion of Mr. BALL, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Anderson, Bailey, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Boisseau, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Haymond, Huntt, Hunter, James, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Kyle, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, McDowell, McGehee, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morgan, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Pritchard, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Shannon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, E. Watson, Wilson, Wingfield, Witten and Woolfolk--68.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Ball, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Cassin, Christian, Collier, Cowan, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hanly, Harrison, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Jett, Johnson, Keen, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Magruder, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, D. Miller, Morris, Myers, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Saunders, Scott, Segar, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, A. Watson, Watts, West, Wood and Yerby--68.

        On motion of Mr. JONES of Gloucester, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 12, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Duncan of the Methodist church.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of schools and colleges, presented the following bill:

        No. 20. A bill authorizing a loan from the Literary fund to the Alleghany college.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bills:

        No. 21. A bill to incorporate the town of Cameron in the county of Marshall.

        No. 22. A bill to incorporate the Berkeley border guard volunteer company.

        Mr. MASSIE, from the committee of claims, presented the following bills:

        No. 23. A bill for the relief of Nathaniel B. Harvey.

        No. 24. A bill for the relief of Enoch Atkins of Giles county.

        Mr. MASSIE, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to the resolution in relation to the payment of a sum of money to J. P. A. Entler, for services rendered to the state.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following resolution; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative:

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed forthwith to enquire into the best means of raising the sum of one million of dollars for immediate purposes of defence, and report by bill.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 25. A bill refunding a license tax to Paul A. Farley of the county of Lunenburg.


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        No. 26. A bill authorizing the payment to William L. Jackson, of certain coupons.

        No. 27. A bill for the relief of James Scott of Greenbrier county.

        No. 28. A bill refunding to Matthew Wamsley of the county of Randolph a certain amount of money erroneously paid by him.

        No. 29. A bill for the relief of Rev. J. Packard.

        Mr. BARBOUR presented the petition of citizens of Culpeper county, praying that one-fifth of the state revenue be appropriated for the purpose of arming the people, and placing the state on a war footing; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON,

        Resolved, that the debate on all questions that may arise on the convention bill now pending in this house, be restricted to three minutes by any one speaker, when they shall be put to the vote.

        On motion of Mr. SAUNDERS,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house of the last session, senate bill 63, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. SAUNDERS presented the petition of George I. Herring and others, praying for a release as sureties of P. P. Winston; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. THOMAS,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of last session, house bill 169, and papers relating thereto, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. BENTLEY,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of providing by law for the availability of the appropriation made at the last session for the more effectual arming of border counties.

        Mr. SMITH presented the petition of citizens of Kanawha, upon the subject of free negroes; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. ROBINSON,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of this house, bill 380, and that the same be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        Mr. MYERS presented the petition of William B. Wooldridge and Thomas C. Howard, executors of A. S. Wooldridge; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. CLAIBORNE,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill refunding to George W. Tucker of Halifax, the sum of $60 37, improperly paid by him to the commonwealth.

        On motion of Mr. CLAIBORNE,

        Resolved, that the committee on agriculture and manufactures enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill incorporating the Meadville manufacturing company.


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        On motion of Mr. LEFTWICH,

        Resolved, that house bill 266, for amending the first section of the 58th chapter of the Code, be withdrawn from the files, and referred to the committee on banks.

        On motion of Mr. LYNN,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the relief of Hugh H. Hite of Prince William county, for a sum of money paid by him for taxes erroneously assessed on him for the year 1859.

        Mr. BALL presented the petition of the officers and privates of the North Fork rifle company in Loudoun county, asking compensation for services rendered during the John Brown raid; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to J. W. G. Smith a sum of money erroneously assessed against him and paid.

        On motion of Mr. WALLACE,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of amending the charter of the Monongalia Bank of Morgantown.

        On motion of Mr. BASS,

        Resolved, that the financial statement and suggestions relative to defects in the revenue laws, by the auditor of public accounts, be referred to the committee on finance.

        No. 6. A bill to provide for electing members of a convention, and to convene the same, being the unfinished business of yesterday, was taken up.

        Mr. RIVES submitted an amendment to the third section of the bill, restricting members of the present general assembly from service in the convention; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. RIVES, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Allen, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Carter, Cassin, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, James, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Kyle, Lockridge, Lucas, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McGehee, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Rives, Saunders, Scott, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Walker, Watts, West, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--95.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Burks, Carpenter, Chapman, Coleman, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Friend, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Grattan, Hunter, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kemper, Knotts, Leftwich, Locke, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, McDowell, McGruder, Mong, Morgan, Morris, Newton, Orgain, Reid, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Segar, Sibert, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Willcox and Wingfield--45.

        The bill was then, on motions severally made by Mr. KEMPER, amended in various particulars.

        Mr. HAYMOND submitted the following amendment:

        "Strike out the first section and insert the following:

        "Be it enacted by the general assembly, that it shall be the duty


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of the superintendents and officers who were appointed to conduct elections for county officers in May last, at the places established for holding elections for members of the general assembly, to open polls for electing delegates to a convention to consider and propose such measures as they may deem expedient for the people of this commonwealth to adopt in the present crisis of state and national affairs. The said election shall be held on the 4th day of February, in the year of our Lord 1861."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, was put and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Anderson, Bailey, Ballard, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Boisseau, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Haymond, Hunter, James, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, McDowell, McGehee, Medley, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Shannon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Wilson, Witten, Wood and Woolfolk--62.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Arnold, Ball, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Cassin, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hanly, Harrison, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Jett, Johnson, Keen, Kee, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Rives, Saunders, Scott, Segar, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, A. Watson, Watts, West and Yerby--81.

        The bill was then, on motion of Mr. COWAN, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was, on motion of Mr. MARTIN of Henry, read a third time. And the question being, Shall the bill pass? Mr. McKENZIE demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, West, Wilson, Wingfield, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--141.

        Ordered, that Mr. KEMPER carry the bill to the senate and request their concurrence.

        Mr. COWAN moved that the house do now adjourn; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. CARPENTER, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Boreman, Burks, Carter, Christian, Claiborne, Cowan, Crane, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Frost, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hopkins,


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Kaufman, Kee, Kemper, Knotts, Massie, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, Morris, Newton, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Reid, Richardson, Thomas, Ward, Watts and Wingfield--37.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bailey, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Caperton, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Davis, Friend, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Hanly, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Keen, Kincheloe, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, McDowell, McGehee, McKinney, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Pritchard, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Wallace, West, Wilson, Woolfolk and Yerby--70.

        On motion of Mr. EDWARDS,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the relief of the sureties of Samuel S. Turner, late sheriff of Franklin county, from the liabilities incurred for failing to pay into the treasury the revenue of said county in the time prescribed by law.

        On motion of Mr. MATTHEWS,

        Resolved, that the committee of schools and colleges be instructed to enquire into the expediency of repealing and re-enacting the first section of the act passed April 7, 1858, entitled an act to incorporate the Lewisburg female institute.

        Mr. MATTHEWS presented the petition of sundry citizens of Greenbrier and Fayette counties, praying for a new county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. WOOLFOLK,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to compensate A. P. Routt and R. W. Brooking of Orange county, for arresting, taking care of and conveying to prison a lunatic (one Jeremiah Connilly) who had escaped from the asylum at Staunton.

        On motion of Mr. CAPERTON,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill authorizing the clerks of the supreme court and the district courts of appeals to take orders of publication in vacation.

        On motion of Mr. JAMES K. SMITH,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of incorporating the Western Virginia insurance company in the county of Taylor.

        On motion of Mr. JOHNSON,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 249 of last session, and that the same be reported to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. CASSIN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill refunding to Isaac Shobe certain taxes erroneously paid by him to the commonwealth.

        On motion of Mr. KNOTTS,

        Resolved, that the committee on agriculture and manufactures be instructed to enquire into the expediency of incorporating a company


Page 27

in the counties of Gilmer, Calhoun and Wirt, for the purpose of manufacturing oil and for mining purposes.

        On motion of Mr. DUCKWALL,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire in the expediency of compensating that portion of the 89th regiment of Virginia militia who were called into service of the state, during the John Brown raid, by the colonel of the regiment.

        On motion of Mr. CRUMP,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill legalizing the action of the county courts of Amelia and Nottoway, in issuing bonds for the purchase of arms, and to authorize said courts to provide by levies for the payment of the same.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON of Jefferson,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 340, and that the same be referred to the committee of claims.

        On motion of Mr. RICHARDSON,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of amending and re-enacting an act entitled an act incorporating the town of Bethany, passed April 6th, 1853, so as to extend the powers and duties of the town sergeant.

        Mr. RICHARDSON presented the petition of citizens of Bethany, praying the extension of the powers of their sergeant; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. LOCKE,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire into the expediency of allowing certain delinquent militia fines in the settlement of the accounts of John W. Moore, sheriff of Jefferson county, for the years 1852, 1853 and 1854.

        On motion of Mr. WILSON,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill providing that during the suspension of specie payments by the banks, there may be a stay of executions to prevent a ruinous sacrifice of property.

        On motion of Mr. McDOWELL,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of amending the charter of the Fincastle and Catawba creek and Blacksburg turnpike company.

        On motion of Mr. HUNTT,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 473 of the last session, for the relief of Thos. Javins, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. MARTIN of Norfolk county,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, senate bill 320, and that the same be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. MONTAGUE,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire


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into the expediency of incorporating the town of Christiansburg in Montgomery county.

        Mr. SHANNON presented the petition of James A. Harris and others; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. DAVIS,

        Resolved, that John W. Murrill be permitted to withdraw from the files of this house, his petition, presented at the last session, praying to be relieved from the payment of a judgment.

        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND,

        Resolved, that the deposit banks of this state be required to report to this house, as early as practicable, the average amount of their monthly discounts for the last twelve months; the average amount of public money, the property of the state, deposited with each of these banks monthly; the average monthly discount of notes and other paper obligations payable at their own counter; the average monthly discounts of bills of exchange, negotiable notes and other paper obligations payable outside of the limits of Virginia; the amount of such notes, bills of exchange and other paper obligations payable outside of the limits of Virginia, that have been protested and returned for want of payment; and the average monthly circulation of each of these banks, showing the difference between their discounts and circulation.

        On motion of Mr. WARD,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to amend the charter of the Sir John's turnpike company.

        On motion of Mr. BALL,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of legalizing certain acts of the Potomac bridge company.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill appropriating to John Staples a sum of money for services rendered as attorney for the commonwealth.

        Mr. KEEN presented the petition of the citizens of the county of Pittsylvania, asking that the county courts may be empowered to make a levy to buy arms; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. BISBIE,

        Resolved, that as the brigade inspectors of this commonwealth are the virtual instructors of our militia system, the committee on military affairs be requested to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill so amending the militia laws as to raise the standard of qualification, extend the duties and increase the pay of the office of brigade inspector.

        Mr. TYLER presented the petition of citizens of Caroline, to amend the charter of the town of Port Royal in the county of Caroline; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of amending the charter of the Bank of Howardsville.


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        On motion of Mr. McGEHEE,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, senate bill 297 for the relief of James J. Spaulding, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. GILMER of Pittsylvania,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill refunding to the heirs of L. Claiborne dec'd, of Pittsylvania county, a sum of money improperly paid to the commonwealth.

        On motion of Mr. NELSON,

        Resolved, that the committee of schools and colleges enquire into the expediency of paying to John T. Irving of Fluvanna a sum of money for the tuition of indigent children.

        On motion of Mr. STAPLES,

        Resolved, that the committee of schools and colleges enquire into the expediency of incorporating the Patrick springs female seminary in the county of Patrick.

        Mr. STAPLES presented the petition of Rufus Turner, late sheriff of Patrick county, praying that a certain amount of money withheld by the auditor, be refunded to him; which was also ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. STAPLES presented the petition of Lewis Pedigo, praying to have refunded to him taxes improperly charged; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. McKINNEY,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of amending the charter of the Farmville and Buckingham plank road company.

        On motion of Mr. SMITH of Kanawha,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of increasing the capital stock of the Elk river turnpike company, so that the surplus stock subscribed may be received by the company.

        On motion of Mr. BOREMAN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of providing for the payment of certain lost coupons for interest on the bonds of the state owned and held by the Exchange Bank of Virginia and the City Bank of Racine.

        On motion of Mr. MATTHEWS,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files, bill 207, incorporating the Sweet chalybeate springs company, and that the same be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. McKENZIE,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house of last session, bill 450, and that the same be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. ORGAIN,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of increasing the capital stock of the South side rail road company, to construct a branch of their road from


Page 30

Black's and White's, by Clarkesville and Christiansburg, down New river to its confluence with the Kanawha.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of passing a general law authorizing the county courts to purchase arms, and to provide for such purchase either by levy, sale of bonds or otherwise.

        On motion of Mr. EDGINGTON,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of incorporating a company to construct a turnpike road from the monument on the National road in Ohio county, by the valley of Big Wheeling creek, to the Pennsylvania line.

        On motion of Mr. BASKERVILL,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of this house, bill 18 of the last session, providing for the increase of the capital stock of the Roanoke valley rail road company, and that the same, when withdrawn, be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. KAUFMAN,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw engrossed bill 42 from the files of the house, to be referred to the committee of claims.

        On motion of Mr. McKINNEY, the house adjourned until Monday, 12 o'clock.

MONDAY, JANUARY 14, 1861.

        A message from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Jan. 12, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill, entitled:

        An act to provide for electing members of a convention, and to convene the same, No. 6, with amendments.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        The amendments proposed by the senate were agreed to.

        Ordered, that Mr. KEMPER inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of schools and colleges, presented the following bill:

        No. 30. A bill to re-enact the act passed 9th February 1844, authorizing a loan from the Literary fund to the trustees of West Liberty academy.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bills:

        No. 31. A bill to incorporate the Western Virginia insurance company.

        No. 32. A bill for the voluntary enslavement of Walker Fitz, a free negro.


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        No. 33. A bill to amend the 2d section of an act entitled an act incorporating the town of Bethany, passed April 6, 1853.

        No. 34. A bill to incorporate the Capper's springs company.

        No. 35. A bill to amend an act incorporating the town of Christiansburg, and extending the limits of the same.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bills:

        No. 36. A bill authorizing the Norfolk and Petersburg rail road company to construct a branch of said road to some point on the North Carolina line.

        No. 37. A bill to amend the charter of the Wheeling creek turnpike company.

        No. 38. A bill incorporating the Norfolk county railway company.

        No. 39. A bill to amend an act to increase the capital stock of the Richmond and Danville rail road company, and for other purposes.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following bill:

        No. 40. A bill to create an ordnance department; which, on his motion, was read the first time, and ordered to be read the second time.

        On motion of Mr. TOMLIN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of paying to James A. Bond a sum of money due for services rendered the 87th regiment of Virginia militia.

        Mr. SMITH of Kanawha presented the petition of Jacob Goshorn and others; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. RUTHERFOORD,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 67 of the last session, entitled a bill to give effect to the 19th clause of the 4th article of the constitution, and that the same be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. WALKER,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to Joseph Cline, or his representative, taxes erroneously paid.

        On motion of Mr. WALKER,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to John W. Driver a license tax erroneously paid.

        On motion of Mr. WALKER,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to Benjamin Hoover taxes erroneously paid.

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of continuing the organization of the special court of appeals, and transferring to such court, for adjudication, the criminal docket of the supreme court.

        On motion of Mr. PHELPS,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency


Page 32

of relieving the securities of Hugh L. Pickens, late sheriff of Pleasants county, from the payment of damages imposed on them for the failure of said sheriff to pay the revenue of said county into the treasury within the time prescribed by law.

        On motion of Mr. PHELPS,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of relieving the securities of Eugenius Tibbs, late sheriff of Ritchie county, from the payment of damages imposed on them for the failure of said sheriff to pay the revenue of said county into the treasury within the time prescribed by law.

        On motion of Mr. LUCAS,

        Resolved, that the committee of privileges and elections enquire into the expediency of establishing an additional election precinct at the mills of Willson Bane in Giles county.

        On motion of Mr. LOCKRIDGE,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of this house, bill 189, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. BALLARD presented the petition of William Stratton of the county of Logan, praying to be released from certain fines, &c.; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        Mr. BOREMAN presented the proceedings of a union meeting in Wood county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on federal relations.

        On motion of Mr. FROST,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Ravenswood.

        Mr. WALLACE presented the petition of citizens of Preston and Monongalia counties, asking the incorporation of a joint stock company to repair and macadamize the Morgantown and Beverley turnpike road; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        Mr. WALLACE presented the petition of citizens of Preston, Barbour and Monongalia counties, asking the incorporation of a joint stock company to repair and macadamize the Morgantown and Beverley turnpike road; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        Mr. WALLACE presented the petition of citizens of Monongalia county, praying a repeal of the license to sell breadstuffs; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of allowing compensation to James Carscadon and William F. Davis, for services rendered the 77th regiment of Virginia militia.

        Mr. SMITH of Amherst submitted the following resolution:

        Resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that the further strengthening of the forts in Virginia, and the removal of arms and munitions of war from arsenals within her limits by the government of the United States, will be regarded by the people as a menace or


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threat of war; and that we pledge her faith to restore the forts, dock yards and arsenals in tact, if they shall be entrusted to her keeping in the event of a peaceable restoration of affairs; and in the event of a dissolution of the Union, to account for them in an equitable division of the public property; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on state and national affairs.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of providing for defraying the expenses of transporting Galt's statue of Jefferson from Florence, procuring a pedestal for the same, and for properly setting it up.

        On motion of Mr. WOOLFOLK,

        Resolved, that the committee of privileges and elections be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to so amend the nineteenth section of the eighth chapter of the Code of Virginia, in reference to the compensation of officers conducting elections at the courthouses of the several counties in district elections, for making their returns, &c. in said districts, as to increase the same to at least an amount sufficient to pay the necessary expenses in traveling to and from as well as their necessary tavern expenses.

        On motion of Mr. SMITH of Taylor,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of this house, bill 327, and that the same be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. HARRISON,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of amending the charter of the Bank of Scottsville.

        Mr. WITTEN presented the petition of Rowland Fletcher, praying relief as contractor on the Raleigh and Grayson turnpike; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. HACKLEY,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of changing the place of holding the election in the Sperryville precinct of Rappahannock county, from the house of Miss Cenith Fuston, now Wm. F. Aurass, to the house of B. J. Holland, now occupied by Peter Baxter.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON of Jefferson,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 383, and that the same be referred to the committee of schools and colleges.

        On motion of Mr. GARRETT,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of empowering the counties of Essex and King & Queen to issue bonds of the said counties for a sum, in the judgment of the courts, sufficient to arm the citizens of said counties against invasion.

        On motion of Mr. WOOD,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to amend the second section of an act passed January 3d, 1800, to authorize the opening


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of a turnpike over the Southwest mountain in the county of Albemarle.

        Mr. McGRUDER presented the remonstrance of one hundred and eleven citizens of Henrico county, against the proposed extension of the corporate limits of the city of Richmond; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. MONTGOMERY,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw house bill 312 from the files of last session, and that the same be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        Mr. WELCH presented the proceedings of a public meeting in Kanawha county; which were ordered to be referred to the committee on state and national affairs.

        On motion of Mr. ALLEN,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire into the expediency of paying to James Patteson a claim against the commonwealth, amounting to $ 76.

        On motion of Mr. MARTIN,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 548, and that the same be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. HOLDWAY,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw from the files of this house, senate bill 236, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. MAUPIN,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of amending the charter of the town of Guyandotte in the county of Cabell.

        On motion of Mr. LYNN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of granting relief to the securities of Milton Fitzhugh, late sheriff of Prince William county, for damages and fines paid by him.

        Mr. LEFTWICH presented the petition of Ro. H. Gray, attorney for heirs of officers and soldiers of the revolutionary war; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of claims.

        On motion of Mr. McKENZIE,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house of last session, bill 454, and that the same be referred to the committee of claims.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire,

        Resolved, that four thousand copies of the act to provide for electing members of a convention, and to convene the same, be printed for the purpose of distribution, as specified in the said act, and among the members of the general assembly.

        On motion of Mr. MATTHEWS,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of amending the 2d section of an act passed the 27th March 1858, entitled an act to incorporate the town of Frankfort in the county of Greenbrier.


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        Mr. MATTHEWS presented the petition of sundry citizens of the town of Frankfort, praying for an amendment to the second section of an act passed 27th March 1858, entitled an act to incorporate the town of Frankfort in the county of Greenbrier; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        A message was received from the senate, by Mr. WICKHAM, who informed the house that the senate had passed

        No. 2. An act changing the time of holding the terms of the circuit courts of James City, the city of Williamsburg, and the county of Henrico.

        In which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        On motion of Mr. RICHARDSON,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw from the files of the last session, senate bill 27, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. CHAPMAN,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of ceding to the county of Monroe the interest of the state in the White and Salt sulphur springs turnpike company, and the Sweet and Salt sulphur springs turnpike company, on certain conditions.

        On motion of Mr. DICKENSON,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of constructing a turnpike road, on the two and three-fifths principle, from near Lebanon in the county of Russell, through New Garden, to the Tazewell line.

        Mr. KEEN presented the petition of the trustees of Pittsylvania academy, for converting the same into a military school, and asking an appropriation therefor; which was referred to the committee of schools and colleges.

        The proceedings of a public meeting in Botetourt county, presented by Mr. ANDERSON, being the unfinished business, was, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 14.

        Mr. CARPENTER, from the joint committee on federal relations, presented a report, which, on his motion, was laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 13.

        Mr. ANDERSON, from the joint committee to receive the Alabama commissioners, presented the following report, which was adopted:

        The joint committee of the senate and house of delegates appointed to receive and confer with the commissioners from the sovereign state of Alabama, and ascertain at what time it will suit their convenience to address the general assembly, have performed the duty assigned them, and they respectfully report, that the commissioners have expressed the wish to address the two houses of the general assembly on Tuesday the 15th instant, at 1 o'clock P. M.

        In order to carry out the arrangement made with the commissioners, your committee suggest that the addresses be delivered in


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the hall of the house of delegates, in the presence of both houses, at the time indicated by the commissioners.

Respectfully submitted.

T. P. AUGUST,
Ch. Com. Senate.

JOHN SEDDON,
Ch. Com. H. of D.

Jan. 14, 1861.

        On motion of Mr. ANDERSON,

        Resolved, that the senate be invited to assemble in the hall of the house of delegates, at 1 o'clock P. M. on Tuesday next, to receive the commissioners from the state of Alabama.

        On motion of Mr. PRITCHARD,

        Resolved, that the petition of John Conaway, presented at the last session, be withdrawn, and referred to the committee of claims.

        On motion of Mr. RUTHERFOORD,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to defray the expenses attending the recent revision and republication of the Code of Virginia.

        On motion of Mr. WATTS,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire the expediency of establishing an independent bank in the city of Portsmouth.

        Mr. CASSIN presented the petition of Washington Cook; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. KAUFMAN,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 412, and that the same be referred to the committee of claims.

        On motion of Mr. RANDOLPH,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw bill 356 from the files of the house of the last session, and that the same be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. THOMAS,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 206 of the last session, and that the same be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. PRETLOW,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of amending the 24th article of the 3d chapter of the statutes of 1859-60.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. WICKHAM, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed

        No. 5. A bill allowing persons elected commissioners of the revenue at the last general election, and who failed to qualify within the time prescribed by law, to qualify as such in certain cases.

        In which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.


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TUESDAY, JANUARY 15, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Boggs of the Methodist church.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a message from the governor upon the subject of pardons; which was laid upon the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 4.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, presented the following bill:

        No. 41. A bill authorizing the clerks of the supreme court and the district courts of appeals to take orders of publication in vacation.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of schools and colleges, presented the following bills:

        No. 42. A bill to amend the act incorporating the Lewisburg female institute.

        No. 43. A bill to amend the act concerning district free schools in the county of Jefferson.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bill; which, on his motion, was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time:

        No. 44. A bill to authorize the issue of treasury notes.

        Mr. GRAHAM presented the petition of Solomon W. Maxwell and others, asking for an extension of the Black lick and Plaster bank turnpike; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. JONES of Appomattox,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill authorizing the county court of Appomattox to raise $ 6,000 in the manner indicated in their petition, for the purpose of arming the volunteer and militia companies of said county.

        Mr. JONES of Appomattox presented the petition of L. D. Isbell and Thos. H. Flood, a committee appointed by the county court of Appomattox, praying that leave be granted to the county court of said county to raise $ 6,000 for arming the county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. EARLY, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had accepted their invitation to attend the delivery of the addresses of the commissioners from the state of Alabama.

        Mr. GRAHAM presented the proceedings of a public meeting in Wythe county; which were ordered to be referred to the joint committee on state and national affairs.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of amending the 4th section of the act passed 30th March last, making regulations concerning licenses.

        On motion of Mr. RICHARDSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs be instructed to


Page 38

enquire into the expediency of amending and re-enacting an act entitled an act for the encouragement of certain volunteer military companies in the city of Wheeling, passed March 27th, 1858.

        Mr. HUNTT presented the proceedings of a public meeting in Fairfax county; which were ordered to be referred to the joint committee on state and national affairs.

        Mr. FRIEND presented the petition of James Walden, a free negro, to remain in the commonwealth; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. LUCAS presented the petition of the citizens of Giles and Monroe counties, for a turnpike road; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. ORGAIN,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of this house, the petition of Samuel E. Lee of the county of Lunenburg, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. MORRIS presented the petition of W. H. Cecil and others, for releasing Henry Snider from the penalties of a conviction for permitting unlawful gaming at his ordinary in Marshall county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. MORRIS presented the petition of Robert Alexander and others, to release John Ray from a fine; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. ROBERTSON presented the petition of cavalry and other volunteer corps of Virginia for removal to this state of the remains of General Harry Lee; which, on his motion, was ordered to be referred to a select committee.

        Mr. PATTERSON submitted the following resolutions; which, on his motion, were ordered to be referred to the joint committee on state and national affairs:

        Resolved, by the senate and house of delegates, that R. M. T. Hunter, Wm. C. Rives, John J. Allen and George W. Summers be and are hereby appointed commissioners to open a correspondence with the governments of all the states, to ascertain on what terms, if upon any, the present Union can be preserved; and if it cannot, then upon what terms and with what states a new confederacy can be formed, which will secure to the people of Virginia the full enjoyment of all their rights; and that they be required to report the result of their proceedings to the convention to assemble on the 13th February next.

        Resolved, that the governor be requested forthwith to apprise said commissioners of their appointment.

        On motion of Mr. ALDERSON,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of incorporating a company upon the two and three-fifths principle, for the purpose of constructing a turnpike road from the mouth of Twenty mile creek, on the Weston and Gauley bridge turnpike road, by way of Clay courthouse, to connect with Elk river turnpike road at the Upper Three forks of Sandy.


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        On motion of Mr. DICKENSON,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending the 18th section of chapter 157 of the Code, so as to not allow but two terms of the county court in a year for the trial of jury cases, except causes of forcible entry and unlawful detainer.

        On motion of Mr. BROWN,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw house bill 147, and that the same be referred to the committee on roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. FLEMING,

        Resolved, that so much of the governor's message as refers to the terms of confinement in the penitentiary, be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. WOOLFOLK,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill allowing compensation to John S. Payne, editor of the Orange Chronicle, for services rendered the 3d regiment of Virginia militia.

        On motion of Mr. NEWTON,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances, be instructed to enquire into the expediency of incorporating the Richmond and Liverpool packet company.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 520, and that the same be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 553 of last session, and that the same be referred to the committee on banks.

        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND,

        Resolved, that all bills not acted on at the last session, be referred to the appropriate committees.

        On motion of Mr. BENTLEY,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of amending the charter of the Alexandria, Loudoun and Hampshire rail road company.

        On motion of Mr. BISBIE,

        Resolved, that the committee on agriculture and manufactures enquire into the expediency of incorporating the Virginia boot and shoe manufacturing company.

        On motion of Mr. LYNN,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of authorizing single justices, on the suggestion of the judgment creditor, to issue a garnishee summons in all cases in which judgments shall be rendered by them, in order to effectuate the lien of an execution.

        On motion of Mr. WOOD,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to establish a school of military science in connection with the University of Virginia.


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        On motion of Mr. MONTGOMERY,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to increase the salary of the commissioner of the revenue for the county of Fayette.

        On motion of Mr. MATTHEWS,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the expediency of releasing the taxes on a tract of land of 130 acres, improperly charged to Washington Burr of Greenbrier county.

        On motion of Mr. KYLE,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, senate bill 448, and certificate of presiding magistrate, and that they be referred to the committee of claims.

        On motion of Mr. BELL,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of changing the day for holding the circuit court in the county of Page.

        The following bills were read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time:

        No. 1. A bill to amend the 4th section of an act incorporating the Jefferson insurance company of Albemarle.

        No. 2. A bill for the construction of a branch of the Central rail road to Lexington.

        No. 3. A bill to change the eastern terminus of the Slavin's cabin and Summersville turnpike.

        No. 4. A bill making an appropriation for improving the Wilderness road in Greenbrier and Nicholas.

        No. 5. A bill to amend the charter of the Winchester and Potomac rail road company.

        No. 8. A bill to incorporate the Montgomery female college.

        No. 9. A bill amending and re-enacting the 8th section of an act entitled an act imposing taxes for the support of government, passed March 31, 1860.

        No. 10. A bill fixing the mode of settlement with the sheriff of the county of Jefferson.

        No. 11. A bill refunding to Benjamin and Isaac Deford a certain sum of money paid on erroneous assessment.

        No. 12. A bill to amend and re-enact the 25th section of an act entitled an act imposing taxes for the support of government, passed March 31, 1860.

        No. 13. A bill to amend an act passed April 6, 1858, entitled an act to amend and re-enact an act entitled an act for regulating foreign life insurance companies within this commonwealth, passed March 6, 1856.

        No. 14. A bill to amend an act passed March 30, 1860, entitled an act making regulations concerning licenses.

        No. 15. A bill for the relief of Edward McCabe of Harpers Ferry.

        No. 16. A bill releasing the commonwealth's claim to a certain island in Chesapeake bay, to Edward J. Poulson.


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        No. 17. A bill to incorporate the Arnoldsburg and Sandy turnpike company.

        No. 18. A bill to incorporate the Lynchburg and North Carolina rail road company.

        No. 19. A bill to extend the improvement of the Little Kanawha river to the falls thereof in the county of Braxton.

        No. 20. A bill authorizing a loan from the Literary fund to the Alleghany college.

        No. 21. A bill to incorporate the town of Cameron in the county of Marshall.

        No. 22. A bill to incorporate the Berkeley border guards volunteer company.

        No. 23. A bill for the relief of Nathaniel B. Harvey.

        No. 24. A bill for the relief of Enoch Atkins of Giles county.

        No. 25. A bill refunding a license tax to Paul A. Farley of the county of Lunenburg.

        No. 26. A bill authorizing the payment to William G. Jackson of certain coupons.

        No. 27. A bill for the relief of James Scott of Greenbrier county.

        No. 28. A bill refunding to Matthew Wamsley of the county of Randolph, a certain amount of money erroneously paid by him.

        No. 29. A bill for the relief of Rev. J. Packard.

        No. 30. A bill to re-enact the act passed 9th February 1844, authorizing a loan from the Literary fund to the trustees of West Liberty academy.

        No. 31. A bill to incorporate the Western Virginia insurance company.

        No. 32. A bill for the voluntary enslavement of Walker Fitz, a free negro.

        No. 33. A bill to amend the 2d section of an act entitled an act incorporating the town of Bethany, passed April 5, 1853.

        No. 34. A bill to incorporate the Capper's springs company.

        No. 35. A bill to amend an act incorporating the town of Christiansburg, and extending the limits of the same.

        No. 36. A bill authorizing the Norfolk and Petersburg rail road company to construct a branch of their road to some point on the North Carolina line.

        No. 37. A bill to amend the charter of the Wheeling creek turnpike company.

        No. 38. A bill incorporating the Norfolk county railway company.

        No. 39. A bill to amend an act to increase the capital stock of the Richmond and Danville rail road company, and for other purposes.

        No. 41. A bill authorizing the clerks of the supreme court and the district courts of appeals to take orders of publication in vacation.

        No. 42. A bill to amend the act incorporating the Lewisburg female institute.

        No. 43. A bill to amend the act concerning district free schools in the county of Jefferson.

        The report of the committee on military affairs adverse to the petition of Capt. Kinney, was taken up and concurred in.


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        The report of the committee of claims adverse to the petition of J. P. A. Entler, was taken up and concurred in.

        No. 7. A bill to amend the charter of the city of Richmond, was taken up, and on motion of Mr. McGRUDER, recommitted to the committee for courts of justice.

        The hour of one o'clock having arrived, the senate, preceded by their president and clerk, entered the hall, and took the seats assigned to them.

        The commissioners from the state of Alabama, attended by the joint committee of the two houses of the general assembly, entered the hall. The senators and delegates rose to receive them.

        Mr. AUGUST, the senator from the city of Richmond, chairman of the joint committee, presented to the SPEAKER, and through him to the general assembly, the Hon. A. F. Hopkins and F. M. Gilmer, jr. Esqs., commissioners from the sovereign state of Alabama.

        The SPEAKER received them, in a brief address.

        The commissioners then addressed the general assembly.

        On the conclusion of their addresses (the senate retiring),

        On motion of Mr. WALLACE, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Read of the Presbyterian church.

        The following senate bill was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. RUTHERFOORD, referred to the committee for courts of justice:

        No. 2. A bill changing the time of holding the terms of the circuit courts of James City and the city of Williamsburg and the county of Henrico.

        The following senate bill was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. SHANNON, two-thirds concurring, read a third time and passed:

        No. 5. A senate bill allowing persons elected commissioners of the revenue at the last general election, and who failed to qualify within the time prescribed by law, to qualify as such in certain cases.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, presented the following bill:

        No. 45. A bill to give effect to the 19th clause of the 4th article of the constitution.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bills:

        No. 46. A bill to incorporate the Sweet chalybeate springs company.

        No. 47. A bill to amend the act of the 27th March 1858, incorporating the town of Frankfort in the county of Greenbrier.

        No. 48. A bill for the voluntary enslavement of B. W. Love and Isaac Burnett, without compensation to the state.


Page 43

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bill:

        No. 49. A bill to increase the capital stock of the Elk river turn-pike company.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 50. A bill to defray the expenses of a pedestal, setting up and transporting the statue of Jefferson.

        No. 51. A bill granting the commonwealth's right to the real estate of John Kelly deceased, to Owen Shee.

        Mr. BISBIE, from the committee on agriculture and manufactures, presented the following bill:

        No. 52. A bill to incorporate the Virginia boot and shoe manufacturing company.

        Which said bills were read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following reports; which were concurred in:

        A report referring the resolution enquiring into the expediency of reporting a bill for the relief of Hugh H. Hite, to the committee on finance.

        An adverse report to a resolution to change the place of holding elections in the Sperryville precinct of Rappahannock county.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following report:

        An adverse report to the petition of Wm. B. Wooldridge and T. C. Howard, asking for a reassessment of certain lands.

        Mr. BARBOUR, from the joint committee upon state and national affairs, presented the following report; which, on his motion, was laid on the table:

        Resolved, that in the opinion of the general assembly, it would be inexpedient for the federal government, under existing circumstances, to make any addition to the military forces in any of the forts, arsenals or naval stations in Virginia, inasmuch as any such increase of force would be liable to misconstruction, and tend to create uneasiness in the public mind.

        Resolved, that the governor be requested to adopt immediate measures for obtaining information as to the purpose of the executive of the general government with respect to strengthening the military force in the arsenals, docks and fortifications within the limits of this commonwealth.

        Resolved, that the foregoing resolutions be communicated by the governor of this commonwealth to the president of the United States.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under the resolution adopted on yesterday in reference to the removal of the remains of Gen. Harry Lee: Messrs. Robertson, McCamant, McGruder, Mallory, and Gibson of Jefferson.

        On motion of Mr. HOPKINS,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the relief of John Preston,


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Walter Preston and Thomas Preston from an erroneous assessment of a tract of land in the county of Wise.

        Mr. GILMER of Pittsylvania presented the petition of officers of volunteer company A, 101st regiment Virginia militia, praying to be relieved from the necessity of attending the regimental musters; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. COLLIER,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of amending the charter of the Planters savings bank of Petersburg.

        On motion of Mr. RIVES,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs be instructed to enquire into the expediency of authorizing the formation of a rifle volunteer company in the county of Surry, the minimum number of which shall not be less than thirty-five, rank and file.

        Mr. RIVES presented the petition of citizens of Surry, for the formation of a rifle volunteer company; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. HACKLEY,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of amending the 23d section of the 3d chapter of the statutes of 1859-60.

        On motion of Mr. McGEHEE,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of authorizing the county court of Charlotte to levy a tax of six thousand dollars to arm the volunteers and militia of said county.

        Mr. WATSON of Pulaski presented the petition of citizens of Pulaski county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of incorporating the Augusta and Rockbridge lumber company.

        Mr. THOMPSON presented the petition of George C. Bowyer and others, asking to have refunded to them certain money paid by them as sureties, &c.; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. BASSEL,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of suspending for one year the whole unexpended appropriations for internal improvements, and to report the bill of the last session laying a tax of one per cent. on the sales of all merchants in the state, or collected only upon one sale, and also the special license bill of the last session.

        On motion of Mr. LUNDY,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of authorizing such volunteer companies as have not already been provided with arms by the state, to purchase arms, the quality and quantity to be defined and limited by law, and that for such sum so expended, said companies shall be reimbursed out of the treasury.


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        Mr. SAUNDERS presented the petition of Henry R. Jones, for an increase of salary as clerk of the Virginia penitentiary; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON,

        Resolved, that a special committee be appointed to bring in a bill to amend the 1st section of an act to prevent trespasses, depredations, &c. along the borders of the Potomac and other tide waters in the counties of Fairfax, Stafford and King George.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under this resolution: Messrs. Seddon, Rutherfoord and Newton.

        Subsequently, Mr. SEDDON, from the committee, presented the following bill; which, on his motion, was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time:

        No. 33. A bill to amend the 1st section of an act to prevent trespasses and depredations along the waters of the Potomac and other tide waters in the counties of Fairfax, Stafford and King George.

        Mr. WEST presented the petition of citizens of Harrison county, praying an amendment to the law in regard to the trespassing of hogs; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. PORTER presented the proceedings of a public meeting in Brooke county; which was ordered to be referred to the joint committee on state and national affairs.

        On motion of Mr. JETT,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances be instructed to enquire into the expediency of allowing Silla Rich, a free woman of color, to enslave herself and children to Albert F. Yerby.

        Mr. THOMAS presented the petition of Charles H. Kunkel, praying to be relieved from taxes improperly assessed; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire,

        Resolved, that so much of the governor's message as refers to the appointment of commissioners under the act of 23d January last, be referred to the committee on finance, and that they be instructed to make provision, by bill or otherwise, for a fair and just remuneration to them for their services.

        On motion of Mr. WELCH,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of incorporating a company to construct a rail road from Charleston in the county of Kanawha, up Elk river, to such point as may be deemed necessary to accommodate the trade.

        On motion of Mr. MONTGOMERY,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw house bill 372 of the last session, and that the same be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. ARNOLD,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill incorporating a savings bank in the town of Bath in the county of Morgan.


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        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN,

        Resolved, that the 15th standing rule of the house be so amended as to provide for the more speedy printing of house bills.

        On motion of Mr. WITTEN,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks be requested to enquire into the expediency of amending the act incorporating the Northwestern Bank of Virginia.

        On motion of Mr. MILLER of Lee,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire into the expediency of repealing or modifying the usury laws.

        On motion of Mr. RICHARDSON,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to enable the town of South Wheeling to dispose of some of the real estate belonging thereto.

        On motion of Mr. LOCKRIDGE,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to refund to W. L. Heeald a sum of money paid by him on erroneous assessment of taxes.

        On motion of Mr. WOOLFOLK,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs be instructed to enquire into the expediency of remitting to Major Richard Chapman fines improperly imposed upon him by the court of enquiry for the 3d regiment of Virginia militia.

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN,

        Resolved, that the committee on lunatic asylums enquire into the expediency of changing the names of the several asylums, for their more convenient designation, as follows, respectively, viz: "The Eastern lunatic asylum;" "The Central lunatic asylum;" and "The Northwestern lunatic asylum."

        On motion of Mr. CRANE,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of incorporating a bank, to be located in the county of Randolph, upon the principle of the charter of the Bank of the City of Richmond, passed at the last session of the general assembly of Virginia.

        On motion of Mr. KYLE,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of reducing the act of limitation in actions of ejectment.

        On motion of Mr. GRAHAM,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill amending the charter of the Raleigh and Grayson turnpike company.

        On motion of Mr. BASKERVILL,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of repealing so much of the act passed the 20th day of April 1858, entitled an act providing for a more uniform currency of the banks of the state, as provides that branch banks shall redeem their notes at the parent banks, and that independent banks shall establish redemption agencies at Richmond and Baltimore.


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        On motion of Mr. BOREMAN,

        Resolved, that senate bill 467 for the extension of the Bellville and Williamsport turnpike to Ravenswood in the county of Jackson, be withdrawn, and referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. REID,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of incorporating an insurance company at Lexington in Rockbridge county.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON,

        Resolved, that the joint committee to receive and confer with the commissioners from the state of Alabama, be instructed to request for publication a copy of the address delivered by the Hon. A. F. Hopkins on yesterday.

        On motion of Mr. HOPKINS, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Read of the Presbyterian church.

        A message from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Jan. 16, 1861.

        The senate have passed a bill entitled:

        An act to compensate juries serving on coroners' inquests in the counties of New Kent, Charles City, James City, York, Warwick and Elizabeth City, and also in the cities of Williamsburg and Norfolk.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 6. A senate bill entitled an act to compensate juries serving on coroners' inquests in the counties of New Kent, Charles City, James City, York, Warwick and Elizabeth City, and also in the cities of Williamsburg and Norfolk, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. BISBIE, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, presented the following resolution; which was agreed to:

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire whether any, and if any, what further legislation is necessary to give effect and force to the new edition of the Code of Virginia, provided for by the act of assembly, passed March 19th, 1860, entitled an act providing for publishing a second edition of the Code of Virginia.

        Mr. WINGFIELD, from the committee of claims, presented the following bills:

        No. 51. A bill for the relief of John W. Grove of Frederick county.


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        No. 52. A bill for the relief of Angus M. Wood.

        No. 53. A bill for the relief of George N. Tucker of Halifax county.

        No. 54. A bill to refund to Louisa Hunter of Alexandria county taxes improperly paid.

        No. 55. A bill refunding to Joseph L. Russell amount of taxes improperly paid on license.

        No. 56. A bill for the relief of Henry Cooper of Frederick county.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following bills:

        No. 57. A bill to amend the 1st section of an act entitled an act for the encouragement of certain volunteer military companies in the city of Wheeling, passed March 27th, 1856.

        No. 58. A bill appropriating one million of dollars for the defence of the commonwealth.

        Which last mentioned bill was, on his motion, read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 59. A bill for the relief of Charles A. Hoge and James Musgrave.

        No. 60. A bill for the relief of Thomas Javins of Fairfax county.

        No. 61. A bill refunding to John H. Showalter a license tax improperly charged against and paid by him.

        No. 62. A bill refunding to Robert N. Wright a sum of money paid on erroneous assessment.

        No. 63. A bill refunding to the securities of Wm. H. Blanch, late sheriff of the county of Mecklenburg, certain damages paid by them.

        No. 64. A bill to amend and re-enact the 13th section of chapter 42 of the Code, edition of 1860, so as more effectually to regulate the sales of real estate, under executions in favor of the commonwealth.

        No. 65. A bill for the relief of J. Dickinson Kincaid of Greenbrier county.

        No. 66. A bill to provide for paying to the Bank of Racine lost coupons for interest on the bonds of the state of Virginia.

        No. 67. A bill to provide for the payment to the Richmond branch of the Exchange Bank, of lost coupons for interest on the bonds of the state of Virginia.

        Mr. WINGFIELD, from the committee of claims, presented the following report; which was concurred in:

        The committee of claims have, according to order, had under consideration a resolution enquiring into the expediency of compensating that portion of the 89th regiment of Virginia militia who were called into the service of the state, during the John Brown raid, by the colonel of the regiment, and have adopted the following resolution:

        Resolved, that the commissioners to audit and settle the accounts for services at Harpers Ferry and its neighborhood, during the John Brown raid, be authorized to reconsider the claim of the 89th regiment


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in the county of Morgan, and make report of their decision to this house, and that this committee be discharged from the further consideration of the same.

        Mr. BARBOUR, from the committee on state and federal relations, presented the following report:

Resolved, that in the opinion of the general assembly of Virginia, the propositions embraced in the resolutions presented to the senate of the United States by the Hon. John J. Crittenden, constitute the basis of such an adjustment of the unhappy controversy which now divides the states of this confederacy, as would be accepted by the people of this commonwealth. Resolved, that one commissioner to the government of the United States and one commissioner to the state of South Carolina and the other states that have seceded or shall secede, be appointed by a joint vote of the general assembly, with instructions respectfully to request the president of the United States and the authorities of such states to agree to abstain, pending the proceedings contemplated by the action of this general assembly, from any and all acts calculated to produce a collision of arms between the states and the government of the United States.

        Mr. TOMLIN submitted the following substitute for the report of the committee:

Resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that this commonwealth and the rest of the southern states have just cause of complaint against the non-slaveholding states, for their unfriendly legislation, in attempting to render worthless, constitutional provisions for the rendition of fugitives from labor; in obstructing the execution of constitutional laws; in imprisoning our citizens, and imposing oppressive penalties upon them for asserting in those states their legal rights; in denying the usual comity of nations--the mere right of transit through their territory with property legally acquired and rightfully held under our state constitutions, and guaranteed to us by the constitution of the United States; in endeavoring, by teachings, by declarations from the pulpit, from the hustings and in public meetings, to instill into the minds of our slaves feelings calculated to produce domestic insurrection among us, annoying by their constant repetition, and jeoparding our peace and safety; by the industrious circulation of incendiary publications to produce discord and division in our midst, and incite to midnight murder and every imaginable atrocity against an unoffending community; by their openly avowed determination to circumscribe the institution of slavery within the territory of the states now recognizing it; by subscribing money, paying for arms and munitions of war, and encouraging fanatics to invade our territory and subvert our government; by a persistent denial of the equal rights of the citizens of each state to settle with their property in the common territory acquired by the blood and treasure of all; and finally, in the election, by a sectional majority of the free states alone, to the first office in the republic, of the author and advocate of the sentiments--which he is pledged to carry into his administration of the government--that the states of this Union must be all free or all slave states; that all of the territories belonging equally and in common to the states of this confederacy, shall be forever devoted to freedom; and that slavery shall be put in the course of ultimate extinction: And in our deliberate judgment, such systematic opposition denotes a hostility which imperiously demands the most prompt and decisive action on the part of the states aggrieved, to remedy the evil, and if possible to restore friendly intercourse and fraternal regard and affection among the people and the respective state governments. Resolved, that the sympathy and co-operation of sister states, under such circumstances, cannot be otherwise than grateful, and their united action ought to be successful; and in giving expression to such feelings, we manifest our desire to aid in perpetuating the relations of amity which ought to exist, and which are the safeguards for harmony and peace among nations. Resolved, that a consultation among the southern states upon our rights and our wrongs, and upon the mode and measure of redress, to be afterwards submitted to the northern states, with an earnest appeal to their sense of justice, to acknowledge
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and adhere to them, must tend "to form a more perfect Union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquillity, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity." We therefore earnestly recommend the co-operation of all the southern states in assembling a convention for the purposes and objects herein expressed. Resolved, that the general assembly of this commonwealth will, by joint ballot, elect commissioners to represent this state, and that each of the southern states be requested in like manner to elect similar commissioners on their part, to meet at Montgomery, in the state of Alabama, on the 4th day of February next, in such convention. And it is hereby expressly declared that the action of such convention shall be submitted to the general assembly, or to the convention of this state, if in session, and to each of the southern states, for ratification or rejection. Resolved, that the governor transmit a copy of these resolutions to the president of the United States, with a request that the same be communicated to the congress of the United States, and also copies to the governors of the several states, requesting that they be submitted to the legislature of each state respectively. Resolved, that the general assembly will, by joint ballot, elect commissioners, with instructions respectfully to request the president of the United States to abstain, during the mediation contemplated by these resolutions, from all acts calculated to produce a collision of arms between the states and the government of the United States; and commissioners be elected in like manner, with instructions respectfully to request the state of South Carolina and the other states that have seceded or may secede, to avoid any action other than for defence, which may produce collision with the forces of the federal government.

        The report and substitute were laid on the table, and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 15.

        On motion of Mr. JONES of Gloucester, the resolutions submitted by Mr. Crittenden, in the senate of the United States, were ordered to be printed with the report of the committee.

        On motion of Mr. JONES of Appomattox,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of amending the first section of chapter fifty-eight of the Code of Virginia, so that no person shall be elected or appointed a director in a bank, unless he is a stockholder in said bank.

        On motion of Mr. BASS,

        Resolved, that the committee of schools and colleges be instructed to enquire into the expediency of loaning a sum of money to Roanoke college, not exceeding ten thousand dollars.

        Mr. EDGINGTON presented the memorial of the Wheeling and Belmont bridge company; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. EDGINGTON,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw bill 451 of the last session, also the memorial of the members of the bar of the circuit court of Ohio county, and that the same be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        Mr. McGRUDER presented the remonstrance of forty-three citizens of Henrico county against the proposed extension of the corporate limits of the city of Richmond; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        The SPEAKER presented the following communication from the governor of the commonwealth:


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EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
Jan. 17, 1861.

Gentlemen of the Senate
and House of Delegates:

        I have received a communication from his excellency Edwin D. Morgan, governor of New York, enclosing a preamble and resolutions adopted by the legislature of that state.

        The first resolution declares, "that the legislature of New York" tender to the president of the United States "whatever aid in men and money he may require to enable him to enforce the laws and uphold the authority of the federal government." This I understand to be a declaration of their readiness and willingness to sacrifice the men and money of that state in the effort to coerce the slaveholding states into submission to federal authority. The governor and legislature of New York ought to know that the sword has never reconciled differences of opinion. Military coercion can never perpetuate the existence of this Union. When the affections of the people are withdrawn from the government, an attempt at coercion can have no other effect than to exasperate the people threatened to be coerced. Bloodshed in civil strife can only enrich the soil, that must speedily produce "a harvest of woe."

        I cannot suppose, from what has occurred, that the president of the United States would be inclined to adopt a policy which he must see and know could not fail to result in bloodshed. I am satisfied that prudence and patriotism would induce him to reject all counsels and measures which would be calculated to bring about so great a calamity. I have no idea, therefore, that he will accept the tender which has been so inopportunely and so ostentatiously paraded before the country.

        Nothing that has occurred in the progress of this controversy, has been worse timed and less excusable. If the governor and legislature of New York desire to preserve the Union, a tender of men and money, under the promptings of passion, prejudice and excitement, will not produce the result. At a time like this, when the horizon is overcast with clouds, when darkness and gloom are gathering close around us, and when we behold nothing but danger on all sides, some little wisdom, discretion and prudence is expected from the representatives of the people. They ought at least to refrain from adding fuel to a flame that burns with the utmost intensity now. It would have been far better that these resolutions had never been adopted.

        In 1798 and 1799 the action of Virginia was marked by calmness, dignity, and an earnest desire to preserve the Union, without prejudice to the rights of the states. No feeling of resentment towards the other states was manifested by those great men in that day of peril and trial. No effort was made to produce estrangement between the different sections of the country, or to inflame popular prejudices. Their example is worthy of imitation, when events are hurrying us on so rapidly into the dangers of civil strife.


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        Nothing but a sense of duty has induced me to transmit this preamble and resolutions to the two houses of the general assembly. The threat which is conveyed in them can inspire no terror with freemen.

JOHN LETCHER.


        The message and resolutions were read.

        On motion of Mr. ANDERSON,

        Resolved, that the governor of Virginia return the resolutions of the legislature of New York to the executive of that state, with the request that no such resolutions be again sent to this general assembly.

        Mr. BARBOUR, from the committee on state and national affairs, moved to take up the report of that committee, submitted on Monday; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. NEWTON moved to strike out the preamble of the report, and to insert the following:

        "Whereas several of the southern states have seen fit to withdraw from this confederacy, and it is expedient that this commonwealth should use all honorable efforts to avert the consequences which may ensue, by a firm expression of opinion from her constituted authorities in reference to the position now occupied to their confederates by the said states, as well as by initiating any movement which may result in a reconstruction of the federal government upon a basis which will secure to the slaveholding states all their constitutional rights:

        1. Be it resolved, that the federal constitution is the result of a compact formed between sovereign parties, for the mutual promotion of their respective interests, the principal object of its adoption being the protection of the interests and the preservation of the liberties of each individual state.

        2. That whenever any number of states combine to use the government thus created, either directly or indirectly to overthrow its institutions or destroy its liberties, the state or states thus aggrieved have the undoubted right to withdraw from the confederacy.

        3. That while different opinions may well be entertained in reference to the expediency of secession upon the part of those states which have withdrawn from the Union--the frequent grave and deliberate violations of the federal constitution by the northern members of the confederacy give each of those states the right to exercise its own judgment in reference to such action as the honor and safety of its people may require.

        4. That in the present alarming condition of affairs it is dangerous delusion to suppose that the interests of Virginia are not thoroughly identified with those of her southern sisters, and that any intimation from any source that her people are looking to any other combination in the last resort than a union with them, is calculated to weaken the position of our friends and to strengthen the hands of our enemies."

        The question being on striking out and inserting, Mr. CHRISTIAN demanded a division of the question; and upon that question Mr. SIBERT demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.


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        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Arnold, Ball, Barbour, Bass, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Ferguson, Fleming, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Jett, Johnson, Keen, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wingfield, Wood and Yerby--87.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Anderson, Bailey, Bell, Boisseau, Carter, Childs, Claiborne, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, Grattan, Hunter, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morgan, Newton, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, E. Watson, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--44.

        The question being upon striking out the preamble reported by the committee, Mr. PHELPS demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bell, Boisseau, Carpenter, Carter, Childs, Claiborne, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, Grattan, Hunter, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, Mong, Newton, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, E. Watson, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--38.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Allen, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Barbour, Bass, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Chapman, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Ferguson, Fleming, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Jett, Johnson, Keen, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wingfield, Wood and Yerby--95.

        Mr. SEDDON submitted the following amendment to the first resolution of the committee.

        "Resolved, in the opinion of the general assembly, that the ultimatum of the state of Virginia should be, that no reconstruction of the union between the southern and northern states can be permanent, just and satisfactory, which will not so readjust the balances of power in the government itself as to secure to each section a self-protective power against any invasion by the federal Union upon the reserved rights of either."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. McKENZIE demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Anderson, Bailey, Bell, Boisseau, Carpenter, Carter, Childs, Claiborne, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, Huntt, Hunter, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Locke, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, T. Martin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McKinney, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Nelson, Newton, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, E. Watson, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--52.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Arnold, Ball, Barbour, Bass, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Cassin, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson,


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Edgington, Ferguson, Fleming, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Jett, Johnson, Keen, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wingfield, Wood and Yerby--83.

        The question being on the adoption of the 1st resolution reported from the committee, Mr. KEEN demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. BOREMAN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Barbour, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, Keen, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Rives, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wingfield, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--116.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Carpenter, Claiborne, Friend, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Locke, Lynn, McDowell, Medley, Newton, Rutherfoord, Seddon, H. Smith, Tomlin and Wilson--19.

        The remaining resolutions reported from the committee were then severally adopted.

        Mr. ROBERTSON submitted an amendment to the 4th resolution; which was concurred in.

        The report of the committee, as amended, is as follows:

        Whereas it is the deliberate opinion of the general assembly of Virginia, that unless the unhappy controversy, which now divides the states of this confederacy, shall be satisfactorily adjusted, a dissolution of the Union is inevitable; and the general assembly, representing the wishes of the people of the commonwealth, is desirous of employing every reasonable means to avert so dire a calamity, and determined to make a final effort to restore the Union and the constitution, in the spirit in which they were established by the fathers of the republic: Therefore,

        1. Resolved, that on behalf of the commonwealth of Virginia, an invitation is hereby extended to all such states, whether slaveholding or non-slaveholding, as are willing to unite with Virginia in an earnest effort to adjust the present unhappy controversies, in the spirit in which the constitution was originally formed, and consistently with its principles, so as to afford to the people of the slaveholding states adequate guarantees for the security of their rights, to appoint commissioners, to meet on the 4th day of February next, in the city of Washington, similar commissioners appointed by Virginia, to consider, and if practicable agree upon some suitable adjustment.

        2. Resolved, that five commissioners be appointed by the general assembly, whose duty it shall be to repair to the city of Washington, on the day designated in the foregoing resolution, to meet such commissioners as may be appointed by any of the states, in accordance with the foregoing invitation.

        3. Resolved, that if said commissioners, after full and free conference, shall agree upon any plan of adjustment requiring amendments of the federal constitution, for the further security of the rights of the people of the slaveholding states, they be requested to communicate the proposed amendments to congress, for the purpose of having the same submitted by that body, according to the forms of the constitution, to the several states for ratification.

        4. Resolved, that if said commissioners cannot agree on such adjustment, or if agreeing, congress shall refuse to submit for ratification such amendments as may be proposed, then the commissioners of this state shall immediately communicate the result to the executive of this commonwealth, to be by him laid before the convention of the people of Virginia and the general assembly: provided, that said commissioners be subject at all times to the control of the general assembly, or if in session, to that of the state convention.


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        5. Resolved, that copies of the foregoing resolutions be forthwith telegraphed to the executives of the several states.


        Mr. NEWTON submitted the following as a further amendment to the report of the committee:

        "Resolved, that in the present alarming condition of affairs, it is a dangerous delusion to suppose that the interests of Virginia are not thoroughly identified with those of her southern sisters, and that any intimation that her people are looking to any other combination in the last resort than a union with them, is calculated to weaken the positions of our friends and to strengthen the hands of our enemies."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. WALKER demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. NEWTON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Anderson, Bailey, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bell, Boisseau, Carpenter, Carter, Childs, Coleman, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Leftwich, Lynn, Mallory, T. Martin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McKinney, Mong, Montague, Nelson, Newton, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, Wilson, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--55.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Arnold, Ball, Barbour, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Cassin, Christian, Collier, Edgington, Ferguson, Fleming, D. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Johnson, Keen, Kyle, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McGruder, McKenzie, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Segar, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, A. Watson, Watts, Welch and Wingfield--63.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate of the passage of the foregoing preamble and resolutions, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Read of the Presbyterian church.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, presented the following bill:

        No. 68. A bill to amend the 11th section of chapter 212 of the Code.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, to whom had been recommitted No. 7, a bill to amend the charter of the city of Richmond, presented the same with amendments; which, on his motion, were read a first time and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bills:


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        No. 69. A bill to establish the county of Bland out of parts of Giles, Wythe and Tazewell.

        No. 70. A bill for the voluntary enslavement of Silla Rich and children without compensation to the state.

        No. 71. A bill authorizing the trustees of the First Presbyterian church, in Portsmouth, to execute a deed of trust on said property.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bills:

        No. 72. A bill amending the charter of the Black lick and Plaster bank turnpike company.

        No. 73. A bill amending the charter of the Raleigh and Grayson turnpike company.

        No. 74. A bill to amend the charter of the Sir John's run turnpike company.

        No. 75. A bill to provide for the completion of the Middle fork turnpike.

        Mr. SEDDON, from the committee on banks, presented the following bills:

        No. 76. A bill to repeal sections 28, 29, 30, 31 and 32 of chapter 58 of the Code of Virginia of 1860.

        No. 77. A bill for the temporary relief of the banks of this commonwealth.

        Which last mentioned bill was, on his motion, read a first time and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following reports:

        An adverse report to the petition of James A. Harris and others, asking that James V. Thomas be released from the payment of a fine.

        An adverse report to the petition of George I. Herring and others, asking to be released from the payment of money as sureties of P. P. Winston, late sheriff of the city of Richmond.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented the following resolution:

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the expediency of allowing the sureties of P. P. Winston, late sheriff of Richmond city, longer time to pay their liability as such sureties to this commonwealth.

        Mr. SEDDON, from the committee on banks, presented an adverse report upon the resolution enquiring into the expediency of amending the charter of the Planters Bank of Petersburg.

        Mr. SEDDON, from the same committee, presented the following resolution; which, on his motion, was laid on the table:

        Resolved, that it is the unanimous opinion of the committee on banks that it is inexpedient under existing circumstances to incorporate any new banks or branches.

        On motion of Mr. SIBERT,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to John J. Grandstaff, late sheriff of the county of Shenandoah a certain sum of money erroneously paid.


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        On motion of Mr. HOFFMAN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance consider the propriety of refunding to the executor of Charles Holden the amount of a fine paid by him, and paying to the said executor certain commissions.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON of Jefferson,

        Resolved, that the committee on claims enquire into the expediency of paying Emory Edwards for a negro man who was sentenced to be sold and transported by the county court of Jefferson county.

        Mr. GIBSON of Jefferson presented the petition of Emory Edwards, which was ordered to be referred to the committee on claims.

        On motion of Mr. BOOKER,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of repealing the law requiring the publication of their quarterly statements in the city papers, leaving so much of the law in force as requires them to be published by the banks in the towns and cities in which they are located, and that the banks of this commonwealth be required to make prompt quarterly returns of their condition to the executive department.

        On motion of Mr. KNOTTS,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the last session petitions from Gilmer and Braxton counties, praying that a portion of the county of Braxton be attached to the county of Gilmer, and that the same be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. KNOTTS presented the petition of the citizens of Gilmer county, praying that a portion of the county of Braxton be attached to the county of Gilmer, which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. JETT presented the proceedings of a public meeting in Richmond county, which was ordered to be referred to the committee on state and federal affairs.

        Mr. McGRUDER presented the remonstrance of one hundred and forty-seven citizens of Henrico county against the proposed extension of the corporation limits of Richmond city, which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. HACKLEY,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the voluntary enslavement of Clara a free woman of color and her children in the county of Rappahannock.

        No. 52. A bill to incorporate the Virginia boot and shoe manufacturing company, was taken up on motion of Mr. BISBIE, read a second time and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, Mr. BISBIE moved that the bill be read a third time this day; pending the consideration of which, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, the bill was laid upon the table.

        No. 40. A bill to create an ordnance department, was taken up on motion of Mr. KEMPER, amended and read a second time and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed,


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two-thirds concurring, on motion of Mr. KEMPER, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Burks, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Wingfield, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--130.

        Ordered, that Mr. KEMPER carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 58. A bill appropriating one million of dollars for the defence of the commonwealth, was taken up on motion of Mr. KEMPER, read a second time and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, was read a third time (two-thirds concurring) and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Burks, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Friend J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Wingfield, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--120.

        Ordered, that Mr. KEMPER carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 44. A bill to authorize the issue of treasury notes, was taken up on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, read a second time and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Burks, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Davis, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Friend, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, James, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Reid, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, I. N. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Wingfield, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--111.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. WALLACE, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.


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SATURDAY, JANUARY 19, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Read of the Presbyterian church.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, presented the following bills:

        No. 77. A bill for the relief of T. D. Fendall, administrator of William Eaches deceased.

        No. 78. A bill to increase the pay of the commonwealth's attorney for the circuit court of Ohio county.

        No. 79. A bill to authorize the county courts to arm the militia of their respective counties, and to provide means therefor.

        Which last mentioned bill was, on his motion, read a first, and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. WINGFIELD, from the committee of claims, presented the following bills:

        No. 80. A bill for the relief of Emory Edwards of Washington county in the state of Maryland.

        No. 81. A bill authorizing the payment of $147 75 to Captain William H. Werth of company A of the 101st regiment Virginia militia.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 82. A bill exempting from taxation the real estate of the Virginia mechanics institute.

        No. 83. A bill authorizing the payment of forfeited commissions and damages to the executor of Charles Holden deceased, late sheriff of the county of Harrison.

        No. 84. A bill amending the 107th section of chapter 35 of the Code of Virginia, and providing for the correction of erroneous assessments of taxes on lands.

        Which last mentioned bill was read a first, and ordered to be read a second time.

        No. 85. A bill refunding to Samuel A. McMechen and John G. Harness, jr., a sum of money paid by them on an erroneous assessment of land.

        Mr. SEDDON, from the committee on banks, presented the following bill:

        No. 86. A bill incorporating the Berkeley springs savings bank in the town of Bath in the county of Morgan.

        Mr. WINGFIELD, from the committee of claims, presented the following report:

        An adverse report to the petition of Floyd Smith, late sheriff of Montgomery county.

        Mr. WINGFIELD, from the same committee, presented a report, asking that senate bill 448 of last session be referred to the committee on finance, and that the committee of claims be discharged from the further consideration of the subject; which was concurred in by the house.

        Also a report asking that the petition of Robert H. Gray, attorney


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for heirs of soldiers and officers of the revolutionary war, be referred to the committee for courts of justice, and that the committee of claims be discharged from the further consideration of the subject; which was concurred in by the house.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented a report asking that the committee on finance be discharged from the further consideration of the resolution enquiring into the expediency of allowing to James Carok, administrator of Wm. F. Davis deceased, compensation for services rendered to the 77th regiment of Virginia militia, and that the same be referred to the committee on military affairs; which was concurred in by the house.

        On motion of Mr. WATTS,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire into the expediency of amending chapter 134 of the Code of Virginia.

        Mr. GRAHAM presented the petition of Robert Rosser, &c., asking that taxes be refunded on lands erroneously assessed; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER,

        Resolved, that the Board of public works be authorized and requested to audit the accounts of the commissioners of the armory, and to state and report a settlement of the same to this house.

        On motion of Mr. PRESTON,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to amend the act of the last session of the legislature, providing for the construction of the Knob turnpike from the Russell courthouse and Saltville turnpike, via Abingdon, to the Tennessee line, so as to provide for two companies instead of one, viz: one company, for the construction of that part of the road north of Abingdon, and the other for the construction of so much of the road as lies south of Abingdon.

        On motion of Mr. KEE,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the purpose of preventing the hunting of deer with dogs, in the county of Pendleton, at any season in the year, with the exception of when wounded in still hunting.

        Mr. BALL presented the petition of citizens of the county of Loudoun, praying that the volunteer companies of the border counties, and especially the Loudoun guard, may be forthwith furnished with the most improved arms and equipments now in use; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. BALL,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire into the expediency of allowing compensation to the officers of the Hillsborough border guard, for service rendered during the John Brown raid.

        Mr. WOOLFOLK presented the petition of the people of Orange (through their committee) to the general assembly of Virginia, praying for the passage of an act authorizing the county court of Orange


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to borrow money to purchase arms, &c. for the defence of the county, and to provide means therefor.

        Mr. WOOLFOLK presented the proceedings of a meeting of the people of Greene county; which was ordered to be referred to the joint committee on federal relations.

        Mr. WOOLFOLK presented the proceedings of a meeting of the citizens of Orange county; which was ordered to be referred to the joint committee on federal relations.

        Mr. CARPENTER presented the petition of sundry citizens of Alleghany county, for the relief of Pittman Boley from a fine imposed by the circuit court of Alleghany county, at its April term 1860; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        A message was received from the senate, by Mr. LYNCH, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a bill entitled an act to authorize the county courts and any incorporated city or town to arm the militia of their respective counties, cities and towns, and to provide means therefor, No. 19: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        The bill was taken up, on motion of Mr. JONES of Appomattox, and read a first and second times.

        Mr. GIBSON of Jefferson moved that the bill be committed to the committee for courts of justice; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. BENTLEY demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        Mr. CRANE submitted the following amendment:

        "Provided, that the general assembly shall not at any time hereafter assume the payment of, or the refunding of any debt which may be created by any county or corporation of this commonwealth, under the provisions of this act."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        Mr. MAGRUDER submitted the following amendment:

        "It shall be the duty of the colonel of ordnance to act as agent of such counties as desire his services in the purchase of such arms as they respectively provide for."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, was put and decided in the negative.

        Mr. BASS moved to strike out the 4th section of the bill, and insert the following:

        "The said courts shall not contract any debt or liability, unless the qualified voters of said counties or corporations shall, by a vote of three-fifths, consent thereto; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. BASS, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Bass, Boreman, Brown, Cassin, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Johnson, Kee, Kyle, Mallory, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Montague, Morris, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Reid, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, Wallace, Watts and Wingfield--48.


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        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ballard, Baskervill, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Burks, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Hopkins, Hunter, James, Jett, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Leftwich, Locke, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, J. G. Martin, McCamant, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, Medley, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montgomery, Morgan, Nelson, Newton, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, I. N. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, A. Watson, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--75.

        The bill was then read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house communications from the presidents of the Bank of Virginia and Farmers Bank of Virginia, and from the cashier of the Exchange Bank of Virginia, conveying certain information asked for by a resolution of the house; which, on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, were laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 16.

        On motion of Mr. MATTHEWS,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of relieving the sureties of John E. Lewis, late sheriff of Greenbrier county, from the payment of damages, and granting them further time for the payment of certain judgments against them.

        On motion of Mr. BENTLEY,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of amending the road law of the county of Loudoun.

        On motion of Mr. WALKER,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice, as a temporary relief, enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill requiring all property sold under execution to realize two-thirds of its value.

        Mr. TYLER presented the petition of Thos. L. Jones; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        Mr. KINCHELOE presented the petition of Richard H. Horner, praying reimbursement for losses sustained on account of sickness while in the service of the state during the John Brown foray; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of claims.

        On motion of Mr. MORGAN,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of amending the twentieth section of chapter twenty-six of the Code, so as to allow volunteer companies in contiguous counties to form battalions and regiments.

        On motion of Mr. PRITCHARD,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of amending the charter of the Clarksburg and Wheeling turnpike road, so as to enable said company to extend its road, to intersect the Dunkard creek turnpike in Monongalia county.

        No. 52. An engrossed bill to incorporate the Virginia boot and shoe manufacturing company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BISBIE.

        Mr. MAGRUDER submitted a ryder thereto; which was read a first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        The bill was then read a third time and passed.


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        On motion of Mr. JONES of Gloucester, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bentley, Bisbie, Boreman, Brown, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Fleming, J. T. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Hanly, Hackley, Holdway, Hopkins, Hunter, James, Jett, Kaufman, Kee, Kincheloe, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lynn, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McGruder, McKinney, D. Miller, Mong, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Phelps, Porter, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Robinson, Saunders, Segar, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Welch, Willcox, Wingfield, Witten, Wood and Yerby--74.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Bell, Burks, Coleman, Evans, Friend, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Grattan, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kemper, Lundy, Mallory, J. G. Martin, McDowell, Medley, Miles, Montague, Morgan, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, Tomlin, Tyler, Watts, Wilson and Woolfolk--32.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. CARPENTER presented the petition of Edward McMahan and other contractors on the Covington and Ohio rail road, for relief from their present financial embarrassment in the prosecution of that work; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. CARPENTER,

        Resolved, that the Board of public works furnish to this house any information which in their judgment they may deem pertinent to the question involved in the petition of Edward McMahan and other contractors on the Covington and Ohio rail road.

        On motion of Mr. LUCAS,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending the 63d section of chapter 112 of the Code of 1860.

        On motion of Mr. FRIEND,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill making it unlawful for negroes to own or keep dogs in the county of Chesterfield.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be requested to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to provide for the extension of the time in which the sheriffs are required to pay the taxes into the treasury of the state.

        On motion of Mr. JETT,

        Resolved, that the committee of schools and colleges enquire into the expediency of allowing $12 78 to James F. White, for tuition of indigent children in school district No. 1, of Richmond county.

        On motion of Mr. SEGAR,

        Resolved, that the committee on agriculture and manufactures enquire into the expediency of repealing the twenty-first section of chapter eighty-seven of the Code, edition of 1860, in relation to the marking of western tobacco.

        On motion of Mr. CASSIN,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw from the files of this house, bill 129, and that the same be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.


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        On motion of Mr. MONTGOMERY,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to increase the allowance of Paxton Morton, late commissioner of the revenue of Fayette county, for services rendered the commonwealth.

        No. 53. A bill to amend the 1st section of an act to prevent trespasses, depredations, &c. along the borders of the Potomac and other tide waters in the counties of Fairfax, Stafford and King George, was taken up, on motion of Mr. SEDDON, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, was, two-thirds concurring, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 50. A bill to defray the expenses of a pedestal, setting up and transporting the statue of Jefferson, was taken up, on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Bisbie, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, Fleming, Friend, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hopkins, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Phelps, Porter, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--114.

        Ordered, that Mr. MAGRUDER carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. JOHNSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to certain joint resolutions communicated from the house, inviting the other states to send commissioners to meet commissioners on the part of Virginia, and providing for the appointment of the same, with amendments: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        The first and second amendments of the senate were agreed to.

        The question being on agreeing to the third amendment of the senate, which contained the basis of adjustment submitted by the Hon. John J. Crittenden to the senate of the United States, with amendments thereto, Mr. SEDDON demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. TOMLIN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, Kaufman, Kee, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle,


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Leftwich, Locke, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Mathews, Maupin, McCamant, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Willcox, Wingfield, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--114.

        NOES--Messrs. Carpenter, Claiborne, J. T. Gibson, Grattan, Hopkins, W. T. Jones, Kemper, McDowell, J. R. Miller, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Tomlin and Wilson--13.

        The remaining amendments were then concurred in.

        Ordered, that Mr. HAYMOND inform the senate thereof.

        The resolutions, as amended, are as follows:

        Whereas it is the deliberate opinion of the general assembly of Virginia, that unless the unhappy controversy, which now divides the states of this confederacy, shall be satisfactorily adjusted, a permanent dissolution of the Union is inevitable; and the general assembly, representing the wishes of the people of the commonwealth, is desirous of employing every reasonable means to avert so dire a calamity, and determined to make a final effort to restore the Union and the constitution, in the spirit in which they were established by the fathers of the republic: Therefore,

        Resolved, that on behalf of the commonwealth of Virginia, an invitation is hereby extended to all such states, whether slaveholding or non-slaveholding, as are willing to unite with Virginia in an earnest effort to adjust the present unhappy controversies, in the spirit in which the constitution was originally formed, and consistently with its principles, so as to afford to the people of the slaveholding states adequate guarantees for the security of their rights, to appoint commissioners to meet on the 4th day of February next, in the city of Washington, similar commissioners appointed by Virginia, to consider, and if practicable, agree upon some suitable adjustment.

        Resolved, that Ex-president John Tyler, William C. Rivers, Judge John W. Brockenbrough, George W. Summers and James A. Seddon, are hereby appointed commissioners, whose duty it shall be to repair to the city of Washington, on the day designated in the foregoing resolution, to meet such commissioners as may be appointed by any of the said states, in accordance with the foregoing resolution.

        Resolved, that if said commissioners, after full and free conference, shall agree upon any plan of adjustment requiring amendments of the federal constitution, for the further security of the rights of the people of the slaveholding states, they be requested to communicate the proposed amendments to congress, for the purpose of having the same submitted by that body, according to the forms of the constitution, to the several states for ratification.

        Resolved, that if said commissioners cannot agree on said adjustment, or if agreeing, congress shall refuse to submit for ratification such amendments as may be proposed, then the commissioners of this state shall immediately communicate the result to the executive of this commonwealth, to be by him laid before the convention of the people of Virginia and the general assembly: provided, that the said commissioners be subject at all times to the control of the general assembly, or if in session, to that of the state convention.

        Resolved, that in the opinion of the general assembly of Virginia,


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the propositions embraced in the resolutions presented to the senate of the United States by the Hon. John J. Crittenden, so modified as that the first article proposed as an amendment to the constitution of the United States shall apply to all the territory of the United States now held or hereafter acquired south of latitude thirty-six degrees and thirty minutes, and provide that slavery of the African race shall be effectually protected as property therein during the continuance of the territorial government, and the fourth article shall secure to the owners of slaves the right of transit with their slaves between and through the non-slaveholding states and territories, constitute the basis of such an adjustment of the unhappy controversy which now divides the states of this confederacy, as would be accepted by the people of this commonwealth.

        Resolved, that Ex-president John Tyler is hereby appointed by the concurrent vote of each branch of the general assembly, a commissioner to the president of the United States, and Judge John Robertson is hereby appointed, by a like vote, a commissioner to the state of South Carolina, and the other states that have seceded, or shall secede, with instructions respectfully to request the president of the United States and the authorities of such states to agree to abstain, pending the proceedings contemplated by the action of this general assembly, from any and all acts calculated to produce a collision of arms between the states and the government of the United States.

        Resolved, that copies of the foregoing resolutions be forthwith telegraphed to the executives of the several states, and also to the president of the United States, and that the governor be requested to inform, without delay, the commissioners of their appointment by the foregoing resolutions.

        Mr. SEDDON submitted the following resolutions:

        Resolved by the general assembly, that in the present alarming condition of affairs, it is a dangerous delusion to suppose that the interests of Virginia are not thoroughly identified with those of her southern sisters; and that any impression that her people are looking to any other combination, in the last resort, than a union with them, is calculated to weaken the position of our friends, and strengthen the hands of our enemies.

        Resolved, that in the opinion of this general assembly, no reconstruction of the Union between the slaveholding and non-slaveholding states, can be permanent, just and satisfactory, which will not secure to each section a self-protecting power against any invasion, by the federal Union, upon the reserved rights of either.

        Mr. MAGRUDER demanded a division of the question; and the question being on agreeing to the first resolution, Mr. DUCKWALL demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Burks, Caperton, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Evans, Friend, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin,


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W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Nelson, Newton, Phelps, Pritchard, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Welch, Wilson, Wood and Woolfolk--83.

        NOES--Messrs. Myers, Porter, Richardson and Wingfield--4.

        The question being on the adoption of the second resolution, Mr. SEDDON demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Anderson, Baskervill, Bassel, Bell, Carter, Childs, Claiborne, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Evans, Friend, J. T. Gibson, Graham, Grattan, Huntt, Hunter, James, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Kyle, Locke, Mallory, McCamant, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Myers, Newton, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Shannon, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--55.

        ONES--Messrs. Alderson, Arnold, Ball, Bentley, Bisbie, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Cowan, Dickenson, Edgington, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hackley, Holdway, Jett, Johnson, Knotts, Leftwich, Magruder, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Richardson, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Walker, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, Wingfield, Wood and Yerby--42.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the foregoing resolutions to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. GRAHAM, the house adjourned until Monday, 12 o'clock.

MONDAY, JANUARY 21, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Jan. 19, 1861.

        The senate have adopted a joint resolution concerning the position of Virginia in the event of the dissolution of the Union.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        The joint resolution was read as follows:

        Resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that if all efforts to reconcile the unhappy differences existing between the two sections of the country, should prove to be abortive, then, in the opinion of the general assembly, every consideration of honor and interest demand that Virginia shall unite her destiny with the slaveholding states of the south.

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. McDOWELL, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Cowan, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, W, Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGruder,


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McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Phelps, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--108.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing a communication from the president of the convention of the state of Alabama; which, on motion of Mr. DUCKWALL, was ordered to be printed, and referred to the committee on state and national affairs. Doc. No. 17.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bills:

        No. 87. A bill providing for the voluntary enslavement of Clara and her children, by the county court of Rappahannock.

        No. 88. A bill to incorporate the Virginia lumber company in the counties of Augusta and Rockbridge.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the same committee, presented a report, asking that the committee of propositions and grievances be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of citizens of Monongalia county, in regard to repeal of the license tax on bread-stuffs, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance; which was concurred in by the house.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bills:

        No. 89. A bill to transfer the Cacapon and North branch turnpike to the county court of Hampshire.

        No. 90. A bill making a subscription on the part of the state to the Roanoke valley rail road company.

        No. 91. A bill to incorporate the Grassy lick turnpike company.

        No. 92. A bill to amend the charter of the Brown's gap turnpike company.

        No. 93. A bill amending the charter of the Clarksburg and Wheeling turnpike company.

        No. 94. A bill to incorporate the Elk river rail road company.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following bill; which, on his motion, was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time:

        No. 95. A bill to create a provisional state guard.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 96. A bill to amend chapter 108 of the Code, concerning births, marriages and deaths.

        No. 97. A bill for the relief of the securities of Joshua H. Staats deceased, late sheriff of the county of Jackson.

        No. 98. A bill amending and re-enacting the 61st section of chapter 38 of the Code, prescribing an oath to be taken before granting licenses.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to the petition of Thomas C. Bunting and others, asking to be released from a forfeited recognizance.

        Mr. ALDERSON presented the petition of John L. Morton and


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others, asking a change in the county line of Webster county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. McGRUDER presented the remonstrance of sundry citizens of Henrico, against the proposed extension of the limits of Richmond; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, for Mr. KEEN, presented the petition of the council of the town of Danville, for authority to establish a chain gang; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of incorporating the southern express company, with power to transport packages, &c. throughout the southern states.

        Mr. MARTIN of Henry submitted the following resolution:

        Resolved, that this house, when it adjourns on Saturday next, will, with the consent of the senate, adjourn to meet again on Monday the 11th day of February next; which, on his motion, was laid upon the table.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of amending the act of last session, authorizing the Bank of the Valley in Virginia to establish a branch in the city of Richmond.

        On motion of Mr. HANLY,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, senate bill 277, and have the same referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. KAUFMAN,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of passing a law requiring property sold under execution to bring three-fourths of its value.

        Mr. PORTER presented the petition of J. H. Cochran, late sheriff of Hancock county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. BASS,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the expediency of providing by law that the securities of the sheriffs and other officers of the commonwealth be released from the payment of damages (in the case of the failure of such officers to pay dues to the commonwealth): provided, that the balance of principal, interest and costs of collection have been paid by said securities within ninety days from the time such dues fall due to the commonwealth.

        Mr. WITTEN presented the petition of Moses Davis, praying that the sum of $69 76, erroneously charged on his lands, be refunded him; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. KNOTTS presented the proceedings of a public meeting in Gilmer county; which were read, and on his motion, referred to the committee on state and federal affairs.


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        On motion of Mr. MYERS,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending the act passed the 18th day of February 1856, entitled an act providing for the voluntary enslavement of the free negroes of this commonwealth, so as to authorize the county courts to permit such enslavement, without compensation to the commonwealth.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to amend the 36th section of chapter 38 of the new edition of the Code.

        On motion of Mr. DUCKWALL,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of authorizing the trustees of Eastern meeting house in the county of Morgan, to sell and convey the same.

        Mr. REID presented the petition of James Campbell and others, to connect the Winchester and Potomac rail road with the Manassas gap rail road; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        Mr. MONTGOMERY presented the petition of citizens of Fayette county, asking that the compensation of Peyton Morton, commissioner of the revenue, be increased; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. REID presented the petition of Prof. Jno. L. Campbell, in relation to the license tax imposed on agents for selling books; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. DUCKWALL submitted the following resolutions; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative:

        The general assembly of the commonwealth of Virginia having heard with pleasure the views presented by the honorable commissioners from the state of Alabama, upon the present condition of national and state affairs, respectfully request the commissioners to inform the authorities of the state of Alabama, that the general assembly of Virginia have passed an act for the election of members of a state convention, and to convene the same on the 13th day of February next; and that they have also adopted joint resolutions for the appointment of commissioners to meet commissioners from all the states on the 4th day of February next, in the city of Washington; and the general assembly is not able to make any definite response to the state of Alabama until the action of the state convention.

        Resolved, that the governor communicate this resolution forthwith to the commissioners from the state of Alabama.

        Ordered, that Mr. DUCKWALL carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        The following bills were read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time:

        No. 51. A bill for the relief of John W. Grove of Frederick county.


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        No. 52. A bill for the relief of Angus M. Wood.

        No. 53. A bill for the relief of George W. Tucker of Halifax county.

        No. 54. A bill to refund to Louisa Hunter of Alexandria county, taxes improperly paid.

        No. 55. A bill refunding to Joseph L. Russell amount of taxes improperly paid on license.

        No. 56. A bill for the relief of Henry Cooper of Frederick county.

        No. 57. A bill to amend the first section of an act entitled an act for the encouragement of certain volunteer military companies in the city of Wheeling, passed March 27, 1858.

        No. 59. A bill for the relief of Charles A. Hoge and James Musgrave.

        No. 60. A bill for the relief of Thomas Jarvins of Fairfax county.

        No. 61. A bill refunding to John W. Showalter a license tax improperly charged against and paid by him.

        No. 62. A bill refunding to Robert N. Wright a sum of money paid on erroneous assessment.

        No. 63. A bill refunding to the securities of William H. Blanch, late sheriff of the county of Mecklenburg, certain damages paid by them.

        No. 64. A bill to amend and re-enact the 13th section of chapter 42 of the Code, edition of 1860, so as more effectually to regulate the sales of real estate under executions in favor of the commonwealth.

        No. 65. A bill for the relief of J. Dickinson Kincaid of Greenbrier.

        No. 66. A bill to provide for paying to the Bank of Racine, lost coupons for interest on the bonds of the state of Virginia.

        No. 67. A bill to provide for the payment to the Richmond branch of the Exchange Bank, of lost coupons for interest on the bonds of the state of Virginia.

        No. 68. A bill to amend the 11th section of chapter 212 of the Code.

        No. 69. A bill to establish the county of Bland out of parts of Giles, Wythe and Tazewell.

        No. 70. A bill for the voluntary enslavement of Silla Rich and children, without compensation to the state.

        No. 71. A bill authorizing the trustees of the First Presbyterian church in Portsmouth to execute a deed of trust on said property.

        No. 72. A bill amending the charter of the Black lick and Plaster bank turnpike company.

        No. 73. A bill amending the charter of the Raleigh and Grayson turnpike company.

        No. 74. A bill to amend the charter of the Sir John's run turnpike company.

        No. 75. A bill to provide for the completion of the Middle fork turnpike.

        No. 76. A bill to repeal sections 28, 29, 30, 31 and 32 of chapter 58 of the Code of Virginia.

        No. 77*. A bill for the relief of S. D. Fendall, administrator of William Eaches deceased.


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        No. 78. A bill to increase the pay of the commonwealth's attorney for the circuit court of Ohio county.

        No. 80. A bill for the relief of Emory Edwards of Washington county in the state of Maryland.

        No. 81. A bill authorizing the payment of $147 75, to Captain Wm. H. Werth, of company A, of the 101st regiment of Virginia militia.

        No. 82. A bill exempting from taxation the real estate of the Virginia mechanics institute.

        No. 83. A bill authorizing the payment of forfeited commissions and damages to the executor of Chas. Holden dec'd, late sheriff of Harrison county.

        No. 85. A bill refunding to Sam'l A. McMechen and John G. Harness, jr., a sum of money paid by them on an erroneous assessment of land.

        No. 86. A bill incorporating the Berkeley springs savings bank in the town of Bath in the county of Morgan.

        No. 87. A bill providing for the voluntary enslavement of Clara and her children, of the county of Rappahannock.

        No. 88. A bill to incorporate the Virginia lumber company in the counties of Augusta and Rockbridge.

        No. 89. A bill to transfer the Capon and North branch turnpike to the county court of Hampshire.

        No. 90. A bill making a subscription on the part of the state to the Roanoke valley rail road company.

        No. 91. A bill to incorporate the Grassy lick turnpike company.

        No. 92. A bill to amend the charter of the Brown's gap turnpike company.

        No. 93. A bill amending the charter of the Clarksburg and Wheeling turnpike company.

        No. 94. A bill to incorporate the Elk river rail road company.

        No. 96. A bill to amend chapter 108 of the Code, concerning births, marriages and deaths.

        No. 97. A bill for the relief of the securities of Joshua H. Staats deceased, late sheriff of the county of Jackson.

        No. 98. A bill amending and re-enacting the 61st section of chapter 38 of the Code, prescribing an oath to be taken before granting licenses.

        No. 1. A bill to amend the 4th section of an act incorporating the Jefferson insurance company in the county of Albemarle, was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        No. 2. A bill for the construction of a branch of the Central rail road to Lexington, was taken up and read a second time, and on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. McKENZIE, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.


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TUESDAY, JANUARY 22, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Jeter of the Baptist church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Jan. 21, 1861.

        The senate have passed bills entitled:

        An act amending and re-enacting the 2d section of the charter of the Mechanicsville turnpike company, passed Feb. 21st, 1817, No. 4; and an act to provide for taking the sense of the people of Henrico upon giving authority to the county court to raise by loan two thousand five hundred dollars for arming the county, No. 30.

        And they have agreed to the resolution from the house of delegates, of response to the commissioners from Alabama.

        In which bills they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 4. A senate bill entitled an act amending and re-enacting the 2d section of the charter of the Mechanicsville turnpike company, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        No. 30. A senate bill entitled an act for taking the sense of the people of Henrico upon giving authority to the county court to raise by loan two thousand five hundred dollars for arming the county, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. McGRUDER, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, to whom had been referred

        No. 2. A senate bill entitled an act changing the time of holding the terms of the circuit courts of James City and the city of Williamsburg, and the county of Henrico, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 99. A bill authorizing the trustees of Eastern meeting house in the county of Morgan to sell and convey the same.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of schools and colleges, presented an adverse report to a resolution enquiring into the expediency of allowing to J. T. Irving a sum of money out of the literary fund.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bills:

        No. 100. A bill to incorporate the Richmond and Liverpool packet company.

        No. 101. A bill amending and re-enacting the charter of the town of Guyandotte in the county of Cabell.

        Mr. MONTAGUE, from the committee of claims, presented the following bills:

        No. 102. A bill for the relief of John W. Moore, late sheriff of Jefferson county.


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        No. 103. A bill for the relief of Richard H. Horner of Fauquier county.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 104. A bill amending the 39th chapter of the Code, concerning taxes on bank dividends, collateral inheritances and taxes on writs and seals.

        No. 105. A bill for the relief of the securities of William Paris, late sheriff of the county of Appomattox.

        No. 106. A bill to release Oscar H. Tate from the payment of a fine.

        Mr. BASSEL, from the committee on agriculture and manufactures, presented the following bill:

        No. 107. A bill to incorporate the Meadsville manufacturing company.

        Mr. YERBY, from the committee on lunatic asylums, presented the following bill:

        No. 108. A bill changing the names of the lunatic asylums.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following reports:

        An adverse report to the petition of Robert Alexander and others, to release John Ray of a fine.

        A report containing a joint resolution giving further time to the securities of P. P. Winston, late sheriff of Richmond city, to pay certain bonds executed by them.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, presented an adverse report to a resolution in regard to allowing compensation to certain persons for services rendered the 77th regiment of Virginia militia.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a message from the governor, enclosing resolutions adopted by the legislature of Ohio.

        Mr. BASKERVILL moved that the resolutions be returned to the executive of Ohio by the governor of the commonwealth. Pending the consideration of which, on motion of Mr. WEST, the whole subject was laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND,

        Resolved, that the second auditor be requested to report to this house the amount of dividends paid by the several rail road companies in which the state is a stockholder, during the last year, and also the amount of interest paid upon the debts due the commonwealth, by each of these rail road companies, and the amount unpaid, and for what years.

        On motion of Mr. SIBERT,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw from the files of the house of last session, the petition and accompanying papers of citizens of Hardy county.

        On motion of Mr. ALDERSON,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for an appropriation on the two and three-fifths principle, to construct a bridge across the Little Kanawha river in the county of Braxton.


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        On motion of Mr. WILSON,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending chapter 198 of the Code of Virginia, so as more effectually to prevent the circulation of abolition and incendiary publications.

        Mr. SAUNDERS presented certain memorials of citizens of Henrico, asking that the corporate limits of the city of Richmond be extended; which were ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to amend the 8th section of chapter 200 of the new edition of the Code of Virginia.

        Mr. McGRUDER presented the remonstrance of citizens of Henrico, against the proposed extension of the corporation limits of Richmond city; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. BASSEL presented the petition of citizens of Randolph and Upshur, praying an appropriation for the construction of a road on state account; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        Mr. McKENZIE presented the petition of 131 citizens of Alexandria, in favor of repealing that portion of the tax law which makes vessels retailing wood take out a license; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. WOOLFOLK,

        Resolved, that the select committee appointed on free negroes be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill amending the 3d, 7th and 8th sections of chapter 53 of the Code of Virginia, so as to allow any free negro over the age of 18 years (upon the terms and conditions provided for in the 3d, 4th, 5th and 6th sections of the same chapter), who may wish to promote his or her position in society, and happiness, by becoming a slave, to choose his or her master, without requiring the person thus chosen to pay, as now required by the 7th section, one-half, or any portion of the valuation of the said negro: and with a view of encouraging the degraded race to select a better and happier condition, that the said bill shall provide that no negro thus becoming a slave shall be sold for any present or future debts of the person thus chosen, for a period of not less than twenty years after he or she becomes a slave.

        No. 1. An engrossed bill to amend the 4th section of an act incorporating the Jefferson insurance company of Albemarle, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        The following bills were read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time:

        No. 3. A bill to change the eastern terminus of the Slavin's cabin and Summersville turnpike.

        No. 5. A bill to amend the charter of the Winchester and Potomac rail road company.


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        No. 8. A bill to incorporate the Montgomery female college.

        No. 10. A bill fixing the mode of settlement with the sheriff of the county of Jefferson.

        No. 11. A bill refunding to Benjamin and Isaac Deford a certain sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment.

        The following bills were read a second time, and on motions severally made, laid on the table:

        No. 4. A bill making an appropriation for improving the Wilderness road in Greenbrier and Nicholas counties.

        No. 7. A bill to amend the charter of the city of Richmond.

        No. 9. A bill amending and re-enacting the 8th section of an act entitled an act imposing taxes for the support of government, passed March 31, 1860.

        No. 13. A bill to amend an act passed April 6, 1858, entitled an act to amend and re-enact an act entitled an act for regulating foreign life insurance companies within this commonwealth, passed March 6, 1856.

        No. 14. A bill to amend an act passed March 30, 1860, entitled an act making regulations concerning licenses.

        No. 83. A bill authorizing the payment of forfeited commissions and damages to the executor of Charles Holden, late sheriff of the county of Harrison, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Willcox, Wingfield, Witten and Yerby--106.

        No--Mr. Wilson--1.

        Ordered, that Mr. HAYMOND carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 12. A bill to amend the 25th section of an act entitled an act imposing taxes for the support of government, passed March 31, 1860, was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Evans, Fleming, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Porter, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson,


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Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Wingfield, Witten and Yerby--106.

        On motion of Mr. MILLER of Shenandoah, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 23, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Willis of the Baptist church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Jan. 22, 1861.

        The senate have passed bills entitled:

        An act for the relief of Benjamin and Isaac Deford of Morgan county, No. 7.

        An act changing the time of holding the terms of the circuit courts of the counties of Hardy and Page, No. 9.

        An act for the relief of Hugh Crolly and Patrick McCune, No. 10.

        An act amending and re-enacting the act entitled an act to incorporate the Jackson orphan asylum of Norfolk, passed February 26th, 1856, No. 12.

        An act to amend an act passed January 3d, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Virginia life insurance company, No. 13.

        An act to incorporate the Merchants savings bank of Richmond, No. 14.

        An act for the relief of Robert Y. Overby of the county of Mecklenburg, on account of taxes improperly paid, No. 16.

        An act for the relief of John W. G. Smith of Rockingham county, No. 17.

        An act authorizing the Board of public works to confirm the sale of the Marysville plank road to the county of Charlotte, No. 24.

        An act for the relief of Patrick H. Scott of Halifax county, No. 25.

        An act to incorporate the Virginia arms manufacturing company, No. 28.

        An act allowing the Northwestern Bank of Virginia and any of its branches to establish an agency in the city of Richmond for the redemption of its circulating notes, No. 31.

        In which they request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 7. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Benjamin and Isaac Deford of Morgan county, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. DUCKWALL, read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carter, Cassin, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lucas, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant,


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McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Wingfield and Woolfolk--122.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 9. A senate bill entitled an act changing the time of holding the terms of the circuit courts of the counties of Hardy and Page, was read a first and second times, amended on motion of Mr. CASSIN, and as amended read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 10. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Hugh Crolly and Patrick McCune, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. PHELPS, read a third time and passed.

        No. 12. A senate bill entitled an act amending and re-enacting the act entitled an act to incorporate the Jackson orphan asylum of Norfolk, passed February 26th, 1856, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. BISBIE, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 13. A senate bill entitled an act to amend an act passed January 3, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Virginia life insurance company, was read a first and second times, and ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        No. 14. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Merchants savings bank of Richmond, was read a first and second times and ordered to be referred to the committee on banks.

        No. 16. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Robert Y. Overby of the county of Mecklenburg, on account of taxes improperly paid, was read a first and second times, and ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        No. 17. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of John W. G. Smith of Rockingham county, was read a first and second times, and ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        No. 24. A senate bill entitled an act authorizing the Board of public works to confirm the sale of the Marysville plank road to the county of Charlotte, was read a first and second times, and ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        No. 25. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Patrick H. Scott of Halifax county, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. CLAIBORNE, read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Carpenter, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Wingfield, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--117.


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        No. 28. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Virginia arms manufacturing company, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. BISBIE, read a third time and passed.

        No. 31. A senate bill entitled an act allowing the Northwestern Bank of Virginia and any of its branches to establish an agency in the city of Richmond for the redemption of its circulating notes, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. WITTEN, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, presented the following reports:

        An adverse report as to the expediency of amending the 18th section of chapter 157 of the Code.

        An adverse report to the petition of R. H. Gray, attorney for the heirs of the officers and soldiers of the revolutionary war.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of schools and colleges, presented the following bill:

        No. 109. A bill to incorporate the Patrick springs female seminary.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bills:

        No. 110. A bill to incorporate the Southern express company.

        No. 111. A bill incorporating the insurance company of Lexington.

        No. 112. A bill amending the 1st section of the act forming the county of Webster.

        No. 113. A bill constituting a part of the Ohio river a lawful fence.

        Mr. GIBSON, from the committee on banks, presented the following bills:

        No. 114. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Scottsville.

        No. 115. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Howardsville.

        No. 116. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Richmond.

        Mr. CARPENTER presented the petition of Charles McCormick to have a fine refunded, imposed by the county court of Alleghany county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. WATTS,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to Richard Cox and David Griffith a sum of money erroneously assessed against him.

        On motion of Mr. CARPENTER,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of amending the 14th section of chapter 61 of the Code of Virginia.

        On motion of Mr. EVANS,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of repealing or amending the 8th and 9th sections of chapter 101 of the Code of Virginia, 1860, restricting the catching of fish in certain rivers and bays.

        On motion of Mr. COWAN,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill legalizing a conveyance from Andrew Oliphant, guardian, &c. to David Simpson.


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        On motion of Mr. JONES of Gloucester,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances be instructed to enquire into the expediency of amending or repealing the 21st section of chapter 101 of the new edition of the Code of Virginia.

        On motion of Mr. WARD,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire into the expediency of authorizing the payment of an account of James W. Jones, jailor of Frederick county, against the commonwealth, for expenses incurred for the maintenance of Lewis Pritchard, a lunatic.

        On motion of Mr. WITTEN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of providing for the payment of $162 70 to Witten Cecil and Thos. G. Perry, for land damages assessed by a jury of Tazewell county.

        Mr. BISBIE submitted the following preamble and resolutions; which, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, were laid on the table:

        Whereas the general assembly of Virginia has learned with great satisfaction, interest and solicitude, that M. Periere and Brothers, bankers, of Paris, France, have in contemplation the establishment of a line of first class steamers between Paris, France, and some port in the United States: and whereas the government of France has agreed to subsidize the proposed line by the sum of nine hundred thousand dollars per annum, thereby manifesting its interest in the success of the same: and whereas the commercial independence and proper development of the resources of Virginia, and of her sister southern states, especially North Carolina, Tennessee, Mississippi, Kentucky and Maryland, who have, at the cost of millions, perfected systems of railway and canal connecting those states, the valley of the Ohio, and the Mississippi, with the Chesapeake, are materially dependent upon direct trade: Therefore,

        1. Resolved, as the sense of the general assembly of Virginia, that it is the duty of this state, as we believe that it will likewise appear to be the duty of our sister states herein before referred to, to welcome and encourage M. Periere and Brothers with their proposed line of steamers to the waters of Virginia.

        2. That it behooves internal improvement companies and cities of Virginia to employ their best efforts jointly in securing the line of steamers at Norfolk, or some other terminal point in the waters of the Chesapeake.

        3. That these resolutions shall be sent to the respective legislatures of North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, Mississippi and Maryland, asking their respectful consideration of the same; and also to the house of M. Periere and Brothers, bankers, Paris, France.

        Mr. KEEN submitted the following resolution; which, on his motion, was laid on the table:

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to report a bill for a stay law.

        On motion of Mr. HOPKINS, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.


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THURSDAY, JANUARY 24, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Jeter of the Baptist church.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bill:

        No. 117. A bill to authorize the South side rail road company to build a branch road from Black's and White's in the county of Nottoway, into the county of Mecklenburg.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bill:

        No. 118. A bill imposing taxes for the support of government.

        Mr. ROBERTSON, from a special committee, presented the following bill; which, on his motion, was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time:

        No. 119. A bill making an appropriation for the removal to Virginia of the remains of General Harry Lee.

        No. 7. A bill to amend the charter of the city of Richmond, was taken up and amended.

        Mr. McGRUDER submitted an amendment. Pending the consideration of which, the bill and amendment were laid on the table.

        A message was received from the senate, by Mr. AUGUST, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed house bills entitled an act to create an ordnance department, No. 40; an act to incorporate the Virginia boot and shoe company, No. 52; and an act appropriating one million of dollars for the defence of the commonwealth, No. 58, with amendments: in which amendments they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        Mr. WALLACE presented the petition of the citizens of Morgantown, asking the passage of an act incorporating a savings bank in the town of Morgantown; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on banks.

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN,

        Resolved, that so much of the governor's message as relates to the land office, be referred to the committee on finance, to report such legislation thereon as may seem expedient.

        Mr. MAGRUDER submitted the following preamble and resolutions; which on motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN, were referred to a select committee:

        Whereas the commissioners of the Board of public works are required to hold their meetings in the room of the capitol adjoining the office of the second auditor: And whereas, in consequence of the accumulation of papers, the said room is represented to be insufficient to contain the same, in a form properly labelled and accessible for convenient reference thereto:

        Be it therefore resolved by the general assembly, that the said commissioners may occupy and use as part of their office, the room now occupied by the auditor of public accounts, south of and adjoining their present office; and to accomplish the purposes hereby authorized, with as little inconvenience as possible, the governor of


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this commonwealth is hereby required to assign such other room or rooms in the capitol to the auditor of public accounts, and to have them properly arranged, as he may deem expedient, or the wants of the public service may require.

        On motion of Mr. DUCKWALL,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of so amending the charter of the town of Bath in the county of Morgan, as to give one or more of the officers of said town the powers of a justice of the peace.

        No. 77. A bill for the temporary relief of the banks of this commonwealth, was taken up, on motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire, amended on motions of Messrs. HAYMOND and KYLE, and as amended, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        Mr. KEEN moved to take up the resolution heretofore submitted by him, in reference to a stay law. Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. CARPENTER, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 25, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Jeter of the Baptist church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Jan. 24, 1861.

        The senate have agreed to the amendments proposed by the house of delegates to senate bill entitled:

        An act changing the time of holding the terms of the circuit courts of the counties of Hardy and Page, No. 9.

        And have passed a bill entitled:

        An act for the relief of Thomas Javins of Fairfax county, No. 8.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 40. An engrossed bill entitled an act to create an ordnance department, with the amendments thereto proposed by the senate, was taken up.

        The amendments were agreed to.

        No. 52. An engrossed bill entitled an act to incorporate the Virginia boot and shoe manufacturing company, with the amendments proposed by the senate, was taken up.

        The amendments were agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 58. An engrossed bill entitled an act appropriating one million of dollars for the defence of the commonwealth, with the amendments thereto proposed by the senate, was, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, laid on the table.


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        No. 8. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Thomas Javins of Fairfax county, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. HUNTT, read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Collier, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Tomlin, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Wingfield, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--110.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee, under the resolution of the house adopted on yesterday, in reference to the rearrangement of the offices in the capitol:

        Messrs. Magruder, Christian, Segar, Tomlin, Anderson, Thomas, Claiborne, Edgington, Watson of Accomack, Boreman, Edwards, Crane and Preston.

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN,

        Resolved, that so much of the governor's message as relates to the public buildings and grounds, be referred to the select committee on the capitol building.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, presented the following bills:

        No. 120. A bill authorizing the justices of the county court of Chesterfield to impose a tax on dogs.

        No. 121. A bill amending the charter of the town of Bath in the county of Morgan.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to the resolution enquiring into the expediency of a stay law; which, on his motion, was laid on the table, and made the special order of the day for Wednesday next at 1 o'clock.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bills:

        No. 122. A bill to amend an act passed January 3d, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Virginia life insurance company.

        No. 123. A bill amending certain acts concerning the town of Port Royal in the county of Caroline.

        No. 124. A bill authorizing the county courts to establish water courses lawful fences within their respective limits.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred

        No. 17. A senate bill for the relief of John W. G. Smith of Rockingham county, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, to whom had been referred

        No. 16. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Robert Y. Overby of Mecklenburg, on account of taxes improperly paid, reported the same with amendments.


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        The amendments were concurred in.

        On motion of Mr. CLAIBORNE, the bill was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Collier, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Wingfield, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--113.

        Ordered, that Mr. BASKERVILL carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented the following bills:

        No. 125. A bill refunding to Thomas J. Garden an amount of money paid on an erroneous assessment.

        No. 126. A bill authorizing the payment of certain sums of money to William Osborne and Richard Matthews.

        No. 127. A bill authorizing the payment to Scott & Adams of a sum of money for work done on the Southwestern turnpike.

        No. 128. A bill for the relief of the securities of Hugh L. Purkens, late sheriff of Pleasants county.

        Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire, from the committee on banks, to whom had been referred

        No. 14. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Merchants savings bank of Richmond, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire, from the same committee, presented the following bills:

        No. 129. A bill amending the 2d section of an act authorizing the Bank of the Valley in Virginia to establish a branch in the city of Richmond.

        No. 130. A bill to incorporate the Monongalia savings bank in the county of Monongalia.

        No. 131. A bill to extend the charter of the Bank of Virginia.

        No. 132. A bill to extend the charter of the Farmers Bank of Virginia.

        No. 133. A bill to extend the charter of the Bank of the Valley in Virginia.

        No. 134. A bill to extend the charter of the Exchange Bank of Virginia.

        No. 135. A bill to extend the charter of the Northwestern Bank of Virginia.

        No. 136. A bill to extend the charter of the Merchants and Mechanics Bank of Wheeling.

        Mr. GIBSON, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to the resolution enquiring into the expediency of amending the charter of the Monongalia Bank of Morgantown.


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        An adverse report to the resolution enquiring into the expediency of establishing an independent bank in the city of Portsmouth.

        Mr. HAYMOND presented the petition of Thomas Houghs, asking for relief from an alleged erroneous assessment; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. HAYMOND presented the petition of M. W. Selby, asking to have refunded to him $ 65; which was referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. MONG presented the petition of A. S. Chambers and ninety-eight other citizens of Martinsburg, praying an amendment to their town charter; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. DUCKWALL,

        Resolved, that so much of the governor's message as refers to the subject of condemned slaves, and the manner of assessing the value thereof, be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. WATSON of Accomack,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending the forty-fifth section of chapter one hundred and ninety-two of the Code of Virginia.

        On motion of Mr. BISBIE,

        Resolved, that the committee on agriculture and manufactures enquire into the expediency of amending and re-enacting the act incorporating the Virginia car spring company, passed March 19, 1860.

        No. 77. An engrossed bill for the temporary relief of the banks of this commonwealth, was taken up, on motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire.

        Mr. McKENZIE submitted a ryder thereto.

        Mr. WILSON moved to lay the bill and ryder on the table. Pending the consideration of which motion,

        On motion of Mr. WALKER, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 26, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Jeter of the Baptist church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Jan. 25, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act authorizing the payment of forfeited commissions and damages to the executor of Charles Holden dec'd, late sheriff of the county of Harrison, No. 83.

        And they have passed bills entitled:

        An act for the relief of Charity Casey, No. 20.

        An act authorizing the Norfolk and Petersburg rail road company to construct a branch of their road to some point on the North Carolina line, and to increase its capital stock, No. 22.


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        In which they request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 20. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Charity Casey, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. McKENZIE, read a third time and passed.

        No. 22. A senate bill authorizing the Norfolk and Petersburg rail road company to construct a branch of their road to some point on the North Carolina line, and to increase its capital stock, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. RIDDICK, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. MONTAGUE, from the committee of claims, presented the following bill:

        No. 137. A bill authorizing the Board of public works to appoint commissioners to estimate and report upon losses sustained by John Conaway in the construction of the Fairmont and Wheeling turnpike road.

        Mr. JONES, from the committee on military affairs, presented an adverse report in relation to permitting volunteer companies to purchase arms.

        Mr. BISBIE, from the committee of agriculture and manufactures, presented the following bills:

        No. 139. A bill to amend the charter of the Virginia car spring company.

        No. 140. A bill incorporating the Piedmont land and improvement company.

        Mr. CHAPMAN presented the petition of sundry citizens of the counties of Monroe, Giles and Craig, praying the passage of an act incorporating a company to construct a turnpike road from Newport in the county of Giles to the Gap mills in the county of Monroe; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. EVANS,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the relief of William Winder of Matthews county.

        Mr. SHERRARD presented the petition of William A. Thrasher, Robert Powell, James Sheave and William Dunlap; which was ordered to be referred to committee for courts of justice.

        Mr. LEFTWICH presented the petition of the securities of Robert O. Doss, late sheriff of the county of Campbell; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. McKENZIE,

        Resolved, that the special committee to whom is referred the propriety of assigning other apartments to the Board of public works, be instructed to enquire into the expediency of painting the capitol.

        The house resumed the consideration of

        No. 77. An engrossed bill for the temporary relief of the banks of the commonwealth, with the ryder thereto submitted by Mr. McKENZIE.

        The question being on the motion submitted by Mr. WILSON to


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lay the bill and ryder on the table, was put, and decided in the negative.

        The ryder was read a first and second times; and the question being Shall the ryder be engrossed and read a third time? Mr. SIBEBT moved that the bill and ryder be recommitted to the committee on banks; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. SIBERT, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Bass, Booker, Carpenter, Childs, Christian, Crane, Duckwall, Evans, Garrett, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Grattan, Harrison, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, W. T. Jones, Kincheloe, Leftwich, Lundy, Lynn, T. Martin, W. Martin, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, Mong, Montague, Morgan, Myers, Newton, Orgain, Robertson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Sibert, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Walker, Wilson, Wood and Woolfolk--44.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bassel, Bisbie, Boisseau, Boreman, Brown, Chapman, Collier, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferguson, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Haymond, Holdway, Hopkins, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Knotts, Kyle, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Matthews, Maupin, McKenzie, Montgomery, Morris, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, I. N. Smith, Thompson, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Witten and Yerby--65.

        The question being on agreeing to the ryder submitted by Mr. McKENZIE, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. McKENZIE, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Bassel, Boreman, Carpenter, D. Gibson, Haymond, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kincheloe, Locke, Lundy, Lynn, McKenzie, Mong, Morgan, Newton, Orgain, Phelps, Pritchard, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, H. Smith, Thomas, Ward, West and Woolfolk--27.

        NOES--Messrs. Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Chapman, Christian, Collier, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Friend, Frost, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Hackley, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Kaufman, Keen, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, Wilson, Witten, Wood and Yerby--73.

        The ryder is as follows:

        "Provided, that the banks shall not, during the suspension of specie payments, charge and receive damages for drafts returned for non-payment; nor shall they charge and receive, between Baltimore and Virginia, during the suspension in Maryland, a greater rate of exchange than one per cent."

        The question recurring on the passage of the bill, Mr. RICHARDSON demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        The title of the bill was then amended, so as to read, "An act for the relief of the banks of this commonwealth."

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. PHELPS, the house adjourned until Monday, 12 o'clock.


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MONDAY, JANUARY 28, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Hoge of the Presbyterian church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Jan. 26, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act to defray the expenses of a pedestal, setting up and transporting the statue of Jefferson, No. 50.

        And they have passed bills entitled:

        An act to amend an act entitled an act incorporating the Princess Anne savings bank, passed Feb. 27, 1860, No. 44.

        An act to incorporate the Richmond city insurance company of Richmond, No. 46.

        An act to incorporate the Virginia steam sugar refining company, No. 51.

        They have agreed to the amendments proposed by the house of delegates to senate bill entitled:

        An act for the relief of Robert Y. Overby of the county of Mecklenburg, on account of taxes improperly paid, No. 16.

        In which bills they request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 44. A senate bill entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act incorporating the Princess Anne savings bank, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. WATTS, read a third time and passed.

        No. 51. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Virginia steam sugar refining company, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. McGRUDER, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 46. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Richmond city insurance company, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the Board of public works, in answer to a resolution of the house; which was laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 18.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the second auditor, in response to a resolution of the house; which was laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 19.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing a letter from the governor of Maryland, and also the ordinance of secession from the state of Georgia, with certain resolutions adopted by the convention of the state of Georgia; which were read, and on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 20.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing the semi-annual examination of the cadets of the Virginia military institute; which was laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 11.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, presented


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an adverse report to the resolution enquiring into the expediency of legalizing certain acts of the Potomac bridge company.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, presented a report asking that the committee for courts of justice be discharged from the consideration of the petition of William Shalon, clerk of Logan county, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance; which was concurred in.

        Mr. KAUFMAN, from the committee of claims, presented the following bills:

        No. 141. A bill to amend the charter of the town of Martinsburg.

        No. 142. A bill to amend an act passed 31st March 1860, entitled an act to restrict the catching of oysters in certain months.

        Mr. JONES of Gloucester, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following bill:

        No. 143. A bill amending certain laws respecting the militia of the commonwealth, so as to render them more efficient.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 144. A bill to compensate Ephraim B. Hall for services rendered, in the circuit court of Marion county, for the commonwealth.

        No. 145. A bill refunding to Benjamin Hover, executor of Daniel Lowry deceased, of the county of Rockingham, a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land.

        No. 146. A bill releasing the securities of Robert O. Doss, late sheriff of the county of Campbell, from the payment of damages.

        No. 147. A bill allowing John Staples a sum of money for services rendered as attorney for the commonwealth in the circuit court of Patrick county.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to the petition of J. H. Cochran, late sheriff of the county of Hancock, praying for an additional compensation of two and a half per cent.

        Mr. GIBSON, from the committee on banks, presented the following bills:

        No. 148. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Ravenswood.

        No. 149. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Charleston.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON,

        Resolved, that the SPEAKER be requested to invite the clergy of all the religious denominations of this city to open the sessions of this house daily with prayer.

        Mr. ROBERTSON presented the petition of R. H. Maury and others, asking to have refunded a sum improperly paid into the public treasury; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. MARTIN of Henry,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to report a bill providing adequate compensation to the commissioners appointed by Virginia to the federal government and the different states.

        On motion of Mr. BISBIE,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to incorporate the American agency.


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        On motion of Mr. DICKENSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill establishing a branch of the Farmers Bank of Virginia, the Bank of Virginia, the Bank of the Valley, or the Bank of the Commonwealth, at Lebanon in the county of Russell.

        On motion of Mr. DUCKWALL,

        Resolved, that so much of the report of the auditor of public accounts accompanying the governor's message, as refers to the subject of sheriffs' bonds, be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. COWAN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill providing for compensating the clerk of the house of delegates and the clerk of the senate, for extra services during the present session of the general assembly.

        On motion of Mr. MILLER of Lee, &c.

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire into the expediency of passing a law providing for the valuation of property levied on under executions, by two or more freeholders, and that such property be required to bring at public sale, at least two-thirds of the value so fixed.

        On motion of Mr. MORRIS,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of amending the first section of the act incorporating the Glen Eastern turnpike company, so as to change the beginning point, and extend the terminus of said road to the Fairmont and Wheeling road.

        On motion of Mr. WOOD,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the expediency of refunding to Mrs. Lucy Holland of Fluvanna a sum of money, being taxes erroneously paid by her.

        Mr. OWENS presented the memorial of the trustees of Lynchburg college and of citizens of Lynchburg; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of schools and colleges.

        On motion of Mr. LYNN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of granting relief to the securities of Thomas R. Davis, late sheriff of Prince William county.

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of vacating all the offices in the militia, and ordering a a new election.

        On motion of Mr. GARRETT,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of permitting the board of officers for the regiment of King & Queen county to have power to increase the number of regimental, battalion or company musters.

        On motion of Mr. CRUMP,

        Resolved, that so much of the report made by the commissioners appointed under the act of assembly of January 20, 1860, as refers to the sale of public arms, be referred to the committee on military affairs.


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        On motion of Mr. RIDDICK,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of prohibiting the emancipation of slaves by will.

        On motion of Mr. MYERS,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of authorizing the high constable of the city of Richmond to sell slaves and other property levied upon, distrained or ordered to be sold under attachment, at the City hall of said city, or any other public place in said city, upon notice thereof, to be prescribed by law.

        On motion of Mr. KNOTTS,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of incorporating a company to construct a rail road from some point on the Northwestern Virginia rail road, by way of Kanawha courthouse, to the mouth of Big Sandy.

        On motion of Mr. FROST,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill granting the right of way to the Baltimore and Ohio rail road company, for the extension of their road to the mouth of Big Sandy river.

        On motion of Mr. BISBIE,

        Resolved, that the committee on agriculture and manufactures be requested to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the further encouragement of independent manufactories in Virginia.

        On motion of Mr. WOOLFOLK,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill relieving George W. Davis from the payment of certain fines imposed on him by the circuit court of Orange county.

        On motion of Mr. RANDOLPH,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the protection of sheep in the counties of Kanawha and Fayette.

        An adverse report from the committee on banks, on a resolution enquiring into the expediency of amending the charter of the Planters Bank of Petersburg, was taken up, on motion of Mr. COLLIER, and referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. McGRUDER presented the remonstrance of citizens of Henrico, against the extension of the corporate limits of the city of Richmond; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        No. 58. An engrossed bill entitled an act appropriating one million of dollars to the defence of the commonwealth, with the amendments thereto proposed by the senate, was taken up.

        The first amendment proposed by the senate was agreed to.

        Mr. SMITH of Kanawha moved to amend the second amendment proposed by the senate, by adding the following:

        "And provided further, that for the defence of the western and northwestern frontier and the Valley, the sum of fifty thousand dollars is hereby directed to be applied to the construction of three


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arsenals--one at or near the Baltimore and Ohio rail road, or the Northwestern Virginia rail road; one at some point upon the Great Kanawha river; and one in the Valley of Virginia, at or near the town of Winchester--the precise locations of which shall be determined by the governor, upon the report of the engineer hereby authorized to be employed."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. GIBSON of Jefferson demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. PHELPS, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Arnold, Ball, Ballard, Bassel, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferguson, Fleming, Frost, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Knotts, Kyle, Lockridge, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McKinney, D. Miller, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pretlow, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West and Yerby--64.

        NOES--Messrs. Anderson, Bass, Bell, Bisbie, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Evans, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Grattan, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kincheloe, Leftwich, Locke, Lundy, Lynn, T. Martin, McCamant, McGehee, McGruder, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Orgain, Preston, Riddick, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, H. Smith, Tyler, E. Watson, Wilson, Wood and Woolfolk--47.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. WILSON, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 29, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Hoge of the Presbyterian church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Jan. 28, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act to amend the first section of an act to prevent trespasses, depredations, &c. along the borders of the Potomac and other tide waters in the counties of Fairfax, Stafford and King George, No. 53, with an amendment.

        They have passed bills entitled:

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of Philippi, No. 42.

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of the Commonwealth, No. 43.

        And they have agreed to a resolution for the appointment of a joint committee to provide a hall for the accommodation of the state convention.

        In which bills and resolution they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        The amendment proposed by the senate to house bill entitled:

        No. 53. An act to amend the 1st section of an act to prevent trespasses,


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depredations, &c. along the borders of the Potomac and other tide waters in the counties of Fairfax, Stafford and King George, was agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        The following senate bills were read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on banks:

        No. 42. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the charter of the Bank of Philippi.

        No. 43. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the charter of the Bank of the Commonwealth.

        The resolution from the senate for the appointment of a joint committee to provide a hall for the accommodation of the state convention, was taken up and agreed to.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee on the part of the house: Messrs. Saunders, Montague and Hunter.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, to whom had been referred

        No. 4. A senate bill amending and re-enacting the 2d section of the charter of the Mechanicsville turnpike company, passed February 21st, 1817, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 150. A bill to release the title to 556 ¼ acres of land in the county of Hanover, to John H. Taliaferro.

        No. 151. A bill amending and re-enacting the 8th, 9th and 10th sections of chapter 45 of the Code.

        No. 152. A bill refunding to Rufus Turner, late sheriff of the county of Patrick, a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land.

        No. 153. A bill for the relief of the sureties of Robert S. Coleman, late sheriff of Carroll county.

        No. 154. A bill absolving the state and treasurer from all liability in case of loss of coupon bonds deposited as security for bank circulation, unless the said coupon bonds be converted into registered stock, and prohibiting coupon bonds from being received in the future as such security.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to a resolution enquiring into the expediency of refunding to Richard Cox and David Griffith a sum of money.

        No. 2. A senate bill entitled an act changing the time of holding the terms of the circuit courts of James City and the city of Williamsburg, and the county of Henrico, was taken up, and on motion of Mr. McGRUDER, laid on the table.

        No. 14. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Merchants savings bank of Richmond, was read a third time and passed.

        No. 17. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of John W. G. Smith of Rockingham county, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Allen, Arnold, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming,


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Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin. McCamant, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Shannon, Sibert, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--114.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 3. An engrossed bill to change the eastern terminus of the Slavin's cabin and Summersville turnpike, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. LOCKRIDGE carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        A message was received from the senate, by Mr. THOMPSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had concurred in the amendment proposed by the house of delegates to the amendments proposed by the senate to house bill entitled:

        No. 58. An act appropriating one million of dollars for the defence of the commonwealth.

        No. 5. An engrossed bill to amend the charter of the Winchester and Potomac rail road company was taken up, and on motion of Mr. HUNTT, laid on the table.

        Mr. PRETLOW moved to reconsider the vote by which the bill was laid on the table.

        The question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        The bill was then read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. DUCKWALL submitted the following resolution:

        Resolved, that the senate be requested to return to this house, the bill entitled an act for the relief of the banks of this commonwealth.

        The question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 8. An engrossed bill to incorporate the Montgomery female college, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. NEWTON,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 509, and that the same be referred to a special committee of seven, to be appointed by the chair.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee, under the resolution: Messrs. Newton, Saunders, Rutherfoord, Segar, Grattan, Martin of Henry, and Bisbie.

        On motion of Mr. COLLIER, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.


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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Brown of the Presbyterian church.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing resolutions from the states of Tennessee and Pennsylvania.

        The communication from the governor and the resolutions from the state of Tennessee were ordered to be printed and referred to the joint committee on state and federal affairs.

        The resolutions from the state of Pennsylvania were ordered to be laid on the table.

        A message was received from the senate, by Mr. TOWNES, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a bill entitled an act to provide more efficient police regulations at the poor-houses of this commonwealth: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        A message was received from the senate, by Mr. BRANNON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had directed a return of the bill for the relief of the banks of this commonwealth, in obedience to the request of the house.

        The bill was then read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Caperton, Chapman, Christian, Claiborne, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Edgington, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, D. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Saunders, Shannon, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Willcox, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--94.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), J. T. Gibson, Grattan, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kemper, Lundy, McGehee, Newton, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon and Wilson--13.

        Ordered, that Mr. DUCKWALL communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of schools and colleges, presented an adverse report to the resolution enquiring into the expediency of paying for the tuition of certain indigent children in Richmond county.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, to whom had been referred

        No. 46. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Richmond city insurance company, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the same committee, presented the following bills:

        No. 155. A bill amending the charter of the town of Charleston in the county of Kanawha.

        No. 156. A bill to exempt certain lands of Joseph Caldwell, lying in the city of Wheeling, from city taxes.

        No. 157. A bill to repeal an act passed 19th March 1860, concerning the mode of catching fish in certain waters.


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        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 158. A bill for the relief of James J. Spaulding.

        No. 159. A bill refunding to R. H. Maury and others a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land in the county of Nicholas.

        No. 160. A bill authorizing the payment of ninety-two dollars and forty-nine cents to Thos. L. Jones of Caroline county.

        Mr. DUCKWALL, from the committee for courts of justice, presented the following bills:

        No. 161. A bill to regulate the prayer for and effect of answers in courts of equity.

        No. 162. A bill to amend the 14th section of an act providing additional protection for the slave property of citizens of this commonwealth.

        Mr. BASSEL, from the committee on agriculture and manufactures, presented the following bill:

        No. 163. A bill incorporating the Gilmer oil mining and manufacturing company in the county of Gilmer.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, presented a report adverse to the petition of citizens of Surry.

        Mr. DUCKWALL, from the committee for courts of justice, presented an adverse report to the resolution enquiring into the expediency of amending chapter 134 of the Code of Virginia.

        Mr. SEDDON, from the committee on banks, to whom had been referred.

        No. 42. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the character of the Bank of Philippi:

        No. 43. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the charter of the Bank of the Commonwealth--reported the same without amendment.

        An adverse report of the committee on banks to the resolution enquiring into the expediency of amending the charter of the Monongalia Bank of Morgantown, was recommitted to the said committee, on motion of Mr. SEDDON.

        An adverse report of the committee on finance to petition of Wm. B. Wooldridge and T. C. Howard, executors, &c. was, on motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, recommitted to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. McGEHEE,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill authorizing the negroes manumitted by the last will and testament of Isaac N. Robertson dec'd, of the county of Appomattox, to select masters for themselves, without compensation.

        Mr. CRUMP presented the petition of the farmers of Nottoway, in reference to a fence law; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. McGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of constructing a rail road in the county


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of Henrico, commencing at the mines of the Richmond and New York coal company, and intersecting with the York river rail road.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of authorizing the delivery of two field pieces to the Scottsville home guard, upon proper and reasonable conditions.

        Mr. WOOLFOLK presented the petition of A. P. Routt and R. W. Brooking, for compensation for arresting, &c. a lunatic who had escaped from the Western or Staunton lunatic asylum; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of claims.

        On motion of Mr. COWAN,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill amending the charter of the Preston Bank of Virginia.

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of authorizing a connecting rail road from a point on the Baltimore and Ohio rail road, near Cranberry summit in Preston county, to some point on the Virginia Central rail road in Augusta county.

        The special order of the day, being the report of the committee for courts of justice adverse to the enactment of a stay law, was taken up, and on motion of Mr. SEDDON, laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. MILES,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the expediency of allowing Edward B. Bates, commissioner of the revenue in Lee county, a certain sum of money erroneously charged against him.

        Mr. MILES presented the petition of Edward B. Bates, commissioner of the revenue of Lee county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        No. 30. A bill to re-enact the act passed 9th February 1844, authorizing a loan from the Literary fund to the West Liberty academy, was taken up, on motion of Mr. EDGINGTON, read a second time and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Barbour, Bass, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Caperton, Chapman, Collier, Cowan, Crump, Davis, Edgington, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hopkins, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McGruder, D. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Saunders, Shannon, Sibert, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, Welch, Willcox and Wood--78.

        NOES--Messrs. Bassel, Childs, Claiborne, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Hackley, Huntt, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kincheloe, Lundy, Lynn, T. Martin, McGehee, McKinney, Miles, Mong, Newton, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Wilson, Woolfolk and Yerby--23.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 84. A bill amending the 107th section of chapter 35 of the Code of Virginia, providing for the correction of erroneous assessments


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of taxes on land, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, and laid on the table.

        Mr. PRETLOW submitted the following resolution; which, being objected to, was laid over under the rule:

        That this house, when it adjourns on Friday next, will, with the consent of the senate, adjourn to meet on Monday the 11th day of February next.

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Moses D. Hoge of the Presbyterian church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Jan. 30, 1861.

        The senate have passed bills entitled:

        An act to incorporate the Hughes' creek oil and coal company, No. 56.

        An act to incorporate the Ambler oil and coal company, No. 57.

        An act to incorporate the Fayette oil and coal company, No. 58.

        An act to authorize the Virginia Central rail road company to construct a branch of their road to Lexington in the county of Rockbridge, No. 21.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 52. A senate bill entitled an act to provide more effectual regulations at the poorhouses of the commonwealth, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. GILMER, read a third time and passed.

        No. 56. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Hughes' creek oil and coal company, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. SMITH of Kanawha, read a third time and passed.

        No. 57. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Ambler oil and coal company, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. SMITH of Kanawha, read a third time and passed.

        No. 58. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Fayette oil and coal company, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. SMITH of Kanawha, read a third time and passed.

        No. 21. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize the Virginia Central rail road company to construct a branch of their road to Lexington in the county of Rockbridge, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate of the passage of the foregoing bills.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of schools and colleges, presented the following bill:


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        No. 164. A bill to take the sense of the voters of Elizabeth City county on the repeal of the act passed March 15th, 1858, authorizing a payment, out of the funds of the Hampton academy, to certain persons therein named, for a claim against said academy.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bill:

        No. 165. A bill for the better government of the town of Danville.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the same committee, to whom had been referred.

        No. 13. A senate bill entitled an act to amend an act passed January 23, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Virginia life insurance company, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. KAUFMAN, from the committee of claims, presented the following bill:

        No. 166. A bill for the payment of a sum of money to James W. Jones, jailor of Frederick county.

        MR. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bills:

        No. 167. A bill to incorporate the Newport and Gap mills turnpike company.

        No. 168. A bill to amend the first section of an act passed March 5, 1856, entitled an act to incorporate the Glen Easton turnpike company in the county of Marshall.

        No. 169. A bill to incorporate a company to repair and macadamize the Beverley and Morgantown road.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the same committee, to whom had been referred.

        No. 24. A senate bill entitled an act authorizing the Board of public works to confirm the sale of the Marysville plank road to the county, reported the same without amendment; and on his motion, the bill was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Evans, Ferguson, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Seddon, Shannon, Staples, Thomas, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Welch, Wilson, Willcox, Wingfield, Wood and Yerby--104.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following reports:

        An adverse report to the resolution in relation to the sale of muskets.

        An adverse report to the resolution enquiring into the expediency of furnishing the home guard of Scottsville with two field pieces.

        No. 9. A bill amending and re-enacting the 8th section of an act


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entitled an act imposing taxes for the support of government, passed March 31st, 1860, was taken up, on motion of Mr. RICHARDSON.

        Mr. RICHARDSON submitted an amendment thereto. Pending the consideration of which, the bill and amendment were laid upon the table.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a message from the governor, in reference to the contribution of specie on the part of the banks for the uses of the state; which was, on motion of Mr. McKENZIE, referred to the committee on banks and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 22.

        Mr. BISBIE, presented the memorial of William P. Moore of North Carolina, praying a reference of the matter of the seizure of his schooner Pauline, for alleged violation of the inspection laws, to the proper committee, in view of just relief; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. WALKER,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of allowing the militia fines in the county of Rockingham, after defraying the expenses of the militia in that county, to be appropriated for the benefit of the volunteer regiment of that county.

        Mr. MONTAGUE presented a petition for a new county out of parts of Monroe, Greenbrier and Fayette; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. RICHARDSON,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances be instructed to enquire into the expediency of incorporating the Wheeling gymnasium association.

        Mr. ROBERTSON of Richmond city presented the petition of J. H. Pecor, Benjamin Bragg and others, members of the metropolitan guard, asking to be exempted from military duty, except in defence of Richmond and its vicinity; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. BOREMAN,

        Resolved, that the clerk of the house cause to be printed and distributed among the members of this house, once a week, a calendar of the business thereof.

        On motion of Mr. MYERS,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of giving to justices of the peace jurisdiction in cases of garnishee summonses.

        Mr. CARPENTER presented the petition of Ro. F. and D. G. Bibb, &c., praying that the state will receive, in payment for hire of convicts, the bonds of the state at par; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. LUCAS,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of incorporating a company to construct a bridge across Walker's creek, near Staffordsville in Giles county.

        On motion of Mr. BOOKER,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency


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of refunding to A. W. Deshazer a portion of license tax improperly paid by him.

        On motion of Mr. PRITCHARD,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the propriety of granting a charter for the construction of a turnpike road from the mouth of Flat run in Marion county, to Burton in Wetzel county.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding a license tax paid by Henry Purkins.

        On motion of Mr. McKENZIE,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of providing by law proper penalties for the transmission of false intelligence by telegraph.

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of creating a board of examination of candidates for the place of surgeon of the regiments of militia.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of repealing the 9th section of chapter 144 of the Code of Virginia.

        On motion of Mr. J. GILMER,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of so amending the existing law prescribing the time within which writs of fieri facias and other final process shall be returned, as to increase that time.

        On motion of Mr. MILLER,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation be instructed to enquire into the expediency of amending chapter 61 of the new Code, with regard to the transfer of turnpikes heretofore transferred, under the provisions of the same laws as turnpikes transferred hereafter.

        Mr. BISBIE submitted the following resolution:

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances be requested to enquire into the expediency of raising the pay of the members of the general assembly to six dollars per day; which, on motion of Mr. BASS, was indefinitely postponed.

        No. 161. A bill to regulate the prayer for and effect of answers in courts of equity, was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        The following senate bills were read a third time and passed:

        No. 4. A senate bill entitled an act amending and re-enacting the 2d section of the charter of the Mechanicsville turnpike company, passed February 21st, 1817.

        No. 42. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the charter of the Bank of Philippi.

        No. 43. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the charter of the Bank of the Commonwealth.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.


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        No. 46. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Richmond city insurance company, was taken up and read a third time. Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Hoge of the Presbyterian church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Jan. 31, 1861.

        The senate have passed bills entitled:

        An act to authorize the governor of the commonwealth to pardon a negro slave Tom, and restore said slave to his owner, No. 53.

        An act to stay the proceedings on executions, trust deeds and other demands in cases of refusal to receive bank notes, No. 54.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 53. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize the governor of the commonwealth to pardon a negro slave Tom, and restore said slave to his owner, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        No. 54. A senate bill entitled an act to stay proceedings on executions, trust deeds and other demands in cases of refusal to receive bank notes, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bills:

        No. 171. A bill to amend the 4th and 5th sections of the act of 1854, and the 4th section of the act of 1856, concerning mining and other companies.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to the petition for the formation of a new county out of parts of Monroe, Greenbrier and Fayette.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bill:

        No. 171. A bill for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts already made upon the Covington and Ohio rail road.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to the petition of William Stratton, clerk of the county and circuit courts of Logan, asking that certain fines imposed and paid by him, be refunded.

        Mr. GIBSON, from the committee on banks, presented an adverse report to amending the 1st section of chapter 58 of the Code of Virginia.


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        Mr. GIBSON, from the same committee, presented a report, asking that the committee on banks be discharged from the further consideration of a resolution enquiring into the expediency of repealing the 9th section of chapter 144 of the Code, and that the same be referred to the committee for courts of justice; which was concurred in by the house.

        On motion of Mr. EVANS,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances be requested to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the voluntary enslavement of Sam, George, Woodson and Sukey, persons of color in the county of Buckingham.

        On motion of Mr. WATSON of Pulaski,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of consolidating the administration of the Virginia and Tennessee rail road, South side rail road, and Norfolk and Petersburg rail road.

        On motion of Mr. SAUNDERS,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of chartering the Citizens insurance company of the city of Richmond.

        On motion of Mr. CRUMP,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to Peter B. Crowder a sum of money improperly paid into the treasury.

        On motion of Mr. PRESTON,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks be instructed to enquire into the expediency of establishing a savings bank at Goodson, Washington county.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing a communication from his Excellency John Tyler, commissioner to the president of the United States, and the correspondence between him and the president; which were laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 23.

        No. 13. A senate bill entitled an act to amend an act passed January 23d, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Virginia life insurance company, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 10. An engrossed bill fixing the mode of settlement with the sheriff of the country of Jefferson, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Arnold, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bisbie, Boreman, Burks, Carpenter, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, Ferguson, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, Staples, Tomlin, Wallace, A. Watson, E. Watson, Welch, Willcox, Wood and Yerby--87.

        NOES--Messrs. Hopkins and Wilson--2.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.


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        No. 11. An engrossed bill refunding to Benjamin and Isaac Deford a certain sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment, was taken up and laid on the table.

        No. 84. A bill amending the 107th section of chapter 35 of the Code of Virginia, providing for the correction of erroneous assessments of taxes on land, was taken up, amended, and as amended, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        No. 15. A bill for the relief of Edward McCabe of Harpers Ferry, was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        No. 16. A bill releasing the commonwealth's claim to a certain island in Chesapeake bay, to Edmund J. Poulson, was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Boreman, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, Evans, Ferguson, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hackley, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Keen, Kemper, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, Mong, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Segar, Shannon, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Welch, Wilson, Wingfield, Wood and Yerby--91.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER, the report of the committee on military affairs, in relation to the sale of muskets, was recommitted to said committee.

        On motion of Mr. LUCAS, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Brown of the Presbyterian church.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bill:

        No. 172. A bill amending and re-enacting the 10th section of chapter 71 of the Code of Virginia, with regard to abatement of tolls in certain cases on turnpikes under the control of the Board of public works.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bills:

        No. 173. A bill incorporating the Preston and Augusta rail road company.

        No. 174. A bill to incorporate the Leesburg and Aldie turnpike company.


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        No. 175. A bill to incorporate the Leesburg and Point of Rocks turnpike company.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the same committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 176. A bill to increase the capital stock of the Richmond and York river rail road company.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, presented a report in reference to the sale of muskets.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing certain resolutions of the general assembly of the state of New Jersey; which was laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 24.

        The SPEAKER also laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing certain resolutions adopted by the state of Maine in relation to weights and measures; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on agriculture and manufactures.

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN,

        Resolved, that the committee of privileges and elections enquire into the expediency of amending the law of general elections, so as to authorize the commissioners conducting elections at a precinct where the house prescribed by existing law for holding the polls is inaccessible or inconvenient, to open the polls at such convenient house as the commissioners may select.

        On motion of Mr. EDGINGTON,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs be instructed to enquire into the expediency of providing by law for the erection of a fort or other suitable military defences at the city of Wheeling.

        No. 84. An engrossed bill amending the 107th section of chapter 35 of the Code of Virginia, and providing for the correction of erroneous assessment of taxes on land, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Arnold, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Boreman, Burks, Caperton, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Christian, Claiborne, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Edgington, Evans, Ferguson, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McDowell, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Reid, Saunders, Shannon, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, E. Watson, Wilson, Wood and Yerby--77.

        NOES--Messrs. Ballard, Duckwall and McCamant--3.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 39. A bill to amend an act to increase the capital stock of the Richmond and Danville rail road company, and for other purposes, was taken up, on motion of Mr. MARTIN of Henry, amended, and as amended, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, was, two-thirds concurring, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. MARTIN carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. HOPKINS gave notice that he should on Monday next move to


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amend the rule of the house in relation to motions to suspend the rules.

        The following bills were read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time:

        No. 17. A bill re-enacting and amending an act passed March 15th, 1849, incorporating the Glenville and Charleston turnpike company.

        Amended, and title amended, on motion of Mr. KNOTTS.

        No. 19. A bill to extend the improvement of the Little Kanawha river to the falls thereof in the county of Braxton.

        Amended, and title amended, on motion of Mr. ALDERSON.

        No. 20. A bill authorizing a loan from the Literary fund to the Alleghany college.

        No. 21. A bill to incorporate the town of Cameron in the county of Marshall.

        No. 22. A bill to incorporate the Berkeley border guards volunteer company.

        No. 23. A bill for the relief of Nathaniel B. Harvey.

        No. 24. A bill for the relief of Enoch Atkins of Giles county.

        No. 25. A bill refunding a license tax to Paul A. Farley of the county of Lunenburg.

        No. 26. A bill authorizing the payment to William G. Jackson of certain coupons.

        No. 27. A bill for the relief of James Scott of Greenbrier county.

        No. 28. A bill refunding to Mathew Wamsly, jr. of the county of Randolph, a certain amount of money erroneously paid by him.

        No. 29. A bill for the relief of Rev. J. Packard.

        No. 18. A bill to incorporate the Lynchburg and North Carolina rail road company, was read a second time, and on motion of Mr. KEEN, laid on the table.

        Mr. PHELPS moved that the house adjourn; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. DUCKWALL, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Ballard, Bassel, Boreman, Carter, Christian, Claiborne, Cowan, Hopkins, Johnson, C. H. Jones, Keen, Kemper, McCue, McDowell, Miles, Phelps, Tyler, E. Watson and Wood--20.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Baskervill, Bass, Bentley, Burks, Cassin, Chapman, Coleman, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Evans, Ferguson, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Huntt, W. T. Jones, Kincheloe, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, D. Miller, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Porter, Preston, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Saunders, Shannon, Staples, Tomlin, Wilson and Yerby--56.

        No quorum voting, on motion of Mr. KEEN, the house adjourned until Monday, 12 o'clock.


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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Dashiell of the Episcopal church.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing certain resolutions from the general assembly of the state of Kentucky, and the general assembly of the state of Minnesota.

        The resolutions from Kentucky were ordered to be printed, and those referring to a national convention, referred to the committee on state and federal affairs. Doc. No. 25.

        The resolutions from Minnesota were laid upon the table.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bill:

        No. 177. A bill to amend an act entitled an act incorporating the Bellville and Williamsport turnpike company, and providing for a subscription on the part of the state, and changing the name of said company to the Williamstown, Bellville and Ravenswood turnpike company.

        On motion of Mr. McKENZIE,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of authorizing the second auditor to receive from any rail road or other company, who has received state bonds at par in payment for state subscriptions or loans, to pay in settlement of interest due the state, the bonds of the state at par.

        On motion of Mr. GILMER,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending an act passed March 20, 1860, entitled an act to establish a circuit court for the town of Danville.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of amending the act for ascertaining and running the boundary line between Albemarle and Fluvanna counties.

        On motion of Mr. CRUMP,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending the 55th section of chapter 85 of the Code of 1860, so as to authorize the committee of a lunatic to afford a maintenance or advancement to such of the children of an insane person as shall have attained their majority.

        On motion of Mr. RICHARDSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs be instructed to enquire into the expediency of exempting from military duty all employees of the several telegraph companies, such as superintendents, operators, line repairers and battery keepers.

        On motion of Mr. MYERS,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of incorporating the Farmers and Mechanics insurance company of the city of Richmond.

        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND,

        Resolved, that the governor be requested to report to this house


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the number of stand of arms contracted to be sold to J. R. Anderson & Co., how many have been delivered, and when the balance are to be delivered, by whom sold, and by what authority, with a statement of the number of stand of arms still remaining in the arsenals, and also what progress has been made in the repairs of the armory.

        On motion of Mr. DUCKWALL,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending the sixth and seventh sections of chapter 150 of the Code of 1860.

        On motion of Mr. MEDLEY,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire into the expediency of authorizing William T. Ballou and S. B. Major, trustees, to sell a church lot in the county of Halifax.

        Mr. BASSEL presented the petition of citizens of Upshur, praying that constables be confined to the district for which they were elected; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        The following bills were read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time:

        No. 99. A bill authorizing the trustees of Easter's meeting house in the county of Morgan to sell and convey the same.

        No. 100. A bill to incorporate the Richmond and Liverpool packet company.

        No. 101. A bill amending and re-enacting the charter of the town of Guyandotte in the county of Cabell.

        No. 102. A bill for the relief of the administrator of John W. Moore, late sheriff of Jefferson county.

        No. 103. A bill for the relief of Richard H. Horner of Fauquier county.

        No. 104. A bill amending the 39th chapter of the Code, concerning taxes on bank dividends, collateral inheritances and taxes on suits and seals.

        No. 105. A bill for the relief of the securities of William Paris, late sheriff of the county of Appomattox.

        No. 106. A bill to release Oscar H. Tate from the payment of a fine.

        No. 107. A bill incorporating the Meadsville manufacturing company.

        No. 108. A bill changing the names of the lunatic asylums.

        No. 109. A bill to incorporate the Patrick springs female seminary.

        No. 110. A bill to incorporate the Southern express company.

        No. 111. A bill incorporating the Insurance company of Lexington.

        No. 112. A bill amending the 1st section of the act forming the county of Webster.

        No. 113. A bill constituting a part of the Ohio river a lawful fence.

        No. 114. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Scottsville.

        No. 115. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Howardsville.

        No. 116. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Richmond.

        No. 117. A bill to authorize the South side rail road company to


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build a branch road from Black's and White's in the county of Nottoway, into the county of Mecklenburg.

        No. 118. A bill imposing taxes for the support of government.

        No. 120. A bill authorizing the justices of the county court of Chesterfield to impose a tax upon dogs.

        No. 121. A bill amending the charter of the town of Bath in the county of Morgan.

        No. 122. A bill to amend an act passed January 3d, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Virginia life insurance company.

        No. 123. A bill amending certain acts concerning the town of Port Royal in the county of Caroline.

        No. 124. A bill authorizing the county courts to establish water courses a lawful fence within their respective limits.

        No. 125. A bill refunding to Thomas J. Garden an amount of money paid on an erroneous assessment.

        No. 126. A bill authorizing the payment of certain sums of money to William Osborne and Richard Matthews.

        No. 127. A bill authorizing the payment to Scott and Adams of a sum of money for work done on the Southwestern turnpike.

        No. 128. A bill for the relief of the securities of Hugh L. Pickens, late sheriff of the county of Pleasants.

        No. 129. A bill amending the 2d section of an act authorizing the Bank of the Valley in Virginia to establish a branch in the city of Richmond.

        No. 130. A bill to incorporate the Monongahela savings bank in the county of Monongalia.

        No. 131. A bill to extend the charter of the Bank of Virginia.

        No. 132. A bill to extend the charter of the Farmers Bank of Virginia.

        No. 133. A bill to extend the charter of the Bank of the Valley in Virginia.

        No. 134. A bill to extend the charter of the Exchange Bank of Virginia.

        No. 135. A bill to extend the charter of the Northwestern Bank of Virginia.

        No. 136. A bill to extend the charter of the Merchants and Mechanics Bank of Wheeling.

        No. 137. A bill authorizing the Board of public works to appoint commissioners to estimate and report upon losses sustained by John Conaway in the construction of the Fairmont and Wheeling turnpike road.

        No. 138. A bill authorizing the Board of public works to appoint commissioners to estimate and report losses sustained by Wm. W. King in the construction of the 14th section of the Ohio river and Maryland turnpike road.

        No. 139. A bill to amend the charter of the Virginia car spring company.

        No. 140. A bill incorporating the Piedmont land and improvement company.

        No. 141. A bill to amend the charter of the town of Martinsburg.


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        No. 142. A bill to amend an act passed 31st March 1860, entitled an act to restrict the catching of oysters in certain months.

        No. 143. A bill amending certain laws respecting the militia of the commonwealth, so as to render them more efficient.

        No. 144. A bill to compensate Ephraim B. Hall for services rendered in the circuit court of Marion county for the commonwealth.

        No. 145. A bill refunding to Benjamin Hoover, executor of Daniel Lowry dec'd, of the county of Rockingham, a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land.

        No. 146. A bill releasing the securities of Robert O. Doss, late sheriff of the county of Campbell, from the payment of damages.

        No. 147. A bill allowing John Staples a sum of money for services rendered as attorney for the commonwealth in the circuit court of Patrick county.

        No. 148. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Ravenswood.

        No. 149. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Charleston.

        No. 150. A bill to release the title to 556¼ acres of land in the county of Hanover to John H. Taliaferro.

        No. 151. A bill amending and re-enacting the 8th, 9th and 10th sections of chapter 45 of the Code.

        No. 152. A bill refunding to Rufus Turner, late sheriff of the county of Patrick, a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land.

        No. 153. A bill for the relief of the sureties of Robert S. Coleman, late sheriff of Carroll county.

        No. 154. A bill absolving the state and treasurer from all liability in case of loss of coupon bonds deposited as security for bank circulation, unless the said coupon bonds be converted into registered stock, and prohibiting coupon bonds from being received in the future as such security.

        No. 155. A bill amending the charter of the town of Charleston in the county of Kanawha.

        No. 156. A bill to exempt certain lands of Joseph Caldwell, lying in the city of Wheeling, from city taxes.

        No. 157. A bill to repeal an act passed 19th March 1860, concerning the mode of catching fish in certain waters.

        No. 158. A bill for the relief of Jas. J. Spaulding.

        No. 159. A bill refunding to R. H. Maury and others a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land in the county of Nicholas.

        No. 160. A bill authorizing the payment of ninety-two dollars and forty-nine cents to Thos. L. Jones of Caroline county.

        No. 162. A bill to amend the 14th section of an act providing additional protection for the slave property of citizens of this commonwealth.

        No. 163. A bill incorporating the Gilmer oil mining and manufacturing company in the county of Gilmer.

        No. 164. A bill to take the sense of the voters of Elizabeth City county on the repeal of the act passed March 15th, 1858, authorizing


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a payment out of the funds of the Hampton academy to certain persons therein named, for a claim against said academy.

        No. 165. A bill for the better government of the town of Danville.

        No. 166. A bill for the payment of a sum of money to James W. Jones, jailor of Frederick county.

        No. 167. A bill to incorporate the Newport and Gap mills turnpike company.

        No. 168. A bill to amend the 1st section of an act passed March 5th, 1856, entitled an act to incorporate the Glen Easton turnpike company in the county of Marshall.

        No. 169. A bill to incorporate a company to repair and macadamize the Beverley and Morgantown road.

        No. 170. A bill to amend the 4th and 5th sections of the act of 1854 and the 4th section of the act of 1856, concerning mining and other companies.

        No. 171. A bill for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts already made upon the Covington and Ohio rail road.

        No. 172. A bill amending and re-enacting the 10th section of chapter 71 of the Code of Virginia, with regard to abatement of tolls in certain cases, on turnpikes under the control of the Board of public works.

        No. 173. A bill incorporating the Preston and Augusta rail road company.

        No. 174. A bill to incorporate the Leesburg and Aldie turnpike company.

        No. 175. A bill to incorporate the Leesburg and Point of Rocks turnpike company.

        No. 176. A bill to increase the capital stock of the Richmond and York river rail road company.

        No. 177. A bill to amend an act entitled an act incorporating the Bellville and Williamsport turnpike company, and providing for a subscription on the part of the state, and changing the name of said company to the Williamstown, Bellville and Ravenswood turnpike company.

        The following bills were read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time:

        No. 115. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Howardsville.

        No. 127. A bill authorizing the payment to Scott & Adams of a sum of money for work done on the Southwestern turnpike.

        No. 129. A bill amending the second section of an act authorizing the Bank of the Valley in Virginia to establish a branch in the city of Richmond.

        No. 157. A bill to repeal an act passed 19th March 1860 concerning the mode of catching fish in certain waters.

        No. 142. A bill to amend an act passed 31st of March 1860, entitled an act to restrict the catching of oysters in certain months.

        No. 97. A bill for the relief of the securities of Joshua H. Staats deceased, late sheriff of the county of Jackson.


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No. 121. A bill amending the charter of the town of Bath in the county of Morgan.

        No. 171. A bill for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts already made upon the Covington and Ohio rail road, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CAPERTON, amended, and on his further motion, laid on the table.

        No. 22. An engrossed bill to incorporate the Berkeley border guard armory company, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Dashiel of the Episcopal church.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bill:

        No. 178. A bill to amend the 1st section of the act passed March 4, 1856, for marking the boundary line between Fluvanna and Albemarle counties; which, on his motion, was read a first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bills:

        No. 179. A bill to amend the second, third and sixth sections of an act passed February 28, 1856, providing for working the county roads of Loudoun county.

        No. 180. A bill to amend the second section of the act passed February 9, 1860, providing for a further subscription to the Alexandria, Loudoun and Hampshire rail road company.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 181. A bill refunding to Benjamin Cunningham a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land.

        No. 182. A bill providing for the repairing and furnishing the governor's house.

        Which said several bills were read a first, and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. JONES of Gloucester, from the committee on military affairs, presented an adverse report to a resolution as to the exemption of telegraph employees from military duty.

        On motion of Mr. LUCAS,

        Resolved, that the committee of schools and colleges be instructed to enquire into the expediency of allowing to John Powers, assignee of Hiram Muncy, eight dollars and fifty cents, being the amount due said Powers for the tuition of certain poor children in Giles county for the year 1852.


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        On motion of Mr. GRAHAM,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill incorporating the town of Asbury in the county of Wythe.

        On motion of Mr. PHELPS,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill securing to the commonwealth, in any internal improvement company in which the said commonwealth is a stockholder, or has an interest, a representation in the directory of any such company, proportionate to the amount of stock held by the commonwealth in such company, and so to provide that the commonwealth shall be entitled to the same vote pro rata on each share of stock owned by it in any such company, as is given to any other stockholder in any such company.

        Mr. McDOWELL presented the petition of Isaac Hurkle et al.; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the commissioners to audit and pay the expenses of the Harpers Ferry raid; which was laid on the table, and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 26.

        Mr. McGRUDER presented the petition of 96 citizens of Henrico, against the proposed extension of the corporation limits of the city of Richmond; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. CHAPMAN presented the petition of James K. Scott and 170 others, citizens of the counties of Greenbrier and Monroe, remonstrating against the formation of a new county out of parts of the counties of Monroe and Greenbrier; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        The following engrossed bills were read a third time and passed:

        No. 21. A bill to incorporate the town of Cameron in the county of Marshall.

        No. 157. A bill to repeal an act passed 19th March 1860, concerning the mode of catching fish in certain waters.

        No. 115. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Howardsville.

        No. 142. A bill to amend an act passed 31st of March 1860, entitled an act to restrict the catching of oysters in certain months.

        No. 121. A bill amending the charter of the town of Bath in the county of Morgan.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        The following bills were read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, were read a third time and passed:

        No. 42. A bill to amend the act incorporating the Lewisburg female institute.

        No. 41. A bill authorizing the clerks of the supreme courts and the district courts of appeals to take orders of publication in vacation.


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        The following bills were read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time:

        No. 31. A bill to incorporate the Western Virginia insurance company.

        No. 32. A bill for the voluntary enslavement of Walker Fitz, a free negro.

        No. 33. A bill to amend the 2d section of an act entitled an act incorporating the town of Bethany, passed April 6th, 1853.

        No. 34. A bill to incorporate the Capper's springs company.

        No. 35. A bill to amend an act incorporating the town of Christiansburg, and extending the limits of the same.

        No. 37. A bill to amend the charter of the Wheeling creek turnpike company.

        No. 43. A bill to amend the act concerning district free schools in the county of Jefferson.

        No. 46. A bill to incorporate the Sweet Chalybeate springs company.

        No. 47. A bill to amend the act of 27th March 1858, incorporating the town of Frankfort in Greenbrier.

        No. 48. A bill for the voluntary enslavement of B. W. Love and Isaac Burnett, without compensation to the state.

        No. 49. A bill to increase the capital stock of the Elk river turnpike company.

        No. 50. A bill granting the commonwealth's right to the real estate of John Kelly deceased, to Owen Shee.

        No. 51. A bill for the relief of John W. Grove of Frederick county.

        No. 52. A bill for the relief of Angus M. Wood.

        No. 53. A bill for the relief of George W. Tucker of Halifax county.

        No. 54. A bill to refund to Louisa Hunter of Alexandria county taxes improperly paid.

        The following bills were read a second time, and on motions severally made, laid on the table:

        No. 36. A bill authorizing the Norfolk and Petersburg rail road company to construct a branch of their road to some point on the North Carolina line.

        No. 38. A bill incorporating the Norfolk county railway company.

        No. 45. A bill to give effect to the 19th clause of the 4th article of the constitution.

        No. 129. An engrossed bill amending the 2d section of an act authorizing the Bank of the Valley in Virginia to establish a branch in the city of Richmond, was taken up, and on motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire, laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. COLLIER, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.


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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Kepler of the Episcopal church.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bills:

        No. 183. A bill to incorporate the Citizens insurance company of the city of Richmond.

        No. 184. A bill to incorporate the Farmers and Mechanics insurance company of the city of Richmond.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 185. A bill to amend and re-enact the 29th section of chapter 58 of the Code of Virginia.

        No. 186. A bill refunding to Mrs. Lucy Holland a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment.

        Mr. BISBIE, from the committee on agriculture and manufactures, presented the following bill:

        No. 187. A bill to encourage manufactures, by limiting taxation in certain cases.

        Which said several bills were read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented an adverse report to the petition of Washington Cook, asking that one-half of a forfeited recognizance be paid to him.

        The resolutions heretofore submitted by Mr. BISBIE, in relation to the establishment of a line of steamers from Paris to some port in the United States, were, on motion of Mr. BISBIE, taken up and agreed to.

        [For resolutions, see page 90 of Journal.]

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. COLLIER presented the petition of the citizens of Petersburg, asking certain changes in the law regulating assemblages of free negroes; which were ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. BASKERVILL,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 339 of the last session, making appropriation, out of the surplus of the Literary fund, to certain colleges, and that the same be referred to the committee of schools and colleges.

        Mr. MORRIS presented the petition of Arthur C. Marling and others, against the repeal of the road law in Marshall county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. MORRIS presented the petition of Samuel Cox and others, for an act to take the sense of the voters of Marshall county upon the repeal of the act providing for opening and keeping in repair the county roads in the county of Marshall, passed January 6th, 1854;


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which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. BALLARD,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of making an additional allowance to the commissioner of the revenue in the county of Logan for the years 1861 and 1862.

        On motion of Mr. BOOKER,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to E. T. Rice a sum of money improperly paid.

        On motion of Mr. McGRUDER,

        Resolved, that a select committee of three be appointed to report a bill amending an act passed 20th of March 1860, authorizing the common council of Richmond to authorize persons to construct rail roads in the streets of Richmond.

        The SPEAKER announced the committee as follows: Messrs. McGruder, Saunders and Robertson.

        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND,

        Resolved, that when this house adjourns on to-morrow it will adjourn to meet on Monday next.

        The following engrossed bills were read a third time and passed:

        No. 31. An engrossed bill to incorporate the Western Virginia insurance company.

        No. 33. An engrossed bill amending the second section of an act entitled an act incorporating the town of Bethany, passed April 5th, 1853.

        No. 34. An engrossed bill to incorporate the Capper springs company.

        No. 35. An engrossed bill to amend an act incorporating the town of Christiansburg, and extending the limits of the same.

        No. 46. An engrossed bill to incorporate the Sweet Chalybeate springs company.

        No. 47. An engrossed bill to amend the act passed 27th March 1858, incorporating the town of Frankfort in Greenbrier county.

        No. 178. An engrossed bill to amend the 1st section of the act passed March 4th, 1856, for marking the boundary line between Fluvanna and Albemarle counties.

        No. 71. A bill authorizing the trustees of the First Presbyterian church in the city of Portsmouth to execute a deed of trust on said property, was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the foregoing bills to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        The following bills were laid on the table:

        No. 32. An engrossed bill for the voluntary enslavement of Walker Fitz, a free negro.

        No. 48. A bill for the voluntary enslavement of B. W. Love and Isaac Barnett, without compensation to the state.

        No. 70. A bill for the voluntary enslavement of Silla Rich and children, without compensation to the state.


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        The following bills were read a second time and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time:

        No. 55. A bill refunding to Joseph L. Russell amount of taxes improperly paid.

        No. 56. A bill for the relief of Henry Cooper of Frederick county.

        No. 57. A bill to amend the 1st section of an act entitled an act for the encouragement of certain volunteer military companies in the city of Wheeling, passed March 27th, 1858.

        No. 59. A bill for the relief of Charles A. Hoge and James Musgrave.

        No. 60. A bill for the relief of Thos. Javins of Fairfax county.

        No. 61. A bill refunding to John H. Showalter a license tax improperly charged against and paid by him.

        No. 62. A bill refunding to Robert N. Wright a sum of money paid on erroneous assessment.

        No. 63. A bill refunding to the securities of Wm. H. Blanch, late sheriff of the county of Mecklenburg, certain damages paid by them.

        No. 64. A bill to amend and re-enact the 13th section of chapter 42 of the Code, edition of 1860, so as more effectually to regulate the sales of real estate under executions in favor of the commonwealth.

        No. 65. A bill for the relief of J. Dickinson Kincaid of Greenbrier county.

        No. 66. A bill to provide for paying to the Bank of Racine lost coupons for interest on the bonds of the state of Virginia.

        No. 67. A bill to provide for the payment to the Richmond branch of the Exchange Bank of lost coupons for interest on the bonds of the state of Virginia.

        No. 68. A bill to amend the 11th section of chapter 212 of the Code.

        No. 69. A bill to establish the county of Bland out of parts of Giles, Wythe and Tazewell.

        No. 72. A bill amending the charter of the Black lick and Plaster bank turnpike company.

        No. 161. A bill to regulate the prayer for and effect of answers in courts of equity.

        On motion of Mr. McKENZIE, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Kepler of the Episcopal church.

        Mr. DUCKWALL, from the committee for courts of justice, presented the following bill:

        No. 188. A bill amending the 9th section of chapter 212 of the Code of Virginia, providing compensation to the owners of condemned slaves.


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        Mr. McGRUDER, from a special committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 189. A bill amending an act passed March 20th, 1860, authorizing the council of Richmond to construct rail roads in its streets.

        Which said bills were read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        On motion of Mr. BISBIE,

        Resolved, that a select committee of nine be appointed by the SPEAKER, upon a proper state system of commerce, mining and manufactures.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee, under the resolution:

        Messrs. Bisbie, Barbour, Collier, Edgington, Haymond, Hopkins, Martin of Henry, Segar and Saunders.

        Mr. HUNTT submitted the following resolution; which on motion of Mr. MYERS, was laid on the table:

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation be requested to lay before this house such proof, if any, of the ability of the firm of Bellot des Minières, Brothers & Company to execute their contract, made in August last, for the purchase and completion of the James river and Kanawha canal.

        Mr. DUCKWALL submitted the following resolution; which, on his motion, was laid on the table:

        Resolved by the general assembly, that the commissioners to audit and settle the accounts for services at Harpers Ferry, shall be and they are hereby authorized to allow pay to the field officers and to the four companies of the 89th regiment in the county of Morgan, designated in their report of the 5th day of February 1861, in the manner reported by them.

        On motion of Mr. RIVES,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, the petition of citizens of Surry, for the formation of a volunteer company.

        On motion of Mr. PRESTON,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of authorizing the Monticello Bank to establish an agency or branch at Abingdon or Goodson in Washington county.

        On motion of Mr. SEGAR,

        Resolved, that the committee on lunatic asylums enquire into the expediency of increasing the salary of the steward of the Eastern lunatic asylum.

        Mr. MILLER submitted the following resolution; which, on motion, was ordered to be laid on the table:

        Resolved, that a special committee of five be appointed to enquire into the expediency of passing a law providing for the valuation of property levied on under executions, by two or more freeholders, and that such property be required to bring at the public sale at least two-thirds of the value so fixed.

        The following bills were read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time:


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        No. 73. A bill amending the charter of the Raleigh and Grayson turnpike company.

        No. 78. A bill to increase the pay of the commonwealth's attorney for the circuit court of Ohio county.

        No. 94. A bill to incorporate the Elk river rail road company.

        No. 114. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Scottsville.

        No. 123. A bill amending certain acts concerning the town of Port Royal in the county of Caroline.

        No. 163. A bill incorporating the Gilmer oil mining and manufacturing company in the county of Gilmer.

        No. 57. An engrossed bill to amend the 1st section of an act entitled an act for the encouragement of certain volunteer military companies in the city of Wheeling, passed March 27th, 1858, was read a third time and passed.

        No. 86. A bill incorporating the Berkeley springs savings bank in the town of Bath in the county of Morgan, was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. FROST, the house adjourned until Monday the 11th instant, at 12 o'clock.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Woodbridge of the Episcopal church.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 190. A bill increasing the salary of the clerk of the penitentiary.

        No. 191. A bill providing for payment of commissioners.

        Which said bills were read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        On motion of Mr. McKINNEY,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the voluntary enslavement of certain free persons of color emancipated by the last will of A. T. Gordon deceased.

        On motion of Mr. MARTIN of Norfolk county,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs be requested to enquire into the expediency of authorizing the Wise light dragoons in Norfolk county to arm with a less number than fifty regularly uniformed members.

        On motion of Mr. BOREMAN,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of incorporating the Industrial society of Wood county.


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        Mr. JONES of Gloucester presented the memorial of sundry citizens of Gloucester, asking the repeal of such laws as prohibit the catching of oysters in certain months; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        The following bills were read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time:

        No. 74. A bill to amend the charter of the Sir John's run turnpike company.

        No. 75. A bill to provide for the completion of the Middle fork turnpike.

        No. 93. A bill amending the charter of the Clarksburg and Wheeling turnpike company.

        No. 108. A bill changing the names of the lunatic asylums.

        The following bill was taken up and read a second time, and on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, was ordered to be laid on the table:

        No. 76. A bill to repeal sections 28, 29, 30, 31 and 32 of the Code of Virginia of 1860.

        No. 49. An engrossed bill to increase the capital stock of the Elk river turnpike company, was read a third time; and the question being upon the passage thereof,

        Mr. HAYMOND submitted a ryder thereto; which was read a first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and the question being on the passage of the bill, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 68. An engrossed bill to amend the 11th section of chapter 212 of the Code, was read a third time, and on motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN, laid on the table.

        The following engrossed bills were taken up, read a third time and passed:

        No. 94. A bill to incorporate the Elk river turnpike company.

        No. 114. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Scottsville.

        No. 123. A bill amending certain acts concerning the town of Port Royal in the county of Caroline.

        No. 163. A bill incorporating the Gilmer oil mining and manufacturing company in the county of Gilmer.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        The SPEAKER presented a communication from the governor of the commonwealth, enclosing a letter from Hon. Judge John Robertson, commissioner to the seceding states; which was read, and on motion of Mr. COLLIER, laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 28.

        On motion of Mr. MARTIN of Norfolk county, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.


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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Woodbridge of the Episcopal church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Feb. 11, 1861.

        The senate have passed bills entitled:

        An act to amend and re-enact the 1st and 3d sections of an act entitled an act to incorporate a company to construct, on the plan of James S. French, a rail road between Alexandria and Washington, passed February 27, 1854, No. 61.

        An act to incorporate the Lynchburg arms and engine manufacturing company, No. 63.

        An act to amend the charter of the Merchants Bank of Virginia, No. 68.

        An act authorizing the Merchants Bank of Virginia to establish branches at Rocky Mount, Liberty, Goodson and Princeton, No. 69.

        An act to incorporate the Manchester savings bank in the town of Manchester, No. 71.

        An act to incorporate the Hebrew benevolent society of Alexandria, No. 85.

        An act incorporating the Independence male and female college in the county of Grayson, No. 87.

        An act to incorporate the Amherst and Nelson woolen manufacturing company in the county of Nelson, No. 90.

        An act establishing a branch bank in the town of Liberty in the county of Bedford, No. 55.

        An act to incorporate the Southern manufacturing company, No. 94.

        An act to incorporate the Springfield and Deep run coal mining and manufacturing company, No. 103.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 61. A senate bill entitled an act to amend and re-enact the 1st and 3d sections of an act entitled an act to incorporate a company to construct, on the plan of James S. French, a rail road between Alexandria and Washington, passed February 27, 1854, was read the first and second times, and referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        The following senate bills were severally read the first and second times, and ordered to be referred to the committee on banks:

        No. 55. A senate bill entitled an act establishing a branch bank in the town of Liberty in the county of Bedford.

        No. 68. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the charter of the Merchants Bank of Virginia.

        No. 69. A senate bill entitled an act authorizing the Merchants Bank of Virginia to establish branches at Rocky Mount, Liberty, Goodson and Princeton.


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        No. 71. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Manchester savings bank in the town of Manchester.

        No. 87. A senate bill entitled an act incorporating the Independence male and female college in the county of Grayson, was read the first and second times, and referred to the committee of schools and colleges.

        The following senate bills were read the first and second times, and referred to the committee on agriculture and manufactures:

        No. 90. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Amherst and Nelson woolen manufacturing company in the county of Nelson.

        No. 94. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Southern manufacturing company.

        The following senate bills were read a third time and passed:

        No. 63. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Lynchburg arms and engine manufacturing company.

        No. 85. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Hebrew benevolent society of Alexandria.

        No. 103. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Springfield and Deep run coal mining and manufacturing company.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 46. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Richmond city insurance company, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of schools and colleges, presented the following bill:

        No. 193. A bill making an appropriation, out of the surplus income of the Literary fund, to certain colleges.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER,

        Resolved, that when this house adjourns this day, it will adjourn to meet to-morrow morning, 11 o'clock.

        On motion of Mr. BISBIE,

        Resolved, That the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of so amending the inspection laws as to require the inspection of salted provisions imported into this state, in all cases.

        Mr. McCAMANT presented the petition of John Early and others, citizens of Carroll county, to incorporate a copper smelting company; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on agriculture and manufactures.

        Mr. THOMPSON presented the petition of Wm. Wiatt, R. T. Harvey and others, for refunding a sum of money paid by the sureties of William Grass; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        No. 63. An engrossed bill refunding to the securities of Wm. H. Blanch, late sheriff of the county of Mecklenburg, certain damages paid by them, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BASKERVILL, read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Caperton, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Frost, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman,


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Holdway, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Kemper, Knotts, Lockridge, Lynn, T. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, Witten, Wood and Woolfolk--90.

        NOES--Messrs. W. T. Jones and Robertson--2.

        Ordered, that Mr. BASKERVILL carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing resolutions from New York and Indiana, and the ordinance of secession from the state of Louisiana; which were read and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 29.

        No. 112. A bill amending the 1st section of the act forming the county of Webster, was taken up, on motion of Mr. ALDERSON, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 17. An engrossed bill re-enacting and amending an act passed March 15th, 1849, incorporating the Glenville and Charleston turnpike company, was read a third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? was put, and decided in the negative.

        AYES--Messrs. Bisbie, Boreman, Frost, Graham, Johnson, Knotts, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, Pritchard, Richardson, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith and Thompson--17.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Booker, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crump, Duckwall, Edwards, Friend, Garrett, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, Jett, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Lynn, T. Martin, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Reid, Riddick, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Sibert, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, West, Wood and Woolfolk--58.

        No quorum voting, on motion of Mr. McKENZIE, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Kepler of the Episcopal church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE Feb'y 12, 1861.

        The senate have passed bills entitled:

        An act to amend an act to incorporate the Richmond and York river rail road company, passed January 31, 1853, No. 78.

        An act to protect the interest of the commonwealth and others in rail road and steam boat companies in this state, on the two lines between Baltimore and Weldon, No. 64.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.



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        No. 78. A senate bill entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the Richmond and York river rail road company, passed January 31, 1853, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. TOMLIN, read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Locke, Lockridge, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, West, Willcox, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--107.

        No. 64. A senate bill entitled an act to protect the interest of the commonwealth and others in rail road and steam boat companies in this state, on the two lines between Baltimore and Weldon, was read a first and second times.

        Mr. HAYMOND moved that the bill be read the third time. Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. FROST, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Feb. 13, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act incorporating the Berkeley springs savings bank in the town of Bath in the county of Morgan, No. 86.

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of Howardsville, No. 115.

        An act to incorporate the town of Cameron in the county of Marshall, No. 21.

        They have also passed bills entitled:

        An act for the protection of the fisheries on the waters of the Potomac river and Chesapeake bay, No. 107.

        An act transferring the Huttonsville and Huntersville turnpike road to the counties through which the same passes, No. 60.

        An act refunding seventy-nine dollars and seven cents to James Hewit, William A. Bradford, and Peter Grant's heirs, No. 76.

        An act to refund to James S. Connell and Daniel Polsley, a sum of money improperly paid by them into the treasury as tax on land in Roane county, No. 38.

        An act refunding to Elizabeth C. Richardson of Henrico county a sum of money paid by her on an erroneous assessment of land, and for correcting said assessment, No. 26.


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        In which bills they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        The following senate bills were read a first and second times, and referred to the appropriate committees:

        No. 26. A senate bill entitled an act refunding to Elizabeth C. Richardson of Henrico county a sum of money paid by her on an erroneous assessment of land, and for correcting said assessment--To finance.

        No. 38. A senate bill entitled an act to refund to James S. Connell and Daniel Polsley a sum of money improperly paid by them into the treasury as tax on land in Roane county--To finance.

        No. 60. A senate bill entitled an act transferring the Huttonsville and Huntersville turnpike road to the counties through which the same passes--To roads and internal navigation.

        No. 76. A senate bill entitled an act refunding seventy-nine dollars and seven cents to James Hewit, William A. Bradford, and Peter Grant's heirs--To finance.

        No. 107. A senate bill entitled an act for the protection of the fisheries on the Potomac river and Chesapeake bay, was read a first and second times, amended on motions severally made, and as amended, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bill:

        No. 194. A bill to amend and re-enact an act entitled an act to incorporate the Planters savings bank of Petersburg, passed March 15th, 1858.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the same committee, presented a report asking to be discharged from the further consideration of a resolution in regard to the alteration of inspection laws in certain respects, and that the same be referred to the committee on agriculture and manufactures.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bill:

        No. 195. A bill to incorporate the Virginia and Maryland rail road company.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, presented an adverse report to a resolution to enquire into the expediency of authorizing the Wise light dragoons to arm with a less number than fifty regularly uniformed members.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 196. A bill providing for a bonus on bank capital, and for the mode of paying the same into the treasury.

        No. 197. A bill making appropriations for deficiencies in former appropriations, and for defraying expenses of the general assembly and convention now in session.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to a resolution of enquiry in regard to refunding to A. W. Deshazer a portion of license tax.


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        Mr. BASSEL, from the committee on agriculture and manufactures, to whom had been referred the following senate bills, reported the same without amendment:

        No. 90. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Amherst and Nelson woolen manufacturing company in the county of Nelson.

        No. 94. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Southern manufacturing company.

        Mr. BASSEL, from the same committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 198. A bill repealing the 21st section of chapter 87 of the Code of Virginia.

        The SPEAKER presented a communication from the governor of the commonwealth, in response to a resolution adopted February 4, 1861, in regard to the sale of arms to Joseph R. Anderson & Co.; which, on motion, was laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 30.

        Mr. CRANE presented the petition of David Goff and 125 other citizens of Randolph county, praying that the senate bill No. 60, transferring the Huttonsville and Huntersville turnpike, do not pass; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON,

        Resolved, that the members of the state convention be invited to the privileged seats in the house, while that body shall remain at the seat of government.

        On motion of Mr. WEST,

        Resolved, that the committee on propositions and grievances consider the propriety of allowing Joseph Gusman further time to rebuild his mill on the west fork of the Monongalia river, destroyed by fire in the county of Harrison.

        On motion of Mr. KAUFMAN,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw from the files of the house, the petition of the citizens of the Valley of Virginia, praying for a charter to extend the Potomac and Winchester rail road from Winchester to Strasburg.

        Mr. MORRIS presented the remonstrance of David Philips and others, against the repeal of the road law in the county of Marshall; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. MORRIS also presented the remonstrance of Thomas Moore and others, against the repeal of the road law of Marshall county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN,

        Resolved, that hereafter this house will meet at ten o'clock A. M. until otherwise ordered.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN moved that the rules be suspended, for the purpose of considering the foregoing resolution. The question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. PHELPS demanded the previous question; which


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was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        The resolution was then amended, by striking out "ten," and inserting "eleven;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. EDWARDS,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of authorizing the county courts to fix and regulate annually the rates of ordinary keepers in the commonwealth.

        On motion of Mr. SHANNON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be requested to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to refund to V. S. Morgan, late sheriff of Smyth county, a sum of money paid into the treasury by him.

        On motion of Mr. PATTERSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of allowing Joshua, a free man of color, to enslave himself to Robert Hutcheson of Rockbridge county, without compensation.

        On motion of Mr. RANDOLPH,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the relief of Charles C. Davis, late sheriff of Doddridge county.

        On motion of Mr. FERRILL,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of releasing William Anderson, sheriff of Wetzel county, from certain fines.

        On motion of Mr. JETT,

        Resolved, that the committee of schools and colleges enquire into the expediency of increasing the maximum rate of compensation to teachers of indigent children, to ten cents per day.

        On motion of Mr. MORGAN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to James W. Larue an amount of money paid by him on account of an erroneous assessment of his lands made by the assessor of the county of Clarke.

        Mr. WOOD presented the petition of the regimental board of the 88th regiment of the Virginia militia, praying for a more perfect organization of the militia of the state; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. MILLER of Lee,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to the securities of John H. Allen, late sheriff of Lee county, a certain amount of money paid by them into the treasury.

        On motion of Mr. WOOLFOLK,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill authorizing Capt. Hiram A. McMullen and others of Greene county to form a volunteer


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rifle company--the minimum number not to be less than thirty-five members.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of extending the time of the payment of the revenue by the sheriffs of the state, due 15th March.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of incorporating a company for the manufacture of fire arms, ordnance, &c. in Staunton.

        On motion of Mr. PRITCHARD,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the propriety of allowing the various regiments of Marion county to hold their fall training in their respective regimental districts.

        No. 64. A senate bill entitled an act to protect the interest of the commonwealth and others in rail road and steam boat companies in this state, on the two lines between Baltimore and Weldon, being the unfinished business, was taken up. The question being to commit the bill to the committee on finance, Mr. WALKER demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. MEDLEY, the house adjourned.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Feb. 14, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act incorporating the Gilmer oil, mining and manufacturing company in the county of Gilmer, No. 163.

        An act to increase the capital stock of the Elk river turnpike company, No. 49.

        An act amending certain acts concerning the town of Port Royal in the county of Caroline, No. 123.

        An act to amend the act of 27th March 1858, incorporating the town of Frankfort in Greenbrier county, No. 47.

        An act to amend the act incorporating the Lewisburg female institute, No. 42.

        An act authorizing the clerks of the supreme courts and the district court of appeals to take orders of publication in vacation, No. 41.

        They have passed bills entitled:

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the Farmville and Buckingham plank road company, passed May 22, 1852, No. 92.

        An act to incorporate St. Paul's church home, No. 11.


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        An act to appropriate a sum necessary to pay for the preparation and publication of the second edition of the Code of Virginia, No. 80.

        An act to transfer a part of the Price's mountain and Cumberland gap road to the Mountain lake and Salt sulphur springs turnpike company, No. 65.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        The following senate bills were read a first and second times, and on motions severally made, read a third time and passed:

        No. 65. A senate bill entitled an act to transfer a part of the Price's mountain and Cumberland gap road to the Mountain lake and Salt sulphur springs turnpike company.

        No. 92. A senate bill entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the Farmville and Buckingham plank road company, passed May 22, 1852.

        No. 80. A senate bill entitled an act to appropriate a sum necessary to pay for the preparation and publication of the second edition of the Code of Virginia, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on finance.

        No. 11. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate St. Paul's church home, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of schools and colleges, to whom had been referred the following senate bill, reported the same without amendment:

        No. 87. A senate bill entitled an act incorporating the Independence male and female college in the county of Grayson.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bills:

        No. 199. A bill to incorporate the town of Asbury.

        No. 200. A bill to incorporate the Staunton arms and ordnance company.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, to whom had been referred the following senate bill, reported the same without amendment:

        No. 61. A senate bill entitled an act to amend and re-enact the 1st and 3d sections of an act entitled an act to incorporate a company to construct, on the plan of James S. French, a rail road between Alexandria and Washington, passed February 27, 1854.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the same committee, presented the following bills:

        No. 201. A bill to incorporate the Trans-Alleghany rail road company.

        No. 202. A bill to incorporate the Staffordsville toll bridge company.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, to whom had been referred the following senate bills, reported the same without amendment:

        No. 53. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize the governor of


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the commonwealth to pardon a negro slave Tom, and restore said slave to his owner.

        No. 54. A senate bill entitled an act to stay the proceedings on executions, trust deeds and other demands in cases of refusal to receive bank notes.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, presented the following bills:

        No. 203. A bill to amend and re-enact the 36th section of chapter 38 of the Code of 1860.

        No. 204. A bill to provide for summoning jurors in the hustings and circuit courts of Lynchburg.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, presented the following reports:

        An adverse report as to the expediency of repealing the 9th section of chapter 144 of the Code of 1849.

        An adverse report as to the expediency of amending and re-enacting the 8th section of chapter 200 of the Code of 1860.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bill:

        No. 205. A bill refunding to Hugh H. Hite a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment.

        Mr. GIBSON, from the committee on banks, to whom had been referred the following senate bills, reported the same without amendment:

        No. 68. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the charter of the Merchants Bank of Virginia.

        No. 71. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Manchester savings bank in the town of Manchester.

        Mr. GIBSON, from the same committee, presented the following senate bill, with the recommendation that it do not pass:

        No. 55. A senate bill entitled an act establishing a branch bank in the town of Liberty in the county of Bedford.

        Mr. GIBSON, from the same committee, presented the following bills:

        No. 206. A bill to incorporate the Home savings bank in the city of Richmond.

        No. 207. A bill to incorporate the Aid savings bank of the city of Richmond.

        Mr. GIBSON, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to the proposition to establish a branch bank at Lebanon in the county of Russell.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, at a subsequent time reported the following bill:

        No. 208. A bill to authorize William T. Ballow and S. B. Major, trustees, to sell a church lot in the county of Halifax.

        No. 15. An engrossed bill for the relief of Edward McCabe of Harpers Ferry, was taken up, on motion of Mr. GIBSON of Jefferson, and read a third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? the roll was called, with the following result:


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        AYES--Messrs. Carter, Chapman, Duckwall, J. T. Gibson, Graham, Kincheloe, Locke, Lundy, McCamant, McCue, Mong, Myers, Newton, Randolph, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Segar, Ward, Wilson, Woolfolk and Yerby--22.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Ball, Bassel, Bentley, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Garrett, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, Keen, Kemper, Knotts, Leftwich, Lucas, Lynn, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McGehee, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Watts, Welch, West, Willcox and Wingfield--76.

        Resolved, that the said bill be rejected.

        No. 171. A bill for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts already made upon the Covington and Ohio rail road, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CAPERTON, and on motion of Mr. MARTIN of Henry, was laid upon the table.

        On motion of Mr. LOCKE,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire into the expediency of allowing Redman & Gibson the amount of claims against the state on account of the John Brown raid.

        On motion of Mr. PORTER,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of amending an act passed March 25, 1858, entitled an act to provide for the opening and repairing of public roads, and for repairing and building bridges in the counties of Brooke and Hancock.

        On motion of Mr. FRIEND,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of so amending the 29th section of chapter 158 of the Code of 1849 as to authorize the circuit courts to allow their clerks a sum for public services, not exceeding $ 100 for one year.

        On motion of Mr. DAVIS,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of changing the existing law so as to allow the officers of the 131st regiment to hold their trainings at Lynchburg.

        On motion of Mr. MILLER of Shenandoah,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill refunding to Jacob Kipps taxes erroneously paid.

        On motion of Mr. NELSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill allowing commissions to John Sclater, sheriff of Fluvanna, and remitting damages for failing to pay promptly the revenue for which he was liable.

        On motion of Mr. SEGAR,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire into the expediency of satisfying a claim of Henry Exall for furnishing plan of alterations in the hall of the house of delegates.

        Mr. WOOLFOLK presented the petition of Maj. Rich'd Chapman, praying to be relieved from certain fines imposed on him by the court


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of enquiry of the 3d regiment of Virginia militia; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. C. H. JONES,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of extending the time for the sheriffs of this state to pay in that portion of the revenue due 15th March.

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the expediency of refunding to Joseph W. Harper of Dinwiddie county the sum of sixty-one dollars, for license tax which he never used.

        On motion of Mr. THOMPSON,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for establishing the right of way from coal banks to landings on rivers, &c.

        On motion of Mr. BASKERVILL,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to William H. Morton, sen. of the county of Mecklenburg, the sum of forty dollars and one cent, for taxes improperly paid by him in consequence of erroneous assessment.

        On motion of Mr. WEST,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the propriety of refunding to Benj. S. Reynolds $ 17 46, erroneously assessed against him in the year 1858, in the county of Harrison.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of authorizing the banks of this commonwealth to issue notes of a less denomination than five dollars.

        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the propriety of providing by law that writs shall hereafter be made returnable to quarterly courts instead of monthly rules.

        Mr. MORGAN presented the petition of 29 citizens of the county of Clarke, praying the passage of a stay law; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. DICKENSON,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill amending the 4th section of chapter 141 of the Code, so as to allow a greater rate of interest than 6 per cent. per annum by special contract, but not to exceed ten per cent. per annum.

        On motion of Mr. DUCKWALL,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of so changing the present law prescribing punishment for petit larceny, as to authorize courts and juries to sentence persons convicted thereof, to labor on the public works of the state.

        On motion of Mr. BELL,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of so dividing the 97th regiment of the militia as to


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allow two battalion musters--one in the lower part of the county of Page, and the other in the upper portion of said county.

        On motion of Mr. HUNTT, the following resolution, heretofore submitted by him, was taken up and agreed to:

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation be requested to lay before this house such proof, if any, of the ability of the firm of Bellot des Minières, Bros. & Co. to execute their contract, made in August last, for the purchase and completion of the James river and Kanawha canal.

        Mr. BASSEL presented the petition of citizens of Upshur county, praying the passage of a stay law; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        Mr. SHANNON presented the petition of Leonard Sexton and others; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        Mr. HARRISON presented the petition of citizens of Rockingham county, for the relief of John Robinson, a free man of color; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. HOPKINS, the following addition to the rules of the house, in pursuance of notice heretofore given, was agreed to:

        51. That on all motions to lie on the table, and on motions relating to the priority of business, the member making such motion may be heard not exceeding three minutes in support of such motion, and one member for the same time in opposition thereto; whereupon, the question shall be put without further debate.

        On motion of Mr. SHANNON,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to authorize the sale of a lot of land at Chatham hill in Smyth county, and the application of the fund arising from the sale of said lot to the purchase of another lot, and the erection of a schoolhouse.

        Mr. ALDERSON presented a petition for a new county out of parts of Greenbrier, Fayette and Nicholas counties; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. BAILEY presented a petition from sundry citizens of McDowell, relating to the location of the county seat of that county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. McKENZIE presented the petition of J. N. Harper & Co., Wheat & Bro. and C. F. Suttle & Co., against altering the laws taxing vessels retailing wood; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. BASSEL presented the petition of citizens of Upshur county, praying relief for taxes erroneously paid; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. MILLER of Shenandoah moved that the house do now adjourn; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.


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        On motion of Mr. JETT, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Bell, Booker, Boreman, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Cowan, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Harrison, Hoffman, Hopkins, Huntt, James, Keen, Kemper, Leftwich, Locke, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, McCamant, McCue, McKenzie, J. R. Miller, Mong, Nelson, Orgain, Preston, Robertson, Rutherfoord, Sibert, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, Watts, Wingfield, Woolfolk and Yerby--51.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bassel, Burks, Carter, Coleman, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Knotts, Lucas, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McGehee, Miles, Myers, Patterson, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Ward, A. Watson, West and Willcox--45.

        The house then adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Saul of the Episcopal church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Feb. 15, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act to amend the 1st section of an act entitled an act for the encouragement of certain volunteer military companies in the city of Wheeling, passed March 27th, 1858, No. 57.

        An act authorizing the trustees of the First Presbyterian church in the city of Portsmouth to execute a deed of trust on said property, No. 71.

        And they have agreed to the amendments proposed by the house of delegates to bill entitled:

        An act for the protection of the fisheries on the waters of the Chesapeake bay and its tributaries below tide water, No. 107.

        They have passed bills entitled:

        An act for the relief of the securities of James R. Courtney of Westmoreland county, No. 50.

        An act increasing the number of permanent clerks in the office of the auditor of public accounts, No. 47.

        An act to amend the sixth section of chapter 165 of the Code so as to allow compensation to attorneys for the commonwealth in the circuit courts of towns and cities, for services heretofore performed by them, No. 72.

        In which bills they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 47. A senate bill entitled an act increasing the number of permanent clerks in the office of the auditor of public accounts.

        No. 50. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of the securities of James R. Courtney of Westmoreland county:

        Were read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on finance.


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        No. 72. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the sixth section of chapter 165 of the Code, so as to allow compensation to attorneys for the commonwealth in the circuit courts of towns and cities for services heretofore performed by them, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bill:

        No. 209. A bill to amend and re-enact sections fourth and fifth of the act providing for the voluntary enslavement of free negroes of the commonwealth, passed 18th February 1856.

        Mr. WINGFIELD, from the committee of claims, presented the following reports:

        An adverse report to claim of Wm. H. Winder of Matthews county.

        An adverse report to petition of A. P. Routt and R. W. Brooking of Orange county.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following bill:

        No. 210. A bill providing for the purchase and distribution of books of instruction for the use of the military officers of the state.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the same committee, presented the following reports:

        An adverse report to the formation of a rifle volunteer company in the county of Greene, with less than the minimum number prescribed by law.

        An adverse report to the petition of Maj. Richard Chapman.

        The following senate bills were read a third time and passed:

        No. 68. An act to amend the charter of the Merchants Bank of Virginia.

        No. 90. An act to incorporate the Amherst and Nelson woolen manufacturing company in the county of Nelson.

        No. 71. An act to incorporate the Manchester savings bank in the town of Manchester.

        No. 87. An act incorporating the Independence male and female college in the county of Grayson.

        No. 53. An act to authorize the governor of the commonwealth to pardon a negro slave Tom, and restore said slave to his owner.

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Baskervill, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, C. H. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Leftwich, Locke, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Wingfield, Wood and Woolfolk--120.

        No--Mr. Dickenson--1.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 48. An engrossed bill for the voluntary enslavement of B. W.


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Love and Isaac Burnett, without compensation to the state, was taken up on motion of Mr. BASKERVILL.

        On motion of Mr. BASKERVILL, the rules were suspended with a view to reconsider the vote by which the bill was ordered to its engrossment.

        Mr. MAGRUDER submitted a substitute for the bill.

        On motion of Mr. BASKERVILL, the bill and substitute were referred to the committee on the subject of free negroes.

        On motion of Mr. WOOLFOLK, the committee on the subject of free negroes was enlarged by the addition of four members.

        The SPEAKER announced the following as the committee: Messrs. Baskervill, Duckwall, Riddick and Garrett.

        No. 54. A senate bill entitled an act to stay the proceedings on executions, trust deeds and other demands, in cases of refusal to receive bank notes, was, on motion of Mr. KEEN, laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of repealing so much of the law as requires the publication of the annual tabular statements from the several banks of this commonwealth.

        On motion of Mr. EVANS,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to the county of Middlesex the amount of money paid by the said county for a set of weights and measures which were not received by said county, the county court having rescinded its order authorizing the same to be procured.

        On motion of Mr. ALDERSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the relief of the securities of Wilson Abbot, late sheriff of Raleigh county.

        Mr. BALLARD presented the petition of John Hail, commissioner of Logan county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. BALLARD presented the petition of Joel Elkins, praying to be relieved from a fine; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. PORTER,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of amending the charter of the Holliday's cove rail road company.

        On motion of Mr. PRITCHARD,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to James Rix the sum of forty dollars, a fine improperly imposed on him in the circuit court of Marion county.

        On motion of Mr. HOLDWAY,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of relieving Joseph Hagan of the county of Scott from the payment of taxes erroneously assessed in the county of Wise.

        Mr. HOLDWAY presented the petition of James Hagan on the subject of the foregoing resolution; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.


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        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill amending the 15th section of chapter 191 of the Code of Virginia.

        On motion of Mr. McKENZIE,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of providing by law that all free negroes sold for crime, or free negroes enslaved in case of committing any crime hereafter, shall not be paid for out of the state treasury.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of suspending for a time the law requiring one-fifth of coin to be held in the banks.

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of readjusting the tax on livery stables.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN presented the petition of the Central Bank, for renewal of its charter; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on banks.

        Mr. HOFFMAN presented the petition of the citizens of Harrison, for the amendment of the laws relative to ferries; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. WINGFIELD,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending the 3d section of chapter 170 of the Code of Virginia.

        On motion of Mr. LOCKE,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire into the expediency of allowing John Avis, late jailor of Jefferson, a sum of money for board furnished guards during the John Brown raid.

        On motion of Mr. PRESTON,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill amending the act passed March 29, 1860, providing for the establishment of a branch bank at Abingdon.

        No. 55. A senate bill entitled an act establishing a branch bank in the town of Liberty in the county of Bedford, with the resolution of the committee on banks, that the bill shall not pass, was taken up; and the question being on agreeing to the resolution of the committee, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Resolved, that the bill be rejected.

        The following senate bill was read a third time and passed:

        No. 94. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Southern manufacturing company.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 61. A senate bill entitled an act to amend and re-enact the 1st and 3d sections of an act entitled an act to incorporate a company to construct, on the plan of James S. French, a rail road between Alexandria and Washington, passed February 27, 1854, was read a third time, and on motion of Mr. MYERS, laid on the table.

        Mr. KEEN submitted the following resolution; and the question


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being on agreeing thereto, Mr. DUCKWALL demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        Resolved, that the use of the hall of the house of delegates be and hereby is tendered to the convention of the people of Virginia now in session, during the forenoon and until 4 o'clock in the afternoon of each day; and from and after the acceptance of the above tender by the convention, the sessions of this house shall commence at 4 o'clock P. M. on each day until otherwise ordered.

        On motion of Mr. DUCKWALL, the house adjourned until Monday, 11 o'clock.

        NOTE.--The committee on the subject of free negroes, heretofore announced by the SPEAKER, is as follows:

        Messrs. Woolfolk, McCamant, Rives, McGehee, Martin of Nelson, Montague, Kincheloe, Edgington, Orgain, Duckwall, Baskervill, Riddick and Garrett.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Jacobs of the Mayo street congregation.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Feb. 16, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act amending the 1st section of the act forming the county of Webster, No. 112.

        An act amending the charter of the town of Bath in the county of Morgan, No. 121.

        An act amending the second section of an act entitled an act incorporating the town of Bethany, passed April 5th, 1853, No. 33.

        And they have passed house bill entitled:

        An act to incorporate the Western Virginia insurance company, No. 31, with an amendment.

        They have also passed bills entitled:

        An act to authorize the issue of registered certificates of state stock to Franklin Torrey in lieu of two lost bonds, No. 81.

        An act authorizing the payment to Scott and Adams of a sum of money for work done on the Southwestern turnpike, No. 82.

        In which amendment and bills they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        The amendment proposed by the senate to house bill entitled an act to incorporate the Western Virginia insurance company, was agreed to.

        No. 82. A senate bill entitled an act authorizing the payment to Scott & Adams of a sum of money for work done on the Southwestern turnpike, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. DAVIS, read a third time and passed.


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        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Ball, Ballard, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Burks, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Crane, Davis, Duckwall, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Willcox, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--96.

        NOES--Messrs. McGehee and West--2.

        No. 81. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize the issue of registered certificates of state stock to Franklin Torrey in lieu of two lost bonds, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, presented the following bill:

        No. 211. A bill changing the time of holding circuit courts in the town of Danville.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, to whom had been referred

        No. 11. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the St. Paul's church home, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bill:

        No. 212. A bill authorizing the amendment of the charter of the Holliday's cove rail road company.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred the following senate bills:

        No. 50. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of James R. Courtney of Westmoreland county; and

        No. 80. A senate bill entitled an act to appropriate a sum necessary to pay for the preparation and publication of the second edition of the Code, reported the same with amendments.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 213. A bill for the relief of the securities of Hilton Fitzhugh, late sheriff of Prince William county.

        Mr. GIBSON, from the committee on banks, to whom had been referred

        No. 69. A senate bill entitled an act authorizing the Merchants Bank of Virginia to establish branches at Rockymount, Liberty, Goodson and Princeton, reported the same with an amendment, and with a recommendation that the bill be rejected.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.


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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Jacobs of the Mayo street congregation.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Feb. 18, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act to incorporate the Sweet Chalybeate springs company, No. 46.


        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 214. A bill releasing the securities of Winston Shelton, late sheriff of Nicholas county, from the payment of damages.

        No. 215. A bill refunding to Isaac Shobe a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land.

        No. 216. A bill authorizing the 2nd auditor to receive from the Norfolk and Petersburg rail road company state bonds at par for the payment of interest and dividends.

        No. 217. A bill refunding a sum of money paid by the county of Middlesex for a set of weights and measures.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, to whom had been referred

        No. 81. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize the issue of registered certificates of state stock to Franklin Torrey in lieu of two lost bonds, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee on roads and internal navigation, presented the following bill:

        No. 218. A bill to incorporate the Virginia canal company, and to transfer the rights and franchises of the James river and Kanawha company thereto; which, on his motion, was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. ROBERTSON presented the petition of the field and staff officers of the 4th regiment of cavalry, for removal to Virginia of the remains of General Harry Lee, which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. FROST,

        Resolved, that the committee on agriculture and manufactures enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill incorporating the Jackson county agricultural society.

        Mr. BENTLEY presented the petition of certain officers and privates of the 57th regiment of Virginia militia, asking compensation for certain companies of said regiment, for services rendered by them during the John Brown raid; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. HARRISON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to Andrew L. Lindsey a certain sum of money paid by him on account of an erroneous assessment of his property in the county of Rockingham, and of correcting the assessment thereof.


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        Mr. MORRIS presented the remonstrance of James Garvin and others, against the repeal of the road law in Marshall county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. NEWTON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to Robert W. Tomlin of Hanover county the sum of $ 37 99, improperly paid for taxes.

        Mr. CRANE presented the petition of Jacob W. Marshall and forty-one others, praying the passage of a bill transferring the Huttonsville and Huntersville turnpike to the counties through which the road passes; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented a report upon the subject of the sale of the James river and Kanawha canal to Messrs. Bellot des Minières, Brothers & Company; which, on his motion, was laid on the table and 500 copies ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 31.

        No. 50. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of the securities of James R. Courtney of Westmoreland county, with the amendments proposed thereto, was taken up.

        The amendment was agreed to. The bill was then read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Ballard, Bell, Bentley, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Knotts, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, Massie, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, West, Wingfield, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--101.

        NOES--Messrs. Claiborne, W. T. Jones and Wilson--3.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 11. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate St. Paul's church home, was read a third time and passed.

        No. 64. A senate bill entitled an act to protect the interests of the commonwealth and others in rail road and steam boat companies in this state, on the two lines between Baltimore and Weldon, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Bailey, Ballard, Bell, Boreman, Brown, Caperton, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Dickenson, Edwards, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, Massie, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Morris, Myers, Newton, Patterson, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Saunders, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Thomas, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, West, Woolfolk and Yerby--79.

        NOES--Messrs. Burks, Duckwall, Huntt, McGehee, Orgain, Rives, Tomlin and Wingfield--8.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.


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        No. 69. A senate bill entitled an act authorizing the Merchants Bank of Virginia to establish branches at Rockymount, Liberty, Goodson and Princeton, was read a third time, and on motion of Mr. HOPKINS, laid on the table.

        No. 80. A senate bill entitled an act to appropriate a sum necessary to pay for the preparation and publication of the second edition of the Code of Virginia, with the amendment thereto by the committee on finance, was, on motion of Mr. COLLIER, recommitted to the same committee.

        On motion of Mr. SIBERT, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Jacobs of the Mayo street congregation.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Feb. 19, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill, entitled:

        An act to amend an act to increase the capital stock of the Richmond and Danville rail road company, and for other purposes, No. 39.

        And they have passed bills entitled:

        An act to authorize an issue of preferred stock by the Alexandria, Mount Vernon and Accotink turnpike company, No. 91.

        An act to incorporate the Baltimore and Fredericksburg steam boat company, No. 119.

        In which bills they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 119. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Baltimore and Fredericksburg steam boat company; and

        No. 91. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize an issue of preferred stock by the Alexandria, Mount Vernon and Accotink turnpike company, were read a first and second times, and on motions severally made, were read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bill:

        No. 218. A bill refunding to Wm. H. Morton a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, to whom had been recommitted

        No. 80. A senate bill entitled an act to appropriate a sum of money necessary to pay for the preparation and publication of the second edition of the Code of Virginia, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. WOOLFOLK, from the committee on the subject of free negroes, presented the following bill:


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        No. 219. A bill for the voluntary enslavement of free negroes without compensation to the commonwealth, which on his motion was read a first time and ordered to be read a second time.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor of the commonwealth, enclosing a communication from the Hon. John Robertson, commissioner to the seceding states, with sundry documents therewith; which were read and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 32.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor of the commonwealth enclosing a resolution adopted by the legislature of Texas, which were read and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 33.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing certain resolutions adopted by the legislature of the state of Michigan; which were read and ordered to be laid on the table.

        No. 38. A bill incorporating the Norfolk county railway company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. MARTIN of Norfolk, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed (two-thirds concurring), was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 61. A senate bill entitled an act to amend and re-enact the 1st and 3d sections of act entitled an act to incorporate a company to construct, on the plan of James S. French, a rail road between Alexandria and Washington, passed Feb. 27, 1854, was taken up, on motion of Mr. MYERS, amended, and as amended, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. WARD presented the petition of citizens of Frederick, praying for the passage of a general law authorizing the erection of work houses; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        No. 217. A bill refunding a sum of money paid by the county of Middlesex for a set of weights and measures, was taken up, on motion of Mr. EVANS, read a first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        No. 171. A bill for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts already made upon the Covington and Ohio rail road, was taken up, on motion of Mr. MARTIN of Henry.

        Mr. MARTIN moved to amend the bill by striking out that portion thereof in the first section which suspended the sale of state bonds for other improvements except the Covington and Ohio rail road; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. JONES of Appomattox, the vote was recorded as follows:


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        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Bentley, Booker, Boreman, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Christian, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Ferrill, Frost, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Hackley, Holdway, Hopkins, Hunter, James, Jett, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knotts, Leftwich, Lucas, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Montague, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Preston, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Shannon, Sibert, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, Ward, Welch, Willcox, Witten and Wood--74.

        NOES--Messrs. Bassel, Bell, Brown, Burks, Edwards, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, Haymond, Hoffman, Huntt, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, McGehee, McKinney, Medley, Morris, Orgain, Pretlow, Pritchard, Riddick, Rives, J. K. Smith, Tyler, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, West, Wilson, Wingfield and Yerby--38.

        The bill was then further amended, and as amended, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        Mr. MALLORY presented the petition of the trustees of Ebenezer academy in the county of Brunswick; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of schools and colleges.

        On motion of Mr. DUCKWALL, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Jacobs of the Mayo street congregation.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Feb. 20, 1861.

        The senate have agreed to the amendment proposed by the house of delegates to senate bill entitled:

        An act for the relief of the securities of James R. Courtney of Westmoreland county, No. 50.


        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing a letter from the superintendent of the armory; which was ordered to be printed, and referred to the committee on military affairs. Doc. No. 34.

        Mr. WINGFIELD, from the committee of claims, presented the following bills:

        No. 220. A bill authorizing the payment of a sum of money to Henry Exall of the city of Richmond, for services rendered and expenses incurred in altering and repairing the state courthouse in the city of Richmond.

        No. 221. A bill for the relief of John Avis, late jailor of Jefferson county.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred

        No. 38. A senate bill entitled an act to refund to James S. Connell and David Polsley a sum of money improperly paid by them into the treasury as tax on land in Roane county, reported the same with an amendment.


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        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented the following bills:

        No. 222. A bill requiring reports from savings banks and certain insurance companies, and imposing taxes thereon.

        No. 223. A bill refunding to James W. Larue a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment.

        On motion of Mr. COLLIER,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of requiring the banks of this state to make an annual statement showing all dividends and deposits unclaimed for a period of three years, exceeding three dollars, and the names of parties to whose credit such dividends and deposits are standing on the books of such banks.

        On motion of Mr. A. WATSON,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending the sixth section of chapter two hundred of the Code of Virginia.

        On motion of Mr. FRIEND,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of authorizing justices of the peace to issue garnishee processes on their judgments.

        On motion of Mr. RICHARDSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks be instructed to enquire into the expediency of amending and re-enacting the 9th section of an act passed 12th February 1853, entitled an act to incorporate the Bank of Wheeling.

        On motion of Mr. FLEMING,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill instructing the Board of public works to divide the Staunton and Parkersburg road into two sections, and appoint a superintendent for each section.

        Mr. MORRIS presented the petition of Robert McConnell and others, for the release of Ann McGuire from her imprisonment in the county jail of Marshall county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to authorize the volunteer companies of Scottsville and Howardsville to form a battalion.

        On motion of Mr. THOMAS,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of enforcing, by proper penalties, the requirements on the bank for quarterly statements of their condition.

        On motion of Mr. MONTAGUE,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill authorizing the construction of a turnpike road from the New river White sulphur springs in Giles county to Vicker's switch on the Virginia and Tennessee rail road, on the joint stock principle.


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        On motion of Mr. McKENZIE,

        Resolved, that when this house adjourns to-day, it adjourn to meet on Saturday next, 11 o'clock.

        On motion of Mr. BASKERVILL,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to the estate of Richard Boyd a sum of money for taxes improperly paid under erroneous assessment.

        Mr. HAYMOND presented a petition for the relief of Edward Moore, late sheriff of Wetzel county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        No. 171. An engrossed bill for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts already made upon the Covington and Ohio rail road, was taken up, on motion of Mr. RUTHERFOORD, and read a third time; and the question being on the passage of the bill, Mr. WALKER demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Baskervill, Bentley, Bisbie, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Christian, Coleman, Duckwall, Edgington, Ferguson, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Hackley, Hunter, W. T. Jones, Kemper, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKenzie, J. R. Miller, Montague, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Reid, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Sibert, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Tyler, Walker, Ward, Welch, Willcox, Witten and Woolfolk--67.

        NOES--Messrs. Arnold, Bassel, Bell, Booker, Brown, Burks, Cassin, Childs, Collier, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Edwards, Ferrill, Friend, Garrett, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Haymond, Hoffman, Hopkins, Huntt, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, Kaufman, Kincheloe, Knotts, Leftwich, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, T. Martin, McGehee, McKinney, Medley, Miles, Mong, Morris, Phelps, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Scott, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Tomlin, A. Watson, Watts, West, Wilson, Wingfield and Yerby--58.

        Seventy-seven votes not having been given for the bill,

        Resolved, that the bill be rejected.

        On motion of Mr. GRAHAM, the rule of the house was suspended, with the view to reconsider the vote rejecting the bill, and the bill laid on the table.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. PENNYBACKER, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a bill authorizing the county court of Rockingham county to loan to the Manassas gap rail road company a sum of money; in which they respectfully asked the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        Subsequently the bill was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. WALKER, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 17. An engrossed bill re-enacting and amending an act passed March 15, 1849, incorporating the Glenville and Charleston turnpike company, was taken up.

        On motion of Mr. KNOTTS, the vote of the house ordering the bill to its engrossment, was reconsidered.

        The bill was then amended, and as amended, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        Mr. BASKERVILL, from the special committee on the subject of free negroes, presented the following bill:


Page 147

        No. 224. A bill to prevent the emancipation of slaves by will.

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY,

        Resolved, that the committee of schools and colleges enquire into the expediency of authorizing the trustees of Ebenezer academy in the county of Brunswick to sell the said academy and land belonging to it, and to apply the proceeds of sale for the benefit of indigent children in the county of Brunswick.

        On motion of Mr. HOPKINS,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of repealing the 7th section of chapter 206 of the Code of 1860.

        Mr. LOCKRIDGE presented the petition of sundry citizens of Randolph and Pocahontas counties, for a further appropriation to the Huttonsville and Huntersville turnpike road; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of roads and internal navigation.

        No. 19. An engrossed bill to amend and re-enact the second section of an act passed February 8th, 1860, to revive and amend an act passed March 1st, 1853, entitled an act to revive and amend the charter of the Little Kanawha navigation company, was taken up.

        Mr. HAYMOND submitted a ryder to the bill. Pending the consideration of which, on motion of Mr. DUCKWALL, the bill and ryder were laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. DUCKWALL, the house adjourned until Saturday, 11 o'clock.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Jacobs of the Mayo street congregation.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Feb. 21, 1861.

        The senate have passed bills entitled:

        An act authorizing the superintendent of the armory to provide quarters for a portion of the public guard, No. 32.

        An act providing for the location of the courthouse, jail and other public buildings of the county of McDowell, No. 104.

        An act to incorporate the Chesterfield car, locomotive and agricultural implement manufacturing company, No. 108.

        An act to incorporate the James river boot, shoe and leather manufacturing company, No. 109.

        An act to authorize the Bank of the Commonwealth, the Merchants Bank of Virginia at Lynchburg and the Traders Bank of Richmond to establish a branch bank at Alexandria, No. 116.

        An act to incorporate the Mount Vernon insurance company, No. 118.

        An act to amend the act to amend the pilot laws in regard to the Potomac river, No. 102.


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        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 32. A senate bill entitled an act authorizing the superintendent of the armory to provide quarters for a portion of the public guard, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Burks, Caperton, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Hunter, James, Jett, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Shannon, Sibert, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--109.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 104. A senate bill entitled an act providing for the location of the courthouse, jail and other public buildings in the county of McDowell, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        No. 108. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Chesterfield car, locomotive and agricultural implement manufacturing company, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on agriculture and manufactures.

        No. 109. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the James river boot, shoe and leather manufacturing company, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        No. 116. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize the Bank of the Commonwealth, the Merchants Bank of Virginia at Lynchburg and the Traders Bank of Richmond to establish a branch bank at Alexandria, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on banks.

        No. 118. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Mount Vernon insurance company, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        No. 102. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the pilot laws in regard to the Potomac river, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bills:

        No. 225. A bill to incorporate the New river White sulphur springs and Dicker's switch turnpike company.

        No. 226. A bill to amend and re-enact an act passed March 22nd, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Knob turnpike company in the county of Washington, and incorporating the Abingdon and Tennessee turnpike company.

        No. 227. A bill to amend and re-enact an act passed March 22nd, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Knob turnpike company in


Page 149

the county of Washington, and incorporating the Hayter's gap and Washington turnpike company.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the same committee, to whom had been referred.

        No. 60. A senate bill entitled an act transferring the Huttonsville and Huntersville turnpike road to the counties through which the same passes, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bill:

        No. 228. A bill for the relief of the securities of Wilson Abbot, late sheriff of the county of Raleigh.

        Mr. BASSEL, from the committee on agriculture and manufactures, presented the following bill:

        No. 229. A bill to incorporate the Carroll mining and manufacturing company.

        On motion of Mr. HACKLEY, the committee on enrolled bills was enlarged, by the addition of the following members: Messrs. Nelson, Staples, Richardson, Welch, Booker, Saunders, West, Ward and Jett.

        Mr. JONES of Appomattox submitted the following resolution; which was laid on the table:

        Resolved, that when this house adjourns on the 5th March, it will, with the concurrence of the senate, adjourn sine die.

        Mr. GRATTAN presented the petition of a troop of cavalry in Rockingham county, concerning the removal of the remains of General Lee to Virginia; which was, on his motion, laid on the table.

        Mr. HOFFMAN presented the remonstrance of citizens of Harrison county against an alteration of the law relative to ferries; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        On motion of Mr. ALDERSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance take into consideration the propriety of reporting a bill for the relief of the sureties of C. Roles, late sheriff of Raleigh.

        On motion of Mr. WATSON of Accomack,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of refunding a fine improperly imposed upon Spencer Drummond, jr. of the county of Accomack.

        On motion of Mr. RIVES,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending sections 3d and 4th of chapters 85 and 95 of the Code of Virginia.

        On motion of Mr. NELSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill authorizing a company of volunteer cavalry in the 47th regiment in Albemarle county to organize with not less than 40 nor more than 100 men, rank and file.

        On motion of Mr. BALL,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending section 5th of chapter 178 of the Code of Virginia.


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        Mr. FLEMING submitted following resolution:

        Resolved, that when this house adjourns to-day, it will adjourn to meet on Monday next, and on every day thereafter, at 10 o'clock A. M.; which, on motion, was laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. COLLIER,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of authorizing the South side rail road company to construct a line of steamers to run in connection with said road from City Point.

        On motion of Mr. JOHNSON,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill repealing the 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th sections of chapter 6th of the Code of Virginia.

        On motion of Mr. LOCKE,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire into the expediency of allowing Samuel Stone (commissioner of the revenue for Jefferson county) a sum of money erroneously deducted from his commissions for the year.

        Mr. MONG presented a petition of citizens of Martinsburg in reference to charter of said town; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. ROBERTSON of Richmond city presented the petition of the Goochland dragoons and Richmond Fayette artillery, for the removal to Virginia of the remains of Gen. H. Lee; which, on his motion, was laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON of Richmond city,

        Resolved, that the auditor of public accounts report to this house:

        I. The amount which, in his opinion, the state is likely to be called on to provide in specie for payment of interest in July and January on state bonds due to holders out of the state.

        II. Tables showing what portion of said amount would be payable to each of the banks of this commonwealth:
1st. On the basis of their respective capitals.
2d. On that of capital, circulation and deposits.
3d. On that of circulation and deposits.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN submitted the following resolution:

        Resolved, that one thousand additional copies of the report of the committee of roads and internal navigation, in reference to the ability of the house of Bellot, Brothers and Company to execute their contract for the completion of the James river and Kanawha canal, be printed for the use of this house; which, on motion of Mr. SIBERT, was laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. RICHARDSON,

        Resolved, that the committee of schools and colleges be instructed to enquire into the expediency of rearranging the school divisions in Ohio county.

        Mr. BISBIE presented a petition of sundry merchants of Norfolk, praying compulsory inspection of salted provisions; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on agriculture and manufactures.


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        Mr. BISBIE presented the petition of sundry citizens of the city of Norfolk, praying the repeal of the act of March 19th, 1860, amending the charter of the city of Norfolk; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        No. 143. A bill amending certain laws respecting the militia of the commonwealth, so as to render them more efficient, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CRUMP.

        Mr. HACKLEY moved to amend the bill, by striking out "eight" dollars, and inserting "five," as the compensation of brigade inspectors; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. CRANE, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Claiborne, Collier, Crane, Dickenson, Duckwall, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Jett, Johnson, Keen, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Locke, Lucas, Lynn, W. Martin, Maupin, Medley, Miles, Mong, Morgan, Morris, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, Robinson, Rives, Scott, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Walker, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson and Witten--65.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Baskervill, Bisbie, Booker, Burks, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Crump, Davis, Edwards, Evans, Friend, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Hunter, James, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Lundy, J. G. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, J. R. Miller, Montague, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Pretlow, Reid, Robertson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Thomas, Tyler, Ward, Woolfolk and Yerby--46.

        Mr. MARTIN of Norfolk county moved to amend the bill, by striking out "ten" and inserting "twenty" cents as the mileage of the brigade inspectors; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. CRANE, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Baskervill, Bass, Bisbie, Booker, Burks, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Crump, Davis, Edwards, Evans, Friend, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Hunter, James, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Leftwich, Lundy, J. G. Martin, Massie, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Nelson, Orgain, Pretlow, Robertson, Robinson, Thomas and Woolfolk--43.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Cassin, Claiborne, Crane, Dickenson, Duckwall, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Jett, Johnson, Keen, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Locke, Lucas, Lynn, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, Medley, Miles, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pritchard, Reid, Rives, Rutherfoord, Scott, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson and Witten--67.

        The bill was then further amended, and as amended, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        No. 20. An engrossed bill authorizing a loan from the Literary fund to the Alleghany college, was taken up, and on motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN, laid on the table.

        No. 24. An engrossed bill for the relief of Enoch Atkins of Giles county, was taken up, and on motion of Mr. HOPKINS, recommitted to the committee of claims.

        No. 23. An engrossed bill for the relief of Nathaniel B. Harvey, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Burks, Carpenter, Chapman, Christian, Claiborne, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway,


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Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--106.

        No. 25. An engrossed bill refunding a license tax to Paul A. Farley of the county of Lunenburg, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Burks, Chapman, Claiborne, Crump, Davis, Edwards, Ferrill, Fleming, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hopkins, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, Medley, Miles, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Pritchard, Reid, Robertson, Robinson, Saunders, Scott, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--85.

        NOES--Messrs. Richardson and Wilson--2.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the foregoing bills to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. NELSON, the house adjourned until Monday, 11 o'clock.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Feb. 23, 1861.

        The senate have passed with amendments, house bills entitled:

        An act incorporating the Norfolk county railway company, No. 38.

        An act for the relief of the banks of this commonwealth, No. 77.

        And they have passed bills entitled:

        An act refunding to Moses G. Booth damages paid by him as surety of Samuel S. Turner, late sheriff of Franklin county, No. 27.

        An act for the relief of Thomas L. Jordan of Wayne county, No. 40.

        An act to authorize rail road companies to appoint police agents, No. 45.

        An act for the relief of Samuel E. Lybrook, sheriff of Giles county, No. 99.

        An act for the relief of M. C. Hall, late sheriff of Lewis county, and his securities, No. 100.

        An act for the relief of -- Webb and -- Adams, No. 101.

        An act to distribute Mayo's Guide to coroners, No. 106; and

        An act for the relief of Thomas Nichols, No. 115.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.



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        The amendments proposed by the senate to house bill entitled:

        No. 38. An act incorporating the Norfolk county railway company, were agreed to.

        No. 27. A senate bill entitled an act refunding to Moses G. Booth damages paid by him as surety of Samuel S. Turner, late sheriff of Franklin county:

        No. 40. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Thomas L. Jordan of Wayne county:

        No. 99. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Sam'l E. Lybrook, sheriff of Giles county:

        No. 100. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of M. C. Hall, late sheriff of Lewis county, and his securities; and

        No. 115. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Thomas Nichols, were read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on finance.

        No. 45. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize rail road companies to appoint police agents; and

        No. 106. A senate bill entitled an act to distribute Mayo's Guide to coroners, were read a first and second times, and referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        No. 101. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of -- Webb and -- Adams, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on military affairs.

        Mr. MYERS, from the committee of propositions and grievances, to whom had been referred the following senate bills, reported the same with amendments:

        No. 104. A senate bill entitled an act providing for the location of the courthouse, jail and other public buildings in the county of McDowell.

        No. 118. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Mount Vernon insurance company.

        Mr. MYERS, from the same committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 230. A bill to annex a portion of Carroll county to the county of Grayson.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bill:

        No. 231. A bill for the relief of Benjamin S. Reynolds of Harrison county.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented the following reports:

        An adverse report to the resolution enquiring into the expediency of extending the time of payment by the sheriffs of the state of that part of the revenue due 15th March, into the treasury.

        An adverse report to the petition of Geo. C. Bowyer and others, asking to have refunded a sum of money.

        Mr. GIBSON, from the committee on banks, presented the following bill:

        No. 232. A bill to extend the charter of the Central Bank of Virginia.


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        No. 77. A bill entitled an act for the relief of the banks of this commonwealth, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up.

        Mr. HAYMOND moved to disagree to the amendment of the senate, striking out the provision of the bill repealing the law providing for the more uniform currency of the banks of the state; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. WALKER demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON of Jefferson, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Caperton, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Claiborne, Collier, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Edwards, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Knote, Knotts, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, J. G. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McDowell, McGruder, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Saunders, Scott, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Thompson, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Welch, West, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--89.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Burks, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Davis, Duckwall, Friend, Garrett, J. Gilmer, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kemper, Kincheloe, Leftwich, Locke, Lundy, W. Martin, McCamant, Orgain, Rives, Rutherfoord, Sibert, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, A. Watson and Wilson--30.

        Mr. KEEN submitted an amendment to an amendment proposed by the senate. Pending the consideration of which, the bill and amendments were laid on the table, and the amendments proposed by the senate, ordered to be printed.

        No. 26. An engrossed bill authorizing the payment to William G. Jackson of certain coupons, was read a third time, and on motion of Mr. HAYMOND laid on the table.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing resolutions from the state of Illinois and the ordinance of secession from the state of Texas; which were laid on the table and ordered to be printed.

        The following bills were read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        No. 193. A bill making an appropriation out of the surplus income of the Literary fund to certain colleges.

        No. 194. A bill to amend and re-enact an act entitled an act to incorporate the Planters savings bank of Petersburg, passed March 15, 1858.

        No. 195. A bill to incorporate the Virginia and Maryland rail road company.

        No. 196. A bill providing a bonus on banks' capital, and for the mode of paying the same into the treasury.

        No. 197. A bill making appropriation for deficiencies in former appropriations, and for defraying expenses of the general assembly and convention now in session.

        No. 198. A bill repealing the 21st section of chapter eighty-seven of the Code of Virginia.

        No. 199. A bill to incorporate the town of Asbury.


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        No. 200. A bill to incorporate the Staunton arms and ordnance company.

        No. 201. A bill to incorporate the Trans-Alleghany rail road company.

        No. 202. A bill to incorporate the Staffordsville toll bridge company.

        No. 203. A bill to amend and re-enact the 36th section of chapter 38 of the Code of 1860.

        No. 204. A bill to provide for summoning jurors in the hustings and circuit courts of Lynchburg.

        No. 205. A bill refunding to Hugh H. Hite a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment.

        No. 206. A bill to incorporate the Home savings bank of the city of Richmond.

        No. 207. A bill to incorporate the Aid savings bank of the city of Richmond.

        No. 208. A bill to authorize William T. Ballou and L. B. Major, trustees, to sell a church lot in the county of Halifax.

        No. 209. A bill to amend and re-enact sections fourth and fifth of the act providing for the voluntary enslavement of free negroes of the commonwealth, passed 18th February 1856.

        No. 210. A bill providing for the purchase and distribution of books of instruction for the use of the military officers of the state.

        No. 211. A bill changing the time of holding the circuit courts in the town of Danville.

        No. 212. A bill authorizing the amendment of the charter of the Holliday's cove rail road company.

        No. 213. A bill for the relief of the securities of Hilton Fitzhugh, late sheriff of Prince William county.

        No. 214. A bill releasing the securities of Winston Shelton, late sheriff of Nicholas county, from the payment of damages.

        No. 215. A bill refunding to Isaac Shobe a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land.

        No. 216. A bill authorizing the second auditor to receive from the Norfolk and Petersburg rail road company, state bonds at par for payment of interest and dividends.

        No. 218*. A bill refunding to Wm. H. Morton, sr. a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land.

        No. 220. A bill authorizing the payment of a sum of money to Henry Exall of the city of Richmond, for services rendered and expenses incurred in altering and repairing the state courthouse in the city of Richmond.

        No. 221. A bill for the relief of John Avis, late jailor of Jefferson county.

        No. 222. A bill requiring reports from savings banks and certain insurance companies, and imposing a tax thereon.

        No. 223. A bill refunding to James W. Larue a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land.

        No. 224. A bill to prevent the emancipation of slaves by will.


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        No. 225. A bill to incorporate the New river White sulphur springs and Dickens' switch turnpike company.

        No. 226. A bill to amend and re-enact an act passed March 22nd, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Knob turnpike company in the county of Washington, and incorporating the Abingdon and Tennessee turnpike company.

        No. 227. A bill to amend and re-enact an act passed March 22nd, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Knob turnpike company in the county of Washington, and incorporating the Hayter's gap and Washington turnpike company.

        No. 228. A bill for the relief of the securities of Wilson Abbot, late sheriff of the county of Raleigh.

        No. 229. A bill to incorporate the Carroll mining and manufacturing company.

        No. 230. A bill to annex a portion of Carroll county to the county of Grayson.

        No. 231. A bill for the relief of Benj. S. Reynolds of Harrison county.

        No. 232. A bill to extend the charter of the Central Bank of Virginia.

        Mr. TOMLIN moved that the house adjourn; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative. And it appearing that no quorum voted, Mr. HAYMOND demanded a call of the house; which was sustained by the house.

        The roll was then twice called, and the following members were found to be absent:

        Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Barbour, Bass, Bassel, Boisseau, Boreman, Brown, Caperton, Carpenter, Cassin, Christian, Claiborne, Collier, Cowan, Duckwall, Edgington, Evans, Ferrill, Frost, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Harrison, Hopkins, C. H. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Kyle, Locke, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Morgan, Newton, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Riddick, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Segar, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Wallace, E. Watson, Willcox, Wingfield and Wood--75.

        The doors were then closed by order of the SPEAKER; and

        On motion of Mr. YERBY, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1861.

        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND, further proceedings under the call of the house on yesterday, were dispensed with.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Feb. 25, 1861.

        The senate have passed bills entitled:

        An act for the relief of Hopkins and Campbell of Rockbridge county, No. 48.


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        An act for the relief of Samuel Oppenheimer of Powhatan county, No. 120.

        An act to incorporate the Staffordsville toll bridge company, No. 123.

        An act for the relief of Celia Edmonds, No. 126.

        An act amending and re-enacting the eighth section of the act passed December 19, 1794, establishing the town of Middletown in the county of Frederick, No. 130.

        An act to enable the Monticello Bank or the Bank of the Commonwealth to establish an office at Monaskon in the county of Lancaster, No. 135.

        An act to amend the charter of the Danville Bank, and to authorize branches for the same, No. 136.

        An act to incorporate the Industrial society of Wood county, No. 137.

        An act incorporating the Coleraine mining and manufacturing company, No. 140.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 48. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Hopkins & Campbell of Rockbridge county; and

        No. 120. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Samuel Oppenheimer of Powhatan, were read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on finance.

        No. 130. A senate bill entitled an act amending and re-enacting the eighth section of the act passed December 19th, 1794, establishing the town of Middletown in the county of Frederick, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        No. 126. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Celia Edmonds, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        No. 137. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Industrial society of Wood county; and

        No. 140. A senate bill entitled an act incorporating the Coleraine mining and manufacturing company, were read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on agriculture and manufactures.

        The following senate bills were read a first and second times, and on motions severally made, read a third time and passed:

        No. 123. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Staffordsville toll bridge company--On motion of Mr. LUCAS.

        No. 135. An act to enable the Monticello Bank or the Bank of the Commonwealth to establish an office of discount and deposit at Monaskon, in the county of Lancaster--On motion of Mr. CARTER.

        No. 136. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the charter of the Danville Bank, and to authorize branches for the same--On motion of Mr. KEEN.

        On motion of Mr. WALKER, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bentley, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Collier, Crane, Edwards, Ferguson,


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Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Knotts, Locke, Lucas, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCue, McGruder, McKenzie, Morgan, Myers, Patterson, Porter, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, Riddick, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Wallace, Welch, West, Willcox, Witten and Yerby--65.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Bass, Bassel, Boisseau, Burks, Carpenter, Childs, Duckwall, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, Harrison, Hunter, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Leftwich, Lundy, Lynn, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Orgain, Reid, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Sibert, Tomlin, Walker, Ward, Watts, Wilson and Woolfolk--39.

        Mr. MONTAGUE, from the committee of claims, presented the following bill:

        No. 234. A bill for the relief of Samuel Stone, commissioner of Frederick county.

        Mr. MONTAGUE, from the same committee, to whom had been referred

        No. 24. An engrossed bill for the relief of Enoch Atkins of Giles county, reported the same with an amendment.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following bill:

        No. 235. A bill authorizing two existing volunteer companies in Albemarle to form a battalion.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to a resolution enquiring into the expediency of appropriating the militia fine fund of Rockingham to the use of a volunteer regiment.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred

        No. 100. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of M. C. Hall, late sheriff of Lewis county, and his securities, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 236. A bill to suspend the levying of taxes by the state on the Belmont and Wheeling bridge for three years.

        Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire, from the committee on banks, presented the following bill:

        No. 237. A bill to prevent the guarantee of notes, bills of exchange or other evidence of debt by savings banks or insurance companies.

        No. 104. A senate bill entitled an act providing for the location of the courthouse, jail and other public buildings of the county of McDowell, was, on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, recommitted to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        No. 37. An engrossed bill to amend the charter of the Wheeling creek turnpike company, was taken up, and on motion of Mr. RICHARDSON, laid on the table.

        No. 72. An engrossed bill amending the charter of the Black lick and Plaster bank turnpike company, was taken up.

        Mr. GRAHAM submitted a ryder to the bill; which was read a first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        The bill was then, on motion of Mr. GRAHAM, laid on the table.


Page 159

        The following engrossed bills were read a third time and passed:

        No. 28. An engrossed bill refunding to Matthew Wormsley, jr. of the county of Randolph, a certain amount of money erroneously paid by him.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Collier, Crane, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Welch, West, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--111.

        No. 29. An engrossed bill for the relief of the Rev. J. Packard.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Cassin, Christian, Claiborne, Collier, Crane, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Welch, West, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--97.

        NOES--Messrs. Crump, Dickenson, Goodycoontz and Johnson--4.

        No. 97. An engrossed bill for the relief of the securities of Joshua H. Staats, late sheriff of the county of Jackson.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Cassin, Childs, Claiborne, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--98.

        NOES--Messrs. Booker and W. T. Jones--2.

        No. 27. An engrossed bill for the relief of James Scott of Greenbrier county.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carter, Cassin, Claiborne, Collier, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Willcox and Woolfolk--97.

        No. 43. An engrossed bill to amend the act concerning the district free schools in the county of Jefferson.

        No. 50. An engrossed bill granting the commonwealth's right to the real estate of John Kelly deceased, to Owen Shee.


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        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Crane, Crump, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--94.

        NOES--Messrs. Claiborne, Friend, W. T. Jones, Medley, Rives, Tomlin and Wilson--7.

        No. 19. An engrossed bill to amend and re-enact the second section of an act passed February 8th, 1860, to revive and amend an act passed March 1st, 1853, entitled an act to amend and revive the charter of the Little Kanawha navigation company, with the pending ryder thereto, was taken up. The ryder was read a first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time. The bill was then read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Christian, Collier, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Huntt, Hunter, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knotts, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robinson, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Welch, West, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--101.

        NOES--Messrs. Garrett, Rives, Tomlin and Wilson--4.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the foregoing bills to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing a letter from the Hon. John Robertson, commissioner to the seceded states, with the correspondence accompanying it; which were laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 36.

        On motion of Mr. WITTEN, the house adjourned till to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Feb. 26, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act releasing the commonwealth's claim to a certain island in Chesapeake bay to Edmund J. Poulson, No. 16.

        They have passed bills entitled:

        An act to incorporate the Little Kanawha mining and manufacturing company, No. 141.


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        An act providing for the voluntary enslavement of George, Shed, Sam and Sukey, persons of color in the county of Buckingham, No. 124.

        An act refunding to George Hairston, sr. a certain sum of money improperly paid by him into the treasury, No. 67.

        An act for the relief of Joseph W. Harper, No. 121.

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of Commerce at Fredericksburg, No. 122.

        An act to incorporate the Marion magnetic iron company, No. 110.

        In which they request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 141 A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Little Kanawha mining and manufacturing company, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on agriculture and manufactures.

        No. 124. A senate bill entitled an act providing for the voluntary enslavement of George, Shed, Sam and Sukey, persons of color in the county of Buckingham, was read a first and second times.

        Mr[.] WILSON submitted the following amendment:

        "Provided, that the court shall first ascertain, and the person proposing to purchase shall pay into the treasury one-half of the value of said negroes."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. COWAN demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. WILSON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Ball, Ballard, Bassel, Bentley, Brown, Cassin, Christian, Crane, Davis, Edwards, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, J. T. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Haymond, Hoffman, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Matthews, McCue, McKenzie, Mong, Montgomery, Morris, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Richardson, Robinson, Scott, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Thompson, Tomlin, A. Watson, Welch, Wilson and Witten--52.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Baskervill, Bass, Boisseau, Booker, Burks, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crump, Duckwall, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, C. H. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Leftwich, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Montague, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Randolph, Reid, Riddick, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Segar, Staples, Thomas, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Willcox, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--75.

        The bill was then further amended, and as amended, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 122. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the charter of the Bank of Commerce at Fredericksburg, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. TOMLIN, read a third time and passed.

        No. 110. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Marion magnetic iron company, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. SHANNON, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        The following senate bills were read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on finance:


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        No. 67. A senate bill entitled an act refunding to George Hairston, sr. a certain sum of money improperly paid by him into the treasury.

        No. 121. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Joseph W. Harper.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, to whom had been referred the following senate bills, reported the same:

        No. 102. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the pilot laws in regard to the Potomac river--without amendment.

        No. 106. A senate bill entitled an act to distribute Mayo's Guide to coroners--without amendment.

        No. 45. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize rail road companies to appoint police agents--without amendment.

        No. 72. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the sixth section of chapter 165 of the Code, so as to allow compensation to attorneys for the commonwealth in the circuit courts of towns and cities, for services heretofore performed by them--with amendments.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 238. A bill to amend and re-enact the 45th section of chapter 83 of Code of 1849.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, to whom had been referred the following senate bills, reported the same with amendments:

        No. 104. A senate bill providing for the location of the courthouse, jail and other public buildings of the county of McDowell.

        No. 130. A senate bill entitled an act amending and re-enacting the eighth section of the act passed December 19, 1794, establishing the town of Middletown in the county of Frederick.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the same committee, presented a report asking that the committee be discharged from the consideration of a resolution enquiring into the expediency of refunding a militia fine to Spencer Drummond, and that the same be referred to the committee on military affairs; which was concurred in by the house.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred the following senate bill, reported the same with an amendment:

        No. 27. A senate bill entitled an act refunding to Moses G. Booth damages paid by him as surety of Samuel S. Turner, late sheriff of Franklin county.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented the following reports:

        An adverse report to the petition of Abel P. Sinnet, asking to have refunded him a certain amount of money.

        An adverse report to petition of sundry citizens of Alleghany county, asking that Pitman Boley be released from the payment of a fine.

        An adverse report to the petition of Thomas McCormick, asking to have a fine refunded.


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        An adverse report to a resolution enquiring into the expediency of refunding to Andrew Lindsey a certain sum of money.

        Mr. BASSEL, from the committee on agriculture and manufactures, to whom had been referred the following senate bill, reported the same without amendment:

        No. 137. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Industrial society of Wood county.

        Mr. NEWTON, from a special committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 239. A bill to encourage ship building in Virginia.

        Mr. COWAN presented the petition of citizens of Preston and Monongalia counties, asking relief in the matter of taxes upon the license of merchants beginning business; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        No. 171. A bill for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts already made upon the Covington and Ohio rail road, was taken up, on motion of Mr. COLLIER.

        Mr. COLLIER submitted the following ryder to the bill; which was read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time:

        "Provided, however, that the provisions of this bill may at any time be suspended by the governor of this commonwealth, should he, in the exercise of a sound discretion, be of opinion that the interests of the state would be subserved by such suspension: and provided further, that whenever from time to time fifty thousand dollars of said notes shall be returned to the auditor, or shall be redeemed by him as herein provided, the same shall be canceled and be delivered to the treasurer to be preserved in his office; and from time to time an amount equal to the sum so canceled may, by direction of the governor, be again issued, subject to all the provisions herein before prescribed, to be used for the benefit of the treasury."

        And the question being--Shall the bill pass? Mr. McKENZIE demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Christian, Collier, Duckwall, Fergusson, Fleming, Frost, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Hackley, Hunter, James, Jett, Kee, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKenzie, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Reid, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Welch, Willcox, Witten and Wood--61.

        NOES--Messrs. Allen, Bassel, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Burks, Childs, Cowan, Crane, Davis, Dickenson, Edwards, Ferrill, Friend, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hoffman, Huntt, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kincheloe, Knotts, Leftwich, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, McGehee, McKinney, Miles, Morris, Phelps, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Scott, Segar, J. K. Smith, Tomlin, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, West, Wilson, Woolfolk and Yerby--52.

        Seventy-seven votes not having been given for the bill,

        Resolved, that the bill be rejected.

        Mr. SEGAR moved a suspension of the rules for the purpose of reconsidering the vote by which the bill was rejected; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.


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        On motion of Mr. HUNTT, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Booker, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Collier, Duckwall, Ferguson, Fleming, Frost, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Hackley, Hunter, James, Jett, Keen, Kee, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, J. G. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Segar, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Welch and Witten--70.

        NOES--Messrs. Bassel, Boisseau, Brown, Burks, Cowan, Davis, Edwards, Ferrill, Friend, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Haymond, Huntt, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Knotts, Leftwich, Locke, Mallory, McGehee, Miles, Morris, Pritchard, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Scott, Watts, West, Wilson, Woolfolk and Yerby--33.

        Mr. CAPERTON moved that the bill be laid on the table, and made the order of the day for Friday next at 11 o'clock; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. HAYMOND demanded a division of the question; which was sustained by the house.

        The question being on laying the bill on the table, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        The question recurred upon making the bill the order of the day for Friday next at 11 o'clock; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND,

        Resolved, that the directors of the penitentiary be requested to report to this house the financial condition of the penitentiary and of the penitentiary store.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the auditor of public accounts, enclosing certain tables in relation to the banks of the state; which was laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 37.

        No. 104. A senate bill entitled an act providing for the location of the courthouse, jail and other public buildings of the county of McDowell, with the amendments proposed thereto by the committee of propositions and grievances, was taken up, on motion of Mr. WITTEN. Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. NEWTON, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Duncan of the Methodist church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Feb. 27, 1861.

        The senate have passed bills entitled:

        An act for the relief of Daniel S. Dickenson, No. 86.

        An act establishing a branch bank at the town of Jeffersonville in the county of Tazewell, No. 113.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.



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        No. 86. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Daniel S. Dickenson, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on finance.

        No. 113. A senate bill entitled an act establishing a branch bank at the town of Jeffersonville in the county of Tazewell, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on banks.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of schools and colleges, presented the following bill:

        No. 240. A bill authorizing the sale of real estate belonging to Ebenezer academy; which, on his motion, was read a first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bill:

        No. 241. A bill authorizing the trustees of West fork meeting house to sell the same, and purchase and build on another site.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred the following senate bills, reported the same without amendment:

        No. 99. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Sam'l E. Lybrook, sheriff of Giles county.

        No. 48. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Hopkins & Campbell of Rockbridge county.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to the petition of Jos. Hagan of the county of Scott, in relation to releasing him from taxes erroneously charged.

        Mr. YERBY, from the committee on lunatic asylums, presented an adverse report to a resolution enquiring into the expediency of increasing the salaries of any of the officers of the lunatic asylums of the state.

        On motion of Mr. MONG,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of authorizing a release of the commonwealth's title to certain lands in the county of Berkeley, to the heirs of Chas. D. Stewart, the same being purchased by the state at a sale of delinquent lands sold in said county, the said lands being improperly sold.

        On motion of Mr. PRITCHARD,

        Resolved, that the committee on propositions and grievances enquire into the propriety of amending an act passed at the last session, exempting from execution certain specific property, so as to allow them three hundred dollars worth in such property as they may designate.

        On motion of Mr. HARRISON,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, bill 321 of the session of 1857-8, for the relief of Jesse Carrier of Rockingham county, and that the same, when withdrawn, be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. MORGAN,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of amending the second section of an act passed April 2d, 1858, with regard to the Berryville and Charlestown turnpike.


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        On motion of Mr. RUTHERFOORD,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill providing against the discontinuance of motions in behalf of the commonwealth, to make it unnecessary to continue them from day to day, and putting them on a footing, when docketed, with suits at law or in equity.

        On motion of Mr. ROBINSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the propriety of refunding certain state taxes on land paid by George Ferrel, erroneously charged to him in the county of Berkeley.

        On motion of Mr. JETT,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending chapter 118 of the Code of Virginia, so as more effectually to prevent fraudulent conveyances.

        On motion of Mr. CAPERTON,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs be directed to enquire into the expediency of appropriating a sum of money, not exceeding ten thousand dollars, with a view of testing the utility of a new cannon, the invention of Lorenzo Sibert of Augusta county.

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of authorizing the banks to issue, during the present financial difficulties, notes of a less denomination than five dollars.

        Mr. KAUFMAN presented a petition in regard to the repeal of the militia law in Virginia; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. ALLEN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be requested to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill for the relief of Benjamin Wray and Joseph Boon of Franklin county, for a certain amount of taxes improperly paid.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to Dan'l Dugger of the town of Danville one hundred and forty dollars, taxes improperly assessed.

        No. 77. An engrossed bill for the relief of the Bank of the Commonwealth, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, with the amendment submitted by Mr. KEEN to the amendments of the senate, was taken up, on motion of Mr. MARTIN of Henry; and the question being on agreeing to the amendment submitted by Mr. KEEN, which was in effect to limit the contribution of specie funds by the banks to the commonwealth, by their capital rather than their capital, circulation and deposits, was put, and decided in the negative.

        Mr. ROBERTSON submitted the following amendment to the 5th section of the bill, as proposed as an amendment by the senate:

        "That the second auditor be and is hereby directed to endorse on all warrants, for interest on the public debt due to non-residents of this commonwealth, the words "non-resident;" and the checks of the treasurer issued thereon shall be similarly endorsed, and drawn,


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in the usual proportions, on the several banks holding the public moneys: and all such checks shall be payable and paid by them in specie: provided, however, that such banks shall be entitled to a credit in account with the commonwealth for whatever premium or discount such banks may be subjected to in making such payments in specie during such time as the general assembly shall see fit to authorize the general suspension of specie payments."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. WALKER demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. McKENZIE, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Burks, Christian, Claiborne, Dickenson, J. Gilmer, Holdway, Jett, Keen, Lynn, Magruder, Massie, Matthews, McCue, Medley, Myers, Patterson, Saunders, Segar, I. N. Smith, Staples and Yerby--20.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Crane, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Lucas, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Nelson, Newton, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Scott, J. K. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Walker, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Wood and Woolfolk--80.

        Mr. KEEN moved to disagree with the senate in their proposed 5th section to the bill; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative; by which vote the SPEAKER announced that the amendment of the senate was concurred in.

        The question being on agreeing with the senate in their proposed sixth section of the bill, as an amendment thereto, Mr. KEEN moved to strike out said section, and insert the following:

        "That the 9th section of chapter 144 of the Code of Virginia shall be and the same is hereby repealed."

        Mr. DUCKWALL demanded a division of the question; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. McKENZIE demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        The question being on striking out the sixth section, as proposed by the senate, was put, and decided in the negative; and the question recurring upon agreeing with the senate in their proposed sixth section, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. ANDERSON moved to strike out in the 7th section proposed by the senate, the words "together with what it may have paid for stock of this state and bonds guaranteed by the state"--that portion of the section relating to the amount of loans, discounts and investments of the banks; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. JONES of Gloucester demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN moved to amend the 7th section as proposed by the senate, by striking out the words "other investments;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. HOFFMAN demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.


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        Mr. KEEN moved to amend the said section further, by striking out the clause providing for penalties for officers for violating the section; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. McKENZIE demanded the previous question, which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        Mr. KEEN moved further to amend the section, by adding a clause repealing the 9th section of chapter 144 of the Code; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        The 7th section of the amendments was then agreed to.

        The question being on agreeing with the senate in their proposed eighth section, Mr. CARTER moved to amend the same, by excepting the branch bank authorized to be established at Monaskon; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        The eighth section, as proposed by the senate, was then concurred in.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate to the senate the amendments proposed by the house to the senate's amendments, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

FRIDAY, MARCH 1, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Duncan of the Methodist church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, Feb. 28, 1861.

        The senate have agreed to the amendments proposed by the house of delegates to senate bill entitled:

        An act providing for the voluntary enslavement of George, Shed, Sam and Sukey, persons of color in the county of Buckingham, No. 124.

        And they have passed a bill entitled:

        An act to legalize proceedings on Sunday in certain cases, No. 125.

        In which they request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 125. A senate bill entitled an act to legalize proceedings on Sunday in certain cases, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bills:

        No. 242. A bill for the relief of John Robinson, a free negro of Rockingham county.

        No. 243. A bill to provide for taking the sense of the voters of Marshall county on the question to repeal an act providing for opening and keeping in repair the county roads of Marshall, passed January 6th, 1854.


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        No. 244. A bill for the relief of James Walden, a free negro of Chesterfield county.

        Which last mentioned bill was, on his motion, read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the same committee, presented a report on a resolution as to exempting certain property from execution, and asking that it be referred to the committee for courts of justice; which was concurred in.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following bills:

        No. 245. A bill to organize an additional regiment of volunteer cavalry.

        No. 246. A bill to amend and re-enact the 13th section of an act passed March 30th, 1860, entitled an act for the better organization of the militia of the commonwealth.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of schools and colleges, presented the following bill:

        No. 247. A bill concerning district public schools in the county of Ohio.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred the following senate bills, reported the same without amendment:

        No. 47. A senate bill entitled an act increasing the number of permanent clerks in the office of the auditor of public accounts.

        No. 86. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Daniel S. Dickenson.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 248. A bill for the relief of the securities of C. Roles, late sheriff of the county of Raleigh.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented the following report:

        An adverse report to the petition of William A. Thrasher and others, asking to be allowed part of a forfeited recognizance.

        On motion of Mr. ANDERSON,

        Resolved, that the senate be requested to return to the house, house bill for the relief of the banks of the commonwealth.

        Subsequently, a message was received from the senate, by Mr. BRANNON, returning the bill.

        Mr. ANDERSON submitted the following amendment to the fifth section of the bill as proposed by the senate:

        "Provided, that nothing in this section shall be construed to require the banks of this commonwealth to contribute specie beyond the amount necessary to pay the interest on the public debt."

        Mr. KEEN submitted the following amendment to the amendment:

        "And provided further, that the banks of this commonwealth shall at their discretion issue notes of a less denomination than five dollars to an amount not exceeding 10 per cent. on their capital: provided, that no note of such denomination shall be issued after the 1st day of March 1862; and the penalties for the issuing of such


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notes in sections 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13 of chapter 58 of the Code of Virginia is hereby suspended until 1st March 1862."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Ball, Boreman, D. Gibson, Holdway, Keen, McKenzie, D. Miller, Richardson and Riddick--9.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Boisseau, Booker, Burks, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Newton, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Segar, Shannon, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Welch, West, Willcox, Wood and Yerby--107.

        The amendment submitted by Mr. ANDERSON was then agreed to.

        Ordered, that Mr. ANDERSON carry the bill to the senate, and request their concurrence in the amendments proposed by the house to the amendments of the senate.

        Subsequently, a message was received from the senate, by Mr. THOMAS of Fairfax, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had concurred in the amendments of the house.

        No. 104. A senate bill entitled an act providing for the location of the courthouse, jail and other public buildings in McDowell county, with the amendments proposed thereto by the committee of propositions and grievances, was taken up. The amendments were concurred in, and the bill read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. MAGRUDER carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. McDOWELL presented the petition of citizens of Botetourt, asking a change in the time of holding the circuit courts of said county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. BALLARD,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire as to the propriety of giving to holders of land, under a patent from the commonwealth, an absolute fee simple title, if the holder has been in possession 10 years, and paid the taxes thereon.

        On motion of Mr. DAVIS,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of amending the law in reference to damages against sheriffs and their sureties.

        On motion of Mr. JOHNSON,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill amending section 11th of chapter 188 of the Code of Virginia, so that suggestions may be sued out by and returnable before a justice of the peace, on executions issued by such justices.


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        On motion of Mr. McDOWELL,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be requested to enquire into the expediency of changing the times of holding the circuit court in the 14th judicial district.

        On motion of Mr. RICHARDSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill allowing two or more military companies in the city of Wheeling to form a battalion.

        On motion of Mr. BARBOUR,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of relieving the sheriff of Culpeper from certain fines and mistakes in the settlement of his accounts with the commonwealth.

        On motion of Mr. HOFFMAN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be directed to enquire into the expediency of refunding to Jasper Y. Styer & Co. an excess of license as merchants, improperly assessed against and paid by them.

        On motion of Mr. BASS,

        Resolved, that leave be given to bring in a bill to authorize the trustees of the Methodist church in the town of Salem in the county of Roanoke, to execute a deed of trust on their property in the town of Salem, to secure a loan made to said trustees.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under the resolution: Messrs. Bass, McCamant, Collier, Evans and Montague.

        No. 171. A bill for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts already made upon the Covington and Ohio rail road, being the order of the day, was taken up.

        Mr. CHAPMAN moved that the bill be postponed, and made the order of the day for Thursday the 7th of March, at half past 11 o'clock; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        No. 200. A bill to incorporate the Staunton arms and ordnance company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. MAGRUDER carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 211. A bill changing the time for holding the circuit court in the town of Danville, was taken up, on motion of Mr. GILMER, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. GILMER carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 51. An engrossed bill for the relief of John W. Grove of Frederick county, was taken up; and on motion of Mr. DUCKWALL, was laid on the table.

        The following engrossed bills were read a third time and passed:


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        No. 74. A bill to amend the charter of the Sir John's run turnpike company.

        No. 52. A bill for the relief of Angus M. Wood.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Davis, Duckwall, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, J. G. Martin, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Newton, Patterson, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Shannon, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Thompson, Tomlin, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Witten and Yerby--96.

        No. 53. A bill for the relief of George W. Tucker of Halifax county.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hoffman, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, J. G. Martin, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Newton, Patterson, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West and Yerby--95.

        No. 240. An engrossed bill authorizing the sale of real estate belonging to Ebenezer academy.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 191. A bill providing for payment of commissioners, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Allen, Anderson, Arnold, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Locke, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, J. G. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Newton, Patterson, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Shannon, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Willcox and Yerby--106.

        On motion of Mr. SEGAR,

        Resolved, that when this house adjourns to-day it adjourn to meet on Monday at 11 o'clock.

        On motion of Mr. McCAMANT, the chair was vacated until 7 o'clock.

EVENING SESSION.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN, the house adjourned.


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MONDAY, MARCH 4, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Moorman of the Methodist church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 1, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act for the relief of Rev. J. Packard, No. 29.

        An act to amend the first section of the act passed March 4, 1856, for marking the boundary line between Fluvanna and Albemarle counties, No. 178.

        An act to incorporate the Capper springs company, No. 34.

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of Scottsville, No. 114.

        An act refunding a license tax to Paul A. Farley of the county of Lunenburg, No. 25.

        An act refunding to the securities of Wm. H. Blanch, late sheriff of the county of Mecklenburg, certain damages paid by them, No. 63.

        An act for the relief of James Scott of Greenbrier county, No. 27.

        An act refunding to Matthew Wamsley, jr. of the county of Randolph a certain amount of money erroneously paid by him, No. 28.

        An act granting the commonwealth's right to real estate of John Kelley to Owen Shee, No. 50.

        And they have agreed to the amendments proposed by the house of delegates to senate bill entitled:

        An act providing for the location of the courthouse, jail and other public buildings of the county of McDowell, No. 104.

        And also to a resolution concerning bonds of the Hillsboro' and Cincinnati rail road company.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        A joint resolution concerning bonds of the Hillsboro' and Cincinnati rail road company, was referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. JONES of Gloucester, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following bill; which, on his motion, was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time:

        No. 249. A bill to amend and re-enact the 15th section of an act entitled an act for the better organization of the militia of the commonwealth, passed March 30th, 1860.

        No. 118. A bill imposing taxes for the support of government, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND.

        Mr. HAYMOND submitted an amendment thereto. Pending the consideration of which, the bill was laid on the table, and made the order of the day for to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

        Mr. CRUMP announced to the house the death of George W. Hopkins, late a delegate from the county of Washington, and submitted the following resolutions; which were unanimously concurred in:

        The painful intelligence of the death of George W. Hopkins, one of the delegates from the county of Washington, having been just


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announced, it becomes the mournful duty of the house of delegates to enter the fact upon their journal.

        The long and useful life of the deceased, his high talents, kind, conciliatory and courteous deportment, his warm heart and sincere friendship, united with his efficient public services, both at home and abroad, render this mark of respect peculiarly proper.

        In all the situations in which he has been placed during his eventful career, he has won the esteem and respect of his constituents and of the state. As member and speaker of the house of delegates on former occasions, as judge of a circuit court of this state, as member of the house of representatives of the United States, as charge d'affaires to the court of Portugal, and as member of the convention which formed the present constitution of this commonwealth, he discharged his varied duties with marked ability. As member of this house at the last and its present sessions, he has won the esteem and friendship of his brother members; and his sudden death is a source of deep affliction to all.

        Resolved, as a mark of respect not less due than willingly paid, this house and its officers will wear the usual badge of mourning for thirty days.

        Resolved, that the speaker of this house communicate a copy of these resolutions to the family of the deceased.

        Resolved, that Messrs. Preston of Washington, Watson of Pulaski and Gibson of Hampshire be a committee to take charge of his remains, and accompany them to their place of interment in the county of Washington.

        Ordered, that Mr. CRUMP communicate to the senate the action of the house of delegates in respect to the memory of George W. Hopkins, late a delegate from the county of Washington.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

TUESDAY, MARCH 5, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 4, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act for the relief of the securities of Joshua H. Staats dec'd, late sheriff of the county of Jackson, No. 97.

        An act changing the time of holding the circuit court in the town of Danville, No. 211.

        An act to incorporate the Staunton arms and ordnance company, No. 200.

        And they have passed bills entitled:

        An act incorporating the Southern institution for the amelioration


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of the condition of the deaf, dumb and blind negroes of the commonwealth, No. 114.

        An act incorporating the Maryland and Virginia coal oil company in the county of Taylor, No. 133.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 114. A senate bill entitled an act incorporating the Southern institution for the amelioration of the condition of the deaf, dumb and blind negroes of the commonwealth, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN, laid on the table.

        No. 133. A senate bill entitled an act incorporating the Maryland and Virginia coal oil company in the county of Taylor, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. PHELPS, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred the following senate bills, reported the same as follows:

        No. 115. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Thomas Nichols, without amendment.

        No. 76. A senate bill entitled an act refunding seventy-nine dollars and seven cents to James Hewet, Wm. A. Bradford and Peter Grant's heirs, with an amendment.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 250. A bill refunding to P. B. Crowder an excess paid on license tax.

        Mr. BISBIE, from the committee on agriculture and manufactures, presented the following bill:

        No. 251. A bill to amend and re-enact the act to encourage direct foreign trade, passed March 31st, 1860.

        Mr. BASS, from a special committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 252. A bill authorizing the trustees of the Methodist district parsonage in Salem, Roanoke county, to borrow money, and execute a deed of trust to secure the same.

        No. 96. A bill to amend chapter 108 of the Code concerning births, marriages and deaths, was taken up, on motion of Mr. PHELPS, and read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. PHELPS carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 143. An engrossed bill amending certain laws respecting the militia of the commonwealth, so as to render them more efficient, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN, read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Arnold, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Burks, Carpenter, Cassin, Childs, Christian, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hunter, Johnson,


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W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Pretlow, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Segar, Shannon, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Welch, West, Wilson Willcox, Witten, Wood and Yerby--107.

        Ordered, that Mr. CHRISTIAN carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 189. A bill amending an act passed March 20, 1860, authorizing the council of Richmond to construct rail roads in its streets, was taken up, on motion of Mr. McGRUDER, and read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 100. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of M. C. Hall, late sheriff of Lewis county, and his securities, was taken up, on motion of Mr. ARNOLD, read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Christian, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Segar, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Wood and Yerby--103.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 48. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Hopkins & Campbell of Rockbridge county, was taken up, on motion of Mr. REID, read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Childs, Christian, Collier, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Rives, Saunders, Shannon, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, West, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Wood and Yerby--97.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 118. A bill imposing taxes for the support of government, with the pending amendment, being the order of the day, was taken up.

        The question being on striking out the 9th section of the bill, and inserting in lieu thereof the pending amendment submitted by Mr. HAYMOND, Mr. COLLIER demanded a division of the question; which was sustained by the house.

        The question being on striking out, was put, and decided in the affirmative.


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        The question being on agreeing to the amendment submitted by Mr. HAYMOND, Mr. TOMLIN moved to amend the amendment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. ANDERSON moved to amend the section as amended, by excepting from taxation the salaries of the judges of the court of appeals and circuit courts; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. WALKER demanded the previous question; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. MYERS, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Anderson, Ball, Christian, Collier, Davis, Grattan, Hackley, Knote, Magruder, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McKenzie, Myers, Newton, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Rutherfoord and Segar--21.

        NOES--Messrs. Bailey, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Childs, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, W. Martin, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, J. R. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Pritchard, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Scott, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Welch, West, Wilson and Yerby--73.

        Pending the further consideration of the bill,

        On motion of Mr. KINCHELOE, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Willis of the Baptist church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 5, 1861.

        The senate have passed bills entitled:

        An act to authorize an issue of arms to Titus V. Williams of the county of Tazewell, for the use of an academy, No. 66.

        An act releasing the schooner Pauline from the payment of the commonwealth's claim to any fine imposed for an alleged violation of the inspection laws, No. 96.

        An act to refund to the Preston coal and iron company money improperly paid by it into the treasury, No. 143.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 66. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize the issue of arms to Titus V. Williams of the county of Tazewell, for the use of an academy, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on military affairs.

        No. 143. A senate bill entitled an act to refund to the Preston coal and iron company money improperly paid by it into the treasury, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on finance.


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        No. 96. A senate bill entitled an act releasing the schooner Pauline from the payment of the commonwealth's claim to any fine imposed for an alleged violation of the inspection laws, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, presented the following bills:

        No. 253. A bill to amend and re-enact the 31st section of chapter 198 of the Revised Code of Virginia; which, on his motion, was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        No. 254. A bill concerning the sales by the high constable of the city of Richmond, of slaves and other property levied upon, distrained or ordered to be sold under attachment.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to the petition of Robert McConnel and others.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bill:

        No. 255. A bill for the sale of a lot near Chatham hill in Smyth county, and purchase of another lot, and erection of a school house thereon.

        Mr. JONES of Gloucester, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following bills:

        No. 256. A bill to amend an act passed March 6th, 1858, entitled an act to amend the 2d section of an act passed March 2d, 1858, entitled an act to organize the militia, and provide for the defence of the commonwealth; and

        No. 257. A bill to amend and re-enact the 1st, 2d, 3d, 4th, 5th and 6th sections of chapter 23 of the Code, and to increase and rearrange the divisions and brigades of the militia of the commonwealth; which said bills were read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred a joint resolution concerning the bonds of the Hillsborough and Cincinnati rail road, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented the following bills:

        No. 258. A bill for the relief of V. S. Morgan, late sheriff of Smyth county.

        No. 259. A bill for the relief of Washington L. Herold.

        No. 260. A bill for the relief of Wm. S. Martin, late sheriff of Lee county.

        No. 69. An engrossed bill to establish the county of Bland out of parts of Giles, Wythe and Tazewell, was taken up, on motion of Mr. GRAHAM, read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Cassin, Childs, Claiborne, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Frost, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, Mong, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pretlow, Pritchard,


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Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, Watts, West, Wilson, Willcox, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--111.

        Ordered, that Mr. GRAHAM carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        A message was received from the senate, by Mr. DICKENSON of Prince Edward, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a joint resolution in relation to the final adjournment of the general assembly; in which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        No. 219. A bill for the voluntary enslavement of free negroes, without compensation to the commonwealth, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BASKERVILL.

        Mr. WILSON submitted the following amendment:

        "Provided, that the party thus proposing to purchase shall first pay into the treasury one-half the value of said negroes."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. WILSON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Ball, Bass, Brown, Crane, Dickenson, Edwards, Evans, Fleming, Frost, J. T. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Haymond, Hoffman, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Knote, Knotts, Maupin, McCue, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Pretlow, Robinson, Scott, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Thompson, Tomlin, Wilson and Witten--35.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bailey, Baskervill, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Burks, Carpenter, Childs, Claiborne, Collier, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Ferguson, Friend, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Harrison, Hackley, Holdway, Hunt, Hunter, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Medley, Mong, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Reid, Riddick, Robertson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Segar, Staples, Thomas, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, Willcox, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--70.

        Mr. RIDDICK moved to strike out the 6th section of the bill, and insert the following:

        "6. Be it further enacted, that such slave or slaves shall not at any time be sold or mortgaged, or in any way be made liable for the debts of the master or mistress existing at the time of such enslavement, except for taxes and county levies."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. HAYMOND demanded a division of the question; which was sustained by the house; and the question being on agreeing to strike out, was put, and decided in the negative.

        Mr. WATSON of Accomack submitted the following amendment:

        "And further to say what amount shall be paid into the treasury of the county in which such negro shall have resided previous to the application, not exceeding one-fourth of his or her value."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        Mr. McKENZIE moved that the house adjourn; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. WILSON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Boisseau, Boreman, Childs, Christian, Crump, Fleming, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Haymond, Hackley, Kee, Massie, McDowell,


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McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, Mong, Myers, Newton, Randolph, Saunders, Shannon, Thomas, Tomlin, Walker, Watts, Wilson and Yerby--32.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Ballard, Bell, Bisbie, Burks, Collier, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McGehee, McGruder, Medley, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Scott, Segar, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Tyler, A. Watson, Welch, West, Witten and Woolfolk--62.

        The bill was then further amended, and as amended, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        On motion of Mr. WALKER, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Willis of the Baptist church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 6, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act to re-enact the act passed 9th February 1844, authorizing a loan from the Literary fund to the trustees of West Liberty academy, No. 30.

        An act fixing the mode of settlement with the sheriff of the county of Jefferson, No. 10.

        An act for the relief of Angus M. Wood, No. 52.

        An act authorizing the sale of real estate belonging to Ebenezer academy, No. 240.

        And they have passed a bill entitled:

        An act refunding to Abner Anthony, sen. taxes erroneously paid into the treasury, No. 117.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 117. A senate bill entitled an act refunding to Abner Anthony, sen. taxes improperly paid into the treasury, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. McCAMANT, from the committee for courts of justice, presented the following bill:

        No. 261. A bill changing the time of holding the courts in the fourteenth judicial circuit.

        Mr. HAYMOND presented the petition of Alpheus Wells, praying a divorce from his wife; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        Mr. BISBIE presented the petition of Dixon Brown, praying release from double assessment on license tax; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. BISBIE presented the petition of sundry citizens of Norfolk


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city, against the proposed repeal of the act amending the charter of the city of Norfolk, passed 31st March 1860; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor of the commonwealth, enclosing a communication from the commissioners to the conference of the states; which was laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 38.

        No. 114. A senate bill entitled an act incorporating the Southern institution for the amelioration of the condition of the deaf, dumb and blind negroes of the commonwealth, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        On motion of Mr. CRUTCHFIELD,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of authorizing the auditor to allow sheriffs, who were delinquent in the payment of the revenue of their respective counties and cities on the 15th day of December last, their forfeited commissions: provided such sheriffs shall have paid such delinquencies as well as the entire amount of revenue of such counties and cities, on or before the 15th March instant.

        No. 171. A bill for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts on the Covington and Ohio rail road, being the order of the day, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CAPERTON, and postponed to, and made the order of the day for to-morrow at half past 11 o'clock.

        No. 118. A bill imposing taxes for the support of government, being unfinished business, was taken up.

        Mr. TOMLIN moved to amend the bill, by striking out that portion thereof imposing a tax on collateral inheritances; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        The bill was then further amended.

        Pending the further consideration of the bill, Mr. WATTS moved an adjournment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. WEST, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Ball, Bell, Childs, Christian, Collier, Crane, Davis, Fleming, Friend, Grattan, Haymond, W. T. Jones, Kee, Kincheloe, Magruder, T. Martin, McKenzie, Mong, Orgain, Preston, Pretlow, Rutherfoord, Tomlin, Walker, Wallace, Watts and Wilson--27.

        NOES--Messrs. Anderson, Ballard, Bass, Bisbie, Boisseau, Boreman, Brown, Crump, Duckwall, Ferguson, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Harrison, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Kaufman, Keen, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Lucas, Lynn, Mallory, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McKinney, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Scott, Segar, Shannon, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, E. Watson, Welch, West, Woolfolk and Yerby--61.

        Mr. ANDERSON moved to pass by the further consideration of the bill; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. JONES of Gloucester, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.


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FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev Mr. Willis of the Baptist church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 7, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act to incorporate the Berkeley border guard armory company, No. 22.

        And they have passed with amendment house bill entitled:

        An act to amend an act passed 31st of March 1860, entitled an act to restrict the catching of oysters in certain months, No. 142.

        In which amendment they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        The amendment proposed by the senate to house bill entitled an act to restrict the catching of oysters in certain months, was agreed to.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, to whom had been referred senate bill No. 126, entitled an act for the relief of Celia Edmonds, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 262. A bill regulating proceedings in court upon motions on behalf of the commonwealth.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented a report asking to be discharged from further consideration of the extension of the corporate limits of the city of Richmond, for want of time.

        Mr. JONES of Gloucester, from the committee on military affairs, presented an adverse report to senate bill authorizing issue of arms to Titus V. Williams.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee on roads and internal navigation, presented the following bill:

        No. 263. A bill to alter and amend the act entitled an act to incorporate the Blacksburg, Catawba creek and Fincastle turnpike company, and to change the name of the same.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred the following senate bills, presented the same without amendment:

        No. 96. A senate bill entitled an act releasing the schooner Pauline from the payment of the commonwealth's claim to any fine imposed for an alleged violation of the inspection laws.

        No. 121. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Joseph W. Harper.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented the following joint resolution:

        Whereas it is apparent to the general assembly, that in consequence of the distracted state of the country, it is difficult, even with the use of all due diligence, to meet the requirements of the law as to the payment of the revenue into the treasury; and with the view


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only of affording the relief which seems to be justified by the present extraordinary occasion:

        Resolved by the general assembly, that the sheriffs of this commonwealth who pay all the revenue now due, and that portion to become due the 15th of the present month, by the first of April next, shall be entitled to be allowed his full commission of five per cent. by the auditor of public accounts: provided, that the interest shall be charged on that part of the revenue due the 15th of December last until paid.

        The question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. HAYMOND demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bassel, Bisbie, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, T. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Segar, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tyler, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Welch, West, Wingfield, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--107.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Boisseau, Evans, Goodycoontz, W. T. Jones, Mallory, McDowell, Orgain, Pretlow, Tomlin, Watts and Wilson--12.

        Mr. BALLARD presented the petition of William Stratton, praying to be released from damages; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. JONES of Gloucester presented the memorial of a number of citizens of the county of Gloucester, praying an amendment of the law passed the 30th day of March 1860, prohibiting the catching of oysters in certain months; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. HOFFMAN presented the petition of citizens of Harrison, to change the name of John Tyler Jones; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        No. 186. A bill refunding to Mrs. Lucy Holland a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment, was taken up, on motion of Mr. NELSON, and read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knote, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pretlow, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Segar, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--107.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.


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        No. 171. An engrossed bill for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts already made upon the Covington and Ohio rail road, being the order of the day, was taken up; and the question being on the passage of the bill, the roll was called, with the following result:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Bass, Bisbie, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Christian, Claiborne, Collier, Duckwall, Ferguson, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Hackley, Hunter, Kee, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGruder, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Pretlow, Reid, Robertson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Segar, Sherrard, Sibert, I. N. Smith, Staples, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Welch, Witten and Wood--60.

        NOES--Messrs. Arnold, Bassel, Bell, Boisseau, Brown, Burks, Childs, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Evans, Friend, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Haymond, Hoffman, Huntt, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kincheloe, Knotts, Leftwich, Lynn, Mallory, T. Martin, McGehee, McKinney, Medley, Miles, Morris, Phelps, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Scott, J. K. Smith, Tomlin, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, West, Wilson, Wingfield, Woolfolk and Yerby--50.

        Seventy-seven members not having voted for the bill,

        Resolved, that the bill be rejected.

        Mr. CARPENTER submitted the following preamble and resolution; which being objected to, was laid over under the rule:

        Whereas, under the present price of Virginia state bonds, together with the unsettled state of national affairs, not anticipated as probable or even possible when the work of the Covington and Ohio rail road was let to contractors, it cannot be expected or desired on the part of the commonwealth that those contractors should be required to prosecute their contracts under existing circumstances: Therefore,

        Be it resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that the Board of public works are hereby authorized and directed to suspend the contracts now existing for the construction and equipment of the Covington and Ohio rail road, and to compensate said contractors for all necessary outfit and outlay incurred for the completion of their work according to the contract, as specified by order of the Board of public works, through their chief engineer, and also to adjust and adjudicate all just claims due the contractors for work done.

        No. 118. A bill imposing taxes for the support of government, being the unfinished business of yesterday, was taken up.

        The bill was further amended. Pending the consideration thereof,

        On motion of Mr. RUTHERFOORD, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.


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SATURDAY, MARCH 9, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Willis of the Baptist church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 8, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill, entitled:

        An act amending an act passed March 20th, 1860, authorizing the council of Richmond to construct rail roads in its streets, No. 189.


        A joint resolution communicated from the senate as to the adjournment of the general assembly, was taken up, and on motion of Mr. COLLIER, laid on the table.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing a report from A. W. McDonald, a commissioner appointed to visit England to make examinations in reference to the true boundary lines between Virginia and the states of North Carolina, Tennessee and Maryland; which, on motion of Mr. PHELPS, was laid on the table, and 1,000 copies of the message and report ordered to be printed for the use of the house. Doc. No. 39.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the special committee on public buildings, presented a report; which, on his motion, was laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND,

        Resolved, that the armory commissioners be requested to report to this house the amount of the bonds they obtained from the Board of public works, under the provisions of the act appropriating five hundred thousand dollars to repair the armory and to purchase arms; whether they sold the bonds; and if so, whether at par, or at what discount; and also to render an account of their expenditures, and for what purpose, giving the items and prices; and if they received the whole five hundred thousand dollars of state bonds, what part thereof has been expended, and what disposition have they made of any part thereof not expended.

        On motion of Mr. WATTS,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, senate bill 229, and that the same be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. HOLDWAY submitted the following resolution; which, on motion of Mr. JONES of Gloucester, was laid on the table:

        Resolved, that the house of delegates, with the concurrence of the senate, will, on Tuesday 12th instant, proceed to the election of major and brigadier generals of the Virginia militia.

        On motion of Mr. CRANE,

        Resolved, that the secretary of the commonwealth of Virginia be requested to furnish the house of delegates with a copy of any contract he may have in his possession, made with Messrs. Ritchie & Dunnavant, in relation to the printing of the Code of Virginia, and all bids in his possession for printing and binding the same.

        Mr. CRUMP moved a suspension of the rules, with a view to reconsider the vote of the house rejecting


Page 186

        No. 171. A bill for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts already made upon the Covington and Ohio rail road; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. PHELPS, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Bisbie, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Collier, Crump, Duckwall, Ferguson, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Holdway, Hunter, W. T. Jones, Kincheloe, Knote, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McDowell, McKenzie, Montgomery, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Preston, Pretlow, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Sherrard, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Walker, Ward, Welch, Witten and Yerby--58.

        NOES--Messrs. Boisseau, Boreman, Brown, Cowan, Crane, Friend, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Haymond, Hoffman, Huntt, Johnson, Knotts, Lynn, Mallory, Miles, Morris, Phelps, Porter, Pritchard, Randolph, Rives, Scott, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Watts, West, Wilson, Wingfield and Woolfolk--30.

        Mr. CRUMP moved a reconsideration of the vote ordering the bill to its engrossment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. CRUMP thereupon submitted an amendment to the bill by way of substitute, and on his motion, the bill and amendment were laid upon the table.

        No. 69. A senate bill entitled an act authorizing the Merchants Bank of Virginia to establish branches at Rockymount, Liberty, Goodson and Princeton, was taken up, on motion of Mr. PRESTON.

        Mr. PRESTON submitted various amendments to the bill; which were agreed to; and the bill as amended was read a third time and passed.

        On motion of Mr. WALKER, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Baskervill, Bell, Boreman, Brown, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Fleming, Friend, Frost, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Hanly, Haymond, Holdway, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Knotts, Lucas, Magruder, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McGruder, Miles, D. Miller, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Preston, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Saunders, Sherrard, Staples, Thompson, Ward, Welch, Witten and Yerby--53.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Bassel, Boisseau, Claiborne, Collier, Cowan, Garrett, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Harrison, Huntt, Hunter, W. T. Jones, Kincheloe, Knote, Lynn, McDowell, McKenzie, Medley, Montague, Newton, Phelps, Pretlow, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Tomlin, Walker, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, West, Wilson, Wingfield and Woolfolk--37.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the amendments to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 7. A bill to amend the charter of the city of Richmond, was taken up, on motion of Mr. SAUNDERS, amended, and as amended, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 118. A bill imposing taxes for the support of government, being the unfinished business of yesterday, was taken up.

        The bill was then further amended, and as amended, read a second time; and the question being--Shall the bill be engrossed and read a third time? Mr. McKENZIE demanded the previous question;


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which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN, the house adjourned until Monday, 11 o'clock.

MONDAY, MARCH 11, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Pettigrew of the Reformed church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 9, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill, entitled:

        An act amending the 107th section of chapter 35 of the Code of Virginia, and providing for the correction of erroneous assessment of taxes on lands, No. 84, with amendments.

        They have passed a bill, entitled:

        An act to incorporate the Burning spring and oil line turnpike company, No. 220.

        And they have agreed to a resolution for the correction of a discrepancy between the body and title of an act incorporating the Petersburg savings and insurance company.

        In which amendments, bill and resolution they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 84. A house bill entitled an act amending the 107th section of chapter 35 of the Code of Virginia, and providing for the correction of erroneous assessment of taxes on lands, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up.

        Mr. HAYMOND submitted an amendment to the amendments of the senate. Pending the consideration of which, Mr. KEEN moved that the bill and amendments be laid on the table; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        The question recurring upon agreeing to the amendment submitted by Mr. HAYMOND, was put, and decided in the affirmative; and the question being on agreeing to the amendments of the senate as amended, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        The title was then amended so as to read, "An act to amend the 102d and 103d sections of an act passed March 30th, 1860, entitled an act for assessment of taxes on persons and property."

        Ordered, that Mr. DUCKWALL carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 220. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Burning spring and oil line turnpike company, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. BOREMAN, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        A joint resolution for the correction of a discrepancy between the body and title of an act incorporating the Petersburg savings and insurance company, was agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.


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        A joint resolution concerning delinquent taxes of the year 1860, with the amendments thereto proposed by the senate, was taken up.

        Mr. JONES of Gloucester moved the indefinite postponement of the resolution and amendments; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. BASSEL demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. JONES of Gloucester, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Bass, Goodycoontz, W. T. Jones, McDowell, I. N. Smith, Tomlin and Wilson--7.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Anderson, Ball, Ballard, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Burks, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Ferguson, Fleming, Frost, Garrett, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Knote, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, Massie, Matthews, McCue, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robinson, Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Thomas, Thompson, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Willcox, Wingfield, Woolfolk and Yerby--79.

        Mr. JONES of Gloucester submitted an amendment, giving an additional 2½ per cent. to sheriffs who pay promptly; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. ANDERSON demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        Mr. BASS submitted an amendment giving to clerks of courts the benefit of the provisions of the resolution; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. PHELPS demanded the previous question; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        The amendments of the senate were then agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following bills:

        No. 264. A bill authorizing a certain estate to be paid over to the school commissioners of the county of Culpeper.

        No. 265. A bill amending the second section of an act passed April 2nd, 1858, entitled an act to provide for the payment of the purchase money of the Berryville and Charlestown turnpike by the Board of public works.

        Mr. BASSEL, from the committee on agriculture and manufactures, presented

        No. 266. A bill granting rights of way to mining and manufacturing companies in this commonwealth.

        Mr. BASSEL, from the same committee, to whom had been referred the following senate bills, reported the same without amendment:

        No. 108. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Chesterfield car, locomotive and agricultural implement manufacturing company.

        No. 109. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the James river boot, shoe and leather manufacturing company.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the secretary of the commonwealth, in answer to a resolution of the


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house in reference to the printing of the new edition of the Code; which was laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 40.

        Mr. WILSON moved to take up the resolution heretofore communicated from the senate, in relation to the adjournment of the general assembly; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. WILSON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Bassel, Bentley, Brown, Burks, Claiborne, Dickenson, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Kincheloe, Lockridge, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Pritchard, Randolph, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Tomlin, A. Watson, West, Wilson, Willcox and Wingfield--32.

        NOES--Messrs. Anderson, Bailey, Ballard, Bass, Bisbie, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Ferguson, Fleming, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Knote, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, Matthews, McCue, McDowell, McKenzie, Montague, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Preston, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, Thomas, Thompson, Walker, Ward, Watts, Welch and Yerby--51.

        No. 118. An engrossed bill imposing taxes for the support of government, was taken up, read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Anderson, Bailey, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Brown, Burks, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Ferguson, Fleming, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Knote, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, Matthews, McCue, McDowell, McKenzie, Miles, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Nelson, Patterson, Preston, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Woolfolk and Yerby--78.

        No--Mr. Myers--1.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. WATSON of Accomack submitted the following resolution; which being objected to, was laid over under the rule:

        Resolved, that when this house adjourns, it adjourn to meet at 10 o'clock A. M. to-morrow; and at the same hour on each succeeding day of this session.

        No. 218. A bill to incorporate the Virginia canal company, and to transfer the rights and franchises of the James river and Kanawha company thereto, was taken up. Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. CHAPMAN, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

TUESDAY, MARCH 12, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 11, 1861.

        The senate have agreed to the amendments proposed by the house of delegates to bill entitled:


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        An act authorizing the Merchants Bank of Virginia to establish branches at Rockymount, Liberty, Goodson and Princeton, No. 69.

        And they have passed bills entitled:

        An act to enforce payment of balances due from commissioners of forfeited and delinquent lands, No. 149.

        An act to incorporate the Rockbridge White sulphur springs company, No. 151.

        An act to amend the 23d section of the 61st chapter of the Code, entitled "of works of internal improvement," No. 138.

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the Mason city mining and manufacturing company in the county of Mason, passed February 22d, 1860, No. 147.

        An act providing for the voluntary enslavement of Jane Payne, Mary Fletcher and Glives, No. 169.

        An act to amend the 43d section of chapter 26 of the Code, No. 162.

        An act to incorporate the Virginia mineral oil and coal company in the county of Mason, No. 146.

        An act to incorporate the Jackson county agricultural society, No. 148.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        The following senate bills were read a first and second times, and on motions severally made, read a third time and passed:

        No. 146. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Virginia mineral oil and coal company in the county of Mason.

        No. 147. A senate bill entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the Mason city mining and manufacturing company in the county of Mason, passed February 22d, 1860.

        No. 148. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Jackson county agricultural society.

        No. 149. A senate bill entitled an act to enforce payment of balances due from commissioners of forfeited and delinquent lands.

        No. 151. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Rockbridge White sulphur springs company.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        A message was received from the senate, by Mr. WICKHAM, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed

        No. 205. A senate bill entitled an act to provide for the voluntary enslavement of Thomas Garland and Mary Anderson, persons of color in the county of Harrison; which was subsequently read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. NEWTON, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 169. A senate bill entitled an act providing for the voluntary enslavement of Jane Payne, Mary Fletcher and Glives, was read the first and second times, amended, and as amended, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.


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        No. 138. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the 23d section of the 61st chapter of the Code, entitled "of works of internal improvement," was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, laid on the table.

        No. 162. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the 43d section of chapter 26 of the Code, was read the first and second times, and referred to the committee on military affairs.

        No. 100. A bill to incorporate the Richmond and Liverpool packet company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. NEWTON, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. NEWTON carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. ROBERTSON submitted the following resolutions; the consideration of which being objected to, they were laid over under the rule:

        Resolved by the general assembly of Virginia:

        1. That without deeming it necessary to decide on the right of a state to secede from the Union, we yet recognize the fact that seven states have actually seceded, and have peaceably organized and established state governments, and a confederate government of their own, to which the people thereof seem to pay allegiance and render obedience, in like manner as the people of any other government to it.

        2. That without in like manner deeming it necessary to enquire into the right of the general government to execute the laws of the United States within the territory, or against the people of such seceded states or confederacy, by force, we yet wholly deprecate and denounce the policy of attempting to do so, which seems to be indicated by the president of the United States as that which he proposes to pursue, as being, in the actual circumstances which exist, utterly inexpedient and reprehensible, and as tending to involve the whole country in an unnecessary and abhorrent war.

        3. That interests of Virginia of vast magnitude, vital to her safety, and of paramount importance to all others, and common, moreover, to other states of the Union, are so bound up in, and imperiled by the inevitable results of that policy of coercion towards the seceding states, which seems to be foreshadowed in the president's inaugural address, as to authorize her to demand that he should forbear from attempting to carry any such purposes into execution, if such has been his design; and to declare that, if such attempt be made, Virginia should, in our opinion, and will oppose to it, with all her means, and in such mode as her sovereign authorities shall deem most expedient, a determined resistance.

        4. That by the ratification of the conventions of nine states of the original thirteen, the government of the United States became an established government among the powers of the earth: that as the accession of other states to the Union does not increase or change in the slightest degree, its political powers, so neither does nor can the secession of others from it lessen or affect them: that it remains,


Page 192

in both cases, neither less nor more a perfect Union and complete government, to all intents and purposes, with the rights conferred on it by the constitution, full and unimpaired forever, so long as nine states, whose concurrence sufficed, originally, rightfully to establish it, shall choose to continue it.

        5. That the government of the United States is, therefore, competent to consider the seceded states, or the confederate states of America, without any necessity for deciding the validity of the claim they assert to independence de jure, as being independent de facto, and may treat and deal with them in all respects, so far as the question of power is concerned, as with any other states or people claiming independent political existence.

        6. That the mode of dealing with such cases, whether by war, or by pacific modes of settlement, should depend on the causes which give rise to them, the consequences they entail, and all the circumstances that surround them: that in none of these considerations, in the present instance, can be found just cause of war: And we earnestly recommend the present recognition by the government of the United States, of the fact of the independent political existence of the southern states or confederation--but, at all events, its totally abstaining from all attempts forcibly to execute the laws of the United States within their territorial limits, or against their citizens, or to "hold, occupy or possess the property and places belonging to it therein, or to collect the duties and imposts," as being in effect or leading inevitably to war.

        7. That the main causes of the trouble between the north and the south, are to be found in the offensive intermeddling of the former with our exclusive right to regulate our domestic institutions--in their arrogant and pharisaical ascription of sinfulness to them--and in the insulting claim to exclude us from territories of which we are part owners, except upon the condition of our parting with our slaves, and in the formation, and accession to power, of a party "founded on geographical discriminations:" All which acts we hold to be equally against the spirit and provisions of the constitution--a just equality of rights and social duty: that the first duty of the north, if it would win back the states that have gone out of the Union, or would keep in those which still remain, is to "do justice" to the south, by removing these causes of complaint. But if from prejudices they choose to indulge, or an incorrect appreciation of their obligations, they shall decide that they cannot or will not remove those causes, then they should at once concur in some proper mode of providing for the peaceable separation from another of such states as may choose to remain united on the original terms of constitutional and social equality, to be secured by proper additional guarantees, and those which refuse to continue in the Union on those terms--for continued Union on any other terms is simply impossible.

        8. That it is the true policy and should be the aim of Virginia (unless driven, by a force policy of the general government, into disruption or war), to maintain and restore her union with all the states north and south of her, that are willing to stand loyally on


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the constitution, in its original spirit and meaning, with such amendments thereof as experience has shown to be necessary to carry out the original objects of its formation; and to force out of the Union such states as are faithless to its obligations and its objects, and shall refuse to concur in making such amendments--and to facilitate that object, should proceed now, by her convention, to prepare such amendments as they may deem suitable and satisfactory, and take proper measures to obtain the earliest practicable action on them by the people of the different states, through a general convention or otherwise; whose proceedings, if the same be held, to be reported back to the convention of Virginia for ratification or rejection: and if said general convention be not held, or if its conclusions be not ratified, then the convention of Virginia to take such measures for severing her connection with the present Union, and for her future welfare, as to them shall seem best.

        No. 218. A bill to incorporate the Virginia canal company, and to transfer the rights and franchises of the James river and Kanawha company thereto, being the unfinished business of yesterday, was taken up. Pending the consideration of which, Mr. SMITH of Kanawha moved to lay the bill on the table, with a view of submitting a resolution for night sessions; and the question on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative: and it appearing that no quorum voted, Mr. WATSON of Accomack submitted a motion for a call of the house; which was sustained by the house.

        The roll was then called a first and second times, and the following members found absent:

        Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Allen, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Barbour, Baskervill, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Boisseau, Boreman, Caperton, Carter, Cassin, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Ferrill, Friend, Frost, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Hanley, Hackley, Huntt, James, Jett, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Locke, Lockridge, Lundy, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Maupin, McCamant, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Medley, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Riddick, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Seddon, Segar, Sibert, H. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Tyler, Walker, Ward, E. Watson, Welch, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Wood and Woolfolk.

        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND, further proceedings under the call were dispensed with.

        On motion of Mr. HARRISON; the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Pettigrew of the Reformed church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 12, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act refunding to Mrs. Lucy Holland a sum of money paid on erroneous assessment, No. 186.


Page 194

        They have agreed to the amendment proposed by the house of delegates to amendments of the senate to house bill entitled:

        An act amending the 107th section of chapter 35 of the Code of Virginia, and providing for the correction of erroneous assessment of taxes on lands, No. 84.

        And they have passed bills entitled:

        An act to amend the 3d and 4th sections of an act passed March 15th, 1850, to provide for the inspection of guano and plaster of paris in the city of Richmond and town of Petersburg, No. 131.

        An act directing the payment of certain interest to Emmet J. O'Brien, No. 153.

        An act for the relief of the securities of Eugenius Tibbs, late sheriff of the county of Ritchie, No. 152.

        An act for the relief of the sureties of Thomas K. Davis, late sheriff of Prince William county, No. 161.

        An act for the relief of Benjamin S. Reynolds of Harrison county, No. 163.

        An act for the voluntary enslavement of Fanny Matthews, without compensation to the state, No. 59.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        The following senate bills were read the first and second times, and on motions severally made, read a third time and passed:

        No. 59. A senate bill entitled an act for the voluntary enslavement of Fanny Matthews, without compensation to the state.

        No. 152. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of the securities of Eugenius Tibbs, late sheriff of the county of Ritchie.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Cassin, Chapman, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCue, McDowell, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Welch, West, Willcox, Woolfolk and Yerby--111.

        NOES--Messrs. W. T. Jones and Wilson--2.

        No. 163. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Benjamin S. Reynolds of Harrison county.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCue, McDowell, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Wingfield, Woolfolk and Yerby--118.


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        The following senate bills were read the first and second times, and referred to the committee on finance:

        No. 153. A senate bill entitled an act directing the payment of certain interest to Emmet J. O'Brien.

        No. 161. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of the sureties of Thos. K. Davis, late sheriff of Prince William county.

        No. 131. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the 3d and 4th sections of an act passed March 15, 1850, to provide for the inspection of guano and plaster of paris in the city of Richmond and town of Petersburg, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on agriculture and manufactures.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the committee for courts of justice, to whom had been referred

        No. 125. A senate bill entitled an act to legalize proceedings on Sunday in certain cases, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 267. A bill to provide legal remedies against foreign express companies and corporations, and to punish offences by them and their agents.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred

        No. 40. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Thos. L. Jordan of Wayne county, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to the petition of A. M. Bastable and others, citizens of Upshur, praying relief for taxes erroneously paid.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, to whom had been referred

        No. 162. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the 43d section of chapter 26 of the Code, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. WOOLFOLK, from the special committee on free negroes, presented the following bill:

        No. 268. A bill for the voluntary enslavement of certain slaves manumitted by the last will and testament of the late Isaac N. Robertson of Appomattox county; which, on his motion, was read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, Mr. WOOLFOLK moved that the bill be read a third time; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. HACKLEY moved that the bill be laid on the table; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        No. 219. An engrossed bill for the voluntary enslavement of free negroes, without compensation to the state, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HACKLEY.

        Mr. MAGRUDER submitted a ryder to the bill; which was read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        The bill was then read a third time and passed.


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        Ordered, that Mr. HACKLEY carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 218. A bill to incorporate the Virginia canal company, and to transfer the rights and franchises of the James river and Kanawha company thereto, being the unfinished business of yesterday, was taken up.

        The bill was further amended, and as amended, read the second time; and the question being--Shall the bill be engrossed and read a third time? Mr. McKENZIE demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. KEMPER submitted the following resolution; which being objected to, was laid over under the rule:

        Resolved, that on and after to-morrow the sessions of this house shall commence at 10 o'clock A. M.

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Pettigrew of the Reformed church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 13, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act for the relief of George W. Tucker of Halifax county, No. 53.

        An act to incorporate the Richmond and Liverpool packet company, No. 100.

        And they have passed, with an amendment, house bill entitled:

        An act to authorize the issue of treasury notes, No. 44.

        They have indefinitely postponed house bill entitled:

        An act to amend the charter of the Winchester and Potomac rail road company, No. 5.

        The senate have passed bills entitled:

        An act providing pay for the adjutant general on account of his services in the reorganization of the militia in the years 1858 and 1859, No. 73.

        An act organizing a volunteer company of cavalry in Albemarle county, No. 167.

        An act for the relief of the Orange and Alexandria rail road company, No. 142.

        An act amending the charter of the Black lick and Plaster bank turnpike company, No. 170.

        An act to authorize the Loch Leven rangers in the county of Lunenburg to be organized with a less number than now required by law, No. 173.


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        An act to incorporate the Cove creek lead, copper and iron manufacturing company in the county of Tazewell, No. 172.

        In which bills they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        They have agreed to the amendments proposed by the house of delegates to senate bill entitled:

        An act providing for the voluntary enslavement of Jane Payne, Mary Fletcher and Glives, No. 169.

        No. 44. A bill entitled an act to authorize the issue of treasury notes, with the amendment proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up.

        Mr. COWAN moved to lay the bill and amendment on the table; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. CARPENTER demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. McDOWELL, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Boreman, Brown, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Duckwall, Fleming, Frost, Goodycoontz, Haymond, Hoffman, Holdway, Knotts, McKenzie, D. Miller, Morris, Phelps, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, J. K. Smith, Thompson, Walker, Watts and West--26.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Boisseau, Booker, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Crump, Davis, Evans, Ferguson, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Medley, Miles, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Preston, Pretlow, Reid, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Welch, Wilson, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--100.

        The question being on concurring with the senate in their amendment, Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Cowan, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Seddon, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--110.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the president of the board of directors of the penitentiary, with a statement from the penitentiary agent; which, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, was referred to the committee on finance, and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 41.

        On motion of Mr. THOMPSON, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.


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FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Pettigrew of the Reformed church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 14, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act to amend the charter of the Sir John's run turnpike company, No. 74.

        An act to incorporate the Montgomery female college, No. 8.

        An act to amend an act incorporating the town of Christiansburg, and extending the limits of the same, No. 35.

        An act to amend and re-enact the second section of an act passed Feb'y 8th, 1860, to revive and amend an act passed March 1st, 1853, entitled an act to amend and revive the charter of the Little Kanawha navigation company, No. 19.

        They have also passed, with amendments, house bills entitled:

        An act to amend chapter 108 of the Code, concerning births, marriages and deaths, No. 96.

        An act providing for payment of commissioners, No. 191.

        They have passed bills entitled:

        An act to increase the pay of certain officers of the public guard, No. 74.

        An act for the relief of the sureties of Robert Chambers, sheriff of Boone county, No. 175.

        An act to incorporate the coal and oil company of Braxton county, Virginia, No. 176.

        An act to incorporate the Commonwealth savings bank of Richmond, No. 180.

        An act to amend the charter of the Virginia car springs company, No. 182.

        An act to amend an act passed March 13th, 1856, entitled an act to amend an act passed February 25, 1856, to amend the charter of the New creek company of Hampshire county, No. 184.

        An act to incorporate the Laurel valley coal and oil company in the county of Mason, No. 185.

        An act to authorize Thomas Chancellor to erect a wharf on his lands, No. 186.

        An act extending the corporate limits of the town of Fredericksburg, No. 189.

        An act to incorporate the Burning springs and oil line rail road company, No. 193.

        An act to authorize the circuit court of Preston county to legalize the conveyance of a tract of land made by Andrew Oliphant as guardian or committee of William Smith, an idiot, No. 194.

        An act to incorporate the Silver run mining and manufacturing company, No. 198.

        In which amendments and bills they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.



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        No. 73. A senate bill providing pay for the adjutant general on account of his services in the reorganization of the militia in the years 1858 and 1859, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN, laid on the table.

        No. 167. A senate bill entitled an act organizing a volunteer company of cavalry in Albemarle county, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 142. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of the Orange and Alexandria rail road company, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. BARBOUR, laid on the table.

        No. 170. A senate bill entitled an act amending the charter of the Black lick and Plaster bank turnpike company, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. GRAHAM, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 173. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize the Loch Leven rangers in the county of Lunenburg to be organized with a less number than now required by law, was read the first and second times, and referred to the committee on military affairs.

        No. 172. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Cove creek lead, copper and iron manufacturing company in the county of Tazewell, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. WITTEN, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 96. A house bill entitled an act to amend chapter 108 of the Code, concerning births, marriages and deaths, with the amendment proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up, and the amendment concurred in.

        No. 191. A house bill entitled an act providing for payment of commissioners, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up, and the amendments concurred in.

        The amendment of the senate to the title of the bill was agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 194. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize the circuit court of Preston county to legalize the conveyance of a tract of land made by Andrew Oliphant, as guardian or committee of William Smith, an idiot, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. COWAN, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 74. A senate bill entitled an act to increase the pay of certain officers of the public guard, was read the first and second times, amended, and as amended, on motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bentley, Boisseau, Booker, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Friend, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hackley, Hunter, James, Jett, W. T. Jones, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Leftwich, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McKenzie, Medley, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Preston, Pretlow, Reid, Riddick,


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Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Shannon, Sherrard, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tyler, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--78.

        NOES--Messrs. Arnold, Ballard, Boreman, Brown, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, Ferguson, Fleming, C. H. Gilmer, Harrison, Haymond, Holdway, Huntt, Johnson, C. H. Jones, Knote, Knotts, Lockridge, J. G. Martin, Maupin, McKinney, Miles, Morris, Phelps, Pritchard, Richardson, Rives, J. K. Smith, Thompson, Tomlin, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, Watts, Welch and West--34.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 198. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Silver run mining and manufacturing company, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. PHELPS, read the third time and passed.

        No. 193. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Burning springs and oil line rail road company, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. KNOTTS, read the third time and passed.

        No. 189. A senate bill entitled an act extending the corporate limits of the town of Fredericksburg, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, read the third time and passed.

        No. 182. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the charter of the Virginia car spring company, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. BISBIE, read the third time and passed.

        No. 180. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Common-wealth savings bank of Richmond, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, read the third time and passed.

        No. 176. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Coal and oil company of Braxton county, Virginia, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. ALDERSON, read the third time and passed.

        No. 175. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of the sureties of Robert Chambers, sheriff of Boone county, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. BALLARD, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Chapman, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McKinney, Miles, D. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Preston, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Walker, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, Willcox, Witten, Wood and Woolfolk--95.

        NOES--Messrs. W. T. Jones, Tomlin and Wilson--3.

        No. 186. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize Thomas Chancellor to erect a wharf on his lands, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. BOREMAN, read the third time and passed.

        No. 185. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Laurel valley coal and oil company in the county of Mason, was read the


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first and second times, and on motion of Mr. KAUFMAN, read the third time and passed.

        No. 184. A senate bill entitled an act to amend an act passed March 13, 1856, entitled an act to amend an act passed February 25, 1856, to amend the charter of the New creek company of Hampshire county, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. GIBSON, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate of the passage of the foregoing bills.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred the following senate bills, reported the same without amendment:

        No. 120. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Samuel Oppenheimer of Powhatan county.

        No. 161. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of the sureties of Thomas K. Davis, late sheriff of Prince William county.

        Mr. SEDDON, from the committee on banks, to whom had been referred the following senate bill, reported the same without amendment:

        No. 113. A senate bill entitled an act establishing a branch bank at the town of Jeffersonville in the county of Tazewell.

        Mr. BASSEL, from the committee on agriculture and manufactures, to whom had been referred the following senate bill, reported the same without amendment:

        No. 131. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the 3d and 4th sections of an act passed March 15, 1850, to provide for the inspection of guano and plaster of paris in the city of Richmond and town of Petersburg.

        No. 59. An engrossed bill entitled an act for the relief of Charles A. Hoge and James Musgrove, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 218. An engrossed bill to incorporate the Virginia canal company, and to transfer the rights and franchises of the James river and Kanawha company thereto, was read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Christian, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McKinney, Medley, Miles, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--115.

        NOES--Messrs. Claiborne and McKenzie--2.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        The following engrossed bills were taken up, and on motions severally made, laid on the table:


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        No. 54. A bill to refund to Louisa Hunter of Alexandria county taxes improperly paid.

        No. 55. A bill refunding to Joseph L. Russell amount of taxes improperly paid on license.

        No. 56. A bill for the relief of Henry Cooper of Frederick county.

        No. 60. A bill for the relief of Thomas Javins of Fairfax county.

        Mr. WARD presented the petition of J. A. Russell, praying relief from taxes imposed on him in consequence of an erroneous assessment upon certain lands in Frederick county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. SEDDON submitted the following preamble and resolution; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Whereas it is represented, that on the night of December 1st, 1860, a fire occurred in the county of King George, which caused the destruction of a quantity of grain and other property, a loss of considerable amount to the owner, caused by the malice of an incendiary to the patrol appointed by the court, who has been tried and convicted for the offence: Therefore,

        Be it resolved by the general assembly, that the court of the county of King George be authorized to indemnify the owner, at their discretion, out of the county levy.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. MARTIN of Henry,

        Resolved, that on and after Wednesday next, the sessions of this house shall commence at 10 o'clock A. M.

        On motion of Mr. WARD, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 1861.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Pettigrew of the Reformed church.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 15, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act to amend the act concerning district free schools in the county of Jefferson, No. 43.

        And they have passed bills entitled:

        An act in relation to the devise made by Joel Osborne to the Alexandria, Loudoun and Hampshire rail road company, No. 97.

        An act allowing compensation to Parsha A. Fowlkes and Joseph C. Fowlkes, for the arrest of three convicts escaped from the jail of Lunenburg county, No. 190.

        An act to incorporate the Queen's Point Division No. 28 of the Sons of Temperance in the county of Hampshire, No. 206.


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        An act to incorporate the Oxford cotton and woolen company, No. 207.

        An act to authorize the sale of certain church property in the town of Moorefield, No. 209.

        An act to amend the act incorporating the Insurance company of the state of Virginia, of Richmond, No 210.

        An act for the incorporation of the Home mining and manufacturing company, No. 211.

        An act to amend the 1st section of an act entitled an act to incorporate the Springfield and Deep run coal mining and manufacturing company, passed the 12th of Feb'y 1861, No. 215.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 97. A senate bill entitled an act in relation to the devise made by Joel Osborne to the Alexandria, Loudoun and Hampshire rail road company, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. BALL, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bell, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Carter, Cassin, Childs, Collier, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, James, Jett, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Knotts, Kyle, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McDowell, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Porter, Preston, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, A. Watson, Welch, Witten, Wood and Yerby--87.

        NOES--Messrs. Boisseau, Coleman, Cowan, Dickenson, Holdway, Johnson, Mallory, Newton, Phelps, Pritchard, Rives, H. Smith, Watts, Wilson, Wingfield and Woolfolk--16.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 190. A senate bill entitled an act allowing compensation to Parsha A. Fowlkes and Joseph C. Fowlkes, for the arrest of three convicts escaped from the jail of Lunenburg county, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. CRUMP, read the third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? Mr. MYERS demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house, and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Burks, Caperton, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Claiborne, Collier, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Edgington, Edwards, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, Graham, Grattan, Holdway, James, Jett, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Phelps, Preston, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Shannon, Sherrard, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Wallace, A. Watson, Welch, Wilson, Wingfield, Witten, Wood and Woolfolk--82.

        NOES--Messrs. Boreman, Brown, Coleman, Cowan, J. T. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Harrison, Haymond, Huntt, Johnson, C. H. Jones, Knotts, Kyle, Mallory, Massie, McDowell, Morris, Pritchard, Robinson, Rives, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Tomlin, Watts and West--24.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 206. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Queen's Point Division No. 28 of the Sons of Temperance, in the county of Hampshire, was read the first and second times.

        Mr. SHERRARD moved that the bill be read the third time this day. Pending the consideration of which, Mr. DUCKWALL moved the indefinite


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postponement of the bill; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. COWAN demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        No. 207. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Oxford cotton and woolen company, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. NEWTON, read the third time and passed.

        No. 209. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize the sale of certain church property in the town of Moorefield, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. CASSIN, read the third time and passed.

        No. 210. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the act incorporating the Insurance company of the state of Virginia, of Richmond, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. MYERS, read a third time and passed.

        No. 211. A senate bill entitled an act for the incorporation of the Home mining and manufacturing company, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. SMITH of Kanawha, read the third time and passed.

        No. 215. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the 1st section of an act entitled an act to incorporate the Springfield and Deep run coal mining and manufacturing company, passed the 12th of February 1861, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. MYERS, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        A message was received from the senate, by Mr. PAXTON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a bill 217, entitled an act to incorporate the Southern express company; which said bill was subsequently read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, laid upon the table.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, to whom had been referred senate bill 173, entitled an act to authorize the Loch Leven rangers in the county of Lunenburg to organize with a less number than now required by law, reported the same, with the recommendation that it do not pass.

        Mr. BASSEL, from the committee on agriculture and manufactures, to whom had been referred senate bill 140, entitled an act incorporating the Coleraine mining and manufacturing company, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. HACKLEY, from the committee on enrolled bills, presented the following report:

        The committee on enrolled bills have examined sundry bills, and find them all correct.

        Mr. EDWARDS presented the petition of Alexander Nowlin of Franklin county, to remit a fine, &c.; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. JONES of Appomattox submitted the following resolution:

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire into the expediency of taking the sense of the voters of the commonwealth, in respect to the propriety of calling another sovereign convention, and of abolishing and superseding the present convention;


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and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. BOOKER demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. McDOWELL, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Ballard, C. H. Jones, Kemper, Lynn, McCamant, McDowell, Tomlin and Witten--8.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bisbie, Boisseau, Boreman, Burks, Childs, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Davis, Edwards, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, James, Jett, Johnson, Keen, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Mallory, J. G. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Newton, Preston, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Rives, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Walker, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Wingfield and Yerby--75.

        No. 138. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the 23d section of the 61st chapter of the Code, entitled "of works of internal improvement," was taken up, on motion of Mr. MARTIN of Norfolk, amended, and as amended, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. GILMER of Pittsylvania,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of authorizing the organization of a troop at Pittsylvania courthouse, with forty-five members, rank and file.

        On motion of Mr. NELSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill authorizing the county court of Fluvanna to appropriate such portion of the funds as they deem proper, already raised, or hereafter to be raised by the issue of county bonds, under the act entitled an act authorizing the county courts of the commonwealth to raise funds for arming the citizens, to the uniforming and equipping of volunteer companies.

        On motion of Mr. PRESTON,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency and propriety of sending a copy of the Code of Virginia and of the Acts of Assembly to the library of each chartered college in the state, that may make such request through the representative of the county in which such college is located.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire,

        Resolved, that the committee on agriculture and manufactures enquire into the expediency of establishing an inspection of leather at New creek station in the county of Hampshire, or providing a general law on that subject.

        On motion of Mr. WELCH,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to settle the boundary line between the counties of Clay and Kanawha, so as to definitely restore the county of Kanawha to the original line between said county of Kanawha and Nicholas county, and establish that as the county line between Kanawha and Clay counties.


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        On motion of Mr. WATTS,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the expediency of refunding to Capt. Sprague of the schooner Wm. H. Rutan, a fine paid by him for an alleged violation of the inspection laws.

        On motion of Mr. MORRIS,

        Resolved, that the committee on agriculture and manufactures enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill incorporating the Marshall county oil and mining company.

        On motion of Mr. SHERRARD,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the expediency of refunding to Silas Reese of Hampshire county the sum of forty dollars, paid by him as land tax.

        On motion of Mr. SHANNON,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances be requested to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to amend the charter of the town of Marion in the county of Smyth, and to authorize the election of officers for the same.

        No. 161. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of the sureties of Thos. K. Davis, late sheriff of Prince William county, was taken up, on motion of Mr. LYNN, read the third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? Pending the consideration thereof,

        On motion of Mr. NEWTON, the house adjourned until Monday, 11 o'clock.

MONDAY, MARCH 18, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 16, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act for the relief of Charles A. Hoge and James Musgrave, No. 59.

        And they have passed, with amendments, house bills entitled:

        An act amending certain laws respecting the militia of the commonwealth, so as to render them more efficient, No. 143.

        An act to amend the charter of the city of Richmond, No. 7.

        They have agreed to a joint resolution from the house of delegates concerning a fire in King George.

        And they have passed bills entitled:

        An act to incorporate the American agency, No. 84.

        An act for the relief of Edward Johnson of the county of Giles, No. 187.

        An act for the relief of the securities of Reese Browning, late sheriff of Logan county, No. 212.

        An act refunding to Lynn & Compton a license tax improperly collected of them, No. 218.


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        An act authorizing the payment of the amount of a lost coupon to James C. McGuire & Co., No. 219.

        An act amending the third section of an act entitled an act incorporating the town of Portsmouth as a city, passed March 1st, 1858, No. 221.

        An act to incorporate the Bank of Parkersburg in the county of Wood, No. 227.

        An act authorizing the city of Portsmouth to issue coupon bonds, No. 228.

        An act allowing Amanda Higdon a pension for five years, No. 231.

        An act to incorporate the trustees of the Parkersburg classical and scientific institute, No. 233.

        In which amendments and bills they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 84. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the American agency, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, laid upon the table.

        No. 187. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Edward Johnson of the county of Giles, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. LUCAS, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Cassin, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Cowan, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, James, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Phelps, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--102.

        No. 212. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of the securities of Reese Browning, late sheriff of Logan county, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. BALLARD, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, Johnson, C. H. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Phelps, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robinson, Rives, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--98.

        NOES--Messrs. W. T. Jones and Willcox--2.

        No. 227. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Bank of Parkersburg in the county of Wood, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. BOREMAN, read the third time and passed.

        No. 218. A senate bill entitled an act refunding to Lynn & Compton a license tax improperly collected of them, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. LYNN, read the third time and passed.


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        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Cassin, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Crane, Crump, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Harrison, Hackley, Hunter, James, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Lucas, Lundy, Mallory, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Phelps, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Welch, West, Witten, Wood and Woolfolk--89.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Kee, J. G. Martin, McDowell, Tomlin, Wilson and Yerby--7.

        No. 221. A senate bill entitled an act amending the third section of an act entitled an act incorporating the town of Portsmouth as a city, passed March 1, 1858, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. WATTS, read the third time and passed.

        No. 228. A senate bill entitled an act authorizing the city of Portsmouth to issue coupon bonds, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. WATTS, read the third time and passed.

        No. 233. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the trustees of the Parkersburg classical and scientific institute, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. BOREMAN, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 219. A senate bill entitled an act authorizing the payment of the amount of a lost coupon to James C. McGuire & Co., was read the first and second times, amended, and as amended, on motion of Mr. SIBERT, read a third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Cassin, Childs, Claiborne, Coleman, Crane, Crump, Edwards, Ferguson, Fleming, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Holdway, Hunter, James, Johnson, C. H. Jones, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Preston, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wingfield, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--90.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Christian, Duckwall, Friend, J. Gilmer, Kee, Mallory, Medley, Rives, Tomlin and Wilson--11.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 231. A senate bill entitled an act allowing Amanda Higdon a pension for five years, was read the first and second times, and referred to the committee on finance.

        No. 143. A house bill entitled an act amending certain laws respecting the militia of the commonwealth, so as to render them more efficient, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up.

        Mr. KEMPER moved to disagree to the amendments of the senate; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER,

        Resolved, that a committee of conference be appointed by this house, to confer with a similar committee to be appointed by the senate, in relation to the disagreement of the two bodies in reference


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to house bill 143, entitled an act amending certain laws respecting the militia of the commonwealth, so as to render them more efficient.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under the resolution: Messrs. Kemper, Crump, Jones of Gloucester, McCamant and Lockridge.

        Subsequently, a message was received from the senate, by Mr. WICKHAM, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had concurred in the resolution, and appointed a committee of conference on their part.

        No. 7. A house bill entitled an act to amend the charter of the city of Richmond, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up.

        The amendments were concurred in.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred

        No. 153. A senate bill entitled an act directing the payment of certain interest to Enoch J. O'Brien, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, presented an adverse report to a resolution to enquire into the expediency of refunding to Silas Reese of Hampshire county, a sum of money paid by him as land tax.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred a communication from the board of directors of the penitentiary, moved that said committee be authorized to send for persons and papers; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following bill:

        No. 269. A bill to authorize the county court of Fluvanna county to appropriate certain funds to the uniforming and equipping volunteer companies in said county.

        The following bills were taken up successively, on motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire, and postponed to, and made the orders of the day for to-morrow at 12 o'clock.

        No. 131. A bill to extend the charter of the Bank of Virginia.

        No. 132. A bill to extend the charter of the Farmers Bank of Virginia.

        No. 133. A bill to extend the charter of the Bank of the Valley in Virginia.

        No. 134. A bill to extend the charter of the Exchange Bank of Virginia.

        No. 135. A bill to extend the charter of the Northwestern Bank of Virginia.

        No. 136. A bill to extend the charter of the Merchants and Mechanics Bank of Wheeling.

        No. 161. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of the sureties of Thomas K. Davis, late sheriff of Prince William county, being


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the unfinished business of yesterday, was taken up, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, James, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Newton, Phelps, Preston, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robinson, Rives, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--87.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, W. T. Jones, Mallory, McDowell, Tomlin and Wilson--6.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 24. A bill for the relief of Enoch Atkins of the county of Giles, was taken up, on motion of Mr. LUCAS, read the second time, amended, and as amended, ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Brown, Caperton, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Crump, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Fleming, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, Mallory, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Phelps, Preston, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, Welch, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--89.

        NOES--Messrs. McDowell, Watts and Wilson--3.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 27. A senate bill entitled an act refunding to Moses G. Booth damages paid by him as surety of Samuel S. Turner, late sheriff of Franklin, was taken up, on motion of Mr. EDWARDS, amended, and as amended, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Booker, Boreman, Burks, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Fleming, Friend, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Phelps, Preston, Reid, Richardson, Robinson, Rives, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, Wingfield, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--86.

        NOES--Messrs. W. T. Jones, J. G. Martin, Medley and Wilson--4.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 121. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Joseph W. Harper, was taken up, on motion of Mr. MALLORY, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Caperton, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferguson, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper. Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell,


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McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Phelps, Preston, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Witten, Wood and Yerby--91.

        No--Mr. Wilson--1.

        No. 146. A bill releasing the securities of Robert O. Doss, late sheriff of Campbell county, from the payment of damages, was taken up, on motion of Mr. LEFTWICH; and the question being--Shall the bill be engrossed and read a third time? Pending the consideration thereof,

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

TUESDAY, MARCH 19, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 18, 1861.

        The senate have agreed to the amendment proposed by the house of delegates to senate bill entitled an act to amend the 23d section of the 61st chapter of the Code, entitled, "of works of internal improvement," No. 138.

        And they have passed bills entitled:

        An act to establish an inspection of leather for the county of Hampshire, No. 213.

        An act authorizing the Petersburg rail road company to increase its capital stock, No. 232.

        An act to authorize the treasurer of the state to destroy certain bank notes now on deposit in his office, and such as may be received in future, No. 225.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 213. A senate bill entitled an act to establish an inspection of leather for the county of Hampshire, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire, laid on the table.

        No. 225. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize the treasurer of the state to destroy certain bank notes now on deposit in his office, and such as may be received in future, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, read the third time and passed.

        No. 232. A senate bill entitled an act authorizing the Petersburg rail road company to increase its capital stock, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. COLLIER, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 217. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Southern express company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN, amended, and as amended, read the third time and passed.


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        Ordered, that Mr. CHRISTIAN carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing a letter from the governor of Indiana, transmitting a joint resolution adopted by the general assembly of Indiana, in reference to a call of a convention to amend the constitution of the United States; which were read, laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 42.

        The SPEAKER also laid before the house a communication from the president of the United States, enclosing a resolution adopted by congress in relation to an amendment of the constitution; which were read, laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 43.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred

        No. 26. A senate bill entitled an act refunding to Elizabeth C. Richardson of Henrico county a sum of money paid by her on an erroneous assessment of land, and for correcting said assessment, reported the same with amendments.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee of conference appointed by the house to confer with a similar committee on the part of the senate, in relation to

        No. 143. A bill entitled an act amending certain laws respecting the militia of the commonwealth, so as to render them more effective, presented a report, submitting various amendments to the bill; which were concurred in by the house.

        Ordered, that Mr. KEMPER carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. BASSEL, from the committee on agriculture and manufactures, presented the following bill:

        No. 270. A bill to incorporate the Marshall county oil and mining company.

        No. 146. A bill releasing the securities of Robert O. Doss, late sheriff of the county of Campbell, from the payment of damages, being the unfinished business of yesterday, was taken up.

        Mr. DUCKWALL submitted a substitute for the bill, by way of amendment; and on his motion, the bill was laid upon the table, and the substitute ordered to be printed.

        Mr. FLEMING, from the joint committee on the penitentiary, presented a report; which, on his motion, was laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 44.

        The following bills, being the orders of the day, were taken up, amended, and as amended, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time:

        No. 131. A bill to extend the charter of the Bank of Virginia.

        No. 132. A bill to extend the charter of the Farmers Bank of Virginia.

        No. 133. A bill to extend the charter of the Bank of the Valley in Virginia.

        No. 134. A bill to extend the charter of the Exchange Bank of Virginia.


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        No. 135. A bill to extend the charter of the Northwestern Bank of Virginia.

        No. 136. A bill to extend the charter of the Merchants and Mechanics Bank of Wheeling.

        No. 149. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Charleston, was taken up, on motion of Mr. SEDDON, amended, and as amended, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. COLLIER presented the petition of citizens of Petersburg, praying for a lien law for the benefit of persons furnishing building materials, &c.; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        Mr. COLLIER submitted the following resolution; which being objected to, was laid over under the rule:

        Resolved, that this house, with the consent of the senate, will adjourn sine die on Monday 25th instant.

        No. 232. A bill to extend the charter of the Central Bank of Virginia, was taken up, on motion of Mr. McCUE.

        Mr. McCUE submitted an amendment to the bill.

        Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. McKENZIE, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 10 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 19, 1861.

        The senate have agreed to the amendments proposed by the house of delegates to senate bills entitled:

        An act authorizing the payment of the amount of a lost coupon to James C. McGuire & Co., No. 219.

        An act refunding to Moses G. Booth, damages paid by him as surety of Samuel S. Turner, late sheriff of Franklin county, No. 27.


        No. 154. A bill absolving the state and treasurer from all liability in case of loss of coupon bonds deposited as security for bank circulation, unless the said coupon bonds be converted into registered stock, and prohibiting coupon bonds from being received in future as such security, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and subsequently being engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.


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        No. 155. A bill amending the charter of the town of Charleston in the county of Kanawha, was taken up, on motion of Mr. SMITH of Kanawha, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. SMITH of Kanawha carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 179. A bill to amend the 2d, 3d and 6th sections of an act passed February 28, 1856, providing for working the county roads of Loudoun county, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BENTLEY, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. BENTLEY carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 108. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Chesterfield car, locomotive and agricultural implement manufacturing company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. FRIEND, read the third time and passed.

        No. 140. A senate bill incorporating the Coleraine mining and manufacturing company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. WELCH, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 257. A bill to amend and re-enact the 1st, 2d, 3d, 4th, 5th and 6th sections of chapter 23 of the Code, and to increase and rearrange the divisions and brigades of the militia of the commonwealth, was taken up, on motion of Mr. WATSON of Accomack.

        Mr. WOOLFOLK moved to lay the bill on the table; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. HAYMOND demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        The bill was then read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. CRUMP carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        A message was received from the senate, by Mr. PAXTON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had disagreed to the first amendment proposed by the house of delegates to senate bill 217, entitled an act to incorporate the Southern express company, and had agreed to the second amendment thereto, proposed by the house of delegates.

        No. 171. A bill for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts already made upon the Covington and Ohio rail road, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CHAPMAN, laid on the table, and made the order of the day for to-morrow at 12 o'clock.

        The following engrossed bills were taken up, read the third time and passed:

        No. 131. A bill to extend the charter of the Bank of Virginia.


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        No. 132. A bill to extend the charter of the Farmers Bank of Virginia.

        No. 133. A bill to extend the charter of the Bank of the Valley in Virginia.

        No. 134. A bill to extend the charter of the Exchange Bank of Virginia.

        No. 135. A bill to extend the charter of the Northwestern Bank of Virginia.

        No. 136. A bill to extend the charter of the Merchants and Mechanics Bank of Wheeling.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 229. A bill to incorporate the Carroll mining and manufacturing company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. KYLE, amended, and as amended, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        No. 92. A bill to amend the charter of Brown's gap turnpike company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, amended, and as amended, read the second time; and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        No. 137. A bill authorizing the Board of public works to appoint commissioners to estimate and report upon losses sustained by John Conaway in the construction of the Fairmont and Wheeling turnpike road, was taken up, on motion of Mr. PRITCHARD, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 137. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Industrial society of Wood county, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BOREMAN, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 106. A senate bill entitled an act to distribute Mayo's Guide to Magistrates to coroners, was taken up, on motion of Mr. THOMPSON, amended, and as amended, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

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

        No. 242. A bill for the relief of John Robinson, a free negro of Rockingham county.

        No. 216. A bill to amend and re-enact an act passed March 22, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Knob turnpike company in the county of Washington, and incorporating the Abingdon and Tennessee turnpike company.

        No. 188. A bill amending the 9th section of chapter 212 of the Code providing compensation to the owners of condemned slaves.


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        No. 60. A senate bill entitled an act transferring the Huttonsville and Huntersville turnpike road to the counties through which the same passes, was taken up, and on motion of Mr. JOHNSON, laid on the table.

        Mr. COLLIER moved to take up a resolution heretofore submitted by him, providing for the adjournment of the house, with the consent of the senate, on Monday the 25th instant; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. WALKER demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Ballard, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Boisseau, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carter, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Dickenson, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hunter, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Lockridge, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, McKinney, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Welch, West, Wingfield, Wood and Woolfolk--68.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bisbie, Chapman, Christian, Crane, Crump, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Graham, Harrison, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Knote, Leftwich, Lucas, Lynn, Massie, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McKenzie, Montague, Myers, Preston, Reid, Robertson, Segar, Sherrard, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Watts, Witten and Yerby--45.

        Mr. MARTIN of Henry moved to amend the resolution, by striking out "Monday the 25th," and inserting "Wednesday the 27th."

        Mr. WITTEN moved to amend the amendment, by striking out "the 27th," and inserting "Monday the 1st day of April;" and the question being on agreeing to the amendment to the amendment, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. WITTEN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Chapman, Christian, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Ferguson, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Knote, Leftwich, Lucas, Lynn, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Montague, Myers, Newton, Preston, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Watts, Welch, Witten and Yerby--63.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Arnold, Ballard, Bassel, Bentley, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carter, Collier, Dickenson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Hoffman, Holdway, Hunter, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Lockridge, Lundy, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, McKinney, Medley, Mong, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Nelson, Orgain, Pritchard, Randolph, Rives, Rutherfoord, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, West, Wilson, Wingfield, Wood and Woolfolk--53.

        The question recurring upon agreeing to the resolution as amended, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. HOFFMAN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Baskervill, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Boisseau, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carter, Chapman, Coleman, Collier, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McGehee, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Nelson, Orgain, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas,


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Tomlin, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--99.

        NOES--Messrs. Ballard, Bass, Bisbie, Christian, Grattan, Harrison, Massie, McCue, McDowell, McKinney, Myers, Newton, Robertson, Thompson and Wingfield--15.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. HAYMOND submitted the following resolution; which being objected to, was laid over under the rule:

        Resolved, that on and after to-morrow the chair shall be vacated at 2 o'clock P. M. and resumed at 7½ o'clock P. M.

        No. 147. A bill allowing John Staples a sum of money for services rendered as attorney for the commonwealth in the circuit court of Patrick county, was taken up, on motion of Mr. KEEN, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, the question being--Shall the bill pass? Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. MASSIE, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 10 o'clock.

THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 20, 1861.

        The senate have passed a bill authorizing the governor to pardon slaves Jack and Ben, and restore them to their former owner.


        No. 195. A senate bill authorizing the governor to pardon slaves Jack and Ben, and restore them to their former owner, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. TYLER, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Arnold, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Boisseau, Burks, Caperton, Chapman, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crane, Crump, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, James, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knote, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, T. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McGehee, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Phelps, Preston, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--96.

        No. 217. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Southern express company, to one of the amendments to which, proposed by the house of delegates, the senate had disagreed, was taken up.

        Mr. KEEN moved that the house insist upon its amendment. Pending the consideration of which, Mr. SEGAR moved the indefinite postponement of the bill; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. WOOD demanded the previous question; and the question being--Shall the main question be ordered? was put, and decided in the negative.


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        The question being on the indefinite postponement, Mr. SEDDON demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        The question recurring upon insisting on the amendment of the house, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Ordered, that Mr. KEEN inform the senate thereof.

        No. 263. An engrossed bill to alter and amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the Blacksburg, Catawba creek and Fincastle turnpike company, passed February 15th, 1860, and to change the name thereof, was, on motion of Mr. BASS, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, James, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Phelps, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Tomlin, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Witten, Wood and Yerby--114.

        NOES--Messrs. Rives and Wilson--2.

        On motion of Mr. BASS, the title was so amended as to change the name to the Montgomery, Roanoke and Botetourt turnpike company.

        Ordered, that Mr. BASS carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 147. A bill allowing John Staples a sum of money for services rendered as attorney for the commonwealth in the circuit court of Patrick county, being the unfinished business of yesterday, was taken up, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? the roll was called, with the following result:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Barbour, Baskervill, Bentley, Boreman, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Collier, Crump, Dickenson, Edgington, Edwards, Frost, J. Gilmer, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, James, Keen, Kemper, Leftwich, Magruder, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Morris, Myers, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Saunders, Segar, I. N. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Walker, A. Watson, Watts, Welch, Witten, Wood and Yerby--60.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Brown, Claiborne, Ferguson, Fleming, D. Gibson, Johnson, Kee, Kyle, Lockridge, Massie, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Randolph, Robinson, Rives, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, Wallace and West--30.

        Seventy-seven members not having voted for the bill,

        Resolved, that the bill be rejected.

        On motion of Mr. ALDERSON, the rule was suspended, with a view to reconsider the vote rejecting the bill, and it was laid on the table.

        Mr. BASSEL, from the committee of agriculture and manufactures, to whom had been referred

        No. 141. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Little Kanawha mining and manufacturing company, reported the same with an amendment.

        No. 232. A bill to extend the charter of the Central Bank of Virginia,


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being unfinished business, was taken up, amended, and as amended, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. CHRISTIAN carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 236. A bill to suspend the levying of taxes by the state on the Belmont and Wheeling bridge for three years, was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        No. 84. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the American agency, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BISBIE.

        Mr. HAYMOND submitted an amendment thereto.

        Pending the consideration of which, Mr. KEEN moved the indefinite postponement of the bill; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. BURKS, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Ball, Bass, Bentley, Boreman, Burks, Collier, Crump, Ferrill, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Harrison, Hackley, W. T. Jones, Keen, Kee, Knote, McCamant, McKinney, Medley, J. R. Miller, Morris, Phelps, Randolph, Reid, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Sherrard, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Tomlin, E. Watson, Watts, West, Witten, Wood and Yerby--38.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ballard, Barbour, Baskervill, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Brown, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Christian, Claiborne, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Ferguson, Friend, Frost, Goodycoontz, Graham, Haymond, Holdway, Hunter, James, Johnson, Kaufman, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCue, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Preston, Pritchard, Robinson, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Thomas, Walker, Welch, Wilson and Woolfolk--68.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON, the bill and amendment was laid on the table.

        No. 171. A bill for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts already made upon the Covington and Ohio rail road, with a pending amendment thereto, being the order of the day, was taken up.

        The amendment was, by leave of the house, withdrawn.

        Mr. HAYMOND submitted an amendment to the original bill; which was agreed to.

        The bill was then read the second time as amended, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Duckwall, Edgington, Ferguson, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, James, W. T. Jones, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Kyle, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKenzie, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Preston, Pretlow, Reid, Robertson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Welch, Witten, Wood and Woolfolk--82.

        NOES--Messrs. Bassel, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Burks, Childs, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, Ferrill, Friend, Goodycoontz, Hoffman, Johnson, Kincheloe, Knotts, Leftwich, Mallory, T. Martin, McGehee, McKinney, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Phelps, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, Rives, J. K. Smith, Tomlin, A. Watson, E. Watson, West, Wilson and Yerby--36.


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        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. MARTIN of Henry, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 10 o'clock.

FRIDAY, MARCH 22, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 21, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act amending the charter of the town of Charleston in the county of Kanawha, No. 155.

        An act to amend the charter of Brown's gap turnpike company, No. 92.

        An act to amend the 2d, 3d and 6th sections of an act passed February 28th, 1856, providing for working the county roads of Loudoun county, No. 179.

        An act authorizing the Board of public works to appoint commissioners to estimate and report upon losses sustained by John Conoway in the construction of the Fairmont and Wheeling turnpike road, No. 137.

        They have agreed to the resolution of the house of delegates for adjournment.

        They have also agreed to the amendment proposed by the house of delegates to senate bill entitled:

        An act to distribute Mayo's Guide to coroners, No. 106.

        They have passed a bill entitled:

        An act transferring the Cacapon and North branch turnpike to the county court of Hampshire county, No. 236.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 236. A senate bill entitled an act transferring the Cacapon and North branch turnpike to the county court of Hampshire county, was read the first and second times, on motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire, amended, and as amended, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Ball, Barbour, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Caperton, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Duckwall, Edgington, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Harrison, Haymond, Hoffman, Huntt, Hunter, James, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Mallory, T. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--98.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Burks, Collier, Dickenson, Holdway, W. T. Jones, Kyle, Myers and Riddick--9.


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        Ordered, that Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 213. A senate bill entitled an act to establish an inspection of leather in the county of Hampshire, was taken up, on motion of Mr. SHERRARD, amended, and as amended, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. SHERRARD carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, presented the following reports:

        An adverse report to the petition of Henry C. Purkins of the county of King George, asking to have license tax refunded.

        An adverse report to the petition of Samuel E. Lee of the county of Lunenburg, asking to have refunded a license tax.

        An adverse report to the resolution to enquire into the expediency of incorporating the American agency.

        Mr. HOFFMAN presented the petition of the Harrison rifles, praying that they may be received as a volunteer company, with thirty-six men; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        No. 142. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of the Orange and Alexandria rail road company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BARBOUR, and read the third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? the roll was called with the following result:

        AYES--Messrs. Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Bass, Bell, Bisbie, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Christian, Collier, Duckwall, Edgington, Ferguson, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, Graham, Grattan, Holdway, Hunter, James, Johnson, Keen, Kincheloe, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, T. Martin, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McGruder, McKenzie, D. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Myers, Orgain, Preston, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Sherrard, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Walker, Wallace, E. Watson, Welch, Witten, Wood and Woolfolk--62.

        NOES--Messrs. Bassel, Boisseau, Booker, Claiborne, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Ferrill, Friend, Goodycoontz, Haymond, Huntt, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Knotts, Lundy, Mallory, J. G. Martin, McDowell, McGehee, McKinney, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Morris, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Phelps, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Staples, Ward, A. Watson, West, Wilson and Yerby--42.

        Seventy-seven members not having voted in favor of the bill,

        Resolved, that the bill be rejected.

        On motion of Mr. KAUFMAN, the rule was suspended, with a view of reconsidering the vote rejecting the bill, and the bill on motion of Mr. BARBOUR, laid on the table.

        No. 60. A senate bill entitled an act transferring the Huttonsville and Huntersville turnpike road to the counties through which the same passes, was taken up, on motion of Mr. LOCKRIDGE.

        Mr. CRANE submitted an amendment to the bill. Pending the consideration of which, on motion of Mr. LOCKRIDGE, the bill was laid on the table.

        Mr. WATSON of Accomack submitted the following resolution; which being objected to, was laid over under the rule:

        Resolved, that this house will, with the consent of the senate, proceed, on Saturday the 23d inst. at 11 o'clock, to the election of major generals and brigadier generals.

        Mr. TOMLIN moved to take up the following resolution, heretofore submitted:


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        Resolved, that on and after to-morrow, the chair shall be vacated at 2 o'clock P. M. and resumed at 7½ o'clock P. M.

        The question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. GRATTAN moved an adjournment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Bell, Grattan and James--3.

        NOES--Messrs. Anderson, Bailey, Ballard, Barbour, Bass, Bassel, Bisbie, Booker, Burks, Chapman, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Ferguson, Ferrill, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Graham, Haymond, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Wood, Woolfolk and Yerby--87.

        The question recurring upon taking up the resolution, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. JONES submitted an amendment to the resolution.

        Mr. MEDLEY moved the indefinite postponement of the resolution and amendment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. ANDERSON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Bailey, Ballard, Barbour, Bell, Boisseau, Burks, Carpenter, Claiborne, Collier, Cowan, Crane, D. Gibson, Graham, Grattan, Huntt, James, W. T. Jones, Kemper, Lundy, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, McDowell, Medley, J. R. Miller, Morgan, Newton, Randolph, Reid, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Thomas, Wallace, A. Watson and Yerby--35.

        NOES--Messrs. Anderson, Bass, Bassel, Bisbie, Booker, Chapman, Coleman, Crump, Duckwall, Ferguson, Ferrill, J. T. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Haymond, Holdway, Hunter, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pritchard, Robinson, Rives, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Staples, Tomlin, Ward, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Wood and Woolfolk--61.

        Mr. SEDDON moved to lay the resolution on the table; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. JONES demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        The amendment was then agreed to, and the resolution adopted, providing for night sessions on and after Monday next.

        The following bills were read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time.

        No. 77. A bill for the relief of T. D. Fendall, administrator of William Eaches dec'd.

        No. 80. A bill for the relief of Emory Edwards of Washington county in the state of Maryland.

        No. 81. A bill authorizing the payment of $ 147 75 to Captain Wm. H. Werth of company A, of the 101st regiment Virginia militia.

        No. 82. A bill exempting from taxation the real estate of the Virginia mechanics institute.

        No. 90. A bill making a subscription on the part of the state to the Roanoke valley rail road company.


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        No. 91. A bill to incorporate the Grassy lick turnpike company.

        No. 95. A bill to create a provisional state guard.

        No. 99. A bill authorizing the trustees of Easter's meeting house in the county of Morgan to sell and convey the same.

        No. 130. A bill to incorporate the Monongahela savings bank in the county of Monongalia.

        No. 119. A bill making an appropriation for the removal to Virginia of the remains of Gen'l Harry Lee, was read the second time, amended, and as amended, ordered to be engrossed and read the third time.

        No. 88. A bill to incorporate the Virginia lumber company in the counties of Augusta and Rockbridge, was taken up, amended, and as amended, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, on motion of Mr. WOOD, was read the third time and passed.

        No. 101. A bill amending and re-enacting the charter of the town of Guyandotte in the county of Cabell, was read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forth-with engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        The following bills were read the second time, and on motions severally made, laid on the table:

        No. 87. A bill providing for the voluntary enslavement of Clara and her children, of the county of Rappahannock.

        No. 85. A bill refunding to Sam'l A. McMechen and John G. Harness, jr. a sum of money paid by them on an erroneous assessment of land.

        No. 89. A bill to transfer the Cacapon and North branch turnpike to the county court of Hampshire.

        No. 98. A bill amending and re-enacting the 61st section of chapter 38 of the Code prescribing an oath to be taken before granting licenses, was taken up, and on motion of Mr. BISBIE, indefinitely postponed.

        On motion of Mr. BOOKER, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 10 o'clock.

SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 22, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act to alter and amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the Blacksburg, Catawba creek and Fincastle turnpike company, passed February 15th, 1860, and to change the name to the Montgomery, Roanoke and Botetourt turnpike company, No. 263.


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        And they have receded from their disagreement to the first amendment of the house of delegates to bill entitled:

        An act to incorporate the Southern express company, No. 217.


        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred

        No. 231. A senate bill entitled an act allowing Amanda Higeton a pension for five years, reported the same without amendment.

        Mr. KEMPER, from the committee on military affairs, reported

        No. 271. A bill to organize the Metropolitan guard of Richmond.

        On motion of Mr. CHAPMAN,

        Resolved, that leave be given to bring in a bill for the relief of Ellen D. Layne, widow and administratrix of A. C. Layne deceased.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under the resolution: Messrs. Chapman, Newton, Matthews, Walker and Ball.

        Mr. CHAPMAN presented the petition of Mrs. Layne, praying relief from a claim of the state against the estate of her deceased husband.

        Mr. BISBIE submitted the following resolution; which being objected to was laid over under the rule:

        Resolved, that on and after Monday next, during the session, the reading and consideration of house bills shall be the order of the day from half past 11 till 1 o'clock, and that during that time all motions to lay on the table, amend or postpone, shall be allowed only three minutes in advocacy, and the same time in reply.

        No. 199. A bill to incorporate the town of Asbury, was taken up, amended, and as amended, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time, on motion of Mr. GRAHAM, and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 116. A bill to amend the charter of the Bank of Richmond, was, on motion of Mr. MYERS, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time, and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. MYERS carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 146. A bill releasing the securities of Robert O. Doss, late sheriff of the county of Campbell, from the payment of damages, with the amendment heretofore submitted thereto by Mr. DUCKWALL, was taken up, on motion of Mr. PHELPS.

        The amendment was then agreed to, and the bill, as amended, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? Mr. WALKER demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Chapman, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Evans, Ferguson, Ferrill, Frost, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Kaufman, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong,


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Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Pritchard, Reid, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Welch, West, Witten and Yerby--84.

        NOES--Messrs. Ball, Bentley, Booker, Boreman, Claiborne, Fleming, Jett, W. T. Jones, Kee, Kemper, Lockridge, Mallory, McDowell, Nelson, Preston, Randolph, Richardson, Riddick, Seddon, Tomlin and Wilson--21.

        The title was then amended so as to read as follows:

        "An act authorizing the auditor of public accounts to release the sureties of defaulting sheriffs from payment of damages in certain cases."

        Ordered, that Mr. DUCKWALL carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. McCUE submitted the following preamble and resolutions; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. DUCKWALL moved to amend, by striking out the preamble; and the question being on agreeing to the amendment, was put, and decided in the negative. The question recurring upon agreeing to the preamble and the resolutions, Mr. KEMPER demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative:

        Whereas the penitentiary of Virginia, for years past, has rested as an incubus on the state treasury, through injudicious management: and whereas, through serious defects in our criminal code, its inmates have increased so rapidly that the building is entirely inadequate to its uses, whether in regard to security, comfort or profitable employment: and whereas, by the extension of the city in that direction, the property comprised within its limits has enhanced so much in value as to amply remunerate the state for its removal to some more appropriate site, as well as abate it as a nuisance, so far as its situation in the heart of the city is concerned: and whereas, the labor of the inmates does come into injurious competition with worthy and industrious mechanics--an evil that demands a remedy: and whereas, from a want of raw material, its inmates are now, and have been for weeks, not only without employment, but have been locked up, a half dozen or more in their cells, which all know are too small for the accommodation of one or two even, endangering their lives, and permanently injuring their health: and whereas, it is notorious that the state is in great need of a new state house as well as a new penitentiary, which cannot, under any circumstances, be so economically built as by the labor of these convicts: Therefore,

        Be it resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that it be referred to a special committee to enquire into the expediency of providing by law for the hiring to some responsible contractor or contractors the convict labor of the penitentiary, who shall at once employ them in quarrying and dressing granite for the erection first of a suitable penitentiary house, and then for a state capitol.

        Resolved, that should this be deemed inexpedient, then said committee shall enquire into the expediency of disposing of the fabrics of the penitentiary now on hand and undisposed of, and rent out the entire establishment to responsible contractors.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under the resolution: Messrs. McCue, Fleming, Bassel, Garrett and Phelps.


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        No. 197. A bill making appropriations for deficiencies in former appropriations, and for defraying expenses of the general assembly and convention now in session, was taken up.

        Mr. HAYMOND moved to amend the bill, by substituting "25,000" for "20,000," as compensation to Ritchie & Dunnavant for printing the Code; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. CRANE, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Anderson, Arnold, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Chapman, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Duckwall, Edgington, Evans, Graham, Haymond, James, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, Maupin, McCamant, McGehee, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montgomery, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Shannon, Thomas, Tomlin, Wallace, E. Watson and West--45.

        NOES--Messrs. Ball, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Cassin, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Fleming, D. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, Knotts, Kyle, Matthews, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Morris, Patterson, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robinson, Rives, Seddon, Segar, Sherrard, Sibert, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, A. Watson, Watts, Wilson, Witten and Yerby--43.

        Mr. SEDDON moved to amend the bill, by striking out that portion allowing to J. M. Bennett, G. W. Munford and W. H. Richardson, five hundred dollars each as commissioners to audit the claims arising from the Harpers Ferry raid. Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. JONES of Gloucester, the house adjourned.

MONDAY, MARCH 25, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 23, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act amending and re-enacting the charter of the town of Guyandotte in the county of Cabell, No. 101.

        An act to incorporate the Virginia lumber company in the counties of Augusta and Rockbridge, No. 88.

        They have agreed to the amendments proposed by the house to bills entitled:

        An act transferring the Cacapon and North branch turnpike to the county court of Hampshire county, No. 236.

        An act to establish an inspection of leather for the county of Hampshire, No. 213.

        They have passed bills entitled:

        An act to amend the 1st section of chapter 149 of the Code of Virginia relative to the limitation of suits, so as to limit the right to make an entry, or bring an action to recover land west of the Alleghany mountains, No. 132.

        An act for the relief of Thomas M. Hunley, commissioner of the revenue for the county of Matthews, No. 200.

        An act releasing the state's claim to the fine imposed on the


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schooner Virginia for an alleged violation of the inspection laws, No. 216.

        And they have receded from their amendments to house bill entitled:

        An act amending certain laws respecting the militia of the commonwealth, so as to render them more efficient, No. 143, and have agreed to the amendments of the house of delegates thereto.

        In which senate bills they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bill:

        No. 272. A bill for the relief of Joseph Gushman.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from a special committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 273. A bill releasing to the personal representative of A. C. Layne the rent due under his lease of a portion of the public armory.

        No. 132. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the 1st section of chapter 149 of the Code of Virginia relative to the limitation of suits, so as to limit the right to make an entry, or bring an action to recover land west of the Alleghany mountains, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. PHELPS, laid on the table.

        No. 200. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Thomas M. Hunley, commissioner of the revenue for the county of Matthews, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. EVANS, read the third time and passed.

        No. 216. A senate bill entitled an act releasing the state's claim to the fine imposed on the schooner Virginia for an alleged violation of the inspection laws, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. McKENZIE, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Arnold, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Booker, Cassin, Chapman, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, Mong, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Preston, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West and Witten--91.

        NOES--Messrs. Coleman, Newton and Orgain--3.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 108. An engrossed bill changing the names of the lunatic asylums, was taken up, on motion Mr. YERBY, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 73. A senate bill entitled an act providing pay for the adjutant general on account of his services in the reorganization of the militia in the years 1858 and 1859, was taken up, on motion of Mr. KEMPER, and read the third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? Mr. HAYMOND demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.


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        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bentley, Boisseau, Booker, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Crump, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Frost, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hunter, James, Jett, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Knote, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, J. G. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montgomery, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Saunders, Segar, Sherrard, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, E. Watson, Welch, Witten and Yerby--81.

        NOES--Messrs. Bell, Brown, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, Ferguson, Ferrill, Fleming, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Johnson, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Lynn, Miles, D. Miller, Morris, Pritchard, Shannon, J. K. Smith, A. Watson, Watts, West and Wilson--27.

        No. 197. A bill making appropriations for deficiencies in former appropriations, and for defraying expenses of the general assembly and the convention now in session, with the pending amendment thereto, being the unfinished business of yesterday, was taken up.

        The consideration of the amendment was passed by for the present.

        Mr. EVANS moved to suspend the rule, with a view to reconsider the vote of the house amending the bill in relation to the appropriation for the printing of the Code; and the question being on agreeing thereto, the hour of 2 o'clock having arrived, the chair was vacated until 7½ o'clock.

EVENING SESSION.

        No quorum appearing, Mr. SEDDON moved that the house adjourn; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Arnold, Bassel, Boisseau, Crane, Grattan, W. T. Jones, J. G. Martin, McDowell, Newton, Riddick, Seddon and Watts--12.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Bass, Bisbie, Booker, Brown, Chapman, Christian, Coleman, Cowan, Crump, Duckwall, Edgington, Evans, Fleming, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Graham, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, Mong, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Pritchard, Robinson, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, Tomlin, Walker, Ward, Wilson, Witten and Yerby--62.

        A quorum appearing, Mr. SEGAR moved that the unfinished business of the day, which was

        No. 197. A bill making appropriations for deficiencies in former appropriations, and for defraying expenses of the general assembly and convention now in session, with the motion to suspend the rule with a view to reconsider the vote adopting an amendment thereto, be laid on the table; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        No. 54. A senate bill entitled an act to stay the proceedings on executions, trust deeds and other demands, in cases of refusal to receive bank notes, was taken up, on motion of Mr. SEGAR.

        Mr. KEEN submitted an amendment to the bill.

        Mr. KEEN moved that the bill and amendment be laid on the table, and made the order of the day for Thursday next at 11 o'clock; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.


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        Mr. CRUMP submitted the following resolution:

        Resolved, that leave be given to bring in a bill requiring the banks of this commonwealth to resume specie payments in thirty days after the resumption by the banks of Maryland.

        Mr. KEEN moved that the resolution be indefinitely postponed; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        No. 141. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Little Kanawha mining and manufacturing company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. KNOTTS, amended, and as amended, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 76. A bill to repeal sections 28, 29, 30, 31 and 32 of chapter 58 of the Code of Virginia of 1860, was taken up, on motion of Mr. WARD, amended, and as amended, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time.

        Mr. WATTS submitted the following resolution; which being objected to, was laid over under the rule:

        Resolved, that the rule adopted on Saturday 23d instant, requiring the SPEAKER of the house to vacate the chair at 2, and resume it again at 7½ o'clock, be rescinded.

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN,

        Resolved, that a committee be appointed, with leave to report a bill incorporating the Staunton savings bank.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee: Messrs. Christian, Robertson, Walker, Thomas and McKenzie.

        Subsequently, Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee, presented

        No. 274. A bill incorporating the Staunton savings bank; which, on his motion, was read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time.

        No. 252. A bill authorizing the trustees of the Methodist district parsonage in Salem, Roanoke county, to borrow money, and execute a deed of trust to secure the same, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BASS, read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 140. A bill incorporating the Piedmont land and improvement company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. LEFTWICH, and read the second time; and the question being--Shall the bill be engrossed and read the third time? Mr. SEDDON moved to lay the bill on the table. Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN, the house adjourned.


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TUESDAY, MARCH 26, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 25, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of Richmond, No. 116.

        An act for the relief of Enoch Adkins of the county of Giles, No. 24.

        An act to incorporate the town of Asbury, No. 199.

        An act to repeal an act passed 19th March 1860, concerning the mode of catching fish in certain waters, No. 157.

        And they have passed a bill entitled:

        An act for the relief of John M. Jones, late sheriff of Pendleton county, No. 203.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 203. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of John M. Jones, late sheriff of Pendleton county, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. GRATTAN, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bell, Bentley, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Duckwall, Edgington, Evans, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, J. G. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montgomery, Myers, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Randolph, Reid, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, Willcox, Witten and Yerby--98.

        NOES--Messrs. Dickenson and Wilson--2.

        No. 256. A bill to amend an act passed March 6th, 1858, entitled an act to amend the 2d section of an act passed March 2d, 1858, entitled an act to organize the militia, and provide for the defence of the commonwealth, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CRUMP, amended, and as amended, read the second time; and the question being--Shall the bill be engrossed and read the third time? Mr. PHELPS moved the indefinite postponement of the bill; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        The following engrossed bills were read the third time and passed:

        No. 76. A bill to repeal an act passed April 2d, 1858, entitled an act requiring the banks of the commonwealth to resume specie payment.

        No. 129. A bill amending the 2d section of an act authorizing the Bank of the Valley in Virginia to establish a branch in the city of Richmond.

        No. 130. A bill to incorporate the Monongahela savings bank in the county of Monongalia.

        No. 226. A bill to amend and re-enact an act passed March 22d, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Knob turnpike company in


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the county of Washington, and incorporating the Abingdon and Tennessee turnpike company.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Carpenter, Chapman, Christian, Coleman, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garret, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, J. G. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McKenzie, J. R. Miller, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Robertson, Saunders, Seddon, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Walker, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, Witten and Yerby--82.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Boisseau, Brown, Cowan, James, Johnson, Lynn, McKinney, Morgan, Riddick, Robinson, Wilson and Willcox--13.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 140. A bill incorporating the Piedmont land and improvement company, with the pending motion to lay the bill on the table, being the unfinished business of yesterday, was taken up.

        Mr. WILSON moved the indefinite postponement of the bill; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        The question recurred on the motion to lay the bill on the table; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in negative.

        The bill was then amended, and as amended, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, on motion of Mr. LEFTWICH, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. HACKLEY, from the committee on enrolled bills, presented the following report:

        The committee on enrolled bills have examined sundry such bills, and find them correctly enrolled.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, for further examination.

        No. 80. A senate bill entitled an act to appropriate a sum necessary to pay for the preparation and publication of the second edition of the Code of Virginia, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND.

        Mr. HOLDWAY moved to amend the bill, by striking out "and fifty cents," thereby reducing the appropriation to Ritchie & Dunnavant to $ 2 per volume for the Code; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. ANDERSON moved to insert "and 25 cents," so that the compensation allowed would be $ 2 25 cents per volume; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. HOLDWAY, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bisbie, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Garrett, Haymond, James, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Knote, Lundy, Magruder, Matthews, McCamant, McDowell, McKenzie, J. R. Miller, Mong, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Preston, Robertson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, E. Watson and Witten--47.


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        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Ball, Bentley, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Evans, Ferrill, Fleming, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hanly, Harrison, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lynn, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, McCue, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, Morris, Patterson, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Riddick, Robinson, Sherrard, I. N. Smith, Staples, Ward, Watts, Welch, Wilson, Willcox and Yerby--53.

        The bill, as amended, was then read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Baskervill, Bass, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Hunter, James, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, Wilson, Willcox, Witten and Yerby--104.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 197. A bill making appropriations for deficiencies in former appropriations, and for defraying expenses of the general assembly and convention now in session, with the pending amendment thereto, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND.

        The question being on striking out the compensation to the commissioners of the Harpers Ferry raid, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Anderson, Bailey, Baskervill, Bass, Bell, Bentley, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Dickenson, Evans, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Harrison, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Johnson, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCue, McDowell, McKinney, Miles, Morgan, Morris, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Reid, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Shannon, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Walker, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, Wilson, Willcox, Witten and Yerby--70.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Ball, Cowan, Duckwall, Edwards, D. Gibson, Haymond, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Magruder, McCamant, Mong, Myers, Nelson, Pritchard, Robertson, Saunders, Segar, Sherrard, Thomas and Welch--22.

        The bill was then further amended.

        Mr. KAUFMAN moved to amend the bill, by inserting as an independent section, an amendment allowing to Angus W. McDonald, late commissioner to obtain documentary evidence from England in relation to the boundaries of the state, the sum of $ 275; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. TOMLIN moved that the bill and amendments be laid upon the table; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. GRATTAN moved that the house adjourn; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Boisseau, Christian, Grattan, James, Kemper, Magruder, Pretlow, Rutherfoord, Seddon and Watts--10.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Booker, Chapman, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Knote,


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Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McGehee, Miles, D. Miller, Mong, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Robertson, Robinson, Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Ward, E. Watson, Welch and Willcox--75.

        Mr. TOMLIN submitted the following preamble and resolutions; which were, on his motion, laid upon the table:

        The general assembly of Virginia, deeply impressed with the critical condition of national affairs, deems it proper at this time to submit to the people of the state the only question which seems to it necessary to be decided. As representatives of the people, we have every confidence in their decision, and believe they will be guided by prudence and wisdom, and that the action of the majority will be acquiesced in, and thenceforth we shall move in harmony and concord.

        The general assembly has heretofore exerted its influence in indeavoring to preserve the Union, and to avert the calamity of civil war between the states. All its efforts to that end have signally failed. This utter failure to compose the differences existing between the sections, has been produced by the operation of causes and influences which have prevailed for many years. Against these influences the people of this commonwealth have invariably struggled and urgently protested. Against every protest, and regardless of consequences of the most disastrous character which were constantly predicted, and which culminated in occurrences in this state deeply deplored; distressing to our people, and burdensome and oppressive, the most incessant agitation of the question of slavery in all its aspects has been kept up in the halls of congress and in the legislative bodies of the northern states, as well as in their pulpits and presses and schools, as harassing to the southern people as the passage of the most obnoxious laws could possibly have been. From these and other causes, a feeling of dissatisfaction, irritation and distrust has arisen in the minds of the southern people; and a sentiment of hostility to our domestic institutions has been exhibited at the north which is utterly at war with that fraternity which ought to pervade a government instituted for mutual happiness and security. These feelings have at length ripened into disruption and a severance of seven of the states which heretofore composed the Union. The seceding states have now formed a confederacy, and established an independent government, which ought to be recognized by the United States, and must be by the governments of the world. With all these facts before us, and with a view to ascertain that judgment, and to give effect to the popular will, does hereby

        Resolve, that it shall be the duty of the commissioners and officers who shall be appointed according to law, to superintend and conduct elections for members of the general assembly at the next election in the month of May, to open a separate poll to take the sense of the qualified voters upon the question of remaining in the Union with the northern states, or of uniting Virginia with the southern confederacy. In order to ascertain the sense of said voters thereupon, the said officers shall cause to be kept a separate


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poll, with two columns--the one to be headed "For the Northern Union;" and the other, "For the Southern Union:" and the names of those who vote for the former shall be written under the former heading, and those who vote for the latter, under the latter heading. When the said officers meet as provided by law in the elections for the legislature held at the same time, they shall ascertain and make return of the number of persons voting for each proposition. They shall deliver the said poll books to the clerk of their respective counties or corporations, to be preserved in his office; and shall forthwith transmit a certificate containing the aggregate vote for each proposition, to the governor. Upon the receipt thereof, the governor shall ascertain the result, and make proclamation thereof; and shall also transmit a copy of his proclamation containing the said aggregate vote, to the convention, for their information.

        The hour of 2 o'clock having arrived, the chair was vacated until 7½ o'clock P. M.

EVENING SESSION.

        On motion of Mr. COWAN,

        Resolved, that leave be given to bring in a bill allowing to the clerks of the senate and house of delegates compensation for services rendered during the present session.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee: Messrs. Cowan, Christian, Seddon, Segar and Martin of Henry.

        Subsequently Mr. COWAN, from the committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 274. A bill allowing compensation to the clerk of the house of delegates and clerk of the senate, for services rendered during the present session of the general assembly; which, on his motion, was read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time.

        No. 113. A bill constituting a part of the Ohio river a lawful fence, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HANLY, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        No. 162. A bill to amend the 14th section of an act providing additional protection for the slave property of citizens of this commonwealth, was taken up, on motion of Mr. JONES of Gloucester, amended, and as amended, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        No. 206. A bill to incorporate the Home savings bank of the city of Richmond, was taken up, on motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.


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        No. 274. An engrossed bill incorporating the Staunton savings bank, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 242. An engrossed bill for the relief of John Robinson, a free negro of Rockingham county, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HARRISON; and the question being--Shall the bill pass, Mr. WOOLFOLK moved that the bill be indefinitely postponed; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. KINCHELOE demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        No. 84. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the American agency, was taken up, on motion of Mr. SEGAR, amended, and as amended, read the third time and passed.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Arnold, Bailey, Ballard, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Chapman, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Duckwall, Fleming, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hunter, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lynn, Magruder, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McGehee, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Randolph, Robertson, Robinson, Segar, Shannon, Thomas, Tyler, Walker, E. Watson, Witten and Woolfolk--56.

        NOES--Messrs. Ball, Bass, Bentley, Claiborne, Coleman, Crump, Ferrill, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Grattan, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, W. T. Jones, Keen, Knote, Lucas, McKinney, Mong, Newton, Pretlow, Pritchard, Reid, Riddick, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Wilson and Yerby--38.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 109. A bill incorporating the Patrick springs female college, was taken up, on motion of Mr. STAPLES, amended, and as amended, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER, the resolution heretofore reported from the committee on military affairs, in reference to the sale of muskets by the executive to Joseph R. Anderson & Co., was taken up; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. CRANE, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Boisseau, Booker, Carpenter, Chapman, Coleman, Crump, Duckwall, Evans, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McGehee, McKinney, J. R. Miller, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Reid, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Ward, E. Watson, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--88.

        NOES--Messrs. Crane, Hackley, McKenzie, Watts and Wilson--5.

        The resolution is as follows:

        Resolved by the general assembly, that the sale of old muskets by


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the executive to Messrs. Joseph R. Anderson & Co. is approved; and the governor is hereby authorized and directed to deliver them to the said Joseph R. Anderson & Co. as they shall make requisition for them, excepting the reservation of ten thousand muskets, as stipulated in their contract: provided, however, that for any muskets delivered in advance of estimates for work done, the said Joseph R. Anderson & Co. as voluntarily proposed by them, shall be required to deposit with the treasurer as security, an amount of state bonds rated at par, equal to the value of the muskets so issued in advance, estimated at the contract price.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON,

        Resolved, that leave be given to bring in a bill allowing compensation to the commissioners to audit the Harpers Ferry claims.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee: Messrs. Seddon, Kemper and Rutherfoord.

        Subsequently, Mr. SEDDON, from the committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 275. A bill allowing compensation to the commissioners to audit the Harpers Ferry claims; which, on his motion, was read the first time; and the question being--Shall the bill be read the second time? Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 10 o'clock.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 26, 1861.

        The senate have agreed to the amendment proposed by the house of delegates to senate bill entitled:

        An act to incorporate the Little Kanawha mining and manufacturing company, No. 141.

        They have passed house bills entitled:

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of Charleston, No. 149.

        An act to extend the charter of the Bank of Virginia, No. 131.

        An act to extend the charter of the Farmers Bank of Virginia, No. 132.

        An act to extend the charter of the Bank of the Valley in Virginia, No. 133.

        An act to extend the charter of the Exchange Bank of Virginia, No. 134.

        An act to extend the charter of the Merchants and Mechanics Bank of Wheeling, No. 136.

        An act to extend the charter of the Northwestern Bank of Virginia, No. 135.


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        An act to extend the charter of the Central Bank of Virginia, No. 232.

        An act authorizing the trustees of the Methodist district parsonage in Salem, Roanoke county, to borrow money, and execute a deed of trust to secure the same, No. 252.

        An act changing the names of the lunatic asylums, No. 108.

        And they have also passed house bill entitled:

        An act imposing taxes for the support of government, No. 118, with amendments.

        And they have passed a bill entitled:

        An act to release the title to 556¼ acres of land in the county of Hanover to John H. Taliaferro.

        In which amendments and bill they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 118. A bill imposing taxes for the support of government, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up, and on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, referred to the committee on finance, and the amendments ordered to be printed.

        No. 237. A senate bill entitled an act to release the title to 556¼ acres of land in the county of Hanover to John H. Taliaferro, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. NEWTON, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Boisseau, Booker, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Crane, Dickenson, Edwards, Evans, Fleming, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, W. Martin, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montgomery, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Ward, Welch, West, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--90.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. CHAPMAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bill:

        No. 276. A bill appointing superintendents of the Staunton and Parkersburg road; which, on his motion, was read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time.

        Mr. MAGRUDER, from the committee of propositions and grievances, presented the following bill:

        No. 277. A bill to provide for a special election in the town of Marion in the county of Smyth; which was, on motion of Mr. SHANNON, read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 217. An engrossed bill refunding a sum of money paid by the county of Middlesex for a set of weights and measures, was taken up, on motion of Mr. EVANS, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Bass, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Caperton, Chapman, Childs, Christian,


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Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Morris, Myers, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--101.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 184. A bill to incorporate the Farmers and Mechanics insurance company of the city of Richmond, was taken up, on motion of Mr. MYERS, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 238. A bill to amend and re-enact the 45th section of chapter 85 of the Code of Virginia, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CRUMP, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time.

        The joint resolution heretofore reported from the committee on finance, giving further time to the securities of P. P. Winston, late sheriff of Richmond city, to pay certain bonds executed by them, was taken up, on motion of Mr. SAUNDERS; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Bassel, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Caperton, Chapman, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Evans, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McGehee, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Morris, Myers, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tyler, Walker, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--95.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Brown, W. T. Jones, Seddon, Tomlin and Wilson--6.

        The resolution is as follows:

        Resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that the auditor of public accounts be hereby authorized to arrange the payments of the bonds executed by the sureties of P. P. Winston, late sheriff of the city of Richmond, in such manner as to require only one-half of the installment due January 1st, 1861, to be paid, and the residue of said installment, and the whole installment due January 1st, 1862, to be paid in two equal installments--the first upon the 1st of January 1862, and the second upon the 1st of January 1863: provided, however, that said arrangement shall not be made, and the same is not hereby authorized, until the sureties in the several bonds, as well as the principals therein, shall, by instrument of writing, to be by them executed, assent to the terms of this joint resolution, and to the arrangement hereby authorized to be made as aforesaid; and the authority granted by this resolution shall be deemed to be vested in the


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auditor, only upon and after the execution of the instrument aforesaid.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 102. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the pilot laws in regard to the Potomac river, was taken up, on motion of Mr. McKENZIE, read the third time and passed.

        No. 109. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the James river boot, shoe and leather manufacturing company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. FRIEND, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. MARTIN of Henry submitted the following resolutions:

        Resolved, that in the opinion of this general assembly, there is at present no adequate cause to impel Virginia to dissolve her connection with the federal Union, but on the contrary, she should labor for such an adjustment of the existing difficulties as will secure the peace and protect the rights and equality of all the states.

        Resolved, that it shall be the duty of the commissioners and officers who shall be appointed according to law to superintend and conduct elections for the general assembly at the next election in the month of May, to open a separate poll to take the sense of the qualified voters upon the question of remaining in the federal Union. In order to ascertain the sense of the said voters thereupon, the said officers shall cause to be kept a separate poll, with two columns--the one to be headed "For remaining in the Union with proper constitutional guarantees;" and the other "For Secession." And the names of those who vote for the former, shall be written under the former heading, and those who vote for the latter, under the latter heading. When the said officers meet as provided by law in the election for members of the general assembly held at the same time, they shall ascertain and make return of the number of persons voting for each proposition. They shall deliver the said poll books to the clerk of their respective counties and corporations, to be preserved in his office, and shall forthwith transmit a certificate, containing the aggregate vote for each proposition, to the governor. Upon the receipt thereof, the governor shall ascertain the result, and make proclamation thereof; and shall also transmit a copy of his proclamation, containing the said aggregate vote, to the convention, for their information.

        Mr. ANDERSON moved that the resolutions be indefinitely postponed; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. WALKER, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Anderson, Bailey, Ballard, Baskervill, Bassel, Boisseau, Booker, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Duckwall, Edwards, Friend, Garrett, J. Gilmer, Grattan, Huntt, Hunter, James, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Knote, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McKinney, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montgomery, Morgan, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Phelps, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--49.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Barbour, Bass, Bentley, Bisbie, Brown, Caperton, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Keen, Kee, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Magruder, J. G. Martin, W. Martin,


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Massie, Matthews, McCue, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Saunders, Segar, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Walker, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Willcox and Yerby--66.

        The resolutions were then, on motion of Mr. MARTIN of Henry, laid on the table.

        No. 119. An engrossed bill making an appropriation for the removal to Virginia of the remains of Gen'l Harry Lee, was taken up, on motion of Mr. McCAMANT, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Caperton, Chapman, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, James, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kee, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Sherrard, I. N. Smith, Staples, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--102.

        No--Mr. Keen--1.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. McCUE, from the special committee on the penitentiary, presented the following bill:

        No. 278. A bill for the lease of the penitentiary; which, on his motion, was read the first time, and ordered to be read the second time.

        No. 131. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the 3d and 4th sections of an act passed March 15th, 1850, to provide for the inspection of guano and plaster of paris in the city of Richmond and town of Petersburg, was taken up, on motion of Mr. SEDDON, amended, and as amended, read the third time and passed.

        No. 38. A senate bill entitled an act to refund to James S. Connell and Daniel Polsley a sum of money improperly paid by them into the treasury as tax on land in Roane county, was taken up, on motion of Mr. WELCH, amended, and as amended, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Collier, Crump, Edwards, Evans, Fleming, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Holdway, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lynn, Magruder, W. Martin, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montgomery, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Tomlin, Tyler, Walker, Ward, Watts, Welch, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--91.

        No--Mr. Staples--1.

        No. 78. An engrossed bill to increase the pay of the commonwealth's attorney for the circuit court of Ohio county, was taken up, on motion of Mr. EDGINGTON, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Anderson, Ballard, Baskervill, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Brown, Chapman, Cowan, Crump, Edgington, Edwards, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hoffman, Holdway,


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Huntt, Hunter, James, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Magruder, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McGehee, McKinney, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tyler, Walker, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Witten and Yerby--84.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Coleman, C. H. Gilmer, Johnson, Newton, Robinson, Tomlin and Woolfolk--8.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 165. A bill for the better government of the town of Danville, was taken up, on motion of Mr. KEEN, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, was read the third time and passed.

        No. 167. A bill to incorporate the Newport and Gap mills turnpike company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. KYLE, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        No. 174. A bill to incorporate the Leesburg and Aldie turnpike company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BALL, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 111. A bill to incorporate the Insurance company of Rockbridge, was taken up, on motion of Mr. REID, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the Board of public works, in reference to a judgment of John Kelly against said board; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        No. 197. A bill making appropriations for deficiencies in former appropriations, and for defraying expenses of the general assembly and convention now in session, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, amended, and as amended, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time.

        On motion of Mr. BASSEL,

        Resolved, that leave be given to bring in a bill for a further appropriation to the Northwestern lunatic asylum.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee: Messrs. Bassel, Cowan, Yerby, Smith of Taylor, and Reid.

        Subsequently, Mr. BASSEL, from the committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 278. A bill making an appropriation of $ 25,000 for the construction of the Northwestern lunatic asylum; which, on his motion, was read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time.

        The hour of 2 o'clock having arrived, the chair was vacated until 7½ o'clock P. M.


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EVENING SESSION.

        No. 124. A bill authorizing the county courts to establish water courses a lawful fence within their respective limits, was taken up, on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        No. 267. A bill to incorporate the Aid savings bank of the city of Richmond, was taken up, on motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire, amended, and as amended, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        On motion of Mr. GIBSON, the title was amended, by making it read "The tobacco savings bank."

        No. 138. A bill authorizing the Board of public works to appoint commissioners to estimate the losses sustained by Wm. W. King in the construction of the 14th section of the Ohio river and Maryland turnpike road, was taken up, on motion of Mr. PRITCHARD, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        No. 99. An engrossed bill authorizing the trustees of Eastern meeting house in the county of Morgan to sell and convey the same, was taken up, on motion of Mr. DUCKWALL, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 132. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the 1st section of chapter 149 of the Code of Virginia, relative to the limitation of suits, so as to limit the right to make an entry or bring an action to recover land west of the Alleghany mountains, was taken up, on motion of Mr. PHELPS, read the third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? Mr. WALKER demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        No. 238. An engrossed bill to amend and re-enact the 45th section of chapter 85 of the Code of 1849, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CRUMP, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. EDWARDS, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 10 o'clock.


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THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 27, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act incorporating the Staunton savings bank, No. 274.

        An act incorporating the Patrick springs female college, No. 109.

        An act constituting a part of the Ohio river a lawful fence, No. 113.

        An act amending the 2d section of an act authorizing the Bank of the Valley in Virginia to establish a branch in the city of Richmond. No. 129.

        An act incorporating the Piedmont land and improvement company, No. 140.

        An act to repeal an act passed April 2d, 1858, entitled an act requiring the banks of the commonwealth to resume specie payments, No. 76.

        An act to incorporate the Monongahela savings bank in the county of Monongalia, No. 130.

        An act to amend and re-enact an act passed March 22, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Knob turnpike company in the county of Washington, and incorporating the Abingdon and Tennessee turnpike company, No. 226.

        They have agreed to the amendments proposed by the house of delegates to senate bill entitled:

        An act to appropriate a sum necessary to pay for the preparation and publication of the second edition of the Code of Virginia, No. 80.

        They have also passed senate bill entitled:

        An act to suspend the levying of taxes by the state on the Wheeling and Belmont bridge company for six years, No. 259.

        They have agreed to a resolution to authorize the governor to contract for the manufacture and repairs of arms at the armory.

        They have also agreed to a resolution to grant to A. W. McDonald the exclusive right of publishing certain manuscripts obtained by him from England.

        They have passed with amendments house bill entitled:

        An act for the voluntary enslavement of free negroes without compensation to the commonwealth, No. 219.

        In which bill, resolutions and amendments they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 259. A senate bill entitled an act to suspend the levying of taxes by the state on the Wheeling and Belmont bridge company for six years, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. KNOTE, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Ball, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Bisbie, Booker, Brown, Caperton, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Davis, Edgington, Edwards, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley,


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Hoffman, Hunter, James, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Knote, Knotts, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McGruder, McKenzie, D. Miller, Montague, Morgan, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Thomas, Tyler, Wallace, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Witten and Yerby--82.

        NOES--Messrs. Boisseau, Burks, Coleman, Collier, Evans, Friend, Garrett, C. H. Gilmer, Huntt, W. T. Jones, Kincheloe, Kyle, Leftwich, Lundy, Lynn, J. G. Martin, McGehee, McKinney, Miles, J. R. Miller, Newton, Rives, Staples, Tomlin, Ward, Wilson, Willcox and Woolfolk--28.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        A joint resolution to grant to Angus W. McDonald, the exclusive right of publishing certain manuscripts obtained by him from England, was taken up, and agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        A joint resolution to authorize the governor to contract for the manufacture and repairs of arms at the armory, was laid on the table, on motion of Mr. SEDDON.

        No. 219. An act for the voluntary enslavement of free negroes without compensation to the commonwealth, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up, and the amendments of the senate agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. ALDERSON,

        Resolved, that leave be given to bring in a bill to increase the annual compensation to the commissioners of the revenue for the counties of Braxton, Nicholas, Fayette and Logan.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee: Messrs. Alderson, Witten, Haymond, Fleming and Lockridge.

        No. 142. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of the Orange and Alexandria rail road company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BARBOUR, amended, and as amended, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bentley, Bisbie, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Christian, Collier, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Fleming, Frost, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, Keen, Kincheloe, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lynn, Magruder, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McGruder, McKenzie, D. Miller, Montague, Morgan, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Preston, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Witten and Woolfolk--78

        NOES--Messrs. Bassel, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Coleman, Crump, Dickenson, Ferrill, Friend, Goodycoontz, Hoffman, James, Kaufman, Knotts, Lundy, McGehee, McKinney, Medley, Miles, Mong, Morris, Porter, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, J. K. Smith, Watts, Wilson, Willcox and Yerby--33.

        Ordered, that Mr. BARBOUR carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. ROBERTSON submitted the following resolutions:

        Whereas the people of Virginia, in convention, are now openly considering whether they shall resume the powers delegated by them to the general government, and are almost unanimous in the opinion that the exercise of such right, in the recent and present state of the country, by any of the states, should not be sought to be controlled or followed by a resort to force; and the failure of the president of the United States fully to explain his intended policy in this respect gives just cause of mistrust:


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        Be it therefore resolved by the general assembly, that under existing circumstances, a proper respect to this commonwealth imperiously demands that no movement of any arms, or increase of armament, or troops of the general government, within its limits, should be authorized or permitted by the said government, and could not occur without seriously hazarding the public peace.

        Resolved, that the governor communicate the foregoing resolution to the president of the United States.

        Objection being made, Mr. TOMLIN moved a suspension of the rule, with a view to consider the resolutions; and the question being upon agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        The hour of 12 o'clock having arrived, the SPEAKER announced that the order of the day, which was a senate bill entitled an act to stay the proceedings on executions, trust deeds and other demands in cases of refusal to receive bank notes, No. 54, with the pending amendment thereto, was next in order.

        Mr. SEDDON moved to pass by the order of the day, for the purpose of considering the resolutions submitted by Mr. ROBERTSON; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. COLLIER submitted the following amendment, by way of substitute to the resolutions submitted by Mr. ROBERTSON:

        "Resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that the governor of this commonwealth be requested to notify the president of the United States, that no arms or ammunition shall be transported, by order of the general government, to any of the fortifications of the United States over the soil of Virginia; and the governor is hereby authorized and empowered to summon any portion of the volunteer and militia force of this commonwealth to carry out the requirements of this resolution."

        Mr. KEEN moved to amend the amendment, by substituting the following:

        "And whereas the members of that convention were elected with special reference to all questions of a federal character: Therefore,

        Resolved, that this general assembly, during the session of the Virginia convention, will not consider any question of a federal character."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Ball, Bentley, Cassin, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferrill, Fleming, D. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Keen, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, J. G. Martin, McCue, McKenzie, D. Miller, Morris, Patterson, Porter, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Sherrard, I. N. Smith, Watts and Welch--35.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bailey, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Huntt, Hunter, James, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kincheloe, Knote, Kyle, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, W. Martin, Matthews, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Preston, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, West, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--81.


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        The question being on agreeing to the amendment submitted by Mr. COLLIER--pending the consideration thereof, the hour of 2 o'clock having arrived, the chair was vacated until 7½ o'clock.

EVENING SESSION.

        A message from the senate, by their clerk, was received as follows:

IN SENATE, March 28, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act to incorporate the Virginia canal company, and to transfer the rights and franchises of the James river and Kanawha company thereto, No. 218, with amendments.

        In which amendments they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 197. An engrossed bill making appropriations for deficiency in former appropriations, and for defraying expenses of the general assembly and convention now in session, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hunter, James, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, McKenzie, J. R. Miller, Mong, Morris, Myers, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, West, Wilson, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--104.

        NOES--Messrs. Boreman, C. H. Gilmer and Huntt--3.

        Ordered, that Mr. HAYMOND carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. ALDERSON, from a special committee, presented the following bill; which, on his motion, was read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time:

        No. 279. A bill to increase the compensation of the commissioner of the revenue for the counties of Braxton, Nicholas, Fayette and Logan.

        The preamble and resolutions submitted during the morning session, with the pending amendment thereto, submitted by Mr. COLLIER, being the unfinished business, was taken up.

        The question being on agreeing to the amendment, Mr. YERBY demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bailey, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Boisseau, Booker, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Edwards, Evans, Friend, Garrett, Graham, Grattan, Huntt, Hunter, James, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kincheloe, Kyle, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, T. Martin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Robinson, Rives,


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Rutherfoord, Seddon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, E. Watson, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--56.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Ball, Bentley, Bisbie, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Cassin, Christian, Crane, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Harrison, Hackley, Haymond, Keen, Knotts, Leftwich, Lockridge, Magruder, J. G. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCue, McKenzie, Miles, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Segar, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Ward, Watts, Welch, West and Yerby--60.

        The question recurring on agreeing to the preamble and resolutions, Mr. YERBY demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. BALL, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Duckwall, Edwards, Evans, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, James, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kincheloe, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lucas, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKinney, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--95.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Boreman, Cassin, Cowan, Crane, Edgington, Ferrill, Frost, Goodycoontz, Harrison, Keen, Knotts, McKenzie, Morris, Porter, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Segar, I. N. Smith, Thompson and Watts--22.

        Ordered, that Mr. ROBERTSON carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. LYNCH, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed house bill No. 146, entitled an act authorizing the auditor of public accounts to release the sureties of defaulting sheriffs from the payment of damages in certain cases, with amendments, in which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        No. 54. A senate bill entitled an act to stay the proceedings on executions, trust deeds and other demands, in cases of refusal to receive bank notes, with the pending amendment thereto, being the order of the day, was taken up.

        Mr. DUCKWALL submitted an amendment to the amendment. Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. McKENZIE, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 10 o'clock.

FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 28, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills, entitled:

        An act making an appropriation for the removal to Virginia of the remains of Gen. Harry Lee, No. 119.


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        An act to increase the pay of the commonwealth's attorney for the circuit court of Ohio county, No. 78.

        An act to incorporate the Farmers and Mechanics insurance company of the city of Richmond, No. 184.

        An act for a special election in the town of Marion in the county of Smyth, No. 277.

        An act to incorporate the Newport and Gap mills turnpike company, No. 167.

        An act authorizing the Board of public works to appoint commissioners to estimate and report losses sustained by Wm. W. King, in the construction of the 14th section of the Ohio river and Maryland turnpike road, No. 138.

        An act to incorporate the Tobacco savings bank in the city of Richmond, No. 207.

        They have agreed to the amendments of the house to the bill entitled:

        An act to amend the 3d and 4th sections of an act passed March 15, 1850, to provide for the inspection of guano and plaster of paris in the city of Richmond and town of Petersburg, No. 131.

        They have also agreed to the amendment of the house to the bill entitled:

        An act to refund to James S. Connell and Daniel Polsley a sum of money improperly paid by them into the treasury as tax on land in Roane county, No. 38.

        They have passed bills entitled:

        An act to amend the 15th section of chapter 109 of the Code of Virginia (2d edition), No. 229.

        An act amending the charter of the town of Union in the county of Monroe, No. 245.

        An act to authorize the county court of Fluvanna county to appropriate certain funds to the uniforming and equipping volunteer companies in said county, No. 249.

        An act incorporating the Rockbridge insurance company, No. 250.

        An act in relation to the printing of the Acts of Assembly, No. 214.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        The committee on enrolled bills having examined sundry such bills, and finding them correctly enrolled, they have been signed by the president of the senate, and are now communicated for further signature.

        No. 249. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize the county court of Fluvanna county to appropriate certain funds to the uniforming and equipping volunteer companies in said county, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. NELSON, read the third time and passed.

        No. 250. A senate bill entitled an act incorporating the Rockbridge insurance company, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. PATTERSON, read the third time and passed.

        No. 245. A senate bill entitled an act amending the charter of


Page 249

the town of Union in the county of Monroe, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. CHAPMAN, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 229. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the 15th section of chapter 109 of the Code of Virginia (2d edition), was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. COLLIER, laid on the table.

        No. 214. A senate bill entitled an act in relation to printing the Acts of Assembly, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, laid on the table.

        No. 149. A bill entitled an act authorizing the auditor of public accounts to release the securities of defaulting sheriffs from the payment of damages in certain cases, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up, and the amendments agreed to.

        No. 218. A bill entitled an act to incorporate the Virginia canal company, and to transfer the rights and franchises of the James river and Kanawha company thereto, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up, and the amendments agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 274. An engrossed bill allowing compensation to the clerk of the house of delegates and clerk of the senate for services rendered during the present session of the general assembly, was taken up, on motion of Mr. COWAN, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Bailey, Ball, Baskervill, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Evans, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Hunter, James, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--115.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass and Tomlin--2.

        Ordered, that Mr. COWAN carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 273. A bill releasing to the personal representative of A. C. Layne the rent due under his lease for a portion of the public armory, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CHAPMAN, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, James, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lockridge, Lundy, Magruder, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Rives, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--109.


Page 250

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bill:

        No. 280. A bill to incorporate the Shumaker's tollbridge company in the county of Pittsylvania; which was read the first, and ordered to be read the second time.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, reported the following bill:

        No. 281. A bill to authorize the county court of Powhatan county to correct the assessment of the lands of A. S. Wooldridge's estate; which was read the first, and ordered to be read the second time.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the same committee, to whom had been referred

        No. 118. An act imposing taxes for the support of government, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, reported the same with amendments to the senate's amendments.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. LYNCH, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed

        No. 15. A senate bill entitled an act to release John W. Murrell from the payment of a judgment rendered by the circuit court of Lynchburg against him; in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. DICKINSON, the senator from Prince Edward, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed house bill entitled an act to establish the county of Bland out of parts of Giles, Wythe and Tazewell, No. 6, with amendments; in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. THOMPSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to a resolution to rescind the resolution fixing the time of adjournment of the general assembly, and designating another day therefor, in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        Mr. HACKLEY, from the committee on enrolled bills, presented the following report:

        The committee on enrolled bills have examined sundry other such bills, and find them correctly enrolled.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate for further examination.

        On motion of Mr. McCAMANT,

        Resolved, that the superintendent of the penitentiary furnish this house with the amount of labor by the convicts employed on the public square, including other expenses incident thereto: the value of materials furnished, and labor expended in repairs and permanent improvements to the penitentiary buildings: the number of convicts employed in the erection of the lunatic asylum west of the Alleghany mountains, or improving the public grounds attached to said asylum, with a fair valuation of such labor: the number of convicts hired by Napoleon B. French on the public works, and the amount agreed to be paid by him for such hire: the number of such convicts employed by Rosser & Launis, and by Robert F. & D. G. Bibb, on the Covington


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and Ohio rail road, and the amount agreed to be paid by them for such hire: the number of such convicts employed by the James river and Kanawha company on the North river improvements, and the value of such labor: the increased value of the manufactures, &c. of the institution of last year, over and above the amount of the year preceding; and the value of any other work, materials or clothing furnished under the requisitions of law for any other purpose.

        No. 20. An engrossed bill authorizing a loan from the Literary fund to the Alleghany college, was taken up, on motion of Mr. MATTHEWS, and read the third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? Mr. HUNTT demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Bailey, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Christian, Edgington, Evans, J. Gilmer, Knote, Magruder, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, Montague, Myers, Patterson, Reid, Richardson, Robertson, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, I. N. Smith, Thomas, Tyler and Welch--30.

        NOES--Messrs. Ball, Bell, Bentley, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Childs, Collier, Cowan, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edwards, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lundy, T. Martin, McGehee, McKinney, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Morris, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Phelps, Porter, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Robinson, Rives, Rutherfoord, J. K. Smith, Staples, Ward, Watts, West, Wilson, Willcox, Woolfolk and Yerby--64.

        No. 54. A senate bill entitled an act to stay the proceedings on executions, trust deeds and other demands, in cases of refusal to receive bank notes; being the unfinished business of yesterday, with the pending amendments thereto, was taken up; and the question being on agreeing to the amendment submitted by Mr. DUCKWALL to the amendment submitted by Mr. KEEN, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Burks, Carpenter, Cassin, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Evans, Ferrill, Friend, Frost, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, James, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kee, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Lockridge, Lucas, Magruder, W. Martin, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McKenzie, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morris, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, E. Watson, Watts, West, Witten and Yerby--82.

        NOES--Messrs. Davis, Edwards, D. Gibson, Haymond, Keen, Leftwich, McGruder, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, Myers, Orgain, Preston, Pretlow, Riddick, Saunders, Staples, Ward, Welch, Wilson and Willcox--20.

        The hour of 2 o'clock having arrived, the chair was vacated until 7½ o'clock.

EVENING SESSION.

        No. 54. A senate bill entitled an act to stay the proceedings on executions, trust deeds and other demands, in cases of refusal to receive bank notes, being the unfinished business of the morning session, with the pending amendment thereto, was taken up; and the


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question being on agreeing to the amendment, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Anderson, Bailey, Bassel, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Edwards, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Haymond, Huntt, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Knotts, Kyle, Lucas, Lynn, W. Martin, McCamant, McGehee, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Nelson, Orgain, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Robinson, Segar, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Wallace, Ward, Watts, West and Witten--54.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Bass, Bell, Boisseau, Burks, Carpenter, Christian, Collier, Davis, Ferrill, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Hackley, Hoffman, Hunter, Kemper, Knote, Leftwich, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McDowell, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, Myers, Patterson, Porter, Pretlow, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Rives, Saunders, Seddon, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Welch, Wilson and Yerby--54.

        The question being--Shall the bill pass? Mr. SEGAR moved the indefinite postponement of the bill; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. SEDDON, from the committee on finance, presented a report in relation to the financial condition of the penitentiary and the penitentiary store; which, on his motion, was laid on the table, and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 45.

        No. 173. A bill incorporating the Preston and Augusta rail road company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CASSIN, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the superintendent of the penitentiary, in response to a resolution; which was laid on the table, and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 46.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. DOUGLAS, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to a joint resolution in regard to the movement of troops and arms within the limits of this commonwealth by the federal government, heretofore communicated to that body from the house, with amendments thereto; in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        On motion of Mr. MEDLEY, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 10 o'clock.

SATURDAY, MARCH 30, 1860.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 29, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act for the better government of the town of Danville, No. 165.


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        And they have passed with amendments house bills entitled:

        An act to incorporate the Home savings bank of the city of Richmond, No. 206.

        An act absolving the state and treasurer from all liability in case of loss of coupon bonds deposited as security for bank circulation, unless the said coupons be converted into registered stock, and prohibiting coupon bonds from being received in future as such security, No. 154.

        They have also passed senate bills entitled:

        An act for the incorporation of the Kanawha salt company, No. 159.

        An act to authorize the formation of a battalion of two companies in the towns of Scottsville and Howardsville in the county of Albemarle, No. 157.

        They have agreed to the amendments proposed by the house of delegates to senate bill entitled:

        An act to incorporate the American agency, No. 84.

        In which bills they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 206. An act to incorporate the Home savings bank of the city of Richmond, with the amendment proposed by the senate, was taken up, and the amendment agreed to.

        No. 154. An act entitled an act absolving the state and treasurer from all liability in case of loss of coupon bonds deposited as security for bank circulation, unless the said coupons are converted into registered stock, and prohibiting coupon bonds from being received in future as such security, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up, and the amendments concurred in.

        No. 159. A senate bill entitled an act for the incorporation of the Kanawha salt company, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. WELCH, read the third time and passed.

        No. 157. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize the formation of a battalion of two companies in the towns of Scottsville and Howardsville in the county of Albemarle, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 15. A senate bill entitled an act to release John W. Murrell from the payment of a judgment rendered by the circuit court of Lynchburg against him, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. DAVIS, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Boisseau, Brown, Burks, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Edgington, Evans, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, T. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Ward, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--97.

        NOES--Messrs. Huntt, Kyle, Mallory, McGehee, Orgain, Rives, Tomlin and Wallace--8.


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        No. 69. A bill entitled an act to establish the county of Bland out of parts of Giles, Wythe and Tazewell, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up, and the amendments agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        A resolution to rescind the resolution fixing the time of adjournment of the general assembly, and designating another day, communicated from the senate, was taken up.

        Mr. McKENZIE moved the indefinite postponement of the resolution; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. McKENZIE, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Ball, Bassel, Bell, Boreman, Brown, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, Evans, Ferrill, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hackley, Hoffman, Huntt, Hunter, Keen, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lundy, Mallory, T. Martin, McGehee, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, Mong, Montague, Morris, Newton, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Tomlin, Ward, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Woolfolk and Yerby--62.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Baskervill, Bass, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Burks, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, Fleming, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Robertson, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, H. Smith, Thomas, Tyler, Wallace, Willcox and Witten--53.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. CARTER, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a bill entitled an act to allow the claims of the officers of the Hillsborough border guard of Loudoun county, No. 243: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. THOMPSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a bill entitled an act for the relief of Thomas W. Scott of Dinwiddie county, No. 83: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. LYNCH, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a bill entitled an act for the relief of E. M. Eubank, commissioner of the revenue for the city of Lynchburg, No. 224: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        The SPEAKER announced the following members as added to the committee on enrolled bills: Messrs. Lockridge, Alderson, Patterson, Dickenson, Hanly, David Miller, Coleman, Matthews, Morris, John Gilmer, Leftwich, Gibson of Jefferson, Johnson, Kaufman and Randolph.

        A joint resolution in regard to the movement of troops and arms within the limits of this commonwealth by the general government, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up.

        Mr. COLLIER submitted an amendment to the senate's amendment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. COWAN moved the indefinite postponement of the whole subject; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. COWAN demanded the previous question;


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and the question being--Shall the main question be now put? was put and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Ball, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Brown, Cassin, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Kee, Knotts, Mallory, Matthews, McCue, McKenzie, D. Miller, Morris, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Segar, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Thompson, Watts, Welch, West and Yerby--55.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Boisseau, Burks, Carpenter, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Davis, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, T. Martin, Massie, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Myers, Newton, Orgain, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Seddon, Shannon, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Wilson, Willcox and Woolfolk--64.

        Pending the consideration of the question of the indefinite postponement of the resolutions, Mr. SEDDON moved that the chair be vacated for the purpose of allowing the SPEAKER to sign enrolled bills; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        The chair was then vacated until 7½ o'clock.

EVENING SESSION.

        No. 113. A senate bill entitled an act establishing a branch bank at the town of Jeffersonville in the county of Tazewell, was taken up, on motion of Mr. WITTEN, read the third time and passed.

        No. 229. A senate bill entitled an act to amend the 15th section of chapter 109 of the Code of Virginia, second edition, was taken up, on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, read the third time and passed.

        No. 153. A senate bill entitled an act directing the payment of certain interest to Emmet J. O'Brien, was taken up, on motion of Mr. JOHNSON, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Ball, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Boreman, Brown, Carpenter, Cassin, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Edgington, Evans, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--91.

        No--Mr. Goodycoontz--1.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 276. An engrossed bill appointing superintendents of the Staunton and Parkersburg turnpike road, was taken up, on motion of Mr. FLEMING.

        Mr. FLEMING submitted a ryder thereto; which was read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time. The bill was then read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. FLEMING carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.


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        No. 158. A bill for the relief of J. J. Spaulding, was taken up, on motion of Mr. RIVES, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Ball, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Childs, Christian, Claiborne, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Ferrill, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McGehee, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montgomery, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Scott, Segar, Shannon, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Watts, West, Wilson, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--93.

        Ordered, that Mr. RIVES carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. JOHNSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to the joint resolutions in relation to a line of steamers, and to the amendments proposed by the house to senate bill No. 142, entitled an act for the relief of the Orange and Alexandria rail road company, and senate bill No. 61, entitled an act to amend and re-enact the 1st and 30th sections of an act entitled an act to incorporate a company to construct, on the plan of James S. French, a rail road between Alexandria and Washington, passed February 27th, 1854; and have passed the following house bills: an act releasing to the personal representative of A. C. Layne the rent due under his lease for a portion of the public armory, No. 273; an act allowing compensation to the clerk of the house of delegates and clerk of the senate for services rendered during the present session of the general assembly, No. 274; an act to incorporate the Preston and Augusta rail road company, No. 173; and an act for the relief of Nathaniel B. Harvey, No. 23.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. BRANNON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed house bill No. 197, entitled an act making appropriations for deficiency in former appropriations, and for defraying expenses of the general assembly and convention now in session, with amendments: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        A joint resolution in regard to the movement of troops and arms within the limits of this commonwealth by the general government, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, being the unfinished business of the morning session, was taken up; and the question being on the indefinite postponement of the resolutions, Mr. McDOWELL moved the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. McDOWELL, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Ball, Boreman, Brown, Cassin, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Keen, Knotts, Leftwich, Massie, Matthews, McCue, McKenzie, D. Miller, Morris, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Segar, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Watts and Welch--43.


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        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Barbour, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Burks, Carpenter, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Kyle, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Seddon, Shannon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Wallace, Ward, West, Wilson, Woolfolk and Yerby--61.

        The question recurring on the amendment submitted by Mr. COLLIER, which is as follows--"Add to the first resolution, after the word directed, 'in case of the actual attempt of the federal authorities to transport said guns over the soil of Virginia' "--Mr. McDOWELL, demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. COLLIER moved further to amend the resolutions of the senate, by striking out that portion of the first resolution by which the governor was authorized to order out such portion of the militia of the state as he may deem necessary; and the question being on agreeing thereto--pending the consideration of which,

        Mr. PHELPS moved an adjournment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Ball, Bass, Boreman, Brown, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Harrison, Hackley, Huntt, Keen, Knotts, Leftwich, Massie, McCue, McKenzie, Miles, D. Miller, Morris, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pretlow, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Sherrard, I. N. Smith, Thompson and Watts--42.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Barbour, Bassel, Bell, Burks, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Duckwall, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Haymond, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, Matthews, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Pritchard, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Seddon, Shannon, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Wallace, Ward, Welch, West, Wilson, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--62.

        Pending the further discussion of the amendment,

        Mr. PRETLOW moved an adjournment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Ball, Bisbie, Boreman, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, Edgington, Ferrill, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hackley, Huntt, Keen, Knotts, Matthews, McCue, McKenzie, D. Miller, Morris, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Segar, Sherrard, I. N. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Watts and West--42.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Duckwall, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Haymond, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Kyle, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Pritchard, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Seddon, Shannon, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Wallace, Ward, Wilson, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--57.

        Pending the further discussion of the amendment, Mr. KEEN addressing the house,

        Mr. KEMPER rose to a point of order, in the form of the following resolution:

        Resolved, that the member from Pittsylvania (Mr. KEEN) having persisted in irrelevant remarks, after having been repeatedly declared to be out of order, and it appearing to the house that his object is to consume time, he is required to take his seat, and surrender the floor.


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        The CHAIR decided that the point of order was badly taken, and that the member from Pittsylvania was in order.

        From that decision Mr. KEMPER appealed; and the question being--Shall the decision of the CHAIR stand as the judgment of the house? the roll was called, with the following result--Ayes 26, noes 45.

        It appearing that no quorum voted, Mr. COLLIER demanded a call of the house; which was sustained by the house.

        The roll was then called the first and second times, and the following members noted as absent:

        Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bailey, Ball, Ballard, Barbour, Baskervill, Bentley, Boisseau, Booker, Burks, Caperton, Carter, Cassin, Claiborne, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Edgington, Edwards, Ferguson, Fleming, Frost, D. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Hackley, Hoffman, Holdway, Hunter, James, Jett, C. H. Jones, Kee, Knote, Leftwich, Locke, Lockridge, Lynn, J. G. Martin, T. Martin, W. Martin, Massie, Matthews, Maupin, McCue, McKinney, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, Montague, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Patterson, Preston, Reid, Riddick, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Shannon, Sherrard, Sibert, I. N. Smith, Walker, Ward, A. Watson, E. Watson, Watts, Welch, Wilcox, Wingfield and Wood.

        It appearing that only seventy-seven members had answered to their names, including the SPEAKER and the member from Pittsylvania (who were not permitted under the rules to vote on the pending question), the doors were closed by order of the SPEAKER.

        The roll was again called, and the following members found absent:

        Messrs. Ball, Baskervill, Booker, Cassin, Claiborne, Crump, Dickenson, Fleming, D. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Hackley, Hoffman, Hunter, James, Leftwich, Lockridge, T. Martin, W. Martin, Matthews, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, Montague, Patterson, Preston, Reid, Riddick, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, I. N. Smith, Ward, Watts and Welch.

        Pending the further proceedings under the call, Mr. PRETLOW moved an adjournment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Bisbie, Boreman, Christian, Crane, Frost, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Johnson, Keen, Knotts, McCue, D. Miller, Myers, Porter, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Staples, West and Yerby--26.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Brown, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Duckwall, Evans, Ferrill, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, Graham, Grattan, Huntt, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Kyle, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, J. R. Miller, Mong, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Phelps, Rives, Seddon, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--51.

        On motions severally made, the following members were excused for non-attendance:

        Messrs. Allen, Arnold, Bailey, Ballard, Barbour, Bentley, Boisseau, Burks, Caperton, Carter, Davis, Edgington, Edwards, Ferguson, Holdway, Jett, Crawford H. Jones, Kee, Knote, Locke, Lynn, J. G. Martin, Massie, Maupin, McKinney, Montgomery, Morgan, Morris, Rutherfoord, Saunders, Scott, Sibert, Walker, Arthur Watson, Edwin Watson, Willcox, Wingfield and Wood.

        The third calling of the roll having been completed, and it appearing that only seventy-seven members answered to their names, including the SPEAKER and the member from Pittsylvania (who were


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not permitted under the rules to vote on the pending question), Mr. MAGRUDER moved an adjournment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Bisbie, Boreman, Brown, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Ferrill, Frost, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Hanly, Harrison, Huntt, Johnson, Keen, Knotts, Magruder, McCue, D. Miller, Myers, Phelps, Porter, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Staples, West and Yerby--31.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Duckwall, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, Graham, Grattan, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Kyle, Lucas, Lundy, Mallory, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, J. R. Miller, Mong, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Rives, Seddon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--44.

        The sergeant at arms was then directed by the CHAIR to summon absent members.

        A quorum appearing, Mr. COWAN moved that further proceedings under the call be dispensed with; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        The question then recurred upon the appeal taken from the decision of the CHAIR; and the question being--Shall the decision of the CHAIR stand as the judgment of the house? was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. KEMPER, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Bisbie, Boreman, Brown, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Dickenson, Ferrill, Fleming, J. Gilmer, Hanly, Harrison, Johnson, Knotts, Lucas, Magruder, T. Martin, McCue, D. Miller, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pretlow, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Rives, Shannon, Staples, Tomlin, Tyler, West and Yerby--37.

        NOES--Messrs. Anderson, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Duckwall, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Huntt, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Kyle, Lundy, Mallory, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, J. R. Miller, Mong, Newton, Orgain, Pritchard, Randolph, Robinson, Seddon, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Thomas, Wallace, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--44.

        The question recurring upon the amendment submitted by Mr. COLLIER, Mr. McDOWELL demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. YERBY submitted the following amendment to the senate's amendment, as amended:

        "Whereas the people of Virginia are now openly in convention, considering whether they shall resume the powers granted by them under the constitution of the United States, and are decided in opinion that the exercise of that right should not, in the present state of the country, be sought to be controlled or followed by a resort to force, and the failure of the president of the United States, fully to explain his intended policy in this respect, gives just cause for distrust: and whereas it is known that the order to remove certain pieces of ordnance from the city of Richmond or its vicinity to fortress Monroe, has caused much excitement in the popular mind, which may end in acts of violence on the attempt to remove said guns: and whereas a proper respect to this commonwealth demands that no movement of arms or armaments or of troops by the authorities of the general government within its limits, should be ordered or permitted at this


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time by said authorities, and could not occur without seriously hazarding the public peace: Therefore,

        "Be it resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that in the event of any attempt to remove the ordnance aforesaid to fortress Monroe, the governor of this commonwealth shall guard the public peace, by taking said guns into the charge and keeping of the authorities of the state, and retaining the same until proper representations shall be made to the authorities of the general government, and answer thereto shall be received and submitted to the general assembly. And the governor is requested to communicate a copy of this resolution to the president of the United States, and to ask his response thereto.

        "Resolved, that should it be necessary for the governor to take possession of the said guns, he shall cause to be paid, out of the money heretofore appropriated, at this session of the general assembly, for the purchase of arms, any sums that may be still due to Dr. Archer on account of said guns, and also to make payment to the general government of any sums heretofore paid said Archer for said guns."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. PHELPS moved an adjournment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. McDOWELL, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Boreman, Brown, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, Ferrill, C. H. Gilmer, Hanly, Harrison, Huntt, Johnson, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Knotts, Magruder, T. Martin, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, J. K. Smith, Staples and Yerby--30.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Evans, Friend, Garrett, Graham, Grattan, W. T. Jones, Kemper, Kyle, Lucas, Lundy, Mallory, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, J. R. Miller, Mong, Newton, Orgain, Robinson, Rives, Seddon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--40.

        The question recurring upon agreeing to the amendment submitted by Mr. YERBY, Mr. McDOWELL demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        On motion of Mr. RIVES, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Bisbie, Boreman, Brown, Chapman, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, C. H. Gilmer, Hanly, Harrison, Huntt, Knotts, D. Miller, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, Robertson, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Staples, West and Yerby--29.

        NOES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Carpenter, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Duckwall, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Kyle, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, J. R. Miller, Mong, Newton, Orgain, Pretlow, Robinson, Rives, Seddon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--50.

        The question being on agreeing to the senate's amendments to the resolutions as amended, Mr. WILSON demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Carpenter, Childs,


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Coleman, Collier, Crump, Duckwall, Evans, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, Graham, Grattan, Huntt, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Kincheloe, Kyle, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, J. R. Miller, Mong, Newton, Orgain, Robinson, Rives, Seddon, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Wallace, Wilson, Witten and Woolfolk--45.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Bisbie, Boreman, Brown, Chapman, Christian, Cowan, Crane, Dickenson, Ferrill, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Hanly, Harrison, Johnson, Knotts, D. Miller, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, Robertson, J. K. Smith, Staples, West and Yerby--32.

        The preamble and resolutions as amended are as follows:

        "Whereas the people of Virginia, in convention assembled, are now deliberating as to their future relations with the government at Washington, D. C., and the non-slaveholding states of the confederacy, known as the United States of North America: and whereas the general assembly of Virginia at present sitting and the governor of this commonwealth have declared their opposition to the exercise of force against the slaveholding seceding states, and to the organization in, or the marching through our territory of military expeditions for that purpose: and whereas, in the present unsettled condition of our inter-state and federal relations, it is the highest obligation of duty on all public functionaries to watch vigilantly, and prevent or thwart every hostile movement either against the seceded states or those that may be supposed to sympathize with them: and whereas it has come to the knowledge of this legislature that a large number of heavy guns manufactured at Bellona foundry near the capital of Virginia, under an order of the ordnance department at Washington, D. C., have been ordered to fortress Monroe, where they can only be needed for the purpose of intimidation and menace to Virginia, and present aid of actual hostilities in a certain contingency that may change her future relations to the federal government, and the antislavery sentiment it represents:

        Be it therefore resolved by the general assembly, that the governor of this commonwealth is hereby directed, in case of the actual attempt of the federal authorities to transport said guns over the soil of Virginia, to seize and detain said guns for the use of this commonwealth; and to that end, to order out the public guard to arrest the contemplated removal of the guns beyond the reach and control of the government of this state.

        Resolved, that the governor be and he is hereby authorized and required, out of the money appropriated for the purchase of arms, at the present session of the general assembly, by an act passed on the 29th day of January 1861, entitled an act appropriating one million of dollars for the defence of the commonwealth, to pay to Dr. Junius L. Archer the amount due him, of seven thousand eight hundred and seventy-two dollars and forty-seven cents on his contract for the manufacture of said guns, and to the government at Washington the sum of thirteen thousand and twenty-four dollars, which said government has paid to said Archer on account of his said contract; and the governor shall require the superintendent of the armory at Richmond to take possession of said guns, and deposit them therein for safe keeping."

        On motion of Mr. McDOWELL, the house adjourned until Monday, 10 o'clock.


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MONDAY, APRIL 1, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, March 30, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act to amend and re-enact the 45th section of chapter 85 of the Code of 1849, No. 238, with amendments.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        No. 238. An act to amend and re-enact the 45th section of chapter 85 of the Code of 1849, with the amendments proposed by the senate thereto, was taken up, and the amendments of the senate agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 224. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of E. N. Eubank, commissioner of the revenue for the city of Lynchburg, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. DAVIS, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Ball, Baskervill, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Boreman, Brown, Burks, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McKenzie, Miles, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morris, Myers, Newton, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Wallace, Welch, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--93.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass and Orgain--2.

        No. 243. A senate bill entitled an act to allow the claims of the officers of the Hillsborough border guard of Loudoun county, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. BALL, read the third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? the roll was called, with the following result:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Anderson, Ball, Bassel, Boreman, Chapman, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Frost, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, Graham, Hanly, Kaufman, Keen, Kincheloe, Leftwich, Matthews, McCue, Pretlow, Reid, Rives, Sherrard, Staples, Thomas, Ward and Welch--29.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Boisseau, Brown, Christian, Collier, Cowan, Fleming, Friend, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kee, Kemper, Knotts, Kyle, Lucas, Mallory, T. Martin, McCamant, McDowell, McGehee, McKenzie, Medley, Miles, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Myers, Newton, Orgain, Phelps, Porter, Pretlow, Pritchard, Richardson, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Thompson, Wallace, Wilson, Willcox and Woolfolk--53.

        No. 83. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Thomas W. Scott, sheriff of Dinwiddie county, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. BOISSEAU, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Ball, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Boreman, Burks, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Fleming, Friend, Frost, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hunter, Johnson,


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W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McKenzie, Medley, D. Miller, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pritchard, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Shannon, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Ward, Watts, Welch, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--90.

        NOES--Messrs. C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz and Miles--3.

        No. 197. An act making appropriations for deficiency in former appropriations, and for defraying expenses of the general assembly and convention now in session, with the amendments proposed by the senate thereto, was taken up, and the amendments concurred in.

        Ordered, that Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire inform the senate thereof.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. SMITH, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed house bill entitled an act for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts already made upon the Covington and Ohio rail road, with amendments: in which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        No. 118. An act imposing taxes for the support of government, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up.

        Pending the consideration of the bill and amendments, Mr. HAYMOND moved to pass by the bill for the purpose of considering the question of reconsidering the vote indefinitely postponing the resolution from the senate rescinding the resolution fixing this day as the day of a final adjournment of the general assembly; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. DUCKWALL demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. MALLORY moved a suspension of the rule, with the view of reconsidering the vote aforesaid; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        The question being on agreeing to the resolution from the senate fixing the 4th day of April as the day for the adjournment of the general assembly, Mr. CARPENTER demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. KEEN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Burks, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, Evans, Fleming, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kee, Knote, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Matthews, McCamant, McDowell, Medley, D. Miller, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Preston, Richardson, Robertson, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, H. Smith, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, Wilson, Willcox, Witten and Yerby--64.

        NOES--Messrs. Ball, Boreman, Brown, Christian, Dickenson, Friend, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Huntt, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Mallory, T. Martin, McCue, McKenzie, Miles, Mong, Montague, Morris, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, Staples, Thompson, Wallace, Watts, Welch and Woolfolk--41.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        The hour of two o'clock having arrived, the chair was vacated until 7½ o'clock.


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EVENING SESSION.

        No. 201. A bill to incorporate the Trans-Alleghany rail road company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. KNOTTS, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? Mr. HAYMOND moved the indefinite postponement of the bill; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. HOFFMAN, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Ball, Bisbie, Boisseau, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Evans, Fleming, Friend, Grattan, Hackley, Hunter, W. T. Jones, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, T. Martin, Massie, Matthews, McCamant, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, Montague, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Reid, Riddick, Robertson, Rives, Seddon, Staples, Thomas and Woolfolk--55.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Bassel, Bell, Boreman, Crane, Edgington, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Harrison, Haymond, Hoffman, Johnson, Kaufman, Knotts, J. R. Miller, Morris, Orgain, Porter, Preston, Randolph, Richardson, Robinson, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Thompson, Tomlin, Ward, Watts, Wilson and Yerby--34.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. BRANNON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to the amendments proposed by the house of delegates to the amendments of the senate to the joint resolution in regard to the movement of troops and arms within the limits of this commonwealth by the general government. That they had passed house bill entitled an act for the relief of James J. Spaulding, No. 158; an act appointing superintendents of the Staunton and Parkersburg road, No. 276: and that they had passed with amendments house bill entitled an act to incorporate the Carroll mining and manufacturing company, No. 229: in which amendments they requested the concurrence of the house of delegates. That they had agreed to the amendment proposed by the house of delegates to senate bill entitled an act to increase the pay of certain officers of the public guard: and that they had passed the following senate bills, in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates: an act to authorize the governor to pardon a slave John Ricks, and restore him to his owner, No. 252; an act for the relief of the personal representative of William S. Croxton deceased, No. 251; an act to incorporate the town of Independence in the county of Grayson, No. 256; and an act to incorporate the Central savings bank of the city of Richmond, No. 222.

        No. 118. A bill entitled an act imposing taxes for the support of government, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, being the unfinished business of the morning session, was taken up. Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. HOFFMAN, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 10 o'clock.


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TUESDAY, APRIL 2, 1861.

        No. 229. An act to incorporate the Carroll mining and manufacturing company, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, was taken up; and the amendments agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 222. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the Central savings bank of the city of Richmond, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. SAUNDERS, read the third time and passed.

        No. 256. A senate bill entitled an act to incorporate the town of Independence in the county of Grayson, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. KYLE, read the third time and passed.

        No. 251. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of the personal representative of William S. Croxton deceased, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Boreman, Burks, Caperton, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crane, Crump, Davis, Fleming, Friend, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hunter, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Matthews, McCue, McDowell, McKenzie, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Preston, Pretlow, Pritchard, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--84.

        NOES--Messrs. Dickenson and Mallory--2.

        No. 252. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize the governor to pardon a slave John Ricks, and restore him to his former owner, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. WILLCOX read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Barbour, Baskervill, Bassel, Bisbie, Boisseau, Boreman, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Fleming, Friend, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hunter, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Matthews, McCue, McGehee, McKenzie, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Reid, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Welch, Willcox and Yerby--82.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Bell, Burks, Collier, Huntt, Johnson, Kyle, Mallory, McDowell and Wilson--10.

        On motion of Mr. ORGAIN,

        Resolved, that leave be given to bring in a bill authorizing the county court of Lunenburg to uniform and equip volunteer companies.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee: Messrs. Orgain, Collier, Robertson, Magruder and Rives.

        Subsequently, Mr. ORGAIN, from the committee, reported the following bill:

        No. 277. A bill to authorize the county court of Lunenburg to appropriate certain money to uniform and equip volunteer companies,


Page 266

was read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time, and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. ORGAIN carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        A joint resolution, communicated from the senate, authorizing the governor to contract for the manufacture and repair of arms at the armory, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND; and Mr. KEMPER submitted the following report:

        Resolved by the general assembly, that the governor, in order more effectually to carry out the provisions of an act passed the 21st day of January 1860, entitled an act making an appropriation for the purchase and manufacture of arms and munitions of war, be and he hereby is authorized to contract with one or more persons for the manufacture of pistols, carbines, side arms, shot, shell, artillery carriages, and other arms, accoutrements and munitions; the said contractor or contractors to have the use of such portion only of the armory grounds and buildings as may not be required for the fulfillment of existing contracts to supply the armory with machinery, or for efficiently operating such machinery: provided, that the arms, accoutrements and munitions manufactured in pursuance of any contract hereby authorized to be made, shall be manufactured under the supervision and inspection of the colonel of ordnance: and provided further, that any contract hereby authorized shall be subject to the ratification or rejection of the general assembly.

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, was decided in the affirmative.

        Ordered, that Mr. KEMPER inform the senate thereof, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. HAYMOND, from the committee on finance, reported the following bill:

        No. 274. A bill authorizing the payment to John Kelley the amount of a judgment against the Board of public works.

        Mr. BASSEL, from the committee on agriculture and manufactures, reported the following bill:

        No. 275. A bill incorporating the shooting time piece manufactory of Virginia.

        Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire submitted the following preamble and resolution:

        GEORGE W. HOPKINS, a delegate from the county of Washington, having departed this life while in attendance upon the sessions of the house of delegates:

        Be it resolved, that the clerk pay to the personal representative of the said GEORGE W. HOPKINS, his mileage and per diem for this session, or so much thereof as may be due him, out of the appropriation to pay the expenses of this general assembly; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        No. 126. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Celia Edmonds, was taken up, on motion of Mr. CHILDS, read the third time and passed.


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        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Barbour, Bassel, Caperton, Carter, Childs, Coleman, Cowan, Duckwall, Edgington, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, W. T. Jones, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Lucas, Magruder, McCue, McGehee, McKenzie, Medley, Mong, Montague, Morris, Nelson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Randolph, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, J. K. Smith, Tomlin, Wallace, Welch, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--55.

        NOES--Messrs. Alderson, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bell, Bisbie, Boreman, Burks, Carpenter, Chapman, Christian, Collier, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Fleming, Friend, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hoffman, Kaufman, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lundy, Matthews, D. Miller, Myers, Patterson, Robertson, Seddon, Sherrard, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Watts and Wilson--41.

        No. 253. A bill to amend and re-enact the 31st section of chapter 198 of the Revised Code of Virginia, was taken up, on motion of Mr. COLLIER. The bill was then amended, and as amended, on motion of Mr. COLLIER, read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        On motion of Mr. COLLIER, the title was amended so as to read as follows:

        "An act authorizing the common council of the city of Petersburg to declare what in said city shall be an unlawful assemblage of negroes, and to prescribe the punishment therefor."

        Ordered, that Mr. COLLIER communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 171. An act for the partial suspension of the sale of state bonds, and to provide for complying with contracts already made upon the Covington and Ohio rail road, with the amendments proposed by the senate, was taken up. The amendments proposed by the senate were then amended, on motion of Mr. CAPERTON, and as amended, agreed to.

        Ordered, that Mr. CHAPMAN communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from George W. Randolph, of the board of commissioners to purchase arms under the act of the last session, in answer to a resolution of the house of delegates; which was read, and on motion of Mr. SEDDON, laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 47.

        No. 118. An act imposing taxes for the support of government, with the amendments proposed thereto by the senate, being the unfinished business, was taken up. The amendments were then amended, and as amended, agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 66. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize an issue of arms to Titus V. Williams of the county of Tazewell, for the use of an academy, was taken up, on motion of Mr. WITTEN, read the third time and passed.

        No. 26. A bill authorizing the payment to William G. Jackson of certain coupons, was taken up, on motion of Mr. WARNER T. JONES, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Burks, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Collier, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Edgington, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, D. Gibson, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Huntt,


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Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Randolph, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sibert, I. N. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Welch, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--90.

        NOES--Messrs. Christian, Duckwall, Tomlin and Wilson--4.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. NEWMAN, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed senate bill 261, entitled an act to incorporate the town of Rathbone in the county of Wirt: in which they respectfully asked the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        The hour of 2 o'clock having arrived, the chair was vacated until 7½ o'clock.

EVENING SESSION.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, April 2, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills, entitled:

        An act to authorize the county court of Lunenburg to appropriate certain money to uniform and equip volunteer companies, No. 277.

        An act authorizing the common council of the city of Petersburg to declare what in said city shall be an unlawful assemblage of negroes, and to prescribe the punishment therefor, No. 253.

        And they have passed bills, entitled:

        An act to authorize the Wolf creek turnpike company to reduce the width of their road, No. 264.

        An act changing the time of holding the courts in the fifteenth judicial circuit, No. 275.

        An act to incorporate the Cabell county petroleum company, No. 257.

        An act to incorporate the Rocky point lime and marble manufacturing company in the county of Botetourt, No. 262.

        An act to incorporate the Old Dominion mining and manufacturing company, No. 265.

        An act authorizing the governor to pardon slave Bill, and restore him to his former owner, No. 260.

        An act to amend the charter of the Southwestern Bank of Virginia, No. 267.

        An act incorporating the Staunton savings bank, No. 270.

        An act to authorize Joseph Guseman to rebuild his mill, No. 272.

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of the Old Dominion, No. 276.

        An act refunding to James A. Russell excess of taxes paid by him, and authorizing the county court of Frederick county to correct erroneous assessment, No. 266.


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        An act to organize a volunteer battalion in the city of Alexandria, No. 271; and

        An act authorizing Henry Potter Burt, William Berry and other subjects of Great Britain to hold certain land lying in this commonwealth, No. 274.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        The following senate bills were read the first and second times and passed:

        No. 257. An act to incorporate the Cabell county petroleum company.

        No. 264. An act to authorize the Wolf creek turnpike company to reduce the width of their road.

        No. 262. An act to incorporate the Rocky point lime and marble manufacturing company in the county of Botetourt.

        No. 275. An act changing the time of holding the courts in the 15th judicial circuit.

        No. 261. An act to incorporate the town of Rathbone in the county of Wirt.

        No. 265. An act to incorporate the Old Dominion mining and manufacturing company.

        No. 260. An act authorizing the governor to pardon slave Bill, and restore him to his former owner.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Burks, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, Fleming, Friend, Garrett, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Magruder, Matthews, McCue, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Porter, Randolph, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Woolfolk and Yerby--84.

        No--Mr. Pretlow--1.

        No. 267. An act to amend the charter of the Southwestern Bank of Virginia.

        No. 270. An act incorporating the Staunton savings bank.

        No. 272. An act to authorize Joseph Guseman to rebuild his mill.

        No. 276. An act to amend the charter of the Bank of the Old Dominion.

        No. 271. An act to organize a volunteer battalion in the city of Alexandria.

        No. 266. An act refunding to James A. Russell excess of taxes paid by him, and authorizing the county court of Frederick county to correct erroneous assessment.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Booker, Boreman, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crane, Crump, Davis, Edgington, Friend, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Matthews, McCue, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, D. Miller, J. R. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Woolfolk and Yerby--82.


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        No. 274. A senate bill entitled an act authorizing Henry Potter Burk, William Berry and other subjects of Great Britain to hold certain land lying in this commonwealth, was read the first and second times, and on motion of Mr. SEDDON, laid on the table.

        No. 279. A bill to increase the compensation of the commissioners of the revenue for the counties of Braxton, Nicholas, Fayette and Logan, was taken up, on motion of Mr. ALDERSON, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crane, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Magruder, Matthews, McCue, McGruder, McKenzie, D. Miller, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, Watts and Yerby--78.

        NOES--Messrs. Friend, Grattan, Lundy, McGehee and Woolfolk--5.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 275. A bill allowing compensation to the commissioners to audit the Harpers Ferry claims, was taken up, on motion of Mr. SEDDON, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Hanly, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Matthews, McCue, McGehee, McGruder, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Woolfolk and Yerby--78.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 81. A bill authorizing the payment of $147 75 to Captain Wm. H. Werth of company A of the 101st regiment Virginia militia, was taken up, on motion of Mr. GILMER of Pittsylvania, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, Friend, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Magruder, Matthews, McCue, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, D. Miller, Montague, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Scott, Seddon, Segar, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, Woolfolk and Yerby--77.

        NO--Mr. Hoffman--1.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 218. A bill refunding to W. H. Morton, sen. a sum of money paid on erroneous assessment of land, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BASKERVILL, and read the third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? the roll was called, with the following result:

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Collier, Crump,


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Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, Garrett, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Haymond, Hackley, Hunter, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Matthews, McCue, McGehee, McKenzie, D. Miller, Morris, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, J. K. Smith, H. Smith, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, Watts, Wilson, Woolfolk and Yerby--72.

        It appearing that no quorum voted,

        On motion of Mr. KEEN, the house adjourned.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3, 1861.

        No. 45. A senate bill entitled an act to authorize rail road companies to appoint police agents, was taken up, on motion of Mr. EDGINGTON, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 265. A bill amending the act passed April 2, 1858, concerning the Berryville and Charlestown turnpike, was taken up, on motion of Mr. McKENZIE, read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. McKENZIE carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 266. A bill granting rights of way to mining and manufacturing companies in this commonwealth, was taken up, on motion of Mr. PHELPS, read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. PHELPS carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 214. A senate bill entitled an act in relation to printing the Acts of Assembly, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, amended, and as amended, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 227. An engrossed bill to amend and re-enact an act passed March 22d, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Knob turnpike company in the county of Washington, and incorporating the Hayter's gap and Washington turnpike company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. PRESTON, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Barbour, Bass, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Caperton, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Edgington, Fleming, Friend, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hoffman, Hunter, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Magruder, Massie, McCue, McGruder, McKenzie, D. Miller, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Phelps, Pretlow, Randolph, Reid, Riddick, Robertson, Saunders, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Ward, Watts, Welch, Witten and Yerby--77.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Bassel, Huntt, Johnson, W. T. Jones, McDowell, McGehee, Mong, Robinson, Rives, Wallace and Woolfolk--12.


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        No. 166. A bill for the payment of a sum of money to James W. Jones, jailor of Frederick county, was taken up, on motion of Mr. KAUFMAN, read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Coleman, Collier, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Fleming, Friend, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hoffman, Huntt, Hunter, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Magruder, Massie, McCue, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Myers, Nelson, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Randolph, Reid, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Thomas, Tomlin, Wallace, Ward, Welch, Willcox, Witten and Yerby--78.

        Ordered, that Mr. KAUFMAN carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 67. An engrossed bill to provide for the payment, to the Richmond branch of the Exchange Bank, of lost coupons for interest on the bonds of the state of Virginia, was taken up, on motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Anderson, Ball, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Caperton, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Friend, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Huntt, Hunter, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Massie, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, Mong, Montague, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Porter, Randolph, Reid, Robertson, Robinson, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Thomas, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Welch, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--78.

        No--Mr. Duckwall--1.

        Ordered, that Mr. ROBERTSON carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 96. A senate bill entitled an act releasing the schooner Pauline from the payment of the commonwealth's claim to any fine imposed for an alleged violation of the inspection laws, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BISBIE, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Chapman, Childs, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crane, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Friend, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Haymond, Hoffman, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Massie, McCue, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, Mong, Montague, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Porter, Randolph, Reid, Robertson, Robinson, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Thompson, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Welch, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--83.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. CHRISTIAN, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bill:

        No. 276. A bill to amend the road laws of Brooke and Hancock counties; which, on his motion, was read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. PORTER carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.


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        No. 67. An engrossed bill to authorize the county court of Powhatan county to correct the assessment of the lands of A. S. Wooldridge's estate, was taken up, on motion of Mr. COLEMAN, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Caperton, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Davis, Duckwall, Edgington, Friend, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hoffman, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Kyle, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Massie, McCue, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, D. Miller, Montague, Montgomery, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Porter, Preston, Randolph, Reid, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Thompson, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--77.

        Ordered, that Mr. COLEMAN carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 271. A bill to organize the Metropolitan guard of Richmond, was taken up, on motion of Mr. KEMPER, read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time.

        The question being--Shall the bill pass? Mr. CRUMP submitted a ryder; which was read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk communicate the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Mr. CAPERTON submitted the following preamble and resolution; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bisbie, Caperton, Carpenter, Cassin, Chapman, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Duckwall, Edgington, Fleming, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanley, Harrison, Haymond, Hunter, W. T. Jones, Keen, Kee, Knote, Kyle, Lucas, Magruder, Massie, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKenzie, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Patterson, Preston, Reid, Robertson, Robinson, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Sherrard, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Watts, Welch, Willcox, Witten and Yerby--65.

        NOES--Messrs. Bassel, Bell, Boisseau, Cowan, Crane, Davis, Friend, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Hoffman, Huntt, Johnson, Kincheloe, Knotts, Leftwich, McGehee, Phelps, Porter, Randolph, Riddick and Rives--21.

        Whereas the present state of affairs has occasioned embarrassments to the contractors on the Covington and Ohio rail road, that will prevent many, if not all of them, from executing their contracts unless some relief is afforded: and whereas the failure on the part of said contractors to execute their work will occasion great loss to the state: and whereas all the existing embarrassments were not contemplated by either of the parties to said contracts when the same were entered into:

        Be it resolved by the general assembly, that in consideration of the said embarrassments, the Board of public works, in its character as the Covington and Ohio rail road company, be and are hereby authorized to increase the prices of the aforesaid contractors, for all work to be done prior to the 1st day of January 1862, and subsequent to the passage of this resolution, to such extent as the said board shall consider just and equitable: provided, however, that such increase upon the said work to any contractor shall not exceed ten per cent.


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upon the amount payable therefor at the contract prices: and provided also, that the said increase shall constitute a part of and be paid out of existing appropriations to the Covington and Ohio rail road.

        Ordered, that Mr. CHAPMAN carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        The SPEAKER announced that the resolution had passed.

        Mr. SEDDON appealed from the decision of the chair, on the ground that the resolution required a majority of the whole house; and the question being--Shall the decision of the chair stand as the judgment of the house? was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. SEDDON, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Alderson, Ball, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Cassin, Chapman, Christian, Coleman, Collier, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Fleming, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Graham, Grattan, Hanly, Harrison, Hackley, Hoffman, Hunter, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Massie, McCue, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, D. Miller, Mong, Montague, Morris, Myers, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Preston, Reid, Robertson, Saunders, Seddon, Shannon, Thomas, Thompson, Tomlin, Wallace, Welch, Willcox and Witten--67.

        NOES--Messrs. Boreman, Cowan, Crane, C. H. Gilmer, Haymond, Huntt, Johnson, Kincheloe, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, McKenzie, Phelps, Porter, Pretlow, Riddick, Robinson, Rives, Sherrard, Staples, Watts, Woolfolk and Yerby--23.

        Mr. GILMER of Pittsylvania submitted the following preamble and resolution:

        Whereas it is represented that the sheriff of Pittsylvania county, for good reasons, desires an extension of the time within which he is required to pay into the public treasury the sum of four thousand dollars, a part of the revenue of said county, for thirty days from the 1st day of April 1861: Therefore,

        Resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that the said relief be granted to the said sheriff, and that he shall incur no forfeiture of commissions upon the revenue of said county in the event the whole of said revenue shall be paid into the treasury of the commonwealth within thirty days from the 1st day of April 1861: provided the securities of the said sheriff in his official bond shall agree in writing, that this resolution shall take effect without operating as a release to them.

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Baskervill, Bisbie, Caperton, Carter, Chapman, Christian, Crump, Duckwall, Fleming, J. Gilmer, Graham, Hanly, Haymond, Keen, Magruder, Massie, McCue, McGruder, McKenzie, Preston, Pretlow, Robertson, Saunders, Sherrard, Staples, Thompson, Ward and Willcox--31.

        NOES--Messrs. Bass, Bassel, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Carpenter, Childs, Collier, Crane, Dickenson, Friend, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Grattan, Harrison, Hoffman, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, McDowell, Mong, Montague, Myers, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Randolph, Reid, Robinson, Rives, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Thomas, Tomlin, Watts, Welch and Witten--48.

        No. 115. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Thomas Nichols, was taken up, on motion of Mr. KEMPER, read the third time and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bassel, Bentley, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Caperton, Carter, Chapman, Christian, Coleman,


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Collier, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Friend, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, C. H. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kee, Kemper, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Lundy, Magruder, Massie, McCue, McGehee, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, Mong, Montague, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Orgain, Patterson, Porter, Randolph, Reid, Robertson, Robinson, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Wilson, Willcox, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--77.

        On motion of Mr. COLLIER,

        Resolved, that a special committee be appointed, to report a bill amending the Code so as to include keno as a prohibited game.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee: Messrs. Collier, Grattan, Seddon, Mallory and Bass.

        Mr. COLLIER, from the committee, presented the following bill; which, on his motion, was read the first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time.

        No. 287. A bill amending and re-enacting the 1st section of chapter 198 of the Code, edition of 1860.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. BRANNON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had receded from several of the amendments proposed by the senate and disagreed to by the house of delegates, to house bill 118, entitled an act imposing taxes for the support of government, and had insisted upon others, disagreed to by the house.

        The bill and amendments were taken up; pending the consideration of which, the hour of 2 o'clock having arrived, the chair was vacated until 7½ o'clock.

EVENING SESSION.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, April 3, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act to amend the 4th section of an act incorporating the Jefferson insurance company of Albemarle, No. 1, with an amendment.

        In which they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        They have agreed to the joint resolution for the relief of the contractors on the Covington and Ohio rail road.

        The committee on enrolled bills in the senate having examined sundry such bills and found them correctly enrolled, they have been signed by the president of the senate, and are now communicated to the house of delegates for further signature.

        No. 274. A senate bill entitled an act authorizing Henry Potter Burt, William Berry and other subjects of Great Britain to hold certain land lying in this commonwealth, was taken up, on motion of Mr. McKENZIE, read the third time and passed.

        No. 104. A bill amending the 39th chapter of the Code concerning taxes on bank dividends, collateral inheritances, and taxes on suits and seals, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, read the


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first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time; and on motion of Mr. GIBSON of Hampshire, laid upon the table.

        No. 1. An act to amend the 4th section of an act incorporating the Jefferson insurance company of Albemarle, with the amendments proposed by the senate thereto, was taken up, and the amendments agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 218. An engrossed bill refunding to W. H. Morton, sen. a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land, being unfinished business, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BASKERVILL, and passed.

        AYES--Messrs. Crutchfield (speaker), Alderson, Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Bell, Bisbie, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Chapman, Childs, Coleman, Collier, Cowan, Crump, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Edgington, Fleming, Friend, D. Gibson, J. T. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Harrison, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Keen, Kemper, Kincheloe, Knote, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Magruder, Massie, McCue, McDowell, McGruder, McKenzie, Medley, Mong, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Patterson, Phelps, Porter, Preston, Pretlow, Randolph, Reid, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Sherrard, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Welch, Wilson, Woolfolk and Yerby--86.

        Ordered, that Mr. BASKERVILL carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. COLLIER,

        Resolved, that a committee of conference be appointed on the part of the house, to confer with a similar committee on the part of the senate, in relation to the disagreement of the two houses in relation to house bill entitled an act imposing taxes for the support of government.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee: Messrs. Collier, Saunders, Keen, Christian, Boreman, Tomlin and Wilson.

        Subsequently, a message was received from the senate by Mr. BRANNON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to the resolution, and appointed a committee on their part.

        Subsequently, a message was received from the senate by Mr. BRANNON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to the report of the joint committee as to the disagreement of the two houses in relation to house bill entitled an act imposing taxes for the support of government.

        The report, on motion of Mr. COLLIER, was concurred in by the house.

        Ordered, that Mr. HAYMOND inform the senate thereof.

        No. 278. A bill for the lease of the penitentiary, was taken up, on motion of Mr. McCUE.

        Mr. HAYMOND submitted the following amendment to the bill:

        Strike out the entire bill, and insert:

        "Be it enacted by the general assembly, that for the purpose of purchasing raw materials, so as to give employment to the inmates of the penitentiary, fifteen thousand dollars is hereby appropriated, to be paid out of the public treasury, upon the order of the board of directors of said penitentiary, to pay for said material when purchased.


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        "Be it further enacted, that the governor of this commonwealth be authorized to have the penitentiary enlarged by the labor of the convicts, so as to make it more convenient for the reception of convicts.

        "This act shall be in force from its passage."

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        On motion of Mr. HAYMOND, the vote was recorded as follows:

        AYES--Messrs. Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Boisseau, Booker, Burks, Caperton, Carpenter, Carter, Childs, Collier, Davis, Duckwall, Friend, D. Gibson, J. Gilmer, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Haymond, Hackley, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Magruder, Massie, McDowell, McGehee, McGruder, Medley, Mong, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Preston, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Seddon, Segar, Shannon, Staples, Thomas, Thompson, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Welch, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--64.

        NOES--Messrs. Boreman, Christian, Crump, Fleming, Keen, Kincheloe, McCue, Patterson, Porter, Pretlow, Sherrard, Tomlin, Wilson and Willcox--14.

        The bill was then read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? the roll was called, with the following result:

        AYES--Messrs. Ball, Baskervill, Bass, Boisseau, Booker, Boreman, Burks, Carpenter, Carter, Childs, Christian, Collier, Davis, Dickenson, Duckwall, Friend, D. Gibson, Goodycoontz, Graham, Grattan, Haymond, Hackley, Hoffman, Huntt, Hunter, Johnson, W. T. Jones, Kaufman, Kemper, Knote, Knotts, Kyle, Leftwich, Lucas, Magruder, McDowell, McGruder, Medley, Mong, Morris, Myers, Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Phelps, Preston, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rives, Saunders, Seddon, Shannon, Thomas, Tyler, Wallace, Ward, Watts, Witten, Woolfolk and Yerby--61:

        NOES--Messrs. Crump, Fleming, Kincheloe, McCue, McGehee, Patterson, Sherrard, Tomlin and Wilson--9.

        No quorum voting,

        On motion of Mr. CHRISTIAN, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 10 o'clock.

THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 1861.

        A communication from the senate, by their clerk, was read as follows:

IN SENATE, April 3, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act authorizing the payment to William G. Jackson of certain coupons, No. 26.

        An act to amend the road laws of Brooke and Hancock counties, No. 276.

        An act to provide for the payment to the Richmond branch of the Exchange Bank of lost coupons for interest on the bonds of the state of Virginia, No. 67.

        An act amending the act passed April 2, 1858, concerning the Berryville and Charlestown turnpike, No. 265.

        An act for the payment of a sum of money to James W. Jones, jailor of Frederick county, No. 166.


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        An act refunding to W. H. Morton, sen. a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land, No. 218.

        They have agreed to the joint resolution relative to the sale of muskets, with an amendment.

        In which amendment they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        The amendment proposed by the senate to a joint resolution relative to the sale of muskets, was taken up and agreed to.

        No. 287. An engrossed bill amending and re-enacting the 1st section of chapter 198 of the Code, edition of 1860, was taken up, on motion of Mr. COLLIER, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. COLLIER carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 175. An engrossed bill to incorporate the Leesburg and Point of rocks turnpike company, was taken up, on motion of Mr. McKENZIE, read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. McKENZIE carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        No. 104. A bill amending the 39th chapter of the Code, concerning taxes on bank dividends, collateral inheritances and taxes on suits and seals, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HAYMOND, read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read the third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read the third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. HAYMOND carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, the petitions concerning the removal of the remains of Gen. Harry Lee, and that the same be committed to Peyton Johnston, Esq. of this city, to be deposited among the archives of the Virginia military institute at Lexington.

        The SPEAKER proceeded to sign the following enrolled bills:

        An act to authorize county courts, &c. to arm the militia.

        An act to incorporate the Virginia arms manufacturing company.

        An act allowing the Northwestern Bank of Virginia and any of its branches to establish an agency in the city of Richmond for the redemption of its circulating notes.

        An act for the relief of Hugh Crolly and Patrick McCune.

        An act for the relief of Patrick H. Scott of Halifax county.

        An act to provide for the taking the sense of the people of Henrico upon giving authority to the county court to raise by loan two thousand five hundred dollars for arming the county.

        An act to compensate juries serving on coroners' inquests in the counties of New Kent, Charles City, James City, York, Warwick and Elizabeth City, and also the cities of Williamsburg and Norfolk.

        An act allowing persons elected commissioners of the revenue at the last general election, and who failed to qualify within the time prescribed by law, to qualify as such in certain cases.


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        An act to provide for electing members of a convention, and to convene the same.

        An act for the relief of Thomas Javins.

        An act to create an ordnance department.

        An act for the payment of commissions, &c. to the executor of Charles Holden deceased, of Harrison.

        An act authorizing the Norfolk and Petersburg rail road to construct a branch.

        An act for the relief of Charity Casey.

        An act for the relief of Benjamin and Isaac Deford of Morgan.

        An act amending and re-enacting an act to incorporate the Jackson orphan asylum of Norfolk, passed February 26th, 1856.

        An act to amend the 1st section of an act to prevent trespasses, depredations, &c. along the borders of the Potomac and other tide waters in the counties of Fairfax, Stafford and King George.

        An act for the relief of John W. G. Smith of Rockingham county.

        An act to amend an act entitled an act incorporating the Princess Anne savings bank, passed February 27, 1860.

        An act for the relief of Robert Y. Overby of the county of Mecklenburg, on account of taxes improperly paid.

        An act to defray the expenses of a pedestal, and setting up and transporting the statue of Jefferson.

        An act appropriating one million of dollars for the defence of the commonwealth.

        An act to incorporate the Virginia steam sugar refining company.

        An act to incorporate the Merchants savings bank of Richmond.

        An act to incorporate the Ambler oil and coal company.

        An act to incorporate the Fayette oil and coal company.

        An act amending and re-enacting the second section of the charter of the Mechanicsville turnpike company, passed February 21, 1817.

        An act to amend an act passed January 23d, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Virginia life insurance company.

        An act to authorize the Virginia Central rail road company to construct a branch of their road to Lexington in the county of Rockbridge.

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of the Commonwealth.

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of Philippi.

        An act to incorporate the Hughes' creek oil and coal company.

        An act to incorporate the Springfield and Deep run coal mining and manufacturing company.

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the Richmond and York river rail road company, passed January 31, 1853.

        An act to increase the capital stock of the Elk river turnpike company.

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of Howardsville.

        An act to amend the first section of an act entitled an act for the encouragement of certain volunteer military companies in the city of Wheeling, passed March 27th, 1858.

        An act incorporating the Berkeley springs savings bank in the town of Bath in the county of Morgan.


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        An act incorporating the Gilmer oil mining and manufacturing company in the county of Gilmer.

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the Farmville and Buckingham plank road company, passed May 22, 1852.

        An act authorizing the clerks of the supreme court and the district courts of appeals to take orders of publication in vacation.

        An act to incorporate the Richmond city insurance company of Richmond.

        An act to transfer a part of the Price's mountain and Cumberland gap road to the Mountain lake and Salt sulphur springs turnpike company.

        An act to incorporate the Lynchburg arms and engine manufacturing company.

        An act to authorize the governor of the commonwealth to pardon a negro slave Tom, and restore said slave to his owner.

        An act to incorporate the Southern manufacturing company.

        An act to amend the act of the 27th March 1858, incorporating the town of Frankfort in Greenbrier county.

        An act authorizing the payment to Scott & Adams of a sum of money for work done on the Southwestern turnpike.

        An act to amend the act incorporating the Lewisburg female institute.

        An act to incorporate the Manchester savings bank in the town of Manchester.

        An act for the protection of the fisheries on the waters of the Chesapeake bay and its tributaries below tide water.

        An act to incorporate St. Paul's church home.

        An act to incorporate the Amherst and Nelson woolen manufacturing company in the county of Nelson.

        An act to amend the charter of the Merchants Bank of Virginia.

        An act to incorporate the Hebrew benevolent society of Alexandria.

        An act to incorporate the Western Virginia insurance company.

        An act to amend an act to increase the capital stock of the Richmond and Danville rail road company, and for other purposes.

        An act to incorporate the Sweet chalybeate springs company.

        An act to amend the 1st section of the act forming Webster county.

        An act amending the charter of the town of Bath in the county of Morgan.

        An act amending the second section of an act entitled an act incorporating the town of Bethany, passed April 5, 1853.

        An act to protect the interest of the commonwealth and others in rail road and steam boat companies in this state, on the two lines between Baltimore and Weldon.

        An act authorizing the county court of Rockingham county to loan to the Manassas gap rail road company a sum of money.

        An act for the relief of the securities of James R. Courtney of Westmoreland county.

        An act to authorize an issue of preferred stock by the Alexandria, Mount Vernon and Accotink turnpike company.


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        An act authorizing the trustees of the First Presbyterian church in the city of Portsmouth to execute a deed of trust on said property.

        An act amending certain acts concerning the town of Port Royal in the county of Caroline.

        An act to incorporate the town of Cameron in the county of Marshall.

        An act to incorporate the Baltimore and Fredericksburg steam boat company.

        An act incorporating the Independence male and female college in the county of Grayson.

        An act authorizing the superintendent of the armory to provide quarters for a portion of the public guard.

        An act to enable the Monticello Bank or the Bank of the Commonwealth to establish an office of discount and deposit at Monaskon in the county of Lancaster.

        An act to incorporate the Staffordsville toll bridge company.

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of Commerce at Fredericksburg.

        An act to incorporate the Marion magnetic iron company.

        An act incorporating the Norfolk county railway company.

        An act for the relief of the banks of this commonwealth.

        An act providing for the voluntary enslavement of George, Shed, Sam and Sukey, persons of color in the county of Buckingham.

        An act to amend the charter of the Danville Bank, and to authorize branches for the same.

        An act for the relief of James Scott.

        An act for the relief of Hopkins & Campbell.

        An act for the relief of the Rev. J. Packard.

        An act for the relief of the securities of Joshua H. Staats.

        An act changing the time of holding the circuit court of Danville.

        An act refunding to Mathew Wamsley, jr. money erroneously paid by him.

        An act refunding a license tax to Paul A. Farley.

        An act fixing the mode of settlement with the sheriff of Jefferson county.

        An act authorizing the sale of Ebenezer academy.

        An act for the relief of Angus M. Wood.

        An act for running the boundary line between Albemarle and Fluvanna.

        An act incorporating the Staunton arms and ordnance company.

        An act incorporating the Southern institution for the amelioration of the condition of the deaf, dumb and blind negroes of the commonwealth.

        An act incorporating the Maryland and Virginia coal oil company in the county of Taylor.

        An act refunding to the securities of Wm. H. Blanch, late sheriff of the county of Mecklenburg, certain damages paid by them.

        An act providing for the location of the courthouse, jail and other public buildings of the county of McDowell.


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        An act to re-enact the act passed 9th February 1844, authorizing a loan from the Literary fund to the trustees of West Liberty academy.

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of Scottsville.

        An act to incorporate the Capper springs company.

        An act authorizing the council of Richmond to construct rail roads in its streets.

        An act to restrict the catching of oysters in certain months.

        An act to incorporate the Berkeley border guards armory company.

        An act to provide for the voluntary enslavement of Thomas Garland and Mary Anderson, persons of color in the county of Hanover.

        An act to incorporate the Rockbridge white sulphur springs company.

        An act to incorporate the Virginia mineral oil and coal company in the county of Mason.

        An act to amend the 102d and 103d sections of an act passed March 30, 1860, entitled an act for assessment of taxes on persons and property.

        An act refunding to Mrs. Lucy Holland a sum of money paid on erroneous assessment.

        An act to amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the Mason city mining and manufacturing company in the county of Mason, passed February 22d, 1860.

        An act to enforce the payment of balances due from commissioners of forfeited and delinquent lands.

        An act to amend the charter of the Sir John's run turnpike company.

        An act providing for the voluntary enslavement of Jane Payne, Mary Fletcher and Glives.

        An act for the relief of Benjamin S. Reynolds of Harrison county.

        An act to incorporate the Jackson county agricultural society.

        An act for the voluntary enslavement of Fanny Matthews, without compensation to the state.

        An act for the relief of the securities of Eugenius Tibbs, late sheriff of the county of Ritchie.

        An act for the relief of George W. Tucker of Halifax county.

        An act to incorporate the Richmond and Liverpool packet company.

        An act extending the corporate limits of Fredericksburg.

        An act to incorporate the commonwealth's savings bank of Richmond.

        An act to incorporate the Laurel valley coal and oil company in Mason.

        An act to authorize Thos. Chancellor to erect a wharf on his lands.

        An act to amend chapter 108 of the Code, concerning births, marriages and deaths.

        An act to authorize the issue of treasury notes.

        An act to authorize the circuit court of Preston county to legalize the conveyance of a tract of land made by Andrew Oliphant, as guardian or committee of William Smith, an idiot.


Page 283

        An act allowing compensation to Parsha A. Fowlkes and Joseph C. Fowlkes, for the arrest of three convicts escaped from the jail of Lunenburg county.

        An act for the relief of the securities of Reese Browning, late sheriff of Logan county.

        An act for the relief of Joseph W. Harper.

        An act for the relief of the sureties of Robert Chambers, sheriff of Boone county.

        An act refunding to Lynn & Compton a license tax improperly collected of them.

        An act for the relief of Charles A. Hoge and James Musgrave.

        An act to incorporate the Silver run mining and manufacturing company.

        An act for the relief of the sureties of Thomas K. Davis, late sheriff of Prince William.

        An act organizing a volunteer company of cavalry in Albemarle.

        An act authorizing Portsmouth to issue coupon bonds.

        An act for the relief of Edward Johnson of Giles.

        An act for the incorporation of the Home mining and manufacturing company.

        An act to amend the 23d section of the 61st chapter of the Code.

        An act to incorporate the Bank of Parkersburg.

        An act to amend the act incorporating the Insurance company of the state of Virginia of Richmond.

        An act to amend the act concerning the district free schools in the county of Jefferson.

        An act amending the charter of the Black lick and Plaster bank turnpike company.

        An act to incorporate the Oxford cotton and woolen company.

        An act to incorporate the coal and oil company of Braxton county, Virginia.

        An act to amend the 1st section of an act entitled an act to incorporate the Springfield and Deep run coal mining and manufacturing company, passed the 12th of February 1861.

        An act providing for the payment of commissioners of Virginia to the peace conference at Washington and to the southern states.

        An act to incorporate the Cove creek lead, copper and iron manufacturing company in the county of Tazewell.

        An act to amend the charter of the Virginia car spring company.

        An act amending the third section of an act incorporating the town of Portsmouth as a city, passed March 1st, 1858.

        An act to distribute Mayo's Guide to coroners.

        An act authorizing commissioners appointed by the Board of public works to estimate and report damages of John Conaway on the Fairmont and Wheeling turnpike.

        An act to amend the charter of the Brown's gap turnpike company.

        An act to authorize the treasurer of the state to destroy certain bank notes now on deposit in his office, and such as may be received in future.


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        An act to amend an act passed March 13th, 1856, entitled an act to amend an act passed February 25th, 1856, to amend the charter of the New creek company of Hampshire county.

        An act incorporating the Coleraine mining and manufacturing company.

        An act to alter and amend an act entitled an act to incorporate the Blacksburg, Catawba creek and Fincastle turnpike company, passed February 15th, 1860, and to change the name to the Montgomery, Roanoke and Botetourt turnpike company.

        An act to incorporate the Chesterfield car, locomotive and agricultural implement manufacturing company.

        An act refunding to Moses G. Booth damages paid by him as surety of Samuel S. Turner, late sheriff of Franklin county.

        An act to incorporate the Southern express company.

        An act to establish the inspection of leather in Hampshire county.

        An act transferring the Cacapon and North branch turnpike to the county court of Hampshire county.

        An act amending certain laws respecting the militia of the commonwealth, so as to render them more efficient.

        An act for the relief of John M. Jones, late sheriff of Pendleton.

        An act for the relief of Thomas M. Hunley of Matthews.

        An act to extend the charter of the Central Bank of Virginia.

        An act to extend the charter of the Bank of Virginia.

        An act to extend the charter of the Northwestern Bank of Virginia.

        An act releasing the state's claim to the fine imposed on the schooner Virginia for an alleged violation of the inspection laws.

        An act changing the names of the lunatic asylums.

        An act to extend the charter of the Farmers Bank of Virginia.

        An act to extend the charter of the Exchange Bank of Virginia.

        An act to amend the 2d, 3d and 6th sections of an act passed February 28th, 1856, providing for working the county roads of Loudoun county.

        An act to incorporate the Montgomery female college.

        An act to amend an act incorporating the town of Christiansburg, and extending the limits of the same.

        An act in relation to the devise made by Joel Osborne to the Alexandria, Loudoun and Hampshire rail road company.

        An act to incorporate the Industrial society of Wood county.

        An act to incorporate the Burning springs oil line rail road company.

        An act authorizing the governor to pardon slaves Jack and Ben, and restore them to their former owner.

        An act to authorize the sale of certain church property in the town of Moorefield.

        An act authorizing the payment of a lost coupon to James C. McGuire & Co.

        An act authorizing the Petersburg rail road company to increase its capital stock.


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        An act to incorporate the Parkersburg classical and scientific institute.

        An act to incorporate the Little Kanawha mining and manufacturing company.

        An act to extend the charter of the Merchants and Mechanics Bank of Wheeling.

        An act to incorporate the town of Asbury.

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of Charleston.

        An act amending and re-enacting the charter of the town of Guyandotte in the county of Cabell.

        An act to release the title to 556¼ acres of land in the county of Hanover to John H. Taliaferro.

        An act to extend the charter of the Bank of the Valley in Virginia.

        An act to appropriate a sum necessary to pay for the preparation and publication of the second edition of the Code of Virginia.

        An act for the relief of Enoch Adkins of the county of Giles.

        An act amending the charter of the town of Charleston in the county of Kanawha.

        An act to incorporate the Monongahela savings bank in the county of Monongalia.

        An act incorporating the Piedmont land and improvement company.

        An act to amend the 1st section of chapter 149 of the Code of Virginia, relative to the limitation of suits, so as to limit the right to make an entry, or bring an action to recover land west of the Alleghany mountains.

        An act to amend the act to amend the pilot laws in regard to the Potomac river.

        An act incorporating the Patrick springs female college.

        An act to incorporate the James river boot, shoe and leather manufacturing company.

        An act constituting a part of the Ohio river a lawful fence.

        An act to incorporate the Tobacco savings bank in the city of Richmond.

        An act to provide for a special election in the town of Marion in the county of Smyth.

        An act authorizing the Board of public works to appoint commissioners to estimate and report losses sustained by Wm. W. King in the construction of the 14th section of the Ohio and Maryland turnpike road.

        An act to amend and re-enact an act passed March 22d, 1860, entitled an act to incorporate the Knob turnpike company in the county of Washington, and incorporating the Abingdon and Tennessee turnpike company.

        An act incorporating the Staunton savings bank.

        An act to incorporate the Virginia lumber company in Augusta and Rockbridge.

        An act making an appropriation for the removal of the remains of Gen. Harry Lee.

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of Richmond.


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        An act to repeal an act passed 19th March 1860, concerning the mode of catching fish in certain waters.

        An act to refund to James S. Connell and Daniel Polsley a sum of money improperly paid by them into the treasury as tax on land in Roane county.

        An act amending the charter of Union in the county of Monroe.

        An act to authorize the county court of Fluvanna county to appropriate certain funds to the uniforming and equipping volunteer companies in said county.

        An act authorizing the auditor of public accounts to release the sureties of defaulting sheriffs from the payment of damages in certain cases.

        An act absolving the state and treasurer from all liability in case of loss of coupon bonds deposited as security for bank circulation, unless the said coupons be converted into registered stock, and prohibiting coupon bonds from being received in future as such security.

        An act authorizing the formation of a battalion of two companies in the towns of Scottsville and Howardsville, in the county of Albemarle.

        An act to incorporate the Home savings bank of the city of Richmond.

        An act to release John W. Murrill from the payment of a judgment rendered by the circuit court of Lynchburg against him.

        An act for the better government of the town of Danville.

        An act establishing a branch bank at the town of Jeffersonville in the county of Tazewell.

        An act directing the payment of certain interest to Emmet J. O'Brien.

        An act to amend the 15th section of chapter 109 of the Code of Virginia (second edition).

        An act for the relief of Nathaniel B. Harvey.

        An act to incorporate the Preston and Augusta rail road company.

        An act allowing compensation to William F. Gordon, jr., clerk of the house of delegates, and S. C. Davis, clerk of the senate, for services rendered during the present session of the general assembly.

        An act for the incorporation of the Kanawha salt company.

        An act for the relief of E. N. Eubank, commissioner of the revenue for the city of Lynchburg.

        An act to suspend the levying of taxes by the state on the Wheeling and Belmont bridge company for six years.

        An act for the relief of the Orange and Alexandria rail road company.

        An act to amend and re-enact the 1st and 3d sections of an act entitled an act to incorporate a company to construct, on the plan of James S. French, a rail road between Alexandria and Washington, passed February 27, 1854.

        An act to increase the pay of the commonwealth's attorney for the circuit court of Ohio county.

        An act for the voluntary enslavement of free negroes, without compensation to the commonwealth.


Page 287

        An act releasing to the personal representative of A. C. Layne the rent due under his lease for a portion of the public armory.

        An act for the relief of Thomas W. Scott, sheriff of Dinwiddie county.

        An act authorizing the circuit court of Amelia county to make allowance to certain children of William H. Wilson, a lunatic.

        An act making appropriations for deficiency in former appropriations, and for defraying expenses of the general assembly and convention now in session.

        An act to establish the county of Bland out of parts of Giles, Wythe and Tazewell.

        An act to increase the pay of certain officers of the public guard.

        An act for the relief of James J. Spaulding.

        An act appointing superintendents of the Staunton and Parkersburg turnpike road.

        An act for the relief of the personal representatives of William S. Croxton deceased.

        An act to authorize the Wolf creek turnpike company to reduce the width of their road.

        An act to authorize Joseph Guseman to rebuild his mill.

        An act authorizing the common council of the city of Petersburg to declare what in said city shall be an unlawful assemblage of negroes, and to prescribe the punishment therefor.

        An act to authorize the county court of Lunenburg to appropriate certain money to uniform and equip volunteer companies.

        An act to organize a volunteer battalion in the city of Alexandria.

        An act for the relief of Celia Edmonds.

        An act to incorporate the Old Dominion mining and manufacturing company.

        An act changing the time of holding the courts in the 15th judicial circuit.

        An act authorizing the governor to pardon slave Bill, and restore him to his former owner.

        An act to incorporate the Rocky point lime and marble manufacturing company in the county of Botetourt.

        An act refunding to James A. Russell excess of taxes paid by him, and authorizing the county court of Frederick county to correct erroneous assessment.

        An act to authorize an issue of arms to Titus V. Williams of the county of Tazewell, for the use of an academy.

        An act incorporating the Staunton savings bank.

        An act to incorporate the Cabell county petroleum company.

        An act to incorporate the Central savings bank of the city of Richmond.

        An act to incorporate the town of Independence in the county of Grayson.

        An act to incorporate the Carroll mining and manufacturing company.

        An act to incorporate the town of Rathbone in the county of Wirt.


Page 288

        An act to amend the charter of the Bank of the Old Dominion.

        An act to amend the charter of the Southwestern Bank of Virginia.

        An act to authorize rail road companies to appoint police agents.

        An act amending the act passed April 2d, 1858, concerning the Berryville and Charlestown turnpike.

        An act authorizing Henry Potter Burt, William Berry and other subjects of Great Britain to hold certain land lying in this commonwealth.

        An act refunding to W. H. Morton, sen. a sum of money paid on an erroneous assessment of land.

        An act to amend the 4th section of an act incorporating the Jefferson insurance company of Albemarle.

        An act for the payment of money to James W. Jones, jailor of Frederick county.

        An act to provide for the payment to the Richmond branch of the Exchange Bank, of lost coupons for interest on the bonds of the state of Virginia.

        An act to amend the road laws of Brooke and Hancock counties.

        An act authorizing the payment to William G. Jackson of certain coupons.

        An act amending and re-enacting the 1st section of chapter 198 of the Code (edition of 1860).

        An act to incorporate the Leesburg and Point of rocks turnpike company.

        An act releasing the schooner Pauline from the payment of the commonwealth's claim to any fine imposed for an alleged violation of the inspection laws.

        An act for the relief of Thomas Nichols.

        A communication was received from the senate, as follows:

IN SENATE, April 4, 1861.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act granting rights of way to mining and manufacturing companies in this commonwealth, No. 266, with an amendment.

        And they have agreed to a resolution authorizing pay to commissioners appointed to audit and pay expenses incurred by the invasion at Harpers Ferry, for services rendered by them.

        In which amendment and resolution they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.


        The resolution communicated from the senate and the amendment to the bill were agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. CAPERTON,

        Resolved, that the thanks of the house of delegates be tendered to O. M. CRUTCHFIELD, for the dignity, ability and impartiality with which he has presided over its deliberations during the present session.

        Resolved, that the thanks of this house be tendered to WILLIAM F. GORDON, clerk, WILLIAM E. WORD, sergeant at arms, H. D. BURRUSS and RO. W. BURKE, doorkeepers of this house, for the prompt and efficient manner in which they have discharged the duties of their respective offices.


Page 289

        On motion of Mr. WELCH,

        Resolved, that leave be granted to withdraw from the files of the house the memorial and papers from citizens of Kanawha and Fayette counties, praying the formation of a new county out of parts of Kanawha and Fayette, presented at the session of 1859-60.

        Mr. SEDDON submitted the following resolution:

        Resolved by the general assembly, that the governor be and he is hereby authorized and directed to cause the inmates of the penitentiary to be employed in improving the penitentiary buildings, by enlargement or otherwise, so far as the same can be done consistently with the manufacturing interest of the institution; and that the governor also be requested to apply the proceeds of the labor of convicts to aid in conducting operations of the penitentiary.

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Ordered, that Mr. SEDDON carry the same to the senate, and request their concurrence.

        Subsequently, a message was received from the senate, that they had agreed to the joint resolution.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. JOHNSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate was ready to adjourn until the first Monday in December next.

        Ordered, that Mr. YERBY inform the senate that the house of delegates were ready on their part to adjourn sine die.

        On motion of Mr. YERBY, the house adjourned sine die.

<


Page 291

ERRATA.

        On page 4, line 7 from bottom, insert:

        Mr. Robertson's Resolutions--Submitted January 7, 1861.

        1. Resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that the basis of all just government is the "consent of the governed," and that such consent is the sanction of free, as force is the sanction of despotic, governments.

        2. That where this consent exists, there, whatever the form of the government, is liberty, and where it is wanting, there, whatever the form of the government, is tyranny.

        3. That this fundamental principle was set forth, and stands forever consecrated, in the declaration of our independence made by the congress of 1776, speaking the almost unanimous voice of the United Colonies; that on it, and for acts done by the British government in derogation of it, they, then the acknowledged subjects of Great Britain, threw off that government, and that on the truth of it they rested their appeal "to the opinions of mankind" for the justification of what they did; and that on the recognition of that truth, that justification rests now, and must rest forever.

        4. That this principle is embodied or necessarily implied in all the state constitutions, as well as in that of the federal government, and as to the former, is habitually acted on in making such changes in them as the people think proper, and was never more strikingly asserted, nor the recognition of it more conspicuously exhibited, than in the case of that part of the state of New York, now known as Vermont, declaring and establishing, with the consent of the former, a separate and independent government.

        5. Resolved, that the encouragement and sympathy heretofore extended by the government and people of the United States to Greece and to the South American states--and by the people of the United States to Ireland, to Hungary, and at this moment to Italy, and always to every nation engaged in a struggle for the right of self-government; the avowed sympathy of the British government and people with the people of Italy in their late successful efforts to assert for themselves that right; and the course of France, if not actually aiding, yet refusing to intervene against the popular movements then and still in progress there to the same end; are all but tributes to the truth of the great underlying principle, that the sole foundation of all legitimate government is "the consent of the governed."

        6. That this principle gives no countenance to insurrection or rebellion, but only recognizes the important truth, that it is no less a blunder than a crime to confound the rising of a whole people with the outbreaks of a mob.

        7. That conceding the general right of the federal government, as of all governments, to enforce its laws, yet it may well be questioned whether the exercise of that right was contemplated in a case where the resistance offered being under the authority of a state, the attempt to forcibly execute the laws would seem nothing short of war; and, supposing the


Page 292

strict right to be possessed, we yet reprobate and denounce the exercise of it, as not called for by any necessity, and as opposed to the spirit alike of liberal principles and of an enlightened humanity, in the actual circumstances that exist.

        8. That in like manner conceding to all parties to a compact, the coequal right to judge of its infraction, and to coerce the performance of it, and that in the judgment of other parties to the compact, South Carolina has had no just cause to withdraw herself from the obligations of it, yet resort to such coercion is always a matter of sound discretion, and should not be had, except for causes that would justify war on an independent power; and this assembly declares it as its opinion that no such causes exist, in the present case, as demand, or would justify, a resort to arms.

        9. That this assembly declares it to be its opinion that the general authority to execute the laws of the United States ought not to be attempted by force in the case that has arisen; and that that government is not a party to the compact out of which it sprung, and has not, in that character, the right to coerce performance by a state; yet as either or both of these powers might be exerted with the concurrence and acquiescence of the parties forming the compact, this assembly feels called on and justified by the exigency of the case, to declare the total denial and dissent of the state of Virginia, as one of the parties, to any resort to force, in the existing state of things, by the said government of the United States against the state of South Carolina, for either of these objects; and that of such a conflict, the most vital interests of this state forbid that she should be an unconcerned or inactive spectator.

        10. That we deprecate and condemn the referring any questions of conflicting rights between the federal government and any seeding state, arising out of the acts of the authorities of either, to the arbitrament of force, as being not only uncalled for by any necessity--but as being calculated, from causes extraneous to such supposed conflicts of rights, and which are of paramount consideration to them, to involve the whole country in the calamities of war.

        11. That these causes are to be mainly found in the denied equality of the rights of the slaveholder and the non-slaveholder, involved in the proposed partial exclusion of the former from the common territories--in the breach of the plighted faith of some of the non-slaveholding states and people, by acts and laws designed to obstruct the recovery of escaped slaves--by avowed designs to shape the policy, and use the machinery of the general government so as to effect, by indirection, the extinction of slavery, which it is conceded that government cannot rightfully or directly interfere with--and by other acts importing a denial of our rights of property in our slaves, and of our exclusive control over slavery as a domestic institution--and these are causes of complaint common to all the slaveholding people and states, and are in plain violation of the spirit and terms of our compact of union.

        12. That, while counseling peace and desiring union, and willing to make all honorable efforts to preserve both, we yet declare that the former must be hazarded, and the latter made impossible to be preserved, except by the removal of these just causes of complaint.

        13. That we think it the duty therefore, of the defaulting states and people of the north, if they would preserve peace and union--first to repair on their part the wrongs they have done us, and fulfill their own disregarded obligations, out of which all the difficulties between the north and the south have sprung, before they can be justified for demanding or enforcing against others, a like observance of their engagements; and if they shall decline or refuse to do this, then to arrange for the peaceable separation, on just terms, of parties who it will then, unhappily, have been found, cannot continue to live together harmoniously in union.


Page 293

MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF DELEGATES, 1861.

        
Braxton, Nicholas and Clay, Joseph A. Alderson.
Franklin, M. R. Allen.
Botetourt and Craig, John T. Anderson.
Lewis, Wm. E. Arnold.
Mercer, James M. Bailey.
Loudoun, Charles B. Ball.
Logan, Boone and Wyoming, St. C. Ballard.
Culpeper, James Barbour.
Mecklenburg, William Baskervill.
Roanoke, Colin Bass.
Upshur, Benjamin Bassel.
Page, Reuben P. Bell.
Loudoun, R. M. Bentley.
Norfolk City, D. T. Bisbie.
Dinwiddie, Albert J. Boisseau.
Prince Edward, Richard A. Booker.
Wood, Arthur I. Boreman.
Monongalia, Andrew Brown.
Bedford, Edward C. Burks.
Monroe, Allen T. Caperton.
Alleghany and Bath, Samuel Carpenter.
Lancaster and Northumberland, Addison L. Carter.
Hardy, John H. Cassin.
Monroe, A. A. Chapman.
Fauquier, William L. Childs.
Augusta, Bolivar Christian.
Halifax, D. A. Claiborne.
Cumberland and Powhatan, Creed D. Coleman.
Petersburg, Charles F. Collier.
Preston, R. E. Cowan.
Randolph and Tucker, Samuel Crane.
Amelia and Nottoway, Charles A. Crump.
Spotsylvania, O. M. Crutchfield.
Campbell, Robert L. Davis.
Russell, Wise and Buchanan, Wm. J. Dickenson.
Morgan, J. S. Duckwall.
Ohio, D. M. Edgington.
Franklin, W. H. Edwards.
Matthews and Middlesex, Andrew B. Evans.
Wayne, James Ferguson.
Wetzel, James P. Ferrill.
Highland, Wm. W. Fleming.
Chesterfield, C. T. Friend.
Jackson and Roane, Daniel Frost.
Essex and King & Queen, Thomas W. Garrett.
Hampshire, D. Gibson.
Jefferson, John T. Gibson.
Pittsylvania, John Gilmer.
Russell, Wise and Buchanan, C. H. Gilmer.
Floyd, Isaac Goodycoontz.
Wythe, Jos. J. Graham.
Rockingham, Charles Grattan.
Mason, J. M. Hanly.
Rockingham, Reuben N. Harrison.
Marion, Thomas S. Haymond.
Rappahannock, Walter B. Hackley.
Harrison, John S. Hoffman.
Scott and Wise, Henry W. Holdway.
Washington, George W. Hopkins.
Fairfax, O. W. Huntt.
Louisa, John Hunter.
Princess Anne, Edward James.
Richmond Co. and Westmoreland, J. B. Jett.
Barbour, Wm. Johnson.
Appomattox, Crawford H. Jones.
Gloucester, Warner T. Jones.
Frederick, M. R. Kaufman.
Pittsylvania, E. F. Keen.
Pendleton, James B. Kee.
Madison, James L. Kemper.
Fauquier, John W. Kincheloe.
Ohio, John Knote.
Gilmer, Wirt and Calhoun, Absalom Knotts.
Carroll, Wm. Kyle.
Campbell, Joel B. Leftwich.
Jefferson, John J. Locke.
Pocahontas, James T. Lockridge.
Giles, Samuel Lucas.
Greenesville and Sussex, Wm. T. Lundy.
Prince William, Seymour Lynn.
Albemarle, B. H. Magruder.
Brunswick, R. M. Mallory.
Norfolk County, J. G. Martin.
Nelson, Thomas Martin.
Henry, Wm. Martin.
Augusta, Nathaniel Massie.
Greenbrier, Mason Matthews.
Cabell, Henry B. Maupin.
Grayson, Samuel McCamant.
Augusta, J. Marshall McCue.
Botetourt and Craig, James McDowell.
Charlotte, S. F. McGehee.
Henrico, Z. S. McGruder.
Buckingham, Philip W. McKinney.
Alexandria, Lewis McKenzie.
Halifax, G. C. Medley.
Lee and Wise, Frederick S. Miles.
Lee, Scott and Wise, David Miller.
Shenandoah, John R. Miller,
Berkeley, Wm. H. Mong.
Montgomery, Rice D. Montague.
Fayette and Raleigh, James Montgomery.
Clarke, Benjamin Morgan.
Marshall, James D. Morris.
Richmond City, Gustavus A. Myers.
Fluvanna, Robert E. Nelson.
Hanover, Wm. B. Newton.
Lunenburg, John Orgain.


Page 294

Rockbridge, Andrew Patterson.
Pleasants and Ritchie, Lewis A. Phelps.
Brooke and Hancock, G. McC. Porter.
Washington, A. R. Preston.
Southampton, Joshua Pretlow.
Marion, Alpheus Pritchard.
Doddridge and Tyler, S. P. F. Randolph.
Rockbridge, S. McD. Reid.
Ohio, Nathaniel Richardson.
Nansemond, Nathaniel Riddick.
Richmond City, Wyndham Robertson.
Berkeley, R. K. Robinson.
Prince George and Surry, George E. Rives.
Goochland, John C. Rutherfoord.
Richmond City, D. J. Saunders.
Preston, John Scott.
King George and Stafford, John Seddon.
Elizabeth City, Warwick, York & Williamsburg, Joseph Segar.
Smyth, Charles D. Shannon.
Hampshire, Robert B. Sherrard.
Shenandoah, Wm. M. Sibert.
Taylor, James K. Smith.
Kanawha, Isaac N. Smith.
Amherst, Henry Smith.
Patrick, John Staples.
Warren, Samuel W. Thomas.
Putnam, John J. Thompson.
King William, H. B. Tomlin.
Caroline, George Tyler.
Rockingham, Samuel T. Walker.
Monongalia, John Wallace.
Frederick, George W. Ward.
Accomack, Arthur Watson.
Pulaski, Edwin Watson.
Norfolk County, A. S. Watts.
Kanawha, Isaiah A. Welch.
Harrison, J. B. West.
Isle of Wight, James L. Wilson.
Charles City, James City and New Kent, J. M. Willcox.
Bedford, G. A. Wingfield.
Tazewell, J. M. Witten.
Albemarle, Thomas Wood.
Greene and Orange, John L. Woolfolk.
Northampton, George T. Yerby.


Page 295

INDEX.

  • ABBOT, WILSON.
    • Resolution for relief of securities of, . . . . . 136
    • No. 228, bill therefor, . . . . . 149
  • ABINGDON.
    • Resolution for branch bank at, . . . . . 137
  • ABINGDON AND TENNESSEE TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • No. 226, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 148
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 243
  • ABOLITION PUBLICATIONS.
    • Resolution concerning the suppression of, . . . . . 75
  • ACTS OF ASSEMBLY.
    • S. B. 214, as to printing of, . . . . . 248
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 271
  • ADJOURNMENT.
    • Resolution for, . . . . . 69
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 98
    • Resolution for, sine die, . . . . . 149
    • Resolution from senate, . . . . . 179
    • Motion to take up resolution for, . . . . . 189
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 189
    • Resolution for final, . . . . . 213
    • Resolution for, taken up; vote thereon, . . . . . 216
    • Resolution amended and agreed to; vote thereon, . . . . . 216
    • Resolution for, agreed to, . . . . . 220
    • Resolution for, changed; time of, . . . . . 250
    • Resolution indefinitely postponed, . . . . . 254
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 254
    • Resolution for adjournment, . . . . . 263
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 263
    • Final, . . . . . 289
  • ADJUTANT GENERAL.
    • S. B. 73, giving compensation to, . . . . . 196
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 227-8
  • AID SAVINGS BANK.
    • No. 207, bill therefor, . . . . . 130
    • Passed, . . . . . 242
    • Title amended, . . . . . 242
    • See Tobacco savings bank. (Passed senate.)
  • ALABAMA.
    • Communication from president of convention of, . . . . . 68
  • ALBEMARLE AND FLUVANNA.
    • Resolution concerning boundary lines between, . . . . . 107
    • No. 178, bill as to, . . . . . 112
    • Passed, . . . . . 116
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 173
  • ALEXANDRIA, LOUDOUN AND HAMPSHIRE RAIL ROAD COMPANY.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 39
  • ALEXANDRIA, MOUNT VERNON AND ACCOTINK TURNPIKE CO.
    • S. B. 91, concerning, . . . . . 142
    • Passed, . . . . . 142
  • ALEXANDRIA AND WASHINGTON RAIL ROAD.
    • S. B. 61, to incorporate, . . . . . 121
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 148
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 256
  • ALLEGHANY COLLEGE.
    • Petition of trustees of, . . . . . 6
    • No. 20, bill for loan to, . . . . . 22
    • Rejected, and vote thereon, . . . . . 251
  • ALLEN, JOHN H.
    • Resolution for relief of securities of, . . . . . 7, . . . . . 127
  • AMERICAN AGENCY.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 89
    • S. B. 84, to incorporate, . . . . . 206
    • Motion to postpone indefinitely, and vote thereon, . . . . . 219
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 235
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 235
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 253
  • AMHERST AND NELSON WOOLEN COMPANY.
    • S. B. 90, to incorporate, . . . . . 121
    • Passed, . . . . . 135
  • AMBLER OIL AND COAL COMPANY.
    • S. B. 57, to incorporate, . . . . . 98
    • Passed, . . . . . 98
  • ANDERSON, WILLIAM.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 127
  • ANNUAL TABULAR STATEMENTS FROM BANKS.
    • Resolution as to repeal of law as to, . . . . . 136
  • ANSWERS IN EQUITY.
    • No. 161, bill as to, . . . . . 96
  • ANTHONY, ABNER, SEN.
    • S. B. 117, for relief of, . . . . . 180

Page 296

  • APPOMATTOX COUNTY.
    • Resolution for purchase of arms by, . . . . . 37
    • Petition therefor, . . . . . 37
  • APPROPRIATIONS.
    • No. 197, bill making, . . . . . 125
    • Taken up, . . . . . 226
    • Amended, and vote thereon, . . . . . 226
    • Amended, and vote thereon, . . . . . 232
    • Passed, . . . . . 246
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 246
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 256
    • Amendments concurred in, . . . . . 263
  • APPROPRIATIONS TO INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS.
    • Resolution to suspend unexpended, . . . . . 44
  • ARMING THE COUNTIES.
    • S. B. 19, therefor, . . . . . 61
    • Read first and second times, . . . . . 61
    • Amendments thereto, . . . . . 61
    • Amendment by Mr. Bass, and vote thereon, . . . . . 61-2
    • Bill passed, . . . . . 62
  • ARMORY COMMISSIONERS.
    • Resolution as to accounts of, . . . . . 60
    • Resolution asking information from, . . . . . 185
  • ARMORY.
    • Communication from superintendent of, . . . . . 144
    • Resolution concerning manufacture of arms at, . . . . . 243
    • Joint resolution amended and passed, . . . . . 266
    • Communication of George W. Randolph, . . . . . 267
  • ARMS.
    • Resolution for equitable division, . . . . . 13
  • ARMS (MOVEMENT OF), ETC.
    • Resolution by Mr. Robertson, . . . . . 245
    • Amendment submitted, . . . . . 245
    • Amendment to amendment, . . . . . 245
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 245
    • Vote on amendment, . . . . . 246-7
    • Resolution agreed to, vote thereon, . . . . . 247
    • Resolution agreed to by senate with amendments, . . . . . 252
    • Resolution with amendments taken up, . . . . . 254
    • Amendment, . . . . . 254
    • Indefinite postponement moved, and vote thereon, . . . . . 255
    • Resolution taken up, . . . . . 256
    • Motion to postpone, and vote thereon, . . . . . 256
    • Amendment agreed to, . . . . . 257
    • Motion to adjourn; vote, . . . . . 257
    • Point of order, . . . . . 257
    • Overruled, . . . . . 258
    • Appeal, . . . . . 258
    • Call of house, . . . . . 258
    • Members absent, . . . . . 258
    • Motion for adjournment; vote, . . . . . 258
    • Members excused, . . . . . 258
    • Sergeant at arms directed to summons members, . . . . . 259
    • Decision of chair overruled, . . . . . 259
    • Amendment by Mr. Yerby, . . . . . 259
    • Rejected, and vote thereon, . . . . . 260
    • Motion to adjourn, . . . . . 260
    • Resolution amended and agreed to, . . . . . 260
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 261
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 264
  • ARNOLDSBURG AND SANDY TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • No. 17, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 19
  • ARSENAL.
    • Resolution for, in northwestern Virginia, . . . . . 11
    • Resolution for, at Danville, . . . . . 12
  • ASBURY.
    • Resolution to incorporate town of, . . . . . 113
    • No. 199, bill therefor, . . . . . 129
    • Passed, . . . . . 224
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 230
  • ATKINS, ENOCH.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 5
    • No. 24, bill for relief of, . . . . . 22
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 210
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 230
  • ATTORNEYS FOR COMMONWEALTH.
    • S. B. 72, concerning, . . . . . 134
  • ATTORNEY FOR OHIO COUNTY.
    • No. 78, bill to increase compensation of, . . . . . 59
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 240-41
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 248
  • AUDITOR OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS.
    • Communication from, . . . . . 164
  • AUDITOR'S OFFICE.
    • S. B. 47, increasing number of clerks in, . . . . . 134
  • AVIS, JOHN.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 137
    • No. 221, bill therefor, . . . . . 144
  • BALTIMORE AND FREDERICKSBURG STEAM BOAT COMPANY.
    • S. B. 119, to incorporate, . . . . . 142
    • Passed, . . . . . 142
  • BANKS.
    • Resolution concerning quarterly statements of, . . . . . 57
    • Resolution as to inexpediency of incorporating new, . . . . . 56
    • Resolution for repeal of act in relation to specie payments by, . . . . . 7
  • BANK CAPITAL.
    • No. 196, bill for bonus on, . . . . . 125
  • BANK AT ALEXANDRIA.
    • S. B. 116, to authorize certain banks to establish branch at, . . . . . 147
  • BANK OF CHARLESTON.
    • No. 149, bill to amend charter of, . . . . . 89
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 213

Page 297

  • BANK OF COMMERCE.
    • S. B. 122, to amend charter of, . . . . . 161
    • Passed, . . . . . 161
  • BANK OF COMMONWEALTH.
    • S. B. 42, to amend charter of, . . . . . 92
    • Passed, . . . . . 101
  • BANK DIRECTORS.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 50
  • BANK OF HOWARDSVILLE.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 28
    • No. 115, bill therefor, . . . . . 79
    • Passed, . . . . . 113
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 124
  • BANK AT LEBANON.
    • Adverse report to establishment of, . . . . . 130
  • BANK IN LIBERTY.
    • S. B. 55, establishing branch, . . . . . 121
    • Rejected, . . . . . 137
  • BANK OF MORGANTOWN.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 24
  • BANK NOTES IN TREASURER'S OFFICE.
    • S. B. 225, authorizing destruction of, . . . . . 211
    • Passed, . . . . . 211
  • BANK OF THE OLD DOMINION.
    • S. B. 276, to amend charter of, . . . . . 268
    • Passed, . . . . . 269
  • BANK OF PARKERSBURG.
    • S. B. 227, to incorporate, . . . . . 207
    • Passed, . . . . . 208
  • BANK OF PHILIPPI.
    • S. B. 42, to amend charter of, . . . . . 92
    • Passed, . . . . . 101
  • BANK IN PORTSMOUTH.
    • Resolution for, . . . . . 36
    • Adverse report to establishment of, . . . . . 86
  • BANK IN RANDOLPH COUNTY.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 46
  • BANK OF RAVENSWOOD.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 32
    • No. 148, bill to amend charter of, . . . . . 89
  • BANKS (RELIEF OF).
    • No. 77, bill for relief of, . . . . . 56
    • Read first time, . . . . . 56
    • Taken up, . . . . . 86
    • Motion to recommit; vote, . . . . . 87
    • Ryder, and vote thereon, . . . . . 87
    • Bill passed, . . . . . 87
    • Bill to be returned, . . . . . 94
    • Bill returned from senate, . . . . . 95
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 95
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 152
    • Amendment of senate disagreed to, . . . . . 154
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 154
    • Bill laid on table, . . . . . 154
    • Proceedings thereon, . . . . . 166-7-8
    • Bill returned from senate, . . . . . 169
    • Amended, . . . . . 169
    • Amendment by Mr. Keen; vote, . . . . . 170
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 170
  • BANK OF RICHMOND.
    • Resolution for amendment of charter of, . . . . . 5
    • No. 116, bill therefor, . . . . . 79
    • Passed, . . . . . 224
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 230
  • BANK OF SCOTTSVILLE.
    • Resolution as to amendment of charter of, . . . . . 33
    • No. 114, bill therefor, . . . . . 79
    • Passed, . . . . . 120
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 173
  • BANK OF THE VALLEY.
    • Resolution concerning branch of, in Richmond, . . . . . 69
    • No. 129, bill amending act concerning branch of, . . . . . 84
    • Passed, . . . . . 230
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 243
    • No. 133, bill to extend charter of, . . . . . 84
    • Passed, . . . . . 215
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 236
  • BANK OF VIRGINIA.
    • No. 131, bill to extend charter of, . . . . . 84
    • Passed, . . . . . 215
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 236
  • BANK OF WHEELING.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 145
  • BARBOUR, JAMES.
    • Excused from service on finance committee, . . . . . 11
  • BASTABLE, A. M.
    • Adverse report to petition of, See Upshur. . . . . . 195
  • BATES, E. B.
    • Resolution concerning commissioner of Lee, . . . . . 97
  • BATH.
    • Resolution to amend charter of town of, . . . . . 82
    • No. 121, bill therefor, . . . . . 83
    • Passed, . . . . . 113
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 138
  • BATTALION IN ALBEMARLE.
    • S. B. 157, to organize, . . . . . 253
    • Passed, . . . . . 253
  • BEAR, A. J.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 8
  • BELLEVILLE AND WILLIAMSPORT TURNPIKE.
    • S. B. 467, withdrawn and referred, . . . . . 47
    • No. 177, bill concerning, . . . . . 107
  • BERKELEY BORDER GUARDS ARMORY COMPANY.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 7
    • No. 22, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 22

Page 298

    • Passed, . . . . . 112
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 182
  • BERKELEY SPRINGS SAVINGS BANK.
    • No. 86, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 59
    • Bill passed, . . . . . 119
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 124
  • BERRYVILLE AND CHARLESTOWN TURNPIKE.
    • Resolution as to change of charter of, . . . . . 165
    • Bill therefor, . . . . . 165
    • Passed, . . . . . 271
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 277
  • BETHANY.
    • Resolution to amend charter of town of, . . . . . 27
    • Petition therefor, . . . . . 27
    • No. 33, bill therefor, . . . . . 31
    • Passed, . . . . . 116
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 138
  • BEVERLEY AND MORGANTOWN ROAD.
    • No. 169, bill as to, . . . . . 99
  • BIG WHEELING CREEK AND PENNSYLVANIA LINE TURNPIKE CO.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 30
  • BILL (A SLAVE).
    • S. B. 260, for pardon of, . . . . . 268
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 269
  • BIBB, R. F. & D. G.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 100
  • BIRTHS, MARRIAGES AND DEATHS.
    • No. 96, bill concerning, . . . . . 68
    • Passed, . . . . . 175
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 198
    • Amendments agreed to, . . . . . 199
  • BLACKSBURG, FINCASTLE AND CATAWBA CREEK TURNPIKE CO.
    • Resolution as to change of charter of, . . . . . 27
    • No. 182, bill as to, . . . . . 182
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 218
    • Title amended, . . . . . 218
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 223
  • BLACK LICK AND PLASTER BANK TURNPIKE.
    • Petition for extension of, . . . . . 37
    • No. 72, bill therefor, . . . . . 56
    • S. B. 170, amending charter of, . . . . . 196
    • Passed, . . . . . 199
  • BLACK'S AND WHITE'S RAIL ROAD.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 29-30
    • No. 117, bill therefor, . . . . . 81
  • BLANCH, W. H.
    • Resolution for relief of securities of, . . . . . 8
    • No. 63, bill therefor, . . . . . 48
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 122-3
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 173
  • BLAND (COUNTY OF).
    • No. 69, bill to establish, . . . . . 56
    • Passed, . . . . . 178
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 178-9
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 250
    • Amendments agreed to, . . . . . 254
  • BOLEY, PITMAN.
    • Petition for relief of, . . . . . 61
    • Adverse report, . . . . . 162
  • BOOKS OF MILITARY INSTRUCTION.
    • No. 210, bill providing for, . . . . . 135
  • BOOTH, M. G.
    • S. B. 27, for relief of, . . . . . 152
    • Passed with amendments, and vote thereon, . . . . . 210
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 213
  • BOND, JAMES A.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 31
  • BORDER COUNTIES.
    • Resolution as to arming the, . . . . . 23
  • BOTETOURT COUNTY.
    • Petition for change of circuit courts in, . . . . . 170
    • Proceedings of public meeting in, . . . . . 13
    • Motion to enter upon journal, . . . . . 13
    • For resolutions, &c. see documents.
  • BOYD, RICHARD.
    • Resolution for relief of estate of, . . . . . 146
  • BOWYER, GEORGE C.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 44
    • Adverse report, . . . . . 153
  • BRANCH BANK AT JEFFERSONVILLE.
    • S. B. 113, establishing, . . . . . 164
    • Passed, . . . . . 25
  • BRAXTON COUNTY.
    • Resolution as to portion of, to be attached to Gilmer, . . . . . 57
    • Petition therefor, . . . . . 57
  • BREADSTUFFS.
    • Resolution as to repeal of license to sell, . . . . . 32
    • Adverse report thereto, . . . . . 68
  • BRIDGE.
    • Resolution for, across Little Kanawha, . . . . . 74
    • Resolution for, across Walker's creek, . . . . . 100
  • BRIGADE INSPECTORS.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 28
  • BROOKE AND HANCOCK.
    • Resolution as to roads and bridges in, . . . . . 131
    • No. 276, bill therefor, . . . . . 272
    • Passed, . . . . . 272
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 277
  • BROOKE COUNTY.
    • Proceedings of public meeting in, . . . . . 45
  • BROWN, DIXON.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 180

Page 299

  • BROWN'S GAP TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • No. 92, bill to amend charter of, . . . . . 68
    • Passed, . . . . . 215
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 220
  • BROMER, HIRAM.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 11
  • BROWNING, REESE.
    • S. B. 212, for relief of securities of, . . . . . 206
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 207
  • BUNTING, THOMAS C.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 9
    • Adverse report to petition of, . . . . . 68
  • BURNING SPRING AND OIL LINE TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • S. B. 220, incorporating; passed, . . . . . 187
  • BURNING SPRING AND OIL LINE RAIL ROAD COMPANY.
    • S. B. 193, to incorporate, . . . . . 198
    • Passed, . . . . . 200
  • BURK, WASHINGTON.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 40
  • BURKE, R W.
    • Vote of thanks to, as second doorkeeper, . . . . . 288
  • BURRUSS, H. D.
    • Vote of thanks to, as first doorkeeper, . . . . . 288
  • BURT, HENRY POTTER, AND OTHERS.
    • S. B. 274, to authorize them to hold certain land, . . . . . 269
    • Passed, . . . . . 275
  • CABELL COUNTY PETROLEUM COMPANY.
    • S. B. 257, incorporating, . . . . . 268
    • Passed, . . . . . 269
  • CACAPON AND NORTH BRANCH TURNPIKE.
    • No. 89, bill to transfer to Hampshire county, . . . . . 68
    • S. B. 236, transferring, &c. . . . . . 220
    • Amended, and vote thereon, . . . . . 220
    • Amendment agreed to by senate, . . . . . 226
  • CALDWELL, JOSEPH.
    • No. 156, bill to exempt lands of, from taxation, . . . . . 95
  • CALENDAR.
    • Resolution for, . . . . . 100
  • CALL OF HOUSE.
    • Members absent, . . . . . 156
    • Further proceedings dispensed with, . . . . . 156
    • Members noted as absent, . . . . . 193
    • Further proceedings dispensed with, . . . . . 193
  • CAMERON (TOWN OF).
    • No. 21, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 22
    • Passed, . . . . . 113
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 124
  • CAMPBELL, JOHN L.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 70
  • CAMPBELL, J. W.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 7
    • No. 10, bill fixing mode of settlement with, . . . . . 17
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 103
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 180
  • CAPITOL.
    • Resolution concerning painting of, . . . . . 86
  • CAPON SPRINGS COMPANY.
    • Petition for incorporation of, . . . . . 13
  • CAPPER SPRINGS COMPANY.
    • No. 34, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 31
    • Passed, . . . . . 116
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 173
  • CARRIER, JESSE.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 165
  • CARROLL COUNTY.
    • No. 230, bill to annex part of, to Grayson, . . . . . 153
  • CARROLL MINING AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
    • No. 229, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 149
    • Passed, . . . . . 215
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 264
    • Amendments agreed to, . . . . . 265
  • CARSCADON, JAMES, ET AL.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 32
  • CASEY, CHARITY.
    • S. B. 20, for relief of, . . . . . 85
    • Passed, . . . . . 86
  • CECIL, WITTEN, ET AL.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 80
  • CENTRAL BANK OF VIRGINIA.
    • Petition for renewal of charter, . . . . . 137
    • No. 223, bill to extend charter of, . . . . . 153
    • Passed, . . . . . 218-19
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 237
  • CENTRAL SAVINGS BANK OF THE CITY OF RICHMOND.
    • S. B. 222, to incorporate, . . . . . 264
    • Passed, . . . . . 265
  • CHAMBERS, ROBERT.
    • S. B. 175, for relief of sureties of, . . . . . 198
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 200
  • CHANCELLOR, THOMAS.
    • S. B. 168, allowing, to erect wharf, . . . . . 198
    • Passed, . . . . . 200
  • CHANGE OF COURTS.
    • S. B. 2, for change of circuit courts of Henrico, &c. . . . . . 35
  • CHAPMAN, RICHARD (MAJOR).
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 46

Page 300

    • Petition of, . . . . . 131-2
    • Adverse report, . . . . . 135
  • CHARLESTON.
    • No. 155, bill to amend charter of, . . . . . 95
    • Passed, . . . . . 214
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 220
  • CHARLESTON AND ELK RIVER ROAD.
    • Resolution as to incorporation of, . . . . . 45
  • CHARLOTTE COUNTY.
    • Resolution to authorize, to arm volunteers, &c. . . . . . 44
  • CHATHAM HILL.
    • No. 255, bill for sale of lot at, . . . . . 178
  • CHESTERFIELD CAR, LOCOMOTIVE AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
    • S. B. 108, to incorporate, . . . . . 147
    • Passed, . . . . . 214
  • CHRISTIANSBURG.
    • Resolution to incorporate town of, . . . . . 28
    • No. 35, bill therefor, . . . . . 31
    • Passed, . . . . . 116
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 198
  • CHURCH IN PORTSMOUTH.
    • No. 71, bill for deed of trust by, . . . . . 56
    • Passed, . . . . . 116
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 134
  • CHURCH LOT IN HALIFAX.
    • Resolution for sale of, . . . . . 108
    • No. 208, bill therefor, . . . . . 130
  • CITIZENS INSURANCE COMPANY.
    • Resolution to incorporate, . . . . . 103
    • No. 183, bill therefor, . . . . . 115
  • CLAIBORNE, L. (DECEASED).
    • Resolution for relief of heirs of, . . . . . 29
  • CLARKSBURG AND WHEELING TURNPIKE.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 62
    • No. 93, bill to amend charter of, . . . . . 68
  • CLAY AND KANAWHA.
    • Resolution as to boundary between, . . . . . 205
  • CLERGY.
    • Resolution to invite, to open sessions with prayer, . . . . . 89
  • CLERKS OF COURTS.
    • Resolution as to compensation of, . . . . . 131
  • CLERK OF THE PENITENTIARY.
    • No. 190, bill to increase salary of, . . . . . 119
    • See Petition of Jones.
  • CLERKS OF SENATE AND HOUSE OF DELEGATES.
    • Resolution for compensation to, . . . . . 90
    • Resolution for compensation to, . . . . . 234
    • Committee, . . . . . 234
    • No. 274, bill therefor, . . . . . 234
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 249
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 256
  • CLINE, JOSEPH.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 31
  • COAL BANKS.
    • Resolution as to rights of way from, . . . . . 132
  • COAL OIL MANUFACTURING CO.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 26-7
  • COAL AND OIL COMPANY OF BRAXTON COUNTY.
    • S. B. 176, to incorporate, . . . . . 198
    • Passed, . . . . . 200
  • COAST DEFENCES.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 13
  • COCHRAN, J. H.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 69
    • Adverse report to petition of, . . . . . 89
  • CODE OF VIRGINIA.
    • Resolution as to expenses of publication of, . . . . . 36
    • S. B. 80, to pay for, . . . . . 129
    • Amended, passed, and votes thereon, . . . . . 231-2
    • Amendment agreed to by senate, . . . . . 243
    • Resolution for change in ch. 157, § 18, . . . . . 39
    • Resolution for amending ch. 112, § 63, . . . . . 63
    • No. 68, bill to amend ch. 212, § 11, . . . . . 55
    • Resolution to amend ch. 26, § 20, . . . . . 62
    • Resolution to amend ch. 192, § 45, . . . . . 85
    • S. B. 132, to amend ch. 149, § 1, . . . . . 226
    • Resolution to amend ch. 150, § 6, 7, . . . . . 108
    • No. 238, bill to amend ch. 83, § 45, . . . . . 162
    • Passed, . . . . . 242
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 262
    • Amendments agreed to, . . . . . 262
    • Resolution to amend ch. 38, § 36, . . . . . 70
    • Resolution to amend ch. 200, § 8, . . . . . 75
    • Resolution to amend ch. 61, § 14, . . . . . 79
    • Resolution to amend ch. 101, § 21, . . . . . 80
    • Resolution to amend ch. 178, § 5, . . . . . 149
    • Resolution concerning validity of, . . . . . 47
    • S. B. 138, to amend ch. 61, § 23, . . . . . 190
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 205
    • Amendment agreed to, . . . . . 211
    • No. 253, to amend ch. 198, § 31, . . . . . 178
    • Ch. 198, § 31 amended, . . . . . 267
    • Title amended, . . . . . 267
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 267
    • S. B. 229, to amend ch. 109, § 15, . . . . . 248
    • Passed, . . . . . 255
    • Resolution to repeal sundry sections of ch. 6, . . . . . 150
    • Resolution as to change of 3d and 4th sections of chapters 85 and 95, . . . . . 149
    • Resolution to repeal ch. 206, § 7, . . . . . 147
    • Resolution to amend ch. 191, § 15, . . . . . 137
    • Resolution as to ch. 170, § 3, . . . . . 137
    • Resolution as to ch. 61, . . . . . 101
    • Resolution for repeal of ch. 144, § 9, . . . . . 101
    • Resolution for amending ch. 134, . . . . . 60
    • Resolution to amend ch. 200, § 6, . . . . . 145
    • Adverse report to repealing ch. 144, § 9, . . . . . 130

Page 301

    • Adverse report to amending ch. 200, § 8, . . . . . 130
    • See Ritchie & Dunnavant.
    • No. 104, bill amending ch. 39, as to taxes on collateral inheritances, &c. . . . . . 74
    • No. 198, bill repealing ch. 87, § 21, . . . . . 126
    • No. 76, bill to repeal certain sections of ch. 58, . . . . . 56
    • No. 203, bill to amend ch. 38, § 36, . . . . . 130
    • S. B. 162, to amend ch. 26, § 43, . . . . . 190
    • No. 185, to amend ch. 58, § 29, . . . . . 115
    • No. 151, bill amending ch. 45, § 8, 9, 10, . . . . . 93
  • COERCION OF A STATE.
    • Resolution as to the, . . . . . 4
    • Substitute therefor (see errata), . . . . . 291-2
    • Committee appointed thereon, . . . . . 4
    • Report of committee, . . . . . 9-10
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 10
    • Resolution as to, agreed to by senate, . . . . . 16
  • COIN.
    • Resolution as to, in banks, . . . . . 137
  • COLEMAN, R. S.
    • No. 153, bill for relief of, . . . . . 93
  • COLERAINE MINING AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
    • S. B. 140, to incorporate, . . . . . 157
    • Passed, . . . . . 214
  • COLLATERAL INHERITANCES.
    • No. 104, bill concerning, passed, . . . . . 278
    • See Bank dividends.
  • COLLEGES.
    • Resolution for Code and Acts of Assembly to be sent to, . . . . . 205
    • Resolution concerning appropriations to, . . . . . 115
    • No. 193, bill making appropriations to certain, . . . . . 122
  • COLPORTEURS.
    • Resolution as to exemption of, from taxation, . . . . . 5
  • COMMERCE, MINING AND MANUFACTURES.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 118
    • Committee appointed, . . . . . 118
  • COMMISSIONERS FROM ALABAMA.
    • Credentials of, presented, . . . . . 12
    • Committee appointed to confer with, . . . . . 12
    • Report of committee, . . . . . 35-6
    • Received by the general assembly, . . . . . 42
    • Response to, . . . . . 70
    • Resolution requesting copy of address from, . . . . . 47
  • COMMISSIONERS.
    • Resolution for compensation to, . . . . . 89
    • No. 191, bill for payment of, . . . . . 119
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 172
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 198
    • Amendments agreed to, . . . . . 199
  • COMMISSIONERS OF REVENUE.
    • S. B. 5, as to qualification of, . . . . . 36
    • Passed, . . . . . 42
    • Resolution for increase of compensation to, in certain counties, . . . . . 244
    • Committee, . . . . . 244
    • No. 279, bill therefor, . . . . . 246
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 270
  • COMMITTEES.
    • Vacancies in, filled, . . . . . 15
  • COMMONWEALTH SAVINGS BANK.
    • S. B. 180, to incorporate, . . . . . 198
    • Passed, . . . . . 200
  • COMMONWEALTH.
    • Resolution as to vote of, in internal improvement companies, . . . . . 113
  • COMPENSATION TO TEACHERS.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 127
  • CONAWAY, JOHN.
    • Petition of, referred, . . . . . 36
    • No. 137, bill therefor, . . . . . 86
    • Passed, . . . . . 215
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 220
  • CONDUCTORS OF ELECTIONS.
    • Resolution as to compensation of, . . . . . 33
  • CONDEMNED SLAVES.
    • Governor's message as to, referred, . . . . . 85
    • No. 188, bill providing compensation to, . . . . . 117
  • CONFERENCE OF STATES.
    • Report of commissioners, . . . . . 181
  • CONNELL, JAMES S. ET AL.
    • S. B. 38, for relief of, . . . . . 124
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 240
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 248
  • CONNELLY, JEREMIAH.
    • Resolution for compensation for arresting a lunatic, . . . . . 26
  • CONSTITUTION.
    • Resolution as to 19th clause of 4th article of, . . . . . 31
    • No. 45, bill therefor, . . . . . 42
  • CONVENTION.
    • Resolution for call of, . . . . . 4
    • Motion to reconsider the vote providing committee as to call of, . . . . . 9
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 9
    • Committee appointed, . . . . . 10
    • Leave to sit during sessions, and vote thereon, . . . . . 10-11
    • Vote, bill therefor, . . . . . 15
    • Read first time, . . . . . 15
    • Read second time, and vote thereon, . . . . . 15
    • Motion to amend, and vote thereon, . . . . . 15-16
    • Bill taken up, . . . . . 18
    • Amendment by Mr. Thompson, . . . . . 18
    • Rejected, . . . . . 18
    • Amendment by Mr. Watts, . . . . . 18
    • Amendment to amendment by Mr. Keen, . . . . . 18
    • Bill passed by, . . . . . 18
    • Main question ordered, and vote thereon, . . . . . 20

Page 302

    • Amended, and amendment thereto withdrawn, . . . . . 20
    • Amendment by Mr. Keen, . . . . . 21
    • Amendment to amendment by Mr. Duckwall, . . . . . 21
    • Rejected, . . . . . 21
    • Amendment by Mr. Keen agreed to, . . . . . 21
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 21
    • Motion to suspend rules, and vote thereon, . . . . . 21-2
    • Debate on bill restricted, . . . . . 23
    • Amendment restricting members of legislature from service in, . . . . . 24
    • Agreed to, and vote thereon, . . . . . 24
    • Amendment by Mr. Haymond, . . . . . 25
    • Vote thereon; bill engrossed, . . . . . 25
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 25
    • No. 6, bill passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 30
    • Amendments concurred in, . . . . . 30
    • Resolution for printing act convening, . . . . . 34
    • Resolution for hall for, . . . . . 92
    • Agreed to by house of delegates, . . . . . 93
    • Committee, . . . . . 93
    • Members of, invited to privileged seats, . . . . . 126
    • Tender of hall to; rejected, . . . . . 138
    • Resolution for call of a new, . . . . . 203
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 203
  • COOK, WASHINGTON.
    • Adverse report to petition of, . . . . . 115
  • COOPER, HENRY.
    • No. 56, bill for relief of, . . . . . 48
  • COUPONS (LOST).
    • No. 154, bill as to, . . . . . 93
    • Absolving treasurer from liability, . . . . . 213
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 253
    • Amendments agreed to, . . . . . 253
  • COURTNEY, J. R.
    • S. B. 50, for relief of securities of, . . . . . 134
    • Amended, passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 141
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 144
  • COVE CREEK LEAD, COPPER AND IRON MANUFACTURING CO.
    • S. B. 172, to incorporate, . . . . . 197
    • Passed, . . . . . 199
  • COVINGTON AND OHIO RAIL ROAD.
    • Petition of contractors, . . . . . 63
    • Resolution for information from Board of public works, . . . . . 63
    • No. 171, bill suspending sale of state bonds, &c. . . . . . 102
    • Laid on table, . . . . . 131
    • Amended, and vote thereon, . . . . . 143-4
    • Engrossed, . . . . . 144
    • Rejected, and vote thereon, . . . . . 146
    • Vote reconsidered, . . . . . 146
    • Taken up, . . . . . 163
    • Ryder, . . . . . 163
    • Bill rejected, and vote thereon, . . . . . 163
    • Reconsidered, and vote thereon, . . . . . 163-4
    • Order of day, . . . . . 164
    • Bill concerning, rejected, . . . . . 184
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 184
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 184
    • Reconsidered, and vote thereon, . . . . . 186
    • Engrossed, reconsidered, and amendment submitted, . . . . . 186
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 219
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 263
    • Amendments of senate amended, . . . . . 267
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 273
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 273
    • Appeal from decision of chair, . . . . . 274
    • Chair sustained, . . . . . 274
    • Agreed to by senate, . . . . . 275
  • COX, RICHARD, ET AL.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 79
    • Adverse report to, . . . . . 93
  • CROLLY, HUGH, ET AL.
    • S. B. 10, for relief of, . . . . . 77
    • Passed, . . . . . 78
  • CROWDER, P. B.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 103
    • No. 250, bill therefor, . . . . . 175
  • CROXTON, W. S.
    • S. B. 251, for relief of representative of, . . . . . 264
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 265
  • CRUTCHFIELD, O. M.
    • Vote of thanks to, as speaker, . . . . . 288
  • CULPEPER COUNTY.
    • Proceedings of public meeting in, . . . . . 23
  • CUNNINGHAM, BENJAMIN.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 8
    • No. 181, bill for relief of, . . . . . 112
  • DAMAGES AGAINST SHERIFFS.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 69
  • DANVILLE.
    • Resolution concerning circuit court in, . . . . . 107
    • No. 211, bill therefor, . . . . . 139
    • Passed, . . . . . 171
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 174
    • Petition for chain gang in, . . . . . 69
    • No. 165, bill for better government of, . . . . . 99
    • Passed, . . . . . 241
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 252
  • DANVILLE BANK.
    • S. B. 136, to amend charter of, . . . . . 157
    • Passed, . . . . . 157
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 157-8
  • DAVIS, MOSES.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 69
  • DAVIS, CHARLES C.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 127
  • DAVIS, GEORGE W.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 91
  • DAVIS, WILLIAM F.
    • Committee on finance discharged from petition of administrator of, . . . . . 60

Page 303

  • DAVIS, THOMAS K.
    • Resolution for relief to the securities of, . . . . . 90
    • S. B. 161, for relief of sureties of, . . . . . 194
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 209-10
  • DEAF, DUMB AND BLIND NEGROES.
    • S. B. 114, for amelioration of condition of, . . . . . 175
    • Passed, . . . . . 187
  • DEBATE.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 224
  • DEER.
    • Resolution as to hunting of, in Pendleton, . . . . . 60
  • DEFENCE OF STATE.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 9
    • Resolution for raising money for, . . . . . 11
    • Resolution for raising one million of dollars for, . . . . . 22
    • No. 58, bill appropriating one million for, . . . . . 48
    • Read first time, . . . . . 48
    • Read second time, engrossed, passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 58
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 81
    • Taken up, and amendments of senate amended, . . . . . 91
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 92
    • Amendment agreed to by senate, . . . . . 94
  • DEFAULTING SHERIFFS (SECURITIES OF).
    • No. 146, passed senate with amendments (substitute for bill for relief of Ro. Doss), . . . . . 247
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 249
  • DEFORD, BENJAMIN AND ISAAC.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 12
    • No. 11, bill therefor, . . . . . 17
    • S. B. 7, for relief of, . . . . . 77
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 77-8
  • DELINQUENT SHERIFFS.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 181
    • Resolution from finance committee, . . . . . 182-3
    • Agreed to, and vote thereon, . . . . . 183
    • Amendment by senate to resolution concerning, . . . . . 188
    • Motion to postpone indefinitely, and vote thereon, . . . . . 188
    • Amendment agreed to, . . . . . 188
  • DELINQUENT LANDS.
    • S. B. 149, concerning; passed, . . . . . 190
  • DEPOSIT BANKS.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 28
    • Report from, . . . . . 62
  • DEPREDATIONS, ETC. ON TIDE WATERS.
    • Resolution for leave for bill to amend act as to, . . . . . 45
    • Committee, . . . . . 45
    • No. 53, bill therefor; read first and second times, . . . . . 45
    • Engrossed and passed, . . . . . 64
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 92
    • Amendments agreed to, . . . . . 93
  • DESHAZER, A. W.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 101
    • Adverse report to petition of, . . . . . 125
  • DICKENSON, D. S.
    • S. B. 86, for relief of, . . . . . 164
  • DIRECT TRADE.
    • Committee on, . . . . . 94
    • No. 251, bill to encourage, . . . . . 175
  • DISTRICT FREE SCHOOLS.
    • No. 43, bill concerning, in Jefferson, . . . . . 37
    • Passed, . . . . . 159
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 202
  • DIVIDENDS AND DEPOSITS.
    • Resolution as to unclaimed, . . . . . 145
  • DIVISIONS AND BRIGADES.
    • Resolution for change of, . . . . . 11
    • No. 257, bill concerning, . . . . . 178
    • Passed, . . . . . 214
  • DOGS.
    • Resolution as to owning of, by free negroes in Chesterfield, . . . . . 63
    • No. 120, bill therefor, . . . . . 83
  • DOSS, R. O.
    • Petition of securities of, . . . . . 86
    • No. 146, bill therefor, . . . . . 89
    • Bill for relief of, laid on table, . . . . . 212
    • Substitute therefor, . . . . . 212
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 224
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 224-5
    • Title amended, . . . . . 225
    • See defaulting sheriffs.
  • DRIVER, JOHN W.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 31
  • DRUMMOND, SPENCER, JR.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 149
  • DUGGER, DANIEL.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 166
  • EARLY, JOHN.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 122
  • EASTERN LUNATIC ASYLUM.
    • Resolution as to salary of steward, . . . . . 116
    • Adverse report as to increase of salaries, . . . . . 165
  • EASTER'S MEETING HOUSE.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 70
    • No. 99, bill therefor, . . . . . 73
    • Passed, . . . . . 242
  • EBENEZER ACADEMY.
    • Petition of trustees of, . . . . . 144
    • Resolution concerning sale of, . . . . . 147
    • No. 240, bill concerning, . . . . . 165

Page 304

    • Bill passed, . . . . . 172
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 180
  • EDMONDS, CELIA.
    • S. B. 126, for relief of, . . . . . 157
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 266
  • EDWARDS, EMORY.
    • Resolution for relief of; petition of, . . . . . 57
    • No. 80, bill therefor, . . . . . 59
  • EJECTMENT.
    • Resolution to reduce act of limitations in, . . . . . 46
  • ELECTION PRECINCT.
    • Resolution for change of, in Rappahannock county, . . . . . 33
    • Adverse report to change of, . . . . . 43
    • Resolution for, in Giles county, . . . . . 32
  • ELECTION LAWS.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 105
  • ELK RIVER TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • Resolution for increase of capital stock, . . . . . 29
    • No. 49, bill therefor, . . . . . 43
    • Passed, . . . . . 120
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 128
  • ELK RIVER RAIL ROAD COMPANY.
    • No. 94, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 68
    • Passed, . . . . . 120
  • ELKINS, JOEL.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 136
  • EMANCIPATION OF SLAVES.
    • Resolution concerning the, . . . . . 91
    • No. 224, bill to prevent, by will, . . . . . 147
  • ENGROSSED BILLS.
    • Resolution for withdrawal of, of last session, . . . . . 5
  • ENROLLED BILLS.
    • Committee on, enlarged, . . . . . 149, . . . . . 254
    • Report of committee, . . . . . 204
  • ENTLER, P. A.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 13
  • ENTLER, J. P.
    • Adverse report as to, . . . . . 22
  • ERRONEOUS ASSESSMENTS.
    • No. 84, bill to provide correction of, . . . . . 59
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 105
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 187
    • Amendments amended and agreed to, . . . . . 187
    • Title amended, . . . . . 187
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 194
  • EUBANK, E. M.
    • S. B. 224, for relief of, . . . . . 254
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 262
  • EVENING SESSION.
    • Resolution for, . . . . . 217
    • Taken up, amended, and vote thereon, . . . . . 222
    • Resolution agreed to, and vote thereon, . . . . . 222
  • EXALL, HENRY.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 131
    • No. 220, bill for relief of, . . . . . 144
  • EXCHANGE BANK OF VIRGINIA.
    • No. 134, bill to extend charter of, . . . . . 84
    • Passed, . . . . . 215
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 236
  • EXECUTIONS.
    • Resolution as to property sold under, . . . . . 62, . . . . . 69
    • Resolution for valuation of property under, . . . . . 90
    • Resolution concerning property taken under, . . . . . 118
    • S. B. 54, concerning stay of, . . . . . 102
  • EXEMPTIONS FROM LEVY.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 165
  • FAIRFAX COUNTY.
    • Proceedings of public meeting in, . . . . . 38
  • FARLEY, P. A.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 20
    • No. 25, bill therefor, . . . . . 22
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 152
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 173
  • FARMERS BANK OF VIRGINIA.
    • No. 132, bill to extend charter of, . . . . . 84
    • Passed, . . . . . 215
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 236
  • FARMERS AND MECHANICS INSURANCE COMPANY.
    • Resolution to incorporate, . . . . . 107
    • No. 184, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 115
    • Passed, . . . . . 238
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 248
  • FARMVILLE AND BUCKINGHAM PLANK ROAD COMPANY
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 29
    • S. B. 92, to amend charter of, . . . . . 128
  • FAUQUIER COUNTY.
    • Proceedings of public meeting in, . . . . . 11
  • FAYETTE COAL AND OIL COMPANY.
    • S. B. 58, to incorporate, . . . . . 98
    • Passed, . . . . . 98
  • FAYETTE COUNTY.
    • Resolution as to increase of salary of commissioner of the revenue, . . . . . 40, . . . . . 64
    • Petition concerning commissioner of revenue, . . . . . 70
  • FENCE LAW.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 96
  • FENDALL, T. D.
    • No. 77, bill for relief of, . . . . . 59
  • FERREL, GEORGE.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 166

Page 305

  • FERRIES.
    • Petition as to, by citizens of Harrison county, . . . . . 137
    • Petition as to law of, . . . . . 149
  • FIERI FACIAS.
    • Resolution as to writs of, . . . . . 101
  • FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT.
    • S. B. 275, concerning, . . . . . 268
    • Passed, . . . . . 269
  • FISH.
    • Resolution concerning catching of, . . . . . 79
    • No. 157, bill as to catching, . . . . . 95
    • Passed, . . . . . 113
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 230
  • FITCH, WALKER.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 20
    • No. 32, bill to enslave, . . . . . 30
  • FITZHUGH, MILTON.
    • Resolution for relief of securities of, . . . . . 34
    • No. 213, bill therefor, . . . . . 139
  • FLETCHER, ROWLAND.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 33
  • FLUVANNA COUNTY.
    • Resolution as to expenditure of military fund by, . . . . . 205
    • No. 269, bill therefor, . . . . . 209
    • Passed, . . . . . 248
  • FOREIGN EXPRESS COMPANY.
    • No. 267, bill concerning, . . . . . 195
  • FOREIGN INSURANCE COMPANIES.
    • Resolution for regulation of, . . . . . 5
    • No. 13, bill therefor, . . . . . 19
  • FORTS AND DOCK YARDS.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 32-3
  • FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT.
    • Resolution as to change of terms in, . . . . . 171
    • No. 261, bill therefor, . . . . . 180
  • FOWLKES, P. A., ET AL.
    • S. B. 190, for relief of, . . . . . 202
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 203
  • FRANKFORT.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 34
    • Petition as to, . . . . . 35
    • No. 47, bill therefor, . . . . . 42
    • Passed, . . . . . 116
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 128
  • FRAUDULENT CONVEYANCES.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 166
  • FREDERICKSBURG.
    • S. B. 189, extending limits of, . . . . . 198
    • Passed, . . . . . 200
  • FREE NEGROES.
    • Proceedings of meeting in Kanawha, concerning, . . . . . 23
    • Petition concerning assemblages of, in Petersburg, . . . . . 115
    • Committee on, enlarged, . . . . . 136
    • Committee (see note), . . . . . 138
  • FREE NEGRO CONVICTS.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 137
  • GARDEN, T. J.
    • No. 125, bill for relief of, . . . . . 84
  • GARNISHEE SUMMONSES.
    • Resolution as to, by justices of peace, . . . . . 39, . . . . . 100, . . . . . 145
  • GARTH, WILLIAM.
    • Resolutions in relation to the late, . . . . . 14
  • GEORGIA.
    • Ordinance of secession, &c. . . . . . 88
  • GILMER COUNTY.
    • Proceedings of public meeting in, . . . . . 69
  • GILMER OIL MINING AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
    • No. 163, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 96
    • Passed, . . . . . 120
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 128
  • GILMER AND RITCHIE TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • Resolution for increase of capital of, . . . . . 8
  • GLEN EASTERN TURNPIKE CO.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 90
    • No. 168, bill to amend charter of, . . . . . 99
  • GLENVILLE AND CHARLESTON TURNPIKE.
    • See Arnoldsburg and Sandy turnpike company.
    • No. 17, bill rejected, . . . . . 123
  • GOODSON.
    • Resolution for savings bank at, . . . . . 103
  • GORDON, WILLIAM F., JR.
    • Vote of thanks to, as clerk of house of delegates, . . . . . 288
  • GOSHORN, JACOB.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 31
  • GOVERNOR.
    • Proclamation of, . . . . . 3-4
    • Committee to wait on, . . . . . 4
    • Message of, Doc. No. 1, . . . . . 4
  • GOVERNOR'S HOUSE.
    • No. 182, bill for repairs to, . . . . . 112
  • GRANDSTAFF, J. J.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 6, . . . . . 56
  • GRASSY LICK TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • No. 91, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 68

Page 306

  • GRAY, R. H.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 34
    • Committee of claims discharged from petition of, . . . . . 59
    • Adverse report to petition of, . . . . . 79
  • GROVE, JOHN W.
    • No. 51, bill for relief of, . . . . . 47
  • GUARANTEE OF NOTES.
    • No. 237, bill as to, by savings banks, . . . . . 158
  • GUARD, HENRY.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 20
  • GUSEMAN, JOSEPH.
    • Resolution concerning mill of, . . . . . 126
    • Bill for relief of, . . . . . 227
    • S. B. 272, to rebuild his mill, . . . . . 268
    • Passed, . . . . . 269
  • GUYANDOTTE.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 34
    • No. 101, bill therefor, . . . . . 73
    • Passed, . . . . . 223
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 226
  • HAGAN, JOSEPH.
    • Resolution for relief of; petition of, . . . . . 136
    • Adverse report to petition of, . . . . . 165
  • HAIRSTON, GEORGE.
    • S. B. 67, for relief of, . . . . . 161
  • HALL, M. C.
    • S. B. 100, for relief of, . . . . . 152
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 176
  • HALL, E. B.
    • No. 144, bill for relief of, . . . . . 89
  • HAMPTON ACADEMY.
    • No. 164, bill concerning, . . . . . 99
  • HANCOCK, N. H.
    • Resolution as to petition of, . . . . . 7
  • HARDY AND PAGE.
    • S. B. 9, changing time of holding circuit courts of, . . . . . 77
    • Passed with amendments, . . . . . 78
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 82
  • HARPER, J. W.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 132
    • S. B. 121, for relief of, . . . . . 161
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 210-11
  • HARPER, J. & CO. ET ALS.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 133
  • HARPERS FERRY CLAIMS.
    • Resolution for compensation to commissioners, . . . . . 236
    • Committee, . . . . . 236
    • No. 275, bill therefor, . . . . . 236
    • Passed, . . . . . 270
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 288
    • Passed house of delegates, . . . . . 288
  • HARPERS FERRY RAID.
    • Report of commissioners, . . . . . 113
  • HARRIS, J. A.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 28
  • HARRISON RIFLES.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 221
  • HARVEY, N. B.
    • No. 23, bill for relief of, . . . . . 22
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 151-2
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 256
  • HAYTER'S GAP AND WASHINGTON TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • No. 227, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 149
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 271
  • HEBREW BENEVOLENT SOCIETY.
    • S. B. 85, to incorporate, . . . . . 121
    • Passed, . . . . . 122
  • HENRICO COUNTY.
    • S. B. 30, authorizing loan by, for arms, &c. . . . . . 73
    • Passed, . . . . . 73
  • HERALD, W. L.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 46
    • No. 259, bill for relief of, . . . . . 178
  • HEWIT, J. ET ALS.
    • S. B. 76, for relief of, . . . . . 124
  • HIGDON, AMANDA.
    • S. B. 231, allowing pension, . . . . . 207
  • HIGH CONSTABLE OF RICHMOND.
    • Resolution as to sales by, . . . . . 91
    • No. 254, bill as to sales by, . . . . . 178
  • HILLSBOROUGH BORDER GUARD.
    • Resolution for payment of, . . . . . 60
    • S. B. 243, for relief of, . . . . . 254
    • Bill rejected, and vote thereon, . . . . . 262
  • HILLSBOROUGH AND CINCINNATI RAIL ROAD.
    • Resolution from senate concerning, . . . . . 173
  • HITE, HUGH H.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 24
  • HOGE, CHARLES A. ET AL.
    • No. 59, bill for relief of, . . . . . 48
    • Passed, . . . . . 201
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 206
  • HOGS.
    • Resolution as to trespasses of, . . . . . 45
  • HOLDEN, CHARLES.
    • Resolution for relief of executor of, . . . . . 57
    • No. 83, bill therefor, . . . . . 59
    • Engrossed and passed; vote thereon, . . . . . 76
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 85
  • HOLLAND, LUCY.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 90

Page 307

    • No. 186, bill therefor, . . . . . 115
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 183
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 193
  • HOLLIDAY'S COVE TURNPIKE CO.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 8
  • HOLLIDAY'S COVE RAIL ROAD CO.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 136
    • No. 212, bill therefor, . . . . . 139
  • HOME GUARD OF SCOTTSVILLE.
    • Resolution to furnish two field pieces, . . . . . 97
    • Adverse report thereto, . . . . . 99
  • HOME MINING AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
    • S. B. 210, to incorporate, . . . . . 203
    • Passed, . . . . . 204
  • HOME SAVINGS BANK.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 11
    • No. 206, bill therefor, . . . . . 130
    • Passed, . . . . . 234
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 253
    • Amendments agreed to, . . . . . 253
  • HOOVER, BENJAMIN.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 31
    • No. 145, bill therefor, . . . . . 89
  • HOPKINS AND CAMPBELL.
    • S. B. 48, for relief of, . . . . . 156
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 176
  • HOPKINS, G. W.
    • Death of, announced, . . . . . 173
    • Resolutions, . . . . . 174
    • Resolution for payment to personal representative of, . . . . . 266
  • HORNER, R. H.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 62
    • No. 103, bill for relief of, . . . . . 74
  • HOUGHS, THOMAS.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 85
  • HOUR OF MEETING.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 126-7, . . . . . 150, . . . . . 189, . . . . . 196
    • Fixed at 10 o'clock A. M. . . . . . 202
  • HUGHES' CREEK OIL AND COAL COMPANY.
    • S. B. 56, to incorporate, . . . . . 98
    • Passed, . . . . . 98
  • HUNLEY, THOMAS H.
    • S. B. 200, for relief of, . . . . . 226
    • Passed, . . . . . 227
  • HUNTER, LOUISA.
    • No. 54, bill for relief of, . . . . . 48
  • HURKLE, ISAAC, ET AL.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 113
  • HURL, JOHN.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 136
  • HUTTONSVILLE AND HUNTERSVILLE TURNPIKE ROAD.
    • S. B. 60, transferring to Randolph and Pocahontas, . . . . . 124
    • Petition concerning, . . . . . 126
    • Petition as to transfer of, . . . . . 141
    • Petition for appropriation to, . . . . . 147
  • ILLINOIS.
    • Resolutions from, . . . . . 154
  • INCOME AND SALARIES.
    • Resolution to exempt from taxation, . . . . . 8
  • INDEPENDENCE MALE AND FEMALE COLLEGE.
    • S. B. 87, to incorporate, . . . . . 121
    • Passed, . . . . . 156
  • INDEPENDENCE.
    • S. B. 256, to incorporate, . . . . . 264
    • Passed, . . . . . 265
  • INDEPENDENT MANUFACTORIES.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 91
  • INDIANA.
    • Resolution from, . . . . . 211
  • INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY OF WOOD.
    • Resolution to incorporate, . . . . . 119
    • S. B. 137, to incorporate, . . . . . 157
    • Passed, . . . . . 215
  • INSPECTION OF GUANO, ETC.
    • S. B. 131, concerning, . . . . . 194
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 240
    • Amendment agreed to by senate, . . . . . 248
  • INSPECTION OF LEATHER.
    • Resolution concerning, in Hampshire county, . . . . . 205
    • S. B. 213, to establish, . . . . . 211
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 221
    • Amendment agreed to by senate, . . . . . 226
  • INSURANCE COMPANY OF VIRGINIA.
    • S. B. 210, to amend charter of, . . . . . 203
    • Passed, . . . . . 204
  • INTEREST ON PUBLIC DEBT.
    • Resolution concerning, and proportion of specie required from the several banks, . . . . . 150
  • INVASION OF THE STATE.
    • Report of auditing board, . . . . . 12
  • IRVING, JOHN T.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 29
    • Adverse report as to, . . . . . 73
  • JACK AND BEN.
    • S. B. 195, to authorize pardon of, . . . . . 217
    • Passed, . . . . . 217
  • JACKSON COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.
    • Resolution to incorporate, . . . . . 140

Page 308

    • S. B. 148, to incorporate, . . . . . 190
    • Passed, . . . . . 190
  • JACKSON, W. G.
    • No. 26, bill for relief of, . . . . . 23
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 267-8
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 277
  • JACKSON ORPHAN ASYLUM.
    • S. B. 12, amending charter of, . . . . . 77
    • Passed, . . . . . 78
  • JAMES RIVER BOOT, SHOE & LEATHER MANUFACTURING CO.
    • S. B. 109, passed, . . . . . 239
  • JAMES RIVER & KANAWHA CANAL.
    • Resolution as to contract for sale of, . . . . . 5
    • Report as to sale of, . . . . . 141
    • Resolution for additional copies of report concerning sale of, . . . . . 150
    • Laid on table, . . . . . 150
    • Resolution concerning sale of, . . . . . 118
    • Resolution in relation to sale of, agreed to, . . . . . 133
  • JAVINS, THOMAS.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 27
    • No. 60, bill for relief of, . . . . . 48
    • S. B. 8, for relief of, . . . . . 82
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 83
  • JEFFERSON INSURANCE COMPANY.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 11
    • No. 1, bill to amend charter of, . . . . . 14
    • Passed, . . . . . 75
    • Passed senate with amendment, . . . . . 275
    • Agreed to, . . . . . 276
  • JOHNSON, EDWARD.
    • S. B. 187, for relief of, . . . . . 206
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 207
  • JOINT COMMITTEE.
    • Resolution from senate for, on public affairs, . . . . . 14
    • Agreed to, . . . . . 14
    • Committee appointed, . . . . . 17
  • JONES, J. W.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 80
    • No. 166, bill therefor, . . . . . 99
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 272
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 277
  • JONES, JOHN M.
    • S. B. 203, for relief of, . . . . . 230
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 230
  • JONES, JOHN TYLER.
    • Petition for change of name of, . . . . . 183
  • JONES, H. R.
    • Petition for increase of salary as clerk to the penitentiary, . . . . . 45
    • See Penitentiary.
  • JONES, THOMAS L.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 62
    • No. 160, bill for relief of, . . . . . 96
  • JORDAN, THOMAS L.
    • S. B. 40, for relief of, . . . . . 152
  • JURORS ON CORONERS' INQUESTS.
    • S. B. 6, to compensate, in certain counties, &c. . . . . . 47
    • Passed, . . . . . 47
  • JURORS IN LYNCHBURG.
    • No. 204, bill concerning, . . . . . 130
  • KANAWHA COUNTY.
    • Proceedings of meeting in, . . . . . 34
  • KANAWHA SALT COMPANY.
    • S. B. 253, to incorporate; passed, . . . . . 253
  • KELLY, JOHN.
    • Communication from Board of public works as to, . . . . . 241
    • No. 274, bill for payment of, . . . . . 266
  • KENNEY, CAPTAIN.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 17
    • Adverse report to petition of, . . . . . 20
  • KENO.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 275
    • Committee, . . . . . 275
    • No. 287, bill as to, . . . . . 275
    • Passed, . . . . . 278
  • KENTUCKY.
    • Resolutions from, . . . . . 107
  • KINCAID, J. D.
    • No. 65, bill for relief of, . . . . . 48
  • KING, W. W.
    • No. 138, bill for relief of, passed, . . . . . 242
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 248
  • KING GEORGE.
    • Resolution as to fire in, passed, . . . . . 202
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 206
  • KIPPS, JACOB.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 131
  • KNOB TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • Resolution as to division of, . . . . . 60
    • No. 226, bill to amend charter of, passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 231
  • KUNKEL, CHARLES H.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 45
  • LARUE, J. W.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 127
    • No. 223, bill for relief of, . . . . . 145
  • LAWFUL FENCES.
    • No. 124, bill concerning, . . . . . 83
    • Passed, . . . . . 242
  • LAUREL VALLEY COAL AND OIL COMPANY.
    • S. B. 185, to incorporate, . . . . . 198
    • Passed, . . . . . 200

Page 309

  • LAYNE, ELLEN W.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 224
    • Committee, . . . . . 224
    • No. 273, bill therefor, . . . . . 227
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 249
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 256
  • LEBANON.
    • Resolution for branch bank at, . . . . . 90
  • LEBANON & NEW GARDEN TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 35
  • LEE, HARRY (GENERAL).
    • Petition for removal of remains of, . . . . . 38
    • Committee appointed, . . . . . 43
    • No. 119, bill therefor, . . . . . 81
    • Petition for removal of remains of, . . . . . 140, . . . . . 49, . . . . . 50
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 240
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 247
    • Petition as to, withdrawn, . . . . . 278
  • LEE, SAMUEL E.
    • Petition of, referred, . . . . . 38
    • Adverse report to petition, . . . . . 221
  • LEESBURG AND ALDIE TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • No. 174, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 104
    • Passed, . . . . . 241
  • LEESBURG AND POINT OF ROCKS TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • No. 175, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 105
    • Passed, . . . . . 278
  • LESTER, JOHN.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 13
  • LEWIS, JOHN E.
    • Resolution for relief of sureties of, . . . . . 62
  • LEWISBURG FEMALE INSTITUTE.
    • Resolution as to amending charter of, . . . . . 26
    • No. 42, bill therefor, . . . . . 37
    • Passed, . . . . . 113
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 128
  • LICENSES.
    • Resolution for change of law regulating, . . . . . 37
    • No. 14, bill as to, . . . . . 19
    • Petition as to license to vessels retailing wood, . . . . . 75
    • No. 98, bill concerning oath for, . . . . . 68
    • Indefinitely postponed, . . . . . 223
  • LINDSAY, A. L.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 140
    • Adverse report, . . . . . 163
  • LINE OF STEAMERS.
    • Resolution as to, from City Point, . . . . . 150
  • LITTLE KANAWHA MINING AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
    • S. B. 141, to incorporate, . . . . . 160
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 229
    • Amendment agreed to by senate, . . . . . 236
  • LITTLE KANAWHA NAVIGATION COMPANY.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 6
    • No. 19, bill therefor, . . . . . 80
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 160
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 198
  • LIVERY STABLES.
    • Resolution as to tax on, . . . . . 137
  • LOCH LEVEN RANGERS.
    • S. B. 173, concerning, . . . . . 196
  • LOGAN.
    • Resolution for additional allowance to commissioner of revenue, . . . . . 116
  • LOST COUPONS.
    • Resolution for payment of, . . . . . 29
    • No. 66, bill for payment of, to Bank of Racine, . . . . . 48
    • No. 67, bill for payment of, to Exchange Bank, . . . . . 48
    • Passed, . . . . . 272
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 277
  • LOUDOUN.
    • Resolution to amend road law in, . . . . . 62
    • No. 179, bill therefor, . . . . . 112
    • To amend act concerning county roads in; passed, . . . . . 214
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 220
  • LOUDOUN AND HAMPSHIRE RAIL ROAD COMPANY.
    • No. 180, bill to amend act of 1860, . . . . . 112
  • LOVE, B. W. AND J. BURNETT.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 12
    • No. 48, bill for voluntary enslavement of, . . . . . 42
    • Referred to committee on free negroes, . . . . . 136
  • LUNATICS.
    • Resolution concerning estates of, . . . . . 107
  • LUNATIC ASYLUMS.
    • Resolution for change of names of, . . . . . 46
    • No. 108, bill therefor, . . . . . 74
    • Passed, . . . . . 227
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 237
  • LYBROOK, S. E.
    • S. B. 99, for relief of, . . . . . 152
  • LYNN AND COMPTON.
    • S. B. 218, for relief of, . . . . . 206
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 207-8
  • LYNCHBURG ARMS AND ENGINE MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
    • S. B. 63, to incorporate, . . . . . 121
    • Passed, . . . . . 122
  • LYNCHBURG COLLEGE.
    • Petition of trustees of, . . . . . 90
  • LYNCHBURG AND NORTH CAROLINA RAIL ROAD.
    • No. 18, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 20

Page 310

  • MAINE.
    • Resolutions from, . . . . . 106
  • MANCHESTER SAVINGS BANK.
    • S. B. 71, to incorporate, . . . . . 121
    • Passed, . . . . . 135
  • MANASSAS GAP RAIL ROAD CO.
    • S. B. authorizing loan to, by Rockingham, . . . . . 146
    • Passed, . . . . . 146
  • MANUFACTURES.
    • No. 187, bill to encourage, . . . . . 115
  • MARION.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 206
    • Passed, . . . . . 237
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 248
  • MARION MAGNETIC IRON COMPANY.
    • S. B. 110, to incorporate, . . . . . 161
    • Passed, . . . . . 161
  • MARSHALL COUNTY.
    • Petition as to road law in, . . . . . 126, . . . . . 141
    • Petition against repeal of road law, . . . . . 115
    • Petition on same subject, . . . . . 115
    • No. 243, bill as to county roads, . . . . . 168
  • MARSHALL COUNTY OIL AND MINING COMPANY.
    • Resolution to incorporate, . . . . . 206
    • No. 270, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 212
  • MARTIN, W. S.
    • No. 260, bill for relief of, . . . . . 178
  • MARTINSBURG.
    • Petition as to charter of, . . . . . 85, . . . . . 150
    • No. 141, bill therefor, . . . . . 89
  • MASON CITY MINING AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
    • S. B. 147, to amend act incorporating, . . . . . 190
    • Passed, . . . . . 190
  • MAURY, R. H. ET AL.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 89
    • No. 159, bill for relief of, . . . . . 96
  • MARYLAND.
    • Letter from governor of, . . . . . 88
  • MARYLAND AND VIRGINIA COAL OIL COMPANY.
    • S. B. 133, to incorporate, . . . . . 175
    • Passed, . . . . . 175
  • MARYSVILLE PLANK ROAD.
    • S. B. 24, transferring, . . . . . 77
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 99
  • MAYO'S GUIDE.
    • S. B. 106, to distribute, to coroners, . . . . . 152
    • Passed with amendment, . . . . . 215
    • Amendment agreed to by senate, . . . . . 220
  • McCORMICK, CHARLES.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 79
  • McCORMICK, THOMAS.
    • Adverse report, . . . . . 162
  • McDONALD, A. W.
    • Report of, . . . . . 185
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 243
    • Agreed to, . . . . . 244
  • McDOWELL.
    • Petition as to county seat of, . . . . . 133
    • S. B. 104, providing for location of courthouse, . . . . . 147
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 170
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 173
  • McGUIRE, ANN.
    • Petition concerning, . . . . . 145
  • McGUIRE, J. C. & CO.
    • S. B. 219, for relief of, . . . . . 207
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 208
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 208
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 213
  • McCABE, E.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 7
    • No. 15, bill for relief of, . . . . . 19
    • Rejected, . . . . . 130
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 131
  • McMECHEN, ET AL.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 9
    • No. 85, bill therefor, . . . . . 59
  • MEADSVILLE MANUFACTURING CO.
    • Resolution to incorporate, . . . . . 23
    • No. 107, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 74
  • MERCHANTS BANK OF VIRGINIA.
    • S. B. 68, to amend charter of, . . . . . 121
    • S. B. 69, to authorize branches of, . . . . . 121
  • MERCHANTS BANK OF LYNCHBURG.
    • S. B. 68, passed, . . . . . 135
  • MERCHANTS BANK.
    • S. B. 69, to allow branches, amended, . . . . . 186
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 186
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 190
  • MERCHANTS AND MECHANICS BANK OF WHEELING.
    • No. 136, bill to extend charter of, . . . . . 84
    • Passed, . . . . . 215
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 236
  • MERCHANTS SAVINGS BANK.
    • S. B. 14, incorporating, . . . . . 77
    • Passed, . . . . . 93-4
  • MERCHANTS' LICENSES.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 163
  • MECHANICSVILLE TURNPIKE CO.
    • S. B. 4, amending charter of, . . . . . 73
    • Passed, . . . . . 101
  • METHODIST CHURCH IN SALEM.
    • Resolution authorizing deed of trust by, . . . . . 171
    • Committee, . . . . . 171

Page 311

    • No. 252, bill therefor, . . . . . 175
    • Passed, . . . . . 229
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 237
  • METROPOLITAN GUARD OF RICHMOND.
    • No. 271, bill to organize, . . . . . 224
    • Passed, . . . . . 273
  • MICHIGAN.
    • Resolutions from; laid on table, . . . . . 143
  • MIDDLE FORK TURNPIKE.
    • No. 75, bill to provide for completion of, . . . . . 26
  • MIDDLESEX COUNTY.
    • Resolution as to weights and measures bought by, . . . . . 136
    • No. 217, bill therefor, . . . . . 140
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 237-8
  • MIDDLETOWN.
    • S. B. 130, amending charter of, . . . . . 157
  • MILITARY DUTY.
    • Resolution for exemption from, . . . . . 107
    • Adverse report to resolution of exemption, . . . . . 112
  • MILITIA FINES.
    • Resolution as to delinquent, in Jefferson county, . . . . . 27
    • Resolution as to, in Rockingham, . . . . . 100
    • Adverse report (Rockingham), . . . . . 158
  • MILITIA.
    • Resolution to vacate offices in the, . . . . . 90
    • Petition for organization of, . . . . . 127
    • No. 256, bill concerning organization of, . . . . . 178
    • Indefinitely postponed, . . . . . 230
    • No. 246, bill for better organization of, . . . . . 169
    • No. 249, bill concerning organization of, . . . . . 173
  • MILITIA LAWS.
    • No. 143, bill concerning, . . . . . 89
    • Taken up, . . . . . 151
    • Amended, and vote thereon, . . . . . 151
    • Engrossed, . . . . . 151
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 175-6
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 206
    • Amendments disagreed to, and committee of conference, . . . . . 208-9
    • Amended, . . . . . 212
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 227
  • MILITIA OFFICERS.
    • Resolution for election of, . . . . . 185, . . . . . 221
  • MINING AND MANUFACTURING COMPANIES.
    • No. 171, bill concerning, . . . . . 102
    • Passed, . . . . . 271
    • Passed senate with amendment, . . . . . 288
    • Amendment concurred in, . . . . . 288
  • MINNESOTA.
    • Resolutions from, . . . . . 107
  • MISSISSIPPI.
    • Secession of, announced, . . . . . 17
  • MONOGAHELA SAVINGS BANK.
    • No. 130, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 84
    • Passed, . . . . . 230
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 243
  • MONTGOMERY FEMALE COLLEGE.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 8
    • No. 8, bill therefor, . . . . . 76
    • Passed, . . . . . 94
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 198
  • MONROE, ETC.
    • Petition of citizens of, for road, . . . . . 86
  • MONTICELLO BANK.
    • Resolution for branch of, at Goodson, &c. . . . . . 118
    • S. B. 135, to establish branch at Monaskon; passed, . . . . . 157
  • MOORE, JOHN W.
    • No. 102, bill for relief of, . . . . . 73
  • MOORE, WILLIAM P.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 100
  • MOORE, EDWARD.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 146
  • MOOREFIELD.
    • S. B. 209, for sale of church property in, . . . . . 203
    • Passed, . . . . . 204
  • MORGAN, V. S.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 127
    • No. 258, bill for relief of, . . . . . 178
  • MORGANTOWN.
    • Petition for savings bank in, . . . . . 81
  • MORGANTOWN AND BEVERLEY TURNPIKE ROAD.
    • Petition as to repair of, . . . . . 32
  • MORTON, W. H.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 132
    • No. 218, bill for relief of, . . . . . 142
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 276
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 278
  • MOTIONS TO ADJOURN.
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 25-6, . . . . . 106, . . . . . 133-4, . . . . . 179, . . . . . 181, . . . . . 222, . . . . . 232
  • MOTIONS ON BEHALF OF COMMONWEALTH.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 166
    • No. 262, bill therefor, . . . . . 182
  • MOUNT VERNON INSURANCE CO.
    • S. B. 118, to incorporate, . . . . . 147
  • MURRELL, JOHN W.
    • Resolution to withdraw petition of, . . . . . 28
    • S. B. 15, for relief of, . . . . . 250
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 253
  • MUSTERS.
    • Resolution concerning, in King and Queen, . . . . . 90

Page 312

  • NEW COUNTIES.
    • Resolution for change of law as to, . . . . . 7
    • Petition for, . . . . . 26, . . . . . 100, . . . . . 133
  • NEW CREEK COMPANY.
    • S. B. 184, to amend charter of, . . . . . 198
    • Passed, . . . . . 201
  • NEW JERSEY.
    • Resolutions from, . . . . . 105
  • NEWPORT AND GAP MILLS TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • No. 167, bill therefor, . . . . . 99
    • Passed, . . . . . 241
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 248
  • NEW RIVER WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS TURNPIKE CO.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 145
    • No. 225, bill therefor, . . . . . 148
  • NICHOLS, T.
    • S. B. 115, for relief of, . . . . . 152
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 274-5
  • NORFOLK CITY.
    • Petition for change in charter of, . . . . . 151
    • Petition against change in charter, . . . . . 181
  • NORFOLK COUNTY RAIL ROAD CO.
    • No. 38, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 31
    • Passed, . . . . . 143
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 152
    • Agreed to, . . . . . 153
  • NORFOLK AND PETERSBURG RAIL ROAD.
    • Resolution for construction of a branch of, . . . . . 5
    • No. 36, bill therefor, . . . . . 31
    • S. B. 22, to authorize branch, . . . . . 85
    • Passed, . . . . . 86
    • No. 216, bill for relief of, . . . . . 140
  • NORTH FORK RIFLE COMPANY.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 24
  • NORTHWESTERN LUNATIC ASYLUM.
    • Resolution for appropriation to, . . . . . 241
    • Committee, . . . . . 241
    • No. 278, bill therefor, . . . . . 241
  • NORTHWESTERN BANK OF VIRGINIA.
    • Resolution as to change of act incorporating, . . . . . 46
    • S. B. 31, concerning agency by, . . . . . 77
    • Passed, . . . . . 79
    • No. 135, bill to extend charter of, . . . . . 84
    • Passed, . . . . . 215
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 236
  • NOWLIN, EDWIN.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 204
  • O'BRIEN, EMMET J.
    • S. B. 153, for relief of, . . . . . 194
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 255
  • OFFICERS OF PUBLIC GUARD.
    • S. B. 74, to increase pay of, . . . . . 198
    • Amended, passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 199-200
    • Amendment agreed to, . . . . . 264
  • OHIO.
    • Resolutions from, . . . . . 74
    • Laid on table, . . . . . 74
  • OHIO RIVER.
    • No. 113, bill making, lawful fence, . . . . . 79
    • Passed, . . . . . 234
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 243
  • OLD DOMINION MINING AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
    • S. B. 265, concerning, . . . . . 268
    • Passed, . . . . . 269
  • OLIPHANT, ANDREW.
    • Resolution concerning conveyance from, . . . . . 79
    • S. B. 194, therefor, . . . . . 198
    • Passed, . . . . . 199
  • OPPENHEIMER, S.
    • S. B. 120, for relief of, . . . . . 157
  • ORANGE AND GREENE.
    • Proceedings of public meetings in, . . . . . 60-61
  • ORANGE AND ALEXANDRIA RAIL ROAD.
    • S. B. 142, for relief of, . . . . . 196
    • Rejected, and vote thereon, . . . . . 221
    • Reconsidered, . . . . . 221
    • Amended, passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 244
    • Amendment agreed to by senate, . . . . . 256
  • ORDERS OF PUBLICATION.
    • Resolution as to, in court of appeals, &c. . . . . . 26
    • No. 41, bill therefor, . . . . . 41
    • Passed, . . . . . 113
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 128
  • ORDINARY KEEPERS.
    • Resolution as to rates of, . . . . . 127
  • ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT.
    • No. 40, bill to create an, . . . . . 31
    • Read first and second times, . . . . . 31
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 58
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 81
    • Amendments agreed to, . . . . . 82
  • OSBORNE W. ET AL.
    • No. 126, bill for relief of, . . . . . 84
  • OSBORNE, JOEL.
    • S. B. 97, as to devise by, . . . . . 202
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 203
  • OVERBY, R. Y.
    • S. B. 16, for relief of, . . . . . 77
    • Amended, passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 83-4
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 88
  • OXFORD COTTON AND WOOLEN COMPANY.
    • S. B. 207, to incorporate, . . . . . 203
    • Passed, . . . . . 204

Page 313

  • OYSTERS.
    • Petition as to catching, . . . . . 183
    • No. 142, bill concerning catching, . . . . . 89
    • Passed, . . . . . 113
    • Passed senate with amendment, . . . . . 182
    • Amendment agreed to, . . . . . 182
  • PACKARD, REV. J.
    • No. 29, bill for relief of, . . . . . 23
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 159
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 173
  • PAGE COUNTY.
    • Resolution for change of time of holding circuit court in, . . . . . 40
  • PARDONS.
    • Message of governor as to (Doc. No. 4), . . . . . 37
  • PARIS, W.
    • No. 105, bill for relief of securities of, . . . . . 74
  • PARKERSBURG CLASSICAL INSTITUTE.
    • S. B. 233, to incorporate, . . . . . 207
    • Passed, . . . . . 208
  • PATENT FROM COMMONWEALTH.
    • Resolution as to title under, . . . . . 170
  • PATRICK SPRINGS FEMALE SEMINARY.
    • Resolution to incorporate, . . . . . 29
    • No. 109, bill therefor, . . . . . 79
    • Passed, . . . . . 235
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 243
  • PATTESON, JAMES.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 34
  • PAULETT, THOMAS B.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 6
  • PAULINE (SCHOONER).
    • S. B. 96, releasing from fine, . . . . . 177
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 272
  • PAY OF MEMBERS.
    • Resolution for increase of pay of members, . . . . . 101
    • Postponed indefinitely, . . . . . 101
  • PAYNE, JOHN S.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 39
  • PEACE OF THE COUNTRY.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 17, . . . . . 19
    • Referred to committee, and committee appointed, . . . . . 17
    • Agreed to, . . . . . 19
  • PECOR, J. B. ET ALS.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 100
  • PEDIGO, LEWIS.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 29
  • PENITENTIARY.
    • Resolution to refer governor's message as to, . . . . . 39
    • Resolution concerning financial condition of, . . . . . 164
    • Report of directors of, and agent, . . . . . 197
    • Committee authorized to send for persons and papers, . . . . . 209
    • Report of committee on, . . . . . 212
    • Preamble and resolutions, . . . . . 225
    • Committee, . . . . . 225
    • No. 278, bill for lease of, . . . . . 240
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 250
    • Report of committee on, . . . . . 252
    • Amendment submitted, . . . . . 276
    • Agreed to, . . . . . 277
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 277
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 289
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 289
  • PENNSYLVANIA.
    • Resolutions from, . . . . . 95
    • Laid on table, . . . . . 95
  • PERIERE, M. & BROTHERS.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 80
    • Agreed to, . . . . . 115
  • PETERSBURG.
    • Petition of citizens of, . . . . . 213
  • PETERSBURG RAIL ROAD CO.
    • S. B. 232, authorizing increase of stock by, . . . . . 211
    • Passed, . . . . . 211
  • PETERSBURG SAVINGS AND INSURANCE COMPANY.
    • Resolution concerning, from senate, . . . . . 187
    • Agreed to, . . . . . 187
  • PETIT LARCENY.
    • Resolution as to punishment of, . . . . . 132
  • PICKENS, H. L.
    • Resolution for relief of securities of, . . . . . 32
    • No. 128, bill for relief of sureties of, . . . . . 84
  • PIEDMONT LAND AND IMPROVEMENT COMPANY.
    • No. 140, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 86
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 231
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 243
  • PILOT LAWS.
    • S. B. 102, to amend, on Potomac, . . . . . 147
    • Passed, . . . . . 239
  • PITTSYLVANIA ACADEMY.
    • Petition of trustees of, . . . . . 35
  • PLANTERS SAVINGS BANK.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 44
    • No. 194, bill to amend charter of, . . . . . 125
  • POLICE AGENTS ON RAIL ROADS.
    • S. B. 45, authorizing, . . . . . 152
    • Passed, . . . . . 271
  • POORHOUSES.
    • S. B. 52, for efficient police regulations at, . . . . . 95
    • Passed, . . . . . 98

Page 314

  • PORTSMOUTH.
    • S. B. 221, amending charter of, . . . . . 207
    • Passed, . . . . . 208
    • S. B. 8, authorizing issue of bonds by, . . . . . 207
    • Passed, . . . . . 208
  • PORT ROYAL.
    • Petition to amend charter of, . . . . . 28
    • No. 123, bill therefor, . . . . . 83
    • Passed, . . . . . 120
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 128
  • POSITION OF VIRGINIA.
    • Resolution from senate concerning, in the event of a dissolution of the Union, . . . . . 67
    • Agreed to by house, . . . . . 67
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 67-8
  • POTOMAC BRIDGE COMPANY.
    • Resolution to legalize certain acts of, . . . . . 28
    • Adverse report, . . . . . 89
  • POULSON, E. J.
    • No. 16, bill to release island to, . . . . . 19
    • Passed, . . . . . 104
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 104
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 160
  • POWERS, JOHN.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 112
  • PRESERVATION OF THE UNION.
    • Resolution as to, by Mr. Patterson, . . . . . 38
  • PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
    • Communication from, . . . . . 212
  • PRESTON, J. W. AND T.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 43-4
  • PRESTON BANK OF VIRGINIA.
    • Resolution for change of charter of, . . . . . 97
  • PRESTON COAL AND IRON CO.
    • S. B. 143, for relief of, . . . . . 117
  • PRESTON AND AUGUSTA RAIL ROAD COMPANY.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 97
    • No. 173, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 104
    • Passed, . . . . . 252
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 256
  • PRICE'S MOUNTAIN AND CUMBERLAND GAP ROAD.
    • S. B. 65, transferring, . . . . . 129
  • PRINCESS ANNE SAVINGS BANK.
    • S. B. 44, to amend act incorporating, . . . . . 88
    • Passed, . . . . . 88
  • PROCEEDINGS ON SUNDAY.
    • S. B. 125, to legalize, . . . . . 168
  • PROTECTION OF FISHERIES.
    • S. B. 107, for, . . . . . 124
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 125
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 134
  • PROTECTION TO SLAVE PROPERTY.
    • No. 162, bill therefor, . . . . . 96
  • PROVISIONAL STATE GUARD.
    • No. 95, bill to create, . . . . . 68
    • Read first time, . . . . . 68
  • PUBLIC BUILDINGS.
    • Report on, . . . . . 185
  • PUBLIC GUARD.
    • See Officers of public guard.
  • PURCHASE OF ARMS.
    • Petition as to, . . . . . 28
    • Resolution as to, by Amelia and Nottoway, . . . . . 27
    • Resolution as to, by counties, . . . . . 30
    • Resolution as to, by Essex and King & Queen, . . . . . 33
    • No. 79, bill to authorize county courts to make; read first time, . . . . . 39
  • PARKER, H. C.
    • Adverse report to petition of, . . . . . 221
  • PURKINS, HENRY.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 101
  • QUARTERLY STATEMENTS.
    • Resolution as to banks, . . . . . 145
  • QUARTERS FOR PUBLIC GUARD.
    • S. B. 32, authorizing, . . . . . 147
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 148
  • QUEEN'S POINT DIVISION.
    • S. B. 206, to incorporate, . . . . . 202
    • Indefinitely postponed, . . . . . 203-4
  • RAIL ROADS.
    • Resolution concerning dividends from, . . . . . 74
    • Resolution for, from Northwestern Virginia rail road to Big Sandy, . . . . . 91
    • Resolution for right of way to Baltimore and Ohio rail road, . . . . . 91
    • Resolution for, in Henrico county, . . . . . 97
  • RAIL ROAD LINES BETWEEN BALTIMORE AND WELDON.
    • S. B. 64, concerning, . . . . . 123
    • Passed, . . . . . 141
  • RAIL ROAD BETWEEN ALEXANDRIA AND WASHINGTON.
    • S. B. 61, to amend act incorporating, . . . . . 121
  • RAIL ROADS IN RICHMOND.
    • Resolution to amend law authorizing, . . . . . 116
    • Committee, . . . . . 116
    • No. 189, bill as to, . . . . . 118
    • Passed, . . . . . 176
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 185
  • RALEIGH AND GRAYSON TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 46
    • No. 73, bill amending charter of, . . . . . 56

Page 315

  • RANDOLPH AND UPSHUR.
    • Petition of citizens of, . . . . . 75
  • RATE OF INTEREST.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 133
  • RATHBONE.
    • S. B. 261, to incorporate, . . . . . 268
    • Passed, . . . . . 269
  • RAY, JOHN.
    • Petition for relief of, . . . . . 38
    • Adverse report, . . . . . 74
  • REARRANGEMENT OF OFFICES IN CAPITOL.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 81-2
    • Committee thereon, . . . . . 83
  • REDMAN AND GIBSON.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 131
  • REESE, SILAS.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 206
    • Adverse report to petition of, . . . . . 209
  • ONE HUNDRED AND FIRST REGIMENT.
    • Petition of officers of, . . . . . 6
    • No. 81, bill for payment to Company A, of, . . . . . 59
    • See Werth, W. H.
  • ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTH REGIMENT.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 8
  • ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY-FIRST REGIMENT.
    • Resolution as to trainings of, . . . . . 131
  • EIGHTY-NINTH REGIMENT.
    • Resolution for compensation to, . . . . . 27
    • Report of committee as to claim of, . . . . . 48-9
    • Resolution concerning pay to, . . . . . 118
  • NINETY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
    • Resolution to divide, . . . . . 132-3
  • FIFTY-SEVENTH REGIMENT.
    • Petition of officers of, . . . . . 140
  • REGIMENTAL MUSTERS.
    • Petition of Company A, 101st regiment, to be relieved from, . . . . . 44
  • REPORTS FROM SAVINGS BANKS, ETC.
    • No. 222, bill requiring, . . . . . 145
  • RESOLUTIONS FROM NEW YORK.
    • Message of governor enclosing, . . . . . 51-2
    • Resolution to return them to governor of New York, . . . . . 52
  • REVENUE.
    • Resolution concerning time of payment of, . . . . . 128
    • Resolution concerning payment of, . . . . . 132
    • Adverse report to extending time for payment, . . . . . 153
  • REYNOLDS, B. S.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 132
    • No. 231, bill therefor, . . . . . 153
    • S. B. 163, for relief of, . . . . . 194
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 194
  • RICE, E. T.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 116
  • RICH, SILLA.
    • Resolution as to enslavement of, . . . . . 45
    • No. 70, bill therefor, . . . . . 56
  • RICHARDSON, ELIZABETH C.
    • S. B. 26, for relief of, . . . . . 124
  • RICHMOND CITY.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 8
    • No. 7, bill therefor, . . . . . 17
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 186
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 206
    • Amendments concurred in, . . . . . 209
    • Resolution as to extension of corporate limits of, . . . . . 6
    • Petition for extension of corporate limits of, . . . . . 75
    • Remonstrance against extension, . . . . . 34, 50, 57, 69, 75, 91, 113
  • RICHMOND CITY INSURANCE CO.
    • S. B. 46, to incorporate, . . . . . 88
  • RICHMOND AND DANVILLE RAIL ROAD.
    • Resolution to amend act of last session, . . . . . 12
    • No. 39, bill therefor, . . . . . 31
    • Passed, . . . . . 105
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 142
  • RICHMOND AND LIVERPOOL PACKET COMPANY.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 39
    • No. 100, bill therefor, . . . . . 73
    • Passed, . . . . . 191
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 196
  • RICHMOND AND YORK RIVER RAIL ROAD COMPANY.
    • No. 176, bill to increase capital stock, . . . . . 105
    • S. B. 78, to amend act incorporating, . . . . . 123
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 124
  • RICHMOND COUNTY.
    • Proceedings of public meeting in, . . . . . 57
  • RICKS, JOHN.
    • S. B. 252, for pardon of, . . . . . 264
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 265
  • RITCHIE & DUNNAVANT.
    • Resolution concerning contract of, for Code, . . . . . 185
    • Letter from secretary of commonwealth, as to contract of, . . . . . 189
  • RIX, JAMES.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 136
  • ROANOKE COLLEGE.
    • Resolution for loan to, . . . . . 50

Page 316

  • ROANOKE VALLEY RAIL ROAD.
    • Resolution for increase of capital stock of, . . . . . 30
    • No. 90, bill for state subscription to, . . . . . 68
  • ROBERTSON, JOHN.
    • Letter from, . . . . . 120
    • Communications from, . . . . . 143, . . . . . 160
  • ROBERTSON, ISAAC N.
    • Resolution as to slaves of, . . . . . 96
  • ROBINSON, JOHN.
    • Petition for relief of, . . . . . 133
    • No. 242, bill for relief of, . . . . . 168
    • Postponed indefinitely, . . . . . 235
  • ROCKBRIDGE INSURANCE COMPANY.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 47
    • No. 111, bill therefor, . . . . . 79
    • S. B. 250, to incorporate, . . . . . 248
    • Passed, . . . . . 248
  • ROCKBRIDGE RAIL ROAD.
    • Resolution for construction of, . . . . . 5
    • No. 2, bill therefor, . . . . . 14
    • S. B. 26, to incorporate, . . . . . 98
    • Passed, . . . . . 98
  • ROCKBRIDGE WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS COMPANY.
    • S. B. 151, to incorporate; passed, . . . . . 190
  • ROCKY POINT LIME AND MARBLE MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
    • S. B. 262, concerning, . . . . . 268
    • Passed, . . . . . 269
  • ROLES, C.
    • Resolution for relief of sureties of, . . . . . 149
    • No. 248, bill for relief of sureties of, . . . . . 169
  • ROSSER, ROBERT.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 60
  • ROUTT AND BROOKING.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 97
  • ROUTT, A. P. ET AL.
    • Adverse report, . . . . . 135
  • RULES OF HOUSE.
    • Resolution for change of, . . . . . 15, . . . . . 46
    • Fifty-first rule added to, . . . . . 133
  • RUSSELL, J. L.
    • No. 55, bill for relief of, . . . . . 48
  • RUSSELL, J. A.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 202
    • S. B. 266, for relief of, . . . . . 268
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 269
  • SALE OF ARMS.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 90
  • SALE OF MUSKETS.
    • Adverse report thereto, . . . . . 99
    • Report recommitted, . . . . . 104
    • Report as to, . . . . . 105
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 108
    • Communication from governor as to, . . . . . 126
    • Resolution as to, agreed to, and vote thereon, . . . . . 235
    • Resolution as to, agreed to by senate with amendment, . . . . . 278
    • Amendment agreed to, . . . . . 278
  • SALES OF REAL ESTATE.
    • No. 64, bill as to, in favor of commonwealth, . . . . . 48
  • SALTED PROVISIONS.
    • Resolutions concerning, . . . . . 122
    • Petition for inspection of, . . . . . 150
  • SCHOOL COMMISSIONERS.
    • No. 264, bill concerning, of Culpeper, . . . . . 188
  • SCHOOL DIVISIONS.
    • Resolution concerning, in Ohio county, . . . . . 150
    • No. 247, bill therefor, . . . . . 169
  • SCHOONER VIRGINIA.
    • S. B. 216, releasing claim to fine, . . . . . 226-7
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 227
  • SCOTT, JAMES.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 11
    • No. 27, bill for relief of, . . . . . 23
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 159
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 173
  • SCOTT, JAMES K. ET ALS.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 113
  • SCOTT, P. H.
    • S. B. 25, for relief of, . . . . . 77
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 78
  • SCOTT, THOMAS W.
    • S. B. 83, for relief of, . . . . . 254
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 262
  • SCOTT AND ADAMS.
    • S. B. 82, for relief of, . . . . . 138
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 138-9
    • No. 127, bill for relief of, . . . . . 84
  • SCLATER, JOHN.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 131
  • SELBY, M. W.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 85
  • SECOND AUDITOR.
    • Communication from, . . . . . 88
  • SEXTON, L. ET ALS.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 133
  • SHALON, WILLIAM.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 89
    • Adverse report thereto, . . . . . 89
  • SHEE, OWEN.
    • No. 51, bill granting commonwealth's right to John Kelly's estate to, . . . . . 43

Page 317

    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 159-60
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 173
  • SHEEP.
    • Resolution for protection of, in certain counties, . . . . . 91
  • SHERIFFS' BONDS.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 90
  • SHERIFFS.
    • Resolution as to damages against, . . . . . 170
  • SHERIFF OF CULPEPER.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 171
  • SHERIFF OF PITTSYLVANIA.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 274
    • Rejected, and vote thereon, . . . . . 274
  • SHELTON, WINSTON.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 8
    • No. 214, bill therefor, . . . . . 140
  • SHIP BUILDING.
    • No. 239, bill to encourage, . . . . . 163
  • SHOBE, ISAAC.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 26
    • No. 215, bill for relief of, . . . . . 140
  • SHOOTING TIME PIECE MANUFACTORY.
    • No. 275, bill for, . . . . . 266
  • SHOWALTER, J. H.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 17
    • No. 61, bill for relief of, . . . . . 48
  • SHUMAKER'S TOLL BRIDGE.
    • No. 280, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 250
  • SHRYOCK, COL. C. E.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 20
  • SIBERT, LORENZO.
    • Resolution as to new cannon by, . . . . . 166
  • SILVER RUN MINING AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
    • S. B. 198, to incorporate, . . . . . 198
    • Passed, . . . . . 200
  • SINNET, A. P.
    • Adverse report, . . . . . 162
  • SIR JOHN'S RUN TURNPIKE CO.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 28
    • No. 74, bill therefor, . . . . . 56
    • Passed, . . . . . 172
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 198
  • SLAVE PROPERTY.
    • No. 162, bill for protection to, passed, . . . . . 234
  • SLAVIN'S CABIN AND SUMMERSVILLE TURNPIKE.
    • Resolution for change of terminus of, . . . . . 6
    • No. 3, bill therefor, . . . . . 15
    • Passed, . . . . . 93
  • SMALL NOTES.
    • Resolution for issue of, by banks, . . . . . 132
    • Resolution as to issue of, . . . . . 166
  • SMITH, B. M.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 20
  • SMITH, J. W. G.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 24
    • S. B. 17, for relief of, . . . . . 77
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 93
  • SNIDER, HENRY.
    • Petition for relief of, . . . . . 38
  • SOUTHERN EXPRESS COMPANY.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 69
    • No. 110, bill therefor, . . . . . 79
    • S. B. 217, to incorporate, . . . . . 204
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 211
    • Amendment agreed to by senate, . . . . . 214
    • Disagreed to, . . . . . 214
    • Amendment insisted on, . . . . . 217-18
    • Amendment receded from, . . . . . 224
  • SOUTHERN MANUFACTURING CO.
    • S. B. 94, incorporating, . . . . . 121
    • Passed, . . . . . 137
  • SOUTHWESTERN BANK OF VIRGINIA.
    • S. B. 267, to amend charter of, . . . . . 268
    • Passed, . . . . . 269
  • SOUTH WHEELING.
    • Resolution for sale of real estate by, . . . . . 46
  • SPAULDING, J. J.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 29
    • No. 158, bill for relief, . . . . . 96
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 256
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 264
  • SPECIE.
    • Message from governor as to, from banks, . . . . . 100
  • SPECIE PAYMENT.
    • No. 76, bill to repeal act concerning, . . . . . 56
    • Passed, . . . . . 230
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 243
  • SPECIAL COURT OF APPEALS.
    • Resolution for organization of, . . . . . 31
  • SPRAGUE, CAPTAIN.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 206
  • SPRINGFIELD AND DEEP RUN COAL MINING COMPANY.
    • S. B. 103, to incorporate, . . . . . 121
    • Passed, . . . . . 122
    • S. B. 215, to amend act to incorporate, . . . . . 203
    • Passed, . . . . . 204
  • STAATS, J. H.
    • Resolution for relief of sureties of, . . . . . 5
    • No. 97, bill therefor, . . . . . 68
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 159
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 174

Page 318

  • STAFFORDSVILLE TOLL BRIDGE COMPANY.
    • No. 202, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 129
    • S. B. 123, to incorporate; passed, . . . . . 157
  • STAPLES, JOHN.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 28
    • No. 147, bill for relief of, . . . . . 89
    • Rejected, and vote thereon, . . . . . 218
    • Reconsidered, . . . . . 218
  • STATE BONDS.
    • Resolution concerning payment of, by contractors, . . . . . 107
  • STATE AND NATIONAL AFFAIRS.
    • Report of joint committee, . . . . . 43
    • Report of committee on, . . . . . 49
    • Substitute by Mr. Tomlin, . . . . . 49-50
    • Report of joint committee taken up, . . . . . 52
    • Amendment by Mr. Newton, . . . . . 52
    • Division of question, and vote thereon, . . . . . 52-3
    • Vote on striking out preamble, . . . . . 53
    • Amendment by Mr. Seddon, and vote thereon, . . . . . 53
    • Vote on first resolution, . . . . . 54
    • Resolutions as adopted, . . . . . 54-5
    • Amendment by Mr. Newton, and vote thereon, . . . . . 55
    • Report agreed to by senate with amendments, . . . . . 64
    • Crittenden's amendments, and vote thereon, . . . . . 64-5
    • Amendments agreed to, . . . . . 65
    • Resolutions as agreed to, . . . . . 65-6
    • Resolutions by Mr. Seddon, . . . . . 66
    • Votes thereon, . . . . . 66-7
    • Resolutions submitted by Mr. Robertson, . . . . . 191-2-3
  • STATUE OF JEFFERSON.
    • Resolution as to expenses concerning, . . . . . 33
    • No. 50, bill therefor, . . . . . 43
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 64
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 88
  • STAUNTON ARMS AND ORDNANCE COMPANY.
    • Resolution to incorporate, . . . . . 128
    • No. 200, bill therefor, . . . . . 129
    • Passed, . . . . . 171
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 174
  • STAUNTON AND PARKERSBURG ROAD.
    • Resolution as to superintendence of, . . . . . 145
    • No. 276, bill therefor, . . . . . 237
    • Passed, . . . . . 255
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 264
  • STAUNTON SAVINGS BANK.
    • Resolution to incorporate, . . . . . 229
    • Committee, . . . . . 229
    • No. 274, bill therefor, . . . . . 229
    • Passed, . . . . . 235
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 243
  • STAY LAW.
    • Resolution for enactment of, . . . . . 5
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 27
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 80
    • Adverse report to, . . . . . 83
    • Petition for, . . . . . 132-3
  • STAY OF EXECUTIONS, ETC.
    • S. B. 54, amendment, and vote thereon, . . . . . 251
    • Amended, and vote thereon, . . . . . 252
    • Indefinitely postponed, . . . . . 252
  • STEWART, C. D.
    • Resolution for relief of heirs of, . . . . . 165
  • STONE, SAMUEL.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 150
    • No. 234, bill therefor, . . . . . 158
  • ST. PAUL'S CHURCH HOME.
    • S. B. 11, to incorporate, . . . . . 128
    • Passed, . . . . . 141
  • STRATTON, W.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 32
    • Adverse report to petition of, . . . . . 102
    • Petition of, . . . . . 183
  • SUGGESTIONS.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 170
  • STYER, J. Y. & CO.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 171
  • SURGEONS OF MILITIA.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 101
  • SUSPENSION OF BANKS.
    • Resolution to legalize the, . . . . . 6
  • SUSPENSION OF SALE OF STATE BONDS.
    • See Covington and Ohio rail road.
  • SWEET CHALYBEATE SPRINGS CO.
    • Resolution to incorporate, . . . . . 29
    • No. 46, bill therefor, . . . . . 42
    • Passed, . . . . . 116
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 146
  • SWEET AND SALT SULPHUR TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • Resolution for ceding to Monroe, . . . . . 35
  • TALIAFERRO, JOHN H.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 7
    • No. 150, bill for relief of, . . . . . 93
    • S. B. 237, for relief of, passed senate, . . . . . 237
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 237
  • TATE, OSCAR H.
    • No. 106, bill for relief of, . . . . . 74
  • TAYLOR, D. P.
    • Resolutions in relation to the late, . . . . . 14
  • TAXATION.
    • No. 9, bill as to 8th section of tax bill, . . . . . 17
    • No. 12, bill to amend 25th section of tax bill, . . . . . 17
    • Passed, . . . . . 76
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 76-7

Page 319

  • TAXES.
    • No. 118, bill imposing, . . . . . 81
    • Amendment submitted and rejected, . . . . . 177
    • Resolution as to time of payment of, by sheriffs, . . . . . 63
    • Amendment rejected, . . . . . 181
    • Passed; vote thereon, . . . . . 189
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 237
    • Amendments of senate amended, . . . . . 267
    • Senate recede, and insist, . . . . . 275
    • Committee of conference appointed, . . . . . 276
    • Report concurred in by both houses, . . . . . 276
  • TELEGRAPH.
    • Resolution as to false intelligence by, . . . . . 101
  • TENNESSEE.
    • Resolutions from, . . . . . 95
  • TEXAS.
    • Resolutions from, . . . . . 143
    • Secession of, announced, . . . . . 154
  • THOMAS, JAMES V.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 8
    • Adverse report to petition of, . . . . . 56
  • THRASHER, W. A. ET ALS.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 86
    • Adverse report to petition of, . . . . . 169
  • TIBBS, EUGENIUS.
    • Resolution for relief of securities of, . . . . . 32
    • S. B. 152, for relief of sureties of, . . . . . 194
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 194
  • TOBACCO SAVINGS BANK.
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 248
    • See Aid savings bank.
  • TOLLS.
    • No. 172, bill concerning, on turnpikes, . . . . . 104
  • TOM (A SLAVE).
    • S. B. 53, concerning, . . . . . 102
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 135
  • TOMLIN, R. W.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 141
  • TONEY, FRANKLIN.
    • S. B. 81, for relief of, . . . . . 138
  • TRANS-ALLEGHANY RAIL ROAD COMPANY.
    • No. 201, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 129
    • Indefinitely postponed, . . . . . 264
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 264
  • TREASURY NOTES.
    • No. 44, bill for the issue of, . . . . . 37
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 58
    • Passed senate with amendment, . . . . . 196
    • Motion to lay on the table, and vote thereon, . . . . . 197
    • Amendment agreed to, and vote thereon, . . . . . 197
  • TROOP AT PITTSYLVANIA COURTHOUSE.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 205
  • TUCKER, GEORGE W.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 23
    • No. 53, bill for relief of, . . . . . 48
    • Bill passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 172
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 196
  • TURNER, S. T.
    • Resolution for relief of securities of, . . . . . 26
  • TURNER, RUFUS.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 29
    • No. 152, bill for relief of, . . . . . 93
  • TURNPIKE IN ALBEMARLE.
    • Resolution to amend act of 1800, as to, . . . . . 33-4
  • TURNPIKES.
    • Petition from Giles and Monroe counties as to, . . . . . 38
  • TWENTY MILE CREEK TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 38
  • TYLER, HIS EXCELLENCY JOHN
    • Communication from, . . . . . 103
  • UNIFORM CURRENCY.
    • Resolution as to repeal of law as to, . . . . . 46
  • UNION WITH NORTHERN STATES.
    • Resolution by Mr. Tomlin, . . . . . 23, . . . . . 34
    • Resolution by Mr. Martin of Henry, . . . . . 239
    • Motion to postpone indefinitely, . . . . . 239
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 239-40
  • UNION (TOWN OF).
    • S. B. 245, to amend charter of, . . . . . 248
    • Passed, . . . . . 249
  • UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA.
    • Resolution as to school of military science at, . . . . . 40
  • UPSHUR COUNTY.
    • Petition concerning constables in, . . . . . 108
  • USURY LAWS.
    • Resolution as to change of, . . . . . 46
  • VIRGINIA ARMS MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
    • S. B. 28, incorporating, . . . . . 77
    • Passed, . . . . . 79
  • VIRGINIA BOOT AND SHOE MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
    • Resolution to incorporate, . . . . . 39
    • No. 52, bill therefor, . . . . . 43
    • Read 1st and 2d times and laid on table, . . . . . 57
    • Ryder thereto; bill passed, . . . . . 62
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 63
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 81
    • Amendments agreed to, . . . . . 82
  • VIRGINIA CANAL COMPANY.
    • No. 218, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 140

Page 320

    • Engrossed, . . . . . 196
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 201
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 246
    • Amendments agreed to, . . . . . 249
  • VIRGINIA CAR SPRING COMPANY.
    • Resolution to amend charter of, . . . . . 85
    • No. 139, bill to amend charter of, . . . . . 86
    • S. B. 182, to amend charter of, . . . . . 198
    • Passed, . . . . . 200
  • VIRGINIA LIFE INSURANCE CO.
    • No. 122, bill amending charter of, . . . . . 83
    • S. B. 13, amending charter of, . . . . . 77
    • Passed, . . . . . 103
  • VIRGINIA LUMBER COMPANY.
    • Resolution to incorporate, . . . . . 44
    • No. 88, bill therefor, . . . . . 68
    • Passed, . . . . . 223
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 226
  • VIRGINIA AND MARYLAND RAIL ROAD COMPANY.
    • No. 195, bill to incorporate, . . . . . 125
  • VIRGINIA MECHANICS INSTITUTE.
    • No. 82, bill exempting from taxation, . . . . . 59
  • VIRGINIA MILITARY INSTITUTE.
    • Semi-annual examination of, . . . . . 88
  • VIRGINIA MINERAL OIL AND COAL COMPANY.
    • S. B. 146, to incorporate, . . . . . 190
    • Passed, . . . . . 190
  • VIRGINIA STEAM SUGAR REFINING COMPANY.
    • S. B. 51, incorporating, . . . . . 88
    • Passed, . . . . . 88
  • VIRGINIA AND TENNESSEE RAIL ROAD.
    • Resolution concerning consolidation of, and South side rail road, &c. . . . . . 103
  • VOLUNTARY ENSLAVEMENT.
    • Resolution for voluntary enslavement of Clara, . . . . . 57
    • No. 87, bill therefor, . . . . . 68
    • S. B. 169, for, of Jane et als. . . . . . 190
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 190
    • S. B. 59, for, of Fanny Matthews, . . . . . 194
    • Passed, . . . . . 194
    • S. B. 205, for, of Thomas Garland et als. . . . . . 190
    • Passed, . . . . . 190
    • Resolution concerning, of free negroes from Buckingham, . . . . . 103
    • S. B. 124, as to, of negroes from Buckingham, . . . . . 161
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 161
    • Amendments to S. B. 124 agreed to by senate, . . . . . 168
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 119
    • Resolution for, of Joshua, . . . . . 127
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 70, . . . . . 75
    • Amending act of 1856, . . . . . 135
    • S. B. 169, of Jane, . . . . . 190
    • Amended and passed, . . . . . 190
    • Amendments agreed to by senate, . . . . . 197
    • No. 219, bill for, of free negroes, . . . . . 143
    • Taken up, . . . . . 179
    • Amendment and vote thereon, . . . . . 179
    • Amendments rejected, . . . . . 179
    • Engrossed, . . . . . 180
    • No. 268, reported as to, of slaves of I. N. Robinson, . . . . . 195
    • No. 219, taken up (ryder) and passed, . . . . . 195
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 243
    • Amendments agreed to, . . . . . 244
  • VOLUNTEER BATTALION IN ALBEMARLE.
    • Resolution for Scottsville and Howardsville companies to form, . . . . . 145
    • No. 235, bill to form, . . . . . 158
    • S. B. 157, passed, . . . . . 253
  • VOLUNTEER BATTALION (ALEXANDRIA).
    • To organize, . . . . . 269
    • S. B. 271, passed, . . . . . 269
    • Resolution as to, in Wheeling, . . . . . 171
  • VOLUNTEER CAVALRY.
    • No. 245, bill to organize regiment of, . . . . . 169
  • VOLUNTEER CAVALRY COMPANY IN ALBEMARLE.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 149
    • S. B. 167, organizing a, . . . . . 196
    • Passed, . . . . . 199
  • VOLUNTEER COMPANIES IN WHEELING.
    • Resolution as to, . . . . . 38
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 134
  • VOLUNTEER COMPANY IN GREENE.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 127
    • Adverse report, . . . . . 135
  • VOLUNTEER COMPANIES.
    • No. 57, bill as to, in Wheeling, . . . . . 48
    • Passed, . . . . . 119
    • Resolution as to purchase of arms by, . . . . . 44
    • Petition of, from Loudoun, . . . . . 60
    • Resolution for formation of, in Surry county, . . . . . 44
    • Petition therefor, . . . . . 44
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 268
  • VOLUNTEER COMPANIES IN LUNENBURG.
    • Resolution, . . . . . 265
    • Committee, . . . . . 265
    • No. 277, bill therefor, . . . . . 265-6
    • Passed, . . . . . 266
  • WADDELL, J. A.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 12
  • WALDEN, JAMES.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 38
    • No. 244, bill therefor, . . . . . 169
  • WAMSLEY, MATTHEW.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 12

Page 321

    • No. 28, bill for relief of, . . . . . 23
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 159
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 173
  • WEBSTER COUNTY.
    • Petition for change in lines of, . . . . . 69
    • No. 112, bill therefor, . . . . . 79
    • Passed, . . . . . 123
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 138
  • WEBB AND ADAMS.
    • S. B. 101, for relief of, . . . . . 152
  • WERTH, W. H.
    • Bill 81--See 101st regiment.
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 270
  • WEST FORK MEETING HOUSE.
    • S. B. 241, concerning, . . . . . 165
  • WEST LIBERTY ACADEMY.
    • Petition of trustees of, . . . . . 17
    • No. 30, bill for loan to, . . . . . 30
    • Bill passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 97
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 180
  • WESTERN VIRGINIA INSURANCE COMPANY.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 26
    • No. 31, bill therefor, . . . . . 30
    • Passed, . . . . . 116
    • Passed senate with amendments, . . . . . 138
    • Amendments agreed to, . . . . . 138
  • WHEELING.
    • Resolution for military defence at, . . . . . 105
  • WHEELING AND BELMONT BRIDGE COMPANY.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 50
    • No. 236, bill to suspend taxation on, . . . . . 158
    • S. B. 259, releasing from taxation, . . . . . 243
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 243-4
  • WHEELING CREEK TURNPIKE CO.
    • No. 37, bill to amend charter of, . . . . . 31
  • WHEELING GYMNASIUM.
    • Resolution for incorporation of, . . . . . 100
  • WHITE, J. F.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 63
  • WHITE AND SALT SULPHUR TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • Resolution for ceding to Monroe, . . . . . 35
  • WIATT, W. ET ALS.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 122
  • WILDERNESS ROAD.
    • No. 4, bill to improve, . . . . . 15
  • WILLIAMS, TITUS V.
    • S. B. 66, granting arms to, . . . . . 177
    • Passed, . . . . . 267
  • WILLS, ALPHEUS.
    • Petition of, . . . . . 180
  • WINCHESTER AND POTOMAC RAIL ROAD.
    • Petition concerning, . . . . . 70
    • Petition for connection with Manassas, . . . . . 8
    • No. 5, bill therefor, . . . . . 15
    • Passed, . . . . . 94
    • Indefinitely postponed by senate, . . . . . 196
  • WINDER, W.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 86
    • Adverse report, . . . . . 135
  • WINSTON, P. P.
    • Petition of securities of, . . . . . 23
    • Adverse report to petition of securities of, . . . . . 56
    • Resolution as to securities of, . . . . . 56
    • Resolution concerning securities of, . . . . . 74
    • Resolution concerning securities; passed, . . . . . 238
    • Vote thereon, . . . . . 238
  • WISE LIGHT DRAGOONS.
    • Resolution concerning, . . . . . 119
    • Adverse report to petition of, . . . . . 125
  • WOLF CREEK TURNPIKE COMPANY.
    • S. B. 264, concerning, . . . . . 268
    • Passed, . . . . . 269
  • WOOD COUNTY.
    • Proceedings of public meeting in, . . . . . 32
    • Resolution for additional constable in, . . . . . 7
  • WOOD, A. M.
    • No. 52, bill for relief of, . . . . . 48
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 172
    • Passed senate, . . . . . 180
  • WOOLDRIDGE, A. S. (DECEASED).
    • Petition of executors of, . . . . . 23
    • Adverse report to petition of executors of, . . . . . 43
    • No. 281, bill for relief of executors of, . . . . . 250
    • Passed, and vote thereon, . . . . . 273
  • WORKHOUSES.
    • Petition for establishment of, . . . . . 143
  • WORD, W. E. M.
    • Vote of thanks to, as sergeant at arms, . . . . . 288
  • WRAY, B. ET AL.
    • Resolution for relief of, . . . . . 166
  • WRIGHT, R. N.
    • No. 62, bill for relief of, . . . . . 48
  • WRITS.
    • Resolution as to return of, . . . . . 132
  • WYTHE COUNTY.
    • Proceedings of public meeting in, . . . . . 37

        


DOC. NO. I.
MESSAGE
OF
THE GOVERNOR OF VIRGINIA,
AND
ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTS.

RICHMOND:
WILLIAM F. RITCHIE, PUBLIC PRINTER.
1861.


Page iii

Doc. No. 1.
MESSAGE.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
RICHMOND, Jan. 7, 1861.

Gentlemen of the Senate
and House of Delegates:

        My proclamation, issued on the 15th day of November last, states succinctly the considerations which induced me to convene you in extraordinary session.

        Duty, however, requires of me a more detailed exposition of my views upon the subjects therein referred to, as well as the presentation of such recommendations as are demanded by a proper regard for the public interests, and the faithful, prompt and efficient execution of the laws of this great and growing commonwealth. These views and recommendations will be presented with as much brevity as the extraordinary circumstances of the times will justify.

        Entertaining a profound respect for the intelligence, experience and information of the gentlemen constituting the two houses of the general assembly, I feel that it would be a reflection upon them to accompany each recommendation with an assignment of all the reasons which might be urged in its favor. I will content myself, therefore, with the assignment of a few general reasons in support of my recommendations. You will consider and discuss them, and either adopt or reject them, as your judgment and discretion shall determine. I am responsible to the people, our common constituents, for the recommendations. You are responsible to the same tribunal for the disposition you may make of them.

        I regret that I cannot congratulate you on the peace and prosperity, the healthy and flourishing condition of the various branches of business in which our people are so vitally interested, and offer bright and cheering hopes for the future of our country. The times are indeed full of peril and danger, and demand from those who are


Page iv

clothed with representative trusts, coolness, calmness and firmness, united with prudence, wisdom, moderation and patriotism. Indecision or indiscretion, passion or prejudice, heedlessness or recklessness, will precipitate results that may be deplored, when too late to be averted. A blunder at such a time is a crime. An error committed now can never perhaps be corrected.

        With these preliminary remarks, I address myself to the discussion of the most important question that has ever claimed your consideration, and in the determination of which so much of human happiness or misery is involved. I repeat, as applicable to this occasion, the language of Governor Floyd, in his message of January 1833: "Your station is high and responsible; to you the people will look; nay, do look for security and protection and the maintenance of all the rights of the states. Virginia, the land of our birth, the burial place of our fathers, the peaceful home of our wives and daughters, awaits your decision." The people will review whatever may be done--and the man who fears to trust them, is not a friend to their rights or their safety.

Federal Relations.

        The condition of our country at this time excites the most serious fears for the perpetuation of the Union. "Clouds o'erlapping clouds, are weaving o'er our house an evil woof, a fearful canopy." The country is torn by dissension; fierce and angry excitement exhibits itself in all sections; passion and prejudice have taken absolute possession of the minds of the people throughout the land. The vile spirit of faction, "which pollutes the fountain of national honor, and digs the grave of patriotism," shows itself on all sides. Confidence is destroyed; fraternal feeling has been supplanted by intense sectional hate; the spirit of conciliation has been smothered and crushed, and the affections of the people, north and south, east and west, appear to have been entirely withdrawn from their government. The ties of brotherhood have been severed; and though living under the same constitution, the sections seem to be as hostile, each to the other, as if their citizens belonged to unfriendly governments Distrust has marred the pleasure of friendship and social intercourse bitterness and unkindness have crushed out fraternity. Unity of feeling, unity of action is now gone. It is hardly possible for a government to live and flourish under such adverse circumstances! "We must not, however, look mournfully into the past:" That is beyond


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the hope of recall. We must wisely improve the present; correct its errors; reform its abuses; reunite the severed ties of affection, and enkindle anew the fires of patriotism, if we would recover all that has been lost. If this shall be done, a bright and glorious future is yet before us. We should be blessed with power, influence, wealth and prosperity--such as no nation has ever enjoyed in the history of the world. Great as has been our success, as compared with the nations of the earth, heretofore, greater far would it be hereafter.

        It is interesting to trace our progress, from the formation of the constitution up to the present time. The results will be found in the highest degree gratifying to our pride as a people, and immensely important, so far as our power and influence as a nation is concerned. What was the area of our country in square miles, embraced by the original thirteen states? Only 549,615. What is it now? Thirty-three states, covering an area of 1,602,000, six organized territories exclusive of the district of Columbia, covering an area of 1,401,000; and in addition, we have the Mesilla valley, embracing 78,000, and the Indian territory, embracing 187,000 square miles. Our territory has been enlarged nearly seven times in extent; our navy has been increased until its canvass whitens every ocean, and our national flag assures protection to the American citizen wherever he may be. Our power, our influence, our prosperity, our agricultural, mechanical and manufacturing wealth have increased far beyond all expectation. That banner which is borne up, and which has been carried forward by the unseen, yet steady hand of progress, has attained a position far in advance of the hopes and anticipations of the founders of our government. Surely no people have been blessed as we have been, and it is melancholy to think that all is now about to be sacrificed upon the altar of passion. If the judgments of men were consulted, if the admonitions of their consciences were respected, the Union would yet be saved from overthrow. Every calm, considerate and reflecting mind is filled with apprehensions of the most painful character; every patriotic heart throbs with anxiety, and all conservative men throughout our extended country are seeking to devise some means of escape from the evils that now threaten our peace and the continued existence of the government. All see and feel and know that the danger is imminent, and all true patriots are exerting themselves to save us from the perils now impending over us. The dark gloom of apprehension is fast gathering around us, and if saved at all, the wisdom, prudence and patriotism of the country can alone


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(aided by Divine Providence) be relied upon to relieve us in this hour of our extremity.

        My inaugural message, presented to you just one year ago to-day, was prepared in anticipation of the occurrences of the past two months, which have cast their shadow like a pall over the business, financial and commercial, of the country. I thought I saw then a storm ahead, that threatened to be destructive in its consequences; and anxious to avert its fury if possible, I made two recommendations, which, if adopted, would (in my judgment) have saved us from the consequences now upon us. In this opinion, however, you did not concur, and no action was taken in regard to either.

        Seeing no other hope of averting the threatened danger, I cordially endorsed the proposition presented by Col. Memminger of South Carolina, and Mr. Starke of Mississippi, for a conference with those states. If that proposition had been accepted, I am entirely satisfied that the results would have been most happy; that it would have tended in a great degree to the settlement and satisfactory adjustment of the painful controversy which had so long existed, and which seemed to be increased by time and untoward circumstances, between the two sections of the Union. The questions would have been presented in a form and shape, and in a manner so imposing, that action must have followed. That action could not have tended otherwise than toward peace.

        I now again most respectfully renew the recommendation, presented in my inaugural message, in the following extract:

        "The only mode, therefore, of remedying the evil, that occurs to me, under the constitution, is provided in the fifth article thereof. Summon a convention of all the states, that a full and free conference may be had between the representatives of the people, elected for this purpose, and thus ascertain whether the questions in controversy cannot be settled upon some basis mutually satisfactory to both sections. If such a convention shall assemble, and after free and full consultation and comparison of opinions, they shall find that the differences between the slaveholding and non-slaveholding states are irreconcilable, let them consider the question of a peaceable separation, and the adjustment of all questions relating to the disposition of the common property between the two sections. If they can be reconciled, let them adjust the terms, and give them such sanctions as will render them effective.


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        "I suggest, therefore, that you adopt resolutions in favor of the call of such a convention, and appeal to the legislatures of the several states to unite in the application proposed to be made to congress, in pursuance of the provisions of the article aforesaid. If the non-slaveholding states shall fail or refuse to unite in the application, such failure or refusal will furnish conclusive evidence of a determination on their part to keep up the agitation, and to continue their aggressions upon us. If the convention shall meet, and the question cannot be satisfactorily adjusted, it will furnish evidence equally conclusive of their determination. In either event, the people of the south will clearly understand what they are to expect in the future."

        The article of the constitution to which reference is here made, is in the following words, and I quote it, inasmuch as it will be referred to hereafter in this communication:

        "The congress, whenever two-thirds of both houses shall deem it necessary, shall propose amendments to this constitution, or, on the applications of the legislatures of two-thirds of the several states, shall call a convention for proposing amendments, which, in either case, shall be valid to all intents and purposes, as part of this constitution, when ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several states, or by conventions in three-fourths thereof, as the one or the other mode of ratification may be proposed by the congress."

        Under this article, the constitution of the United States has been amended on three several occasions in our history, and those amendments have all been exceedingly valuable and important. The first ten amendments were ratified by some of the states in 1789, by others in 1790, and by the residue in 1791. Another amendment was proposed in 1794, which the president of the United States announced in his message to both houses, dated January 8th, 1798, as having been adopted by the constitutional number of states. The last amendment was proposed in 1803, and adopted by the constitutional number of states in 1804. These amendments were proposed and adopted at periods less alarming, perhaps, than at the present day. Still their adoption was necessary, to insure peace and quiet to our country, and were demanded by a proper deference to public opinion.

        In the present condition of public affairs, why cannot such additional amendments as the circumstances now existing require, be proposed for ratification and adoption? The necessity is manifest, and


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the duty to adopt all constitutional measures before we resort to the ultimate remedy of secession, is imperative. Is it not monstrous to see a government like ours destroyed, merely because men cannot agree about a domestic institution, which existed at the formation of the government, and which is now recognized by fifteen out of the thirty-three states composing the Union?

        In support of my position, I quote from the message of Governor John Floyd, dated January 25th, 1833. He was one of the ablest and most reliable of the state rights men of Virginia. Though he has been taken from amongst us, he has left behind him a record as enduring as time:

        "But the call of a general convention of the states, brings at once full before all the parties to the compact, every doubtful or disputed power of the federal government in the mode pointed out by the instrument itself, where all amendments could be made, and disputed powers settled, in a spirit of kindness much more congenial to the harmony of our institutions than that which now seems in contemplation. This course ought to be acceptable to all, as it gives full assurance of peaceful days hereafter, and will restore confidence to the mind of the patriot, already too long agitated with the foreseen disasters of the coming conflict."

        This recommendation was made at a period in our history not unlike the present. It was made by a statesman of great practical wisdom, and of large political experience. He was a true Virginian, in feeling, sentiment and principle, jealous of her honor, true to her interests, faithful to her rights and institutions, cool, calm and sagacious.

        It becomes our state to be mindful of her own interests, in the present deranged and unsettled condition of public affairs. The cotton states seem to be looking to their own interests alone, and why should we not look to ours? Virginia has immense interests, valuable and important, at stake, and it becomes us to see that those interests are adequately protected. She occupies a position now, as she did in 1833, when she can mediate between the contending parties, north and south, and see that some fair settlement and arrangement of existing differences shall be agreed upon. While I would not have her occupy a position that would require the slightest sacrifice of her honor, her rights or her institutions, she must see that in all her future movements and associations these are securely protected.


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Now, that guarantees are the order of the day, and each state is earnestly and anxiously enquiring what guarantees are required for her protection, it becomes us to secure such as will protect and preserve the rights of persons and property of our own citizens. A disruption of the Union is inevitable; and if new confederacies are to be formed, we must have the best guarantees before we can attach our state to either of them.

        The late executive of South Carolina, in his message to the legislature, devotes considerable space to a commentary upon your action respecting "a conference of the southern states." That reference does not appear to me to be dictated by a kind spirit. It wears the aspect of dissatisfaction with your decision, and, in connection with other portions of the message, indicates distrust of, and hostility on his part, towards this commonwealth. The duty which I owe to Virginia demands a notice of so much of this communication as relates to our state, and the action of her legislature.

        Why Virginia alone, of all the southern states, should have been singled out for comment, is to me unaccountable. The resolutions of the South Carolina legislature, asking the conference, were transmitted to all the southern states, and none of those states responded, except Mississippi and Alabama. Why no complaint of the other states who declined to accede to the proposal? After a careful examination of your resolutions, since the perusal of the governor's message, I see nothing that could have entitled them to the special notice that has been bestowed upon them. They declare, "That the general assembly of Virginia, recognizing in our present relations with the non-slaveholding states an imperative necessity for decisive measures, does not yet distrust the capacity of the southern states, by a wise and firm exercise of their reserved powers, to protect the rights and liberties of the people, and to preserve the federal Union. For this purpose, we earnestly desire the concurrent action of the southern states." The authorities of Virginia acted with kindness and courtesy towards the state of South Carolina and her estimable commissioner, and in declining to go into a southern conference at that time, they intended no disrespect to that state.

        South Carolina having determined upon her future course, without consultation with any one of her slaveholding sister states, her late executive announces in his message, "It is too late to receive propositions for a conference; and the state would be wanting in self-respect,


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after having deliberately decided on her course, to entertain any proposition looking to a continuance of the present Union. We can get no safer or better guarantee than the present constitution, and that has proved impotent to protect us against the fanaticism of the north." It may be too late now to confer with her sister states, but there was a time when she could have conferred with them with great propriety, and perhaps advantage to herself and them. The governor states that Col. Memminger was not sent to Virginia "to plan a dissolution of the Union, but to save it, if possible." Before she determined to precipitate a dissolution, would it not have been wise to let us know what was her determination, and to have made an effort to secure "the concurrent action of the southern states?" As it is, her movement takes her southern sisters by surprise.

        The financial and commercial policy of the federal government in past years has, I have no doubt, in a great degree determined her action. The only specific allegation in regard to the slavery question, so far as I have observed, is the conduct of the northern states in passing personal liberty bills, designed to obstruct the execution of the fugitive slave law. The action of the northern states in regard to this law, is, beyond all question, a just and proper subject of complaint and even denunciation on the part of all slaveholding states, and especially the border states.

        The faithful, prompt and just execution of all the provisions of the present constitution will not prove satisfactory to South Carolina. Believing she can get nothing more than the constitution accords to her, without even making an effort through a convention of all the states, her late executive solemnly announces, "It is too late to receive propositions for a conference;" that "having deliberately decided on her course, self-respect forbids her from entertaining any proposition looking to a continuance in the Union."

        The late executive of South Carolina is not content to announce this determination, but his recommendations look to the embarrassment of every slaveholding state on the border, which is not disposed to follow her lead. Hence we find in his message an open and undisguised proclamation of war upon the interests of all the border slaveholding states, unless they unite with South Carolina:

        "The introduction of slaves from other states, which may not become members of the southern confederacy, and particularly the border states, should be prohibited by legislative enactment, and by


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this means they will be brought to see that their safety depends upon a withdrawal from their enemies, and an union with their friends and natural allies. If they should continue their union with the non-slaveholding states, let them keep their slave property in their own borders, and the only alternative left them will be emancipation by their own act, or by the action of their confederates. We cannot consent to relieve them from their embarrassing situation, by permitting them to realize the money value for their slaves, by selling them to us, and thus prepare them, without any loss of property, to accommodate themselves to the northern free soil idea. But should they unite their destiny with us, and become stars in the southern galaxy--members of a great southern confederation--we will receive them with open arms and an enthusiastic greeting. Should, then, danger approach their borders, or an enemy, open or disguised, make war upon them, there is not a doubt but a living rampart of freemen, from the Atlantic to the Gulf of Mexico, would line their borders and beat back the invaders."

        Here we have the exhibition of a determined purpose to coerce Virginia and the other border states to follow her example; and if they fail to do so, then they are to be placed in such a position as will drive them to the emancipation of their slaves! This movement, begun ostensibly for the protection of slave property, for the diffusion and the preservation of the institution of slavery, is to be so managed and directed now, as to force states holding slave property, to free themselves from it, by emancipation. This is the avowed policy of the late executive of a state, interested in an institution sanctioned by the teachings and precepts of Christianity, and promotive of a higher degree of civilization and refinement--an institution that ought to be diffused and extended, and the permanency and prosperity of which ought to be insured. Can it be possible that such suggestions can exert an influence upon the future action of either of the border states--that they can be coerced into an union with those who thus manifest a determined purpose to rule or ruin them? They may rest satisfied that such a policy cannot control the action of Virginia. She has the independence and the ability to think for herself, and her action, whatever it may be, will be the result of her convictions of duty. She is equally as jealous of her honor as South Carolina or any other state, and she will guard and protect it, with a purpose as resolute and determined, and a spirit as firm and undaunted, as unyielding and as exacting.


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        I now propose to present, in contrast with these views of the executive of South Carolina, the sentiments announced by her commissioner in this capitol on the 19th of January 1860. In his address he declares, "I can confidently affirm that such an interchange of kindly feeling as you have exhibited, cannot fail to bind together the hearts of our people in closer ties of sympathy and fellowship." Does the conduct of the late executive of South Carolina, in his recent message, show that such has been the result? No observer of events for some months past can fail to have been struck with the numerous evidences of hostility and prejudice which have been exhibited towards Virginia by very many of the leading and most influential public men of that state. We have seen nothing going to show the existence of those "ties of sympathy and fellowship" which bind "together the hearts of our people," so handsomely alluded to by Col. Memminger on that interesting occasion. Distrust of us, and distrust without sufficient cause (a result greatly to be deplored), appears to have sundered the "ties of sympathy and fellowship" which ought to have existed, at this critical juncture in our affairs, not only between South Carolina and Virginia, but between all the slaveholding states. Such taunts as have been indulged in towards this commonwealth by the late executive of South Carolina, do not exhibit that spirit of comity which should at all times, and more especially at this time, characterize the intercourse and relations between sister states, with a common domestic institution, that can be best defended and maintained by united counsels and action. Such allusions to Virginia should never have been made by the executive of a state who feels her "obligation for the large contribution of mind and effort which Virginia has made to the common cause," and who is more largely indebted to her for manifestations of particular concern in" her "welfare."

        In this address it was also declared, "that when we (South Carolina) propose a conference, we do so with the full understanding that we are but one of the states in that conference, entitled like all the others to express our opinions, but willing to respect and abide by the united judgment of the whole. If our pace is too fast for some, we are content to walk slower; our earnest wish is that all may keep together." These are noble sentiments, and declare a sound and proper position. In a movement so important, and involving consequences so serious to all the slaveholding states, no one state should have ventured to move, without first having given timely notice to the others of her


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purpose, even if she did not intend "to respect and abide by the united judgment of the whole." Such action on the part of South Carolina would at this moment, in all probability, have enabled "all" to "keep together." What effect her movement may have upon the future, time alone can disclose.

        South Carolina, a sovereign state, had a right to adopt the line of policy she has pursued; and I would have made no special reference to her course, if I had not been indirectly invited to do so by her late executive, in his uncalled for references to Virginia. It has been my rule, as the executive of Virginia, to exhibit, in my official intercourse with the states of the confederacy, a spirit of comity, and to manifest all that respect which is due from one state to another. Whenever the motives or the actions of Virginia are arraigned, I will feel it to be my duty to remonstrate; and in doing so, I will observe that moderation, courtesy and kind spirit which become the character of a state whose "large contributions to the Union" have "secured to her the respect and affection of every state of this confederacy."

        In the recent message of the governor of Mississippi, I find a reference to the border states, of the same character, and manifesting the same spirit which has been exhibited by the late executive of South Carolina:

        "As it is more than probable that many of the citizens of the border states may seek a market for their slaves in the cotton states, I recommend the passage of an act prohibiting the introduction of slaves into this state, unless their owners come with them and become citizens, and prohibiting the introduction of slaves for sale by all persons whomsoever."

        These references to the border states are pregnant with meaning, and no one can be at a loss to understand what that meaning is. While disavowing any unkind feeling towards South Carolina and Mississippi, I must still say, that I will resist the coercion of Virginia into the adoption of a line of policy, whenever the attempt is made by northern or southern states.

        For the present condition of public affairs, the non-slaveholding states are chargeable; and if the Union shall be destroyed, upon them will rest the solemn responsibility. Their systematic and persistent warfare upon the institution of domestic slavery, as it exists amongst us--their fierce and unqualified denunciation of it, and all who recognize


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or tolerate it, have done much to create the present state of exasperation existing between the two sections of the Union. Hatred to slavery and slaveholders is instilled into the minds of their children, as part and parcel of their education, throughout the infected district of New England. The institution is constantly assailed--through the press, in the pulpit, in public meetings, in private associations, in their legislative assemblies, in their statutes, on all occasions--as morally, socially and politically wrong. The slave owner is painted as the great criminal of the age, deserving death. Money is raised and has been expended in hiring desperate and depraved men, in arming and supporting them, in order that they may make raids into southern states, and excite the slaves to insurrection and murder. Arms peculiarly suited to the use of the slave, have been fabricated, and sent into the slave states, to be placed in the hands of this class of our population, after they have been stimulated to such a degree of madness as will qualify them for the commission of murder, arson, and every species of cruelty. The results of these teachings were seen in the Harpers Ferry raid.

        Such an outrage ought to have provoked the unqualified and universal condemnation of good and law-abiding citizens in every state of the confederacy. In atrocity, it stands without parallel in the history of our country, and all right thinking men would suppose that neither the authors nor the act would find apologists any where. Is it so? Did we not find numerous apologists for the conduct of John Brown and his flagitious associates, throughout many of the northern, but more especially in the New England states? The fountain of New England sympathy was broken up to its depths, and gushed forth, when John Brown and his followers were condemned, after a fair trial, and expiated their crimes upon the gallows. Though they are dead, New England sympathy for them still survives. But a few weeks ago a John Brown sympathizer was elected to the gubernatorial chair of the state of Massachusetts, one of the original thirteen. The executive chairs of the states of Ohio and Iowa are also filled with the same description of men, holding the same general views, advocating the same principles and measures, and exhibiting deep sympathy and strong partiality for these heartless malefactors: both elected, however, prior to the Harpers Ferry raid.

        The people of the northern states, as their statutes show, and it is confirmed by their speeches and addresses, their resolutions in public meetings, and indeed in almost every conceivable mode, have been


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endeavoring to confine slavery within its present limits, by excluding it from all the territories belonging to the government. They have been endeavoring "to draw a line around the southern states," with the purpose of then declaring that slavery shall not go beyond the limits thus determined by them. The statutes and resolutions of many of the non-slaveholding states, from the time Texas sought admission into the Union, up to this day, confirm this view of the designs and purposes of the free states.

        Who can have forgotten the attempt made by the northern people to use the mails for the transmission of the vilest papers, illustrated by pictorial representations, calculated and intended "to produce dissatisfaction and revolt amongst the slaves, and to incite their wild passions to vengeance" against their masters and others in slaveholding states. The objects they then had in view, and towards the accomplishment of which their efforts were directed, were the abolition of slavery in the district of Columbia, and the exclusion of slave states from admission into the Union.

        Since the formation of the government, composed of the original thirteen states, twenty new states have been added to the Union, making now the number of thirty-three. Of the number so added, eleven have been free states, and nine slave states. For many years the policy was to admit states pari passu, so as to preserve the equilibrium in the senate between the north and the south. In carrying out this policy, Vermont and Kentucky, Tennessee and Ohio, Indiana and Mississippi, Illinois and Alabama, Maine and Missouri, Arkansas and Michigan, Florida and Iowa, came in together, or near the same time. When the state of Missouri was admitted, the state of Maine was cut off from the then state of Massachusetts, for the purpose of preserving the equilibrium between the north and south, in the senate. A northern state was divided, with a view of keeping up the equipoise, and that division gave an additional free state to the Union. That equipoise is now destroyed, and we stand fifteen slave and eighteen free states. Even in this state of the case, the south has been so forbearing and unselfish, that she has never asked for the division of her states, that the equipoise might be restored.

        An advantage has been gained over us in another respect, equally important. The organized territories (with the exception of New Mexico) are destined to become free states; and it may be that even this territory will be of like character. All of these territories will


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come into the Union near about the same time; and while the north has the advantage over us now of six senators, that advantage must, in the ordinary course of events, if the Union shall survive, be greatly increased. Besides, the territory of the slave states is generally large; the territory of the free states generally small. Rhode Island is made equal to Missouri in the senate; Connecticut is a counterpoise to Virginia; Vermont, with its wild fanaticism, is an offset to Georgia, the empire state of the south.

        Can it be surprising that the people of the south should be restive and uneasy under such circumstances? In addition, a candidate has just been elected to the presidency, who gave utterance to the following atrocious sentiments, indicating his bitter hostility to the south and her institutions: "In my opinion, it (the slavery agitation) will not cease until a crisis shall have been reached and passed. A house divided against itself cannot stand. I believe this government cannot endure permanently, half slave and half free. I do not expect the Union to be dissolved; I do not expect the house to fall; but I do expect it will cease to be divided. It will become all one thing, or all the other. Either the opponents of slavery will arrest the further spread of it, and place it where the public mind shall rest in the belief that it is in the course of ultimate extinction, or its advocates will push it forward until it shall become alike lawful in all the states, old as well as new, north as well as south." And again, he says: "I embrace with pleasure this opportunity of declaring my disapprobation of that clause of the constitution which denies to a portion of the colored people the right of suffrage."

        When a president is elected, entertaining and boldly avowing such sentiments--when, to this moment, they have never been retracted or qualified, have we not reason for alarm and resentment?

        The Union is now disrupted; let the north bear the blame. They have brought these sad and deplorable results upon the country, and the candid and honest men of the world will hold them responsible for the destruction of a government that has challenged the admiration and commanded the respect of the nations of the earth. Before God and the world, they will be held answerable for this calamity.

        They yet have the power to end the strife and excitement, and restore confidence to the country. Will they do it? I await their response, but not without apprehension. Time, however, will soon


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furnish the answer. The present state of things cannot continue long. A change for the better or the worse, must soon come.

        Can it be supposed that a dissolution of the Union can end in the organization of a northern and southern confederacy, embracing the states and territory on this side of the Rocky mountains? I entertain no such opinion. I consider it not only possible, but highly probable, that when disunion shall come, we will have four organizations, independent and distinct. The states and territories on the Pacific, by reason of their locality and isolation, will form one. The New England states, with New York, in consequence of their identity of opinions on the subject of African slavery, and their other fanatical ideas of like kind, will constitute the second. The border slave states, with Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Missouri, and the northwestern states and territories, will form the third. The Ohio river, a great highway, owned by Virginia, furnishes a common bond of union between several of them--the Missouri river, another great highway, is a bond of union between others--and as these make up the Mississippi, that great valley will sooner or later form a union with those with whom they trade, and whose interests are therefore common. For this organization, New Orleans would be its chief city. It would be the exporting and importing city for the states in existence, and those which may be hereafter formed out of the immense unsettled territory which it would possess. Besides, the unsold public lands would invite population, and their sales would furnish the means to defray governmental expenses, in part at least. Kentucky and the northwestern territory originally formed a part of the domain of Virginia. This organization will keep her united with what formerly belonged to her, and constituted a part of her territory. The cotton states would form the fourth. All these confederacies being thus formed, although Louisiana, Arkansas, Texas and Mississippi might at first attach themselves to the cotton state organization, a very short time would elapse before they would find it to be their interest to connect themselves with the border and northwestern states. Their trade, their interests, their business relations, are with those states, and all upon the waters of the Mississippi and its tributaries must necessarily be united. If Louisiana remained in alliance with the cotton states, her great city of New Orleans would have to compete with Mobile and Charleston, for the export and import trade, and the most she could hope for, would be a third of it.


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        Such an arrangement would be followed by a struggle for the key of the gulf (Pensacola); and the third organization would have it, cost what it might in treasure and blood. It would be too important an acquisition to give up to the cotton state confederacy, without a desperate struggle. These are my speculations as to the results that are to follow a dissolution of the Union. These results are bad enough, but may be much worse. It is not given to us to read the future. We may, however, speculate about it.

        When the Union was formed, it was not expected or believed that the domestic institutions of all the states should be alike. The institutions of Maine and Louisiana were never intended to be the same. The people of each were invested with full power to determine whether slavery should exist, and the former decided against the institution; the latter decided in its favor--as each had the undoubted right to do.

        In the list of grievances against the north, it is somewhat remarkable, that in our own state so little has been said in regard to the conduct of the governors of Iowa and Ohio, in refusing to surrender fugitives from justice who participated in the Harpers Ferry raid. They were regularly indicted; the governors of those states were applied to in due form to deliver them up; the application was refused; and our people, instead of taking a stand, and making an issue upon this practical question, seem inclined to ignore it, and unite in the complaints of the cotton states. The complaints of those states are rather against the financial and commercial policy of the federal government, than any action or want of action on the subject of slavery. The slave owners of Virginia have suffered seriously; the wrongs inflicted upon us by the conduct of these executives, have been great: Still, we have heard but little complaint in our own state. The grievances complained of mainly, are those which the cotton states plead as a justification for their action. Would it not be well for us to redress the wrongs our own people have suffered, before we undertake to redress the wrongs of others, who have suffered much less, so far as slavery is concerned, than we have done? Our action should be based upon the wrongs done to our own people.

        The proposition for the call of a state convention, to determine the position which Virginia shall take, in view of passing events, appears to have been received with very general favor. As the subject has


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been much discussed by the people in their primary meetings, it is not only proper, but it is doubtless expected that I shall refer to it in this communication. It is pleasant, alike to the private citizen and the public officer, to know that his views and opinions are endorsed by those around him; that he is backed by the popular sentiment of the day; but there are times and occasions, in the history of every man, when it is imperative upon him to adhere to his convictions of duty, maintain his opinions firmly, but courteously, even at the hazard of being found in a minority. I have no hesitation in expressing my opinion upon this or any other question of public concern.

        I have my convictions upon this question, and I give expression to them, in declaring my opposition at this time, to the call of a state convention. I see no necessity for it at this time, nor do I now see any good practical result that can be accomplished by it. I do not consider this a propitious time to moot the question, and I apprehend, from indications that have been exhibited, that serious difficulties and embarrassments will attend the movement. Subsequent events may show the necessity for it.

        In 1833 and 1850, when the existence of the Union was seriously threatened, when the danger was imminent, the legislature accomplished every thing desired, in a manner as satisfactory as it would have been accomplished, if the mode now suggested had been adopted. On neither occasion was the legislature chosen, with reference to the events which subsequently occurred, and which devolved upon them the necessity for such action as was taken, and which gave so much satisfaction to the people of Virginia and the whole country.

        In my inaugural message I made this recommendation, which, if adopted, would perhaps have relieved us, to some extent, from the complications with which we are now embarrassed:

        "I also suggest that a commission, to consist of two of our most intelligent, discreet and experienced statesmen, shall be appointed, whose duty it shall be to visit the legislatures of those states which have passed laws to obstruct the execution of the fugitive slave act, and insist, in the name of Virginia, upon their unconditional repeal. In support of the suggestion of the appointment of a commission, a precedent is to be found in the history of our own state, in the appointment


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of the distinguished Benjamin Watkins Leigh, who was commissioned to visit the legislature of South Carolina, at the time of the controversy between that state and the federal government. The existence of the Union was then greatly imperiled, and the action of Virginia exerted a most happy influence in bringing about a settlement that averted the danger and restored peace to the country. That crisis in public affairs was almost as serious and alarming as the present."

        In renewing the recommendation at this time, I annex a modification, and that is, that commissioners shall not be sent to either of the New England states. The occurrences of the last two months have satisfied me, that New England puritanism has no respect for human constitutions, and so little regard for the Union, that they would not sacrifice their prejudices, or smother their resentments to perpetuate it.

        I further recommend, that commissioners be sent to the legislatures or conventions of all the slaveholding states, to confer with them, with a view of ascertaining what demands, in the nature of amendments to the constitution, or otherwise, will be satisfactory in this exigency. The adoption of this plan will in all probability tend to secure harmony and produce unity of action.

        The controversy now has reached a point when it must be settled on some fair, just and permanent basis, if we are to be reunited, and peace, quiet and order restored to the country. The excitement now existing is ruinous to the financial and commercial business, and to the agricultural, planting, mechanical, mercantile and manufacturing interests of all sections. Unless a settlement of the controversy shall be speedily effected, every species of property must fall to merely nominal prices, and a scene of general and ruinous bankruptcy, far exceeding, in extent and severity, any that has preceded it, must be the inevitable result. Even now, hundreds and thousands have been thrown out of employment, and at this inclement season poverty, want and misery must be the portion of them and their dependent families. It is time the conservative spirit of the country was aroused and stimulated to energetic action. No time is to be lost in putting into immediate requisition all fair, honorable and constitutional means that promise to secure a satisfactory and permanent adjustment.

        What, then, is necessary to be done? The northern states must


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strike from their statute books their personal liberty bills, and fulfill their constitutional obligations in regard to fugitive slaves and fugitives from justice. If our slaves escape into non-slaveholding states, they must be delivered up; if abandoned, depraved and desperately wicked men come into slave states to excite insurrections, or to commit other crimes against our laws, and escape into free states, they must be given up for trial and punishment, when lawfully demanded by the constituted authorities of those states whose laws have been violated.

        Second--We must have proper and effective guarantees for the protection of slavery in the district of Columbia. We can never consent to the abolition of slavery in the district, until Maryland shall emancipate her slaves; and not then, unless it shall be demanded by the citizens of the district.

        Third--Our equality in the states and territories must be fully recognized, and our rights of person and property adequately protected and secured. We must have guarantees that slavery shall not be interdicted in any territory now belonging to, or which may hereafter be acquired by the general government; either by the congress of the United States or a territorial legislature: that we shall be permitted to pass through the free states and territories without molestation; and if a slave shall be abducted, that the state in which he or she shall be lost, shall pay the full value of such slave to the owner.

        Fourth--Like guarantees must be given, that the transmission of slaves between the slaveholding states, either by land or water, shall not be interfered with.

        Fifth--The passage and enforcement of rigid laws for the punishment of such persons in the free states as shall organize, or aid and abet in organizing, either by the contribution of money, arms, munitions of war, or in any other mode whatsoever, companies of men, with a view to assail the slaveholding states, and to excite slaves to insurrection.

        Sixth--That the general government shall be deprived of the power of appointing to local offices in the slaveholding states, persons who are hostile to their institutions, or inimical to their rights--the object being to prevent the appointing power from using patronage to sow the seeds of strife and dissension between the slaveholding and non-slaveholding classes in the southern states.


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        These guarantees can be given without prejudice to the honor or rights, and without a sacrifice of the interests, of either of the non-slaveholding states. We ask nothing, therefore, which is not clearly right, and necessary to our protection: And surely, when so much is at stake, it will be freely, cheerfully and promptly assented to. It is the interest of the north and the south to preserve the government from destruction; and they should omit the use of no proper or honorable means to avert so great a calamity. The public safety and welfare demand instant action.

        Many of the fanatics in the northern states are constantly calling attention to the fact, that the number of slave owners, as compared with the white population in the slave states, is small; and hence the inference that the non-slaveholder is not loyal to the state, and would not willingly defend the institution. This is a most serious mistake, and is well calculated to make an erroneous impression upon the northern mind. Such a representation does serious injustice to that loyal and patriotic class of our citizens. It is a reflection upon them, not warranted by their conduct, now or heretofore.

        The number of persons in this state, in the year 1860, charged with taxes on slaves, was 53,874. The number of persons charged with taxes on lands in the same year, was 159,088. Most of the persons charged with taxes on slaves, are the owners of lands also; and others who own lands, own no slaves. The number of persons charged with taxes, other than owners of lands and slaves, is 201,000. All these parties have a common interest in the protection of persons and property, and each feels that in protecting the rights and property of the others, he is securing and protecting his own, whether of little or great value. As the chief magistrate, and as a citizen of Virginia, it is a source of pleasure to me to know that there is no jealousy or distrust, and that harmony and confidence exist between these classes. If the northern people entertain the opinion that the non-slaveholders of the south are not reliable and trustworthy in all respects, they are most grossly mistaken and deceived.

        I have seen it stated that in the empire city of New York the owners of real estate numbered less than 15,000. Do those who are not owners of real estate feel no interest in the property of the 15,000? Would they be unwilling to defend or protect it, if it were in danger of destruction? It might be charged with the same propriety, and with as much truth, in this instance, that feeling no interest


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in common with the owner, they would not risk their lives for the protection of his real estate, worth millions of dollars. They are interested--deeply interested in all that relates to the public prosperity. Their prosperity, their comfort, and the comfort of their families are dependent upon the protection of the rights of property of every individual in the community in which he lives.

        I have always reverenced the state rights doctrines of Virginia, as inculcated in the resolutions of '98 and the report of '99. I believe the doctrines therein asserted, and the principles therein affirmed, to be worthy of all acceptation. I cordially endorse them, and in so doing, endorse the doctrine of secession. I do not propose to go into an argument in support of my opinion upon this question. The subject has been ably discussed for years, on both sides, and those arguments are familiar to all reading and well informed men. I am content to rest the question upon the discussions which have taken place, and leave the people to form their own opinions and draw their own conclusions. I refer to it, in this connection, to declare my unqualified hostility to the doctrine of coercion by the federal government.

        In my canvass for the office I now hold, I declared my opinion frankly and fearlessly on this question, and every man in the state had the amplest opportunity to be informed of my position. In a written address "to the voters of Virginia," issued on the 12th of May 1859, I stated, "Should it be the pleasure of the people to elevate me to the office of governor, I will endeavor in my administration to carry out the time honored state rights principles of Virginia. If at any time during my administration the federal government shall attempt to interfere with the rights and institutions of Virginia; if it shall at any time interfere with the rights of slavery or the rights of slaveholders in our state, I will be prepared, with the aid of the people, to resist any efforts to coerce us into submission. I will resist any attempt of federal troops to cross our line to execute such unjust, iniquitous and unconstitutional laws, either in Virginia or in any other southern state." My position now on this question, is what it was then. It has not been changed or modified. I will regard an attempt to pass federal troops across the territory of Virginia, for the purpose of coercing a southern seceding state, as an act of invasion, which should be met and repelled. The allegiance of every citizen of Virginia is due to her; and when her flag is unfurled, it is his duty to rally to its support and defence. The citizen of Virginia who will not respond to her call, is a traitor to her rights and her honor.


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        I am not without hope that the present difficulties will find a satisfactory solution in the end. Let the New England states and western New York be sloughed off. In the last war with Great Britain, the New England states entertained the treasonable design of forming an alliance with Canada. Let them now consummate it. At the time the Hartford convention met, the most treasonable body that has ever assembled in our country, it was declared in their report, "Whenever it shall appear that these causes (of our calamities) are radical and permanent, a separation, by equitable arrangement, will be preferable to an alliance by constraint, among nominal friends, but real enemies, inflamed by mutual hatred and jealousy, and inviting, by intestine divisions, contempt and aggression from abroad." The causes of our calamities "are radical and permanent," and we are indebted to New England for them. They are our "nominal friends, but real enemies;" they have originated more trouble, caused more strife, and created more hatred, dissension and division in our country, than all the other states combined. They have uniformly opposed the acquisition of territory, and consequently the organization and admission of new states into the Union. If their policy had prevailed, we should have had at this day the original thirteen states, and no more. All those states carved out of the Louisiana territory, the northwestern territory, Spanish territory and Mexican territory, would have been excluded from association and union with us. They have shown themselves the uncompromising enemies of progress; they have sternly resisted every attempt to extend our empire, under the fear that "the western states, multiplied in number and augmented in population, will control the interests of the whole." Existing difficulties furnish abundant reasons and the best opportunity for severing our connection with them; and we ought not to permit the occasion to pass unimproved.

        A confederacy, composed of the remaining states, can arrange terms under which they can live harmoniously and happily together; and now that the Union is disrupted, we should avail ourselves of this favorable opportunity to commence the work of reconstruction. In commencing and prosecuting this important work, we must look to our security, the protection of our institutions, and our domestic peace. Let the fabric be reared, discarding all rotten and unsound material, and exhibiting an ordinary share of prudence and wisdom in its fabrication, and there is but little reason to doubt that it can be constructed upon fair and satisfactory terms, and the rights


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and interests, the institutions and honor of all its members can be satisfactorily secured. We can form such a confederacy as will draw to it the affections and sympathies of its citizens, thereby securing for it a foundation on which it can rest in safety.

        Such is my plan for relief from the difficulties, the perplexities and the complications which now environ us, and I present it for the consideration of my countrymen. Every consideration of duty to ourselves and those who are to succeed us, demands that the controversy shall be settled finally. It can be no longer delayed.

        The times require prudence, wisdom and patriotism; union, harmony and conciliation. Every man should be willing to risk himself and his future prospects to quell the strife and restore peace to the nation, torn as it now is by dissension, and threatened with anarchy, trusting to the people to do justice to his intentions, even if they should think his judgment in error.

        In the present posture of affairs, it becomes us to cast about and ascertain in what way the interests of Virginia can be preserved and advanced. It is neither politic nor wise to neglect our material prosperity, and permit it to be sacrificed and destroyed by political or sectional broils. This obligation upon us is imperative, whether the Union shall continue to exist or be destroyed. In either event, our material prosperity should be with us an object of the first importance, and to its advancement our efforts should be steadily directed.

        We have the best port in the country; and no man can doubt, if direct trade were established between Norfolk and Europe, it would give increased prosperity to every interest in the commonwealth. It would secure for us a commercial independence that would prove of immense value in any contingency that might occur. The present and prospective system of rail roads in the state already points to the great northwest, and must soon become an important part of the immense net work of roads which now reach Kansas, and are fast progressing towards the Pacific; and the system, when complete, will be entirely, or almost so, within the central belt from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Virginia then, whether in or out of the Union as it stands at present, has it in her power to place herself in the position, in reference to this great interior and exterior trade, which really belongs to her.

        With ships sailing directly to Europe, at regular intervals from the


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port of Norfolk, an import trade could be established, and importers in the interior cities throughout the west, and some portions of the southwest, would receive their supplies through this channel. These importations would all pass over our rail roads to their intersection with the rail roads of other states, especially those of Tennessee, Kentucky and some of the northwestern states. The export and import business would be concentrated upon the Virginia roads, and would thus insure to them controlling power in the arrangement, securing great benefits to the state, and good profits to the stockholders. It may be added that this commerce is already in existence, and only awaits the easiest, cheapest and most expeditious means of reaching the Atlantic, to be conveyed thence to all points of destination, both outward and inward.

        I am entirely satisfied, that if direct trade were established between Norfolk and Europe, it would result in the enlargement of our cities, the increase of our agricultural products, the development of our resources, the creation of manufactures, the enhancement of the value of lands, the opening of the coal and mineral beds, make the stock which the state owns in her rail roads productive--and the end would be, a diminution of the state debt, and a reduction in the rate of taxation. If such would be the results, the subject is eminently deserving of the most serious consideration. The attention of the people has been directed to the question, and the time is therefore favorable for decisive action upon it. I leave it to your wisdom to digest a plan that will secure the great end.

        I have thus presented my reflections on federal relations, frankly and with that independence which is becoming the position I occupy at this interesting and dangerous epoch in our history. It is only by a free comparison of opinions, and a manly examination of the questions in issue, that we can hope to evolve the true state of facts, and provide a remedy for existing troubles and threatened dangers. Having performed my duty, the whole matter is with you, for such action as the wisdom and patriotism of the legislature may adopt. Be your conclusions what they may, I am satisfied they will be results of your convictions as to what is best to be done in this emergency, for the honor and interests of our beloved commonwealth and our country.

        In conclusion, I have but to add, that the will of Virginia will furnish an inflexible rule for the direction of my own action. My destiny


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is linked indissolubly with hers. In the expressive language of Ruth, "Whither thou goest I will go; and where thou lodgest I will lodge: Thy people shall be my people, and thy God, my God."

Auditor of Public Accounts.

        The report of the auditor of public accounts is herewith transmitted, and is deserving of the serious consideration of the general assembly. It is characterized by great ability, and embodies many valuable suggestions on questions in which the state has a deep and vital interest. It brings to your attention several practical questions, in a clear and forcible manner--all of which imperatively demand legislative action. I confidently expect that his recommendations will commend themselves to your favorable consideration, and that the measures he proposes will receive your sanction, and at an early day of the session. Legislation on these subjects is imperatively demanded, if the state is to be protected in future.

        That portion of his report which relates to condemned slaves, is recommended specially to your attention. Additional legislation on this subject is indispensably necessary, to protect the state from imposition. At this time, and indeed since I have been in office, the prices fixed by the courts upon condemned slaves, will average at least ten per cent. more than the slaves would have brought at public or private sale, if their characters had been unexceptionable. Little or no attention seems to be paid to that provision of the law, which declares, that the "value shall be the cash price for which he would sell at public sale, with a knowledge of his condemnation." You will perhaps be astonished to learn from the auditor's report, that condemned slaves have cost the state, in the twenty years preceding the year 1858, the sum of $331,463 90, and that the state realized from their sales during the same period, the sum of $150,736 96. These convicts were therefore put upon the state, at a price greatly exceeding their value, and the tax payers of Virginia were made to bear the burden of $180,000, required to make up the amount of this high valuation fixed by the courts.

        In this connection, I ask your attention to the abstract of the laws upon this subject, now existing in the other slaveholding states, to see whether this gross injustice cannot be removed. It ought to be removed, and I appeal to your wisdom to provide an adequate remedy for a grievance to which the people of Virginia are now subjected.


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The law of either of the other slaveholding states is more just in its provisions, and I have no hesitation in recommending a change in the existing law.

        I recommend, also, that some amendment shall be made to section eleventh of chapter two hundred and twelve of the Code. The necessity for this amendment is clearly pointed out by the auditor, and to the cases mentioned in his report, I refer you. Unless some legislative action be had upon this subject, I will feel it to be my duty to restore these slaves to their owners, requiring from them satisfactory security that they shall be removed forthwith from the commonwealth. The state ought not to have the possession and services of the slave, and yet refuse to pay a fair cash value for him, merely because the owner is not a resident of Virginia.

        I recommend that sheriffs shall be required to execute their bonds in the circuit courts. The judges are better informed in regard to the legality of such bonds, and will be much more careful in ascertaining the sufficiency and responsibility of the security that may be offered. The present law is seriously defective, and the suggestions of the auditor are entitled to great weight in the action you may take on the subject. The interests of the state demand action at the present session, and the defects in existing laws require to be cured.

        The suggestions in regard to delinquent and other lands are deserving of your attention. Those suggestions appear to me to be valuable, and if carried out, could not fail to have a beneficial effect. The auditor is very familiar with these subjects, and any recommendation he may make in regard to them is entitled to great weight, and should commend itself to your favour.

        In regard to the present mode of ascertaining the taxable subjects of the state, I am persuaded that the results could be arrived at, in a manner equally satisfactory, and at the same time a great saving of expense now annually incurred could be effected. If both these objects can be secured in the present embarrassed financial condition of the country, surely I will be fully justified in directing your attention to so important a subject.

        On the thirty-fifth page of the report, you will find a recommendation that the bonds of the state stock banks, amounting to $2,274,193 21, now on deposit with the treasurer, shall "be converted


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into registered stock." This course should be adopted, or some endorsement should be made upon them, to show that they are the property of the bank by which they were deposited, and that they cannot be transferred or negotiated, without the order or assignment of the proper officers of such bank. This is a most valuable recommendation, and I am gratified to know that it meets the approval of the treasurer.

        This report contains many other valuable suggestions, that should command your approval. I cannot too strongly urge upon you the necessity for prompt legislative action upon the several subjects, so forcibly and clearly presented by this intelligent, experienced and laborious public officer.

The Land Office.

        I recommend that no more patents for land shall be issued. I do not believe there is a square mile of vacant land in the commonwealth; and yet we are issuing patents from the commencement of the year to the close of it. Such a policy as we are pursuing is calculated to postpone indefinitely the settlement of titles; and it furnishes to those who are so disposed the means of perpetrating frauds upon innocent and unsuspecting parties. If the unsettled portions of our state are to be filled up, we must adopt such a policy as will quiet titles, and assure parties in possession that they are not to be disturbed. If our titles had been settled, the population of Virginia would have been much larger than it is, and thousands of acres of land, now in original forest, would have been brought into cultivation, and made to bloom and blossom as the rose. Many of these lands now in market cannot be sold, because prudent men will not purchase a controverted and doubtful title.

The Claim of John M. Seely.

        Your resolution of the 9th day of March last referred the claim of Mr. Seely against the commonwealth for painting done on the capitol, bell-house and governor's house, to the executive for examination. Shortly after your adjournment, I made a careful examination of all the papers relating to the case, and the result will be seen in the accompanying statement of the account. So far from the state owing any thing to Mr. Seely on this contract, he is indebted to the state in the sum of $13 31.


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        In this connection, I would be derelict to the obligations of duty, if I did not impress upon the legislature the necessity and propriety of scrutinizing closely all old claims against the commonwealth. The contract in this case was entered into as far back as the year 1848. There being some difference of opinion in regard to the materials used, the manner in which the work was executed and the measurement, Governor Floyd had the work examined and measured by disinterested parties, and on the 30th day of January 1849 awarded to the contractor the sum of $3,043 39. In examining the papers on file, preparatory to making the statement required by your resolution, I ascertained that a bill had on several occasions passed one or the other house of the legislature, allowing to this contractor upwards of $1,000, with interest thereon from the date of the contract in 1848 till paid, as a balance ascertained to be due to him. Great attention and close scrutiny is necessary to protect the treasury against stale demands of this description.

Boundary Lines.

        In the exercise of the discretion vested in me by the second section of the joint resolution passed on the 10th day of March last, I commissioned Col. Angus W. McDonald as a competent agent to proceed to England and procure record and documentary evidence tending to ascertain and establish the true lines of boundary between the states of Virginia and Maryland, and North Carolina and Tennessee. A copy of the instructions given by me to the said agent accompanies this communication. The agent having performed the duty assigned him, has returned to the United States, and his report is expected daily. So soon as received, it will be laid before you.

        Nothing has been done in running and ascertaining the line between Virginia and Maryland since the adjournment of the last session, in consequence of the absence of the commissioner in Europe. The commissioner will be instructed to resume the work at the earliest practicable moment, and prosecute it as rapidly as possible to completion.

        A copy of your resolutions passed on the 9th day of March, in regard to the boundary line between the states of Virginia and Tennessee, was promptly forwarded, as directed, to the governor of that state. No reply has been received, and nothing further has been done. The information collected by Col. McDonald on his recent


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visit to England, will perhaps throw light upon the subject, and enable us to do justice to both states, in any future attempts to ascertain the true line.

        The second resolution authorized me to appoint a commissioner to state and settle the accounts of Messrs. Baugh and Black, for their services in running and marking the said line. I accordingly appointed Major Jacob Lynch of Washington county such commissioner, and accompanied his commission with such instructions as I considered necessary, to insure a final settlement of the accounts. His report has been returned, and the balance ascertained by him to be due to each, has been paid. I am confirmed in the opinion expressed in my communication to you on this subject at the last session. This line cannot be accurately run and established until the line between Virginia and North Carolina shall have been ascertained and definitely settled. I have therefore taken no action under your third resolution, nor will I appoint other commissioners until the line shall be run between Virginia and North Carolina.

        Nothing has yet been done towards the settlement of the line between Virginia and North Carolina. After Col. McDonald was sent to England, I determined to await his return to ascertain whether he could procure documentary information that would throw light upon this unsettled question. I hope commissioners will be appointed by both states early in the spring, and the work pushed forward with all practicable zeal and industry. I will use all proper and honorable efforts to bring these long standing and disagreeable questions to a final and satisfactory adjustment.

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company.

        I call your attention to the accompanying communication from the attorney general, in relation to the Chesapeake and Ohio canal company, and to the suggestions therein made. Some legislative action is necessary, and I respectfully urge the adoption of his suggestions at an early day in the session. For some years past the state has been paying the interest on five hundred thousand dollars of the bonds of this company, and in a few years will be required to pay the principal of those bonds, unless some change shall be effected in its organization and management.


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Rooms for the Court of Appeals.

        I found it impossible to execute your resolution of the 30th March last, authorizing the governor to set apart rooms in the capitol for the court of appeals. The proviso attached to the first resolution prohibited the court from the occupancy of either chamber used by the general assembly. The various departments of the government have not sufficient room in the capitol at this time to transact the public business with dispatch, and to file away the papers so as to make them accessible for reference by the public officers in the daily discharge of their important duties. If you had permitted the court to occupy either the hall of the house of delegates or the senate chamber for holding the sessions of the court during the recess of the legislature, a conference room might perhaps have been provided.

Resolution relating to Osborne and Matthews.

        Under your resolution of the 2d of April last, requesting the governor "to allow out of the civil contingent fund to William Osborne the sum of twenty-five cents per day from the commencement of the present session, and to allow to Richard Matthews the additional sum of one dollar for each day the legislature has held night sessions at the present session," I declined to make any allowance, because I considered it the duty of the general assembly, if they believed any thing due to these parties, to provide, by a regular appropriation bill, the means of payment. The civil contingent fund is placed at my disposal for the payment "of all expenses in the execution of any law for which there is no special appropriation." In this case there was no "law" authorizing the payment, or which declared these parties entitled to it.

        If the legislature shall be of opinion that their employees are entitled to extra compensation, it is unquestionably a duty resting upon them to make the appropriation to pay it. I am opposed to all extra compensation to officials, and will in no instance pay it out of the contingent fund. If the compensation is inadequate, the legislature should increase it, and appropriate such sum as is necessary to pay a fair equivalent for services rendered. Salaries should be fixed and certain, and it should not be in the power of any officer of the government to increase them by allowances of extra compensation to government employees.


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The Penitentiary.

        I herewith transmit the reports of the superintendent, the directors and the surgeon of the penitentiary for the year terminating on the first day of October last. These reports will inform you of the condition of the institution and the extent and value of its manufactures. They fully apprise you of its wants, many of which must be supplied. Additional room must be provided, as the convicts are too much crowded either for comfort or safety. This will be apparent when I inform you that the buildings were originally constructed with a view to the accommodation of two hundred and fifty convicts. The number now in the institution, exclusive of the negroes hired on the public works, is three hundred and sixty-nine, and that number is being rapidly augmented. I have caused the buildings to be examined for the purpose of ascertaining the best mode of improvement, and herewith present a plan, for such an addition as will furnish the requisite room for the smallest expenditure of money. I hope it may be your pleasure to adopt this or some other plan, and make such an appropriation as will be necessary to effect the object. It is of the first importance that this matter shall be promptly attended to.

        Chapter 14, section 16 of the Code authorizes the appointment of seven assistant keepers in the penitentiary. Some few months ago an application was made by the superintendent, and it was sustained by the board of directors, for the appointment of an additional assistant keeper, to be placed in charge of a portion of the convicts employed in the shoe shop. The number now employed in this branch of business is one hundred and thirty-seven, all in the same room, and all superintended by one assistant keeper. It is proposed to divide this room by a partition, and place one-half of this number in charge of another assistant, proposed to be appointed. The suggestion is in my opinion wise, and if I had possessed the power under the law, I would have had it carried out. It is neither prudent nor safe to have so large a number in one room. The law confines the number of assistant keepers to seven, and I recommend that it be so amended as to authorize the appointment of an additional assistant.

        I suggest also that you so amend the criminal laws as to prohibit any person from being confined in the penitentiary for a shorter period than three years. It requires at least three years to acquire a trade, and those who are confined for a shorter period are a burden


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to the institution, and an expense to the state. In all such cases, let some other punishment be substituted. The ends of justice would be as well accomplished--perhaps better--and the treasury would be relieved from an onerous and unnecessary burden.

        I suggest also, that when a convict is discharged from the penitentiary, it be made the duty of the superintendent to cause him or her to be removed, and to pay the necessary expense of removal to the place at which he or she was convicted. It is not just to the citizens of Richmond that such characters should be thrown out upon them, to whom they must prove a burden and a serious annoyance.

        In the year 1857-8 the legislature directed the governor to have the slave and free negro convicts employed upon the public works of the state, "upon such terms and under such rules and regulations" as he may prescribe. When I came into office, I found the men hired for sixty dollars, and the women going with them for victuals and clothes. When the year for which they were hired to Mr. Rosser in June last expired, I required him to pay for the balance of the year at the rate of one hundred dollars for the men each, and forty-five dollars for the women each. I became satisfied that if competition were invited, the convicts would hire for much larger sums, and I determined therefore to advertise for sealed bids for the year 1861, which were opened on the first day of December last. By adopting this mode, I succeeded in hiring eighty-five men for $175 each; twenty-three men for $95 each; thirteen women for $50 each; and two other women, and a girl ten years of age, for $25 each. The bond for the hires, with what is believed to be adequate security, is now filed in the office of the secretary of state. Heretofore the penitentiary has been a charge upon the treasury to the amount (I believe) of something like $20,000 per year. I hope, however, to be able to inform you, in my next annual communication, that its receipts are equal to its expenditures. I include, of course, in receipts, the hires of the convicts, which legitimately belong to the institution, and should be computed in any statement showing its financial condition.

        There are at this time four lunatics confined in the penitentiary; and most unquestionably humanity requires that something shall be done for their relief. They are a burden upon the institution, and they ought to be removed to some one of the asylums, where they can receive proper medical treatment. I recommend that a law shall be passed to provide for all such cases. Let them be examined in


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the mode now prescribed by law, and if adjudged lunatics, be sent to one of the asylums, and when cured, be returned to the penitentiary, that they may suffer the punishment which the sentence demands. Legislation on this subject is necessary.

Asylums.

        I transmit herewith, reports from the directors of the Eastern and Western lunatic asylums. I have received no report from the directors of the Trans-Alleghany asylum, nor have I received a report from the officers or visitors of the deaf and dumb asylums.

        On a recent visit to Weston, the place at which the Trans-Alleghany asylum is located, I suggested to the board of directors the propriety of completing the building by sections, so that accommodation may be furnished for some portion of this unfortunate class of our population now confined in the public jails. The Eastern and Western asylums are filled; and if my suggestion shall be adopted (and I believe it will be adopted), forty or fifty might be received in the latter part of this year, and as the work progressed, others could be received from time to time until the structure (which will be in appearance most imposing) shall be completed. Humanity demands that this shall be done. An additional appropriation will be required to complete the building, and it will perhaps be applied for at this session. When completed, this building will reflect great credit upon the architectural taste and liberality of Virginia. It will compare most favorably in all respects with institutions for like purposes in the other states.

The Virginia Military Institute.

        The reports of the superintendent and board of visitors of this flourishing and valuable institution, are herewith transmitted. The institution is managed with very great ability, and has secured a strong hold upon popular favor. Its merits are well attested by the extraordinary success which has attended it. It is second only to the West Point academy in its system of instruction and in the number of the cadets. At this crisis in our affairs this institution deserves to be fostered and liberally sustained. It prepares our youth thoroughly for the performance of military duties; and in these troublous and perilous times, we know not at what moment such information will be called into requisition for the protection of the honor, the preservation of the rights and the maintenance of the institutions of the


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commonwealth. I recommend these reports and their recommendations to your favorable consideration.

The University of Virginia.

        This noble institution--an honor to its illustrious founder, and to this commonwealth--is in a most flourishing condition. Its reputation as the first literary institution in the southern country, is admirably sustained, under the management of its learned, energetic and efficient faculty. No institution has done more in disciplining and developing the southern mind, and in spreading abroad sound moral, political and scientific principles. It deserves the fostering care of the legislature, and is justly entitled to aid and support at your hands.

        In the year 1854 the legislature appropriated $10,000 to procure a statue of Mr. Jefferson in marble, which is intended to be placed at the University. It is now here, and is a noble and beautiful specimen of workmanship. Chiseled by a native son of Virginia, it is honorable alike to his genius and to the fame of the illustrious man whose name and statesmanship it is intended to perpetuate and transmit to the latest posterity.

The Militia.

        I recommend that the state shall be divided into twelve divisions, and the brigades be rearranged. At present we have but five divisions--three in the east and two in the west. It is impossible for a major general to command either of these divisions. He can never know the men under his command, and it is equally impossible that they can know him. If called into service, they would meet as strangers; there would be no bond of confidence between them. In the absence of all knowledge of each other, if they proved serviceable at first, it would be but little short of miraculous. Hence I suggest that the divisions be increased in number, so that the commanding officer may have the opportunity to be brought into contact with his men. In the two divisions in western Virginia there are in each at least fifty thousand men subject to militia duty, and who would be, in the event of trouble, called into service. The simple announcement of this fact demonstrates the utter absurdity of the present arrangement of the divisions, and shows the necessity of a rearrangement throughout the state. The existing arrangement was established in 1792. Since that time population has greatly increased,


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and the necessity for an increase in the number of divisions is patent, if we are to have an effective force, reliable at all times and under all circumstances. I recommend, therefore, in the strongest terms an increase in the number of divisions to twelve, and the rearrangement of all the brigades throughout the state.

        In this connection, I also recommend that a distinctive uniform for cavalry, artillery, infantry and riflemen shall be prescribed by law. Under the present system we have every description of uniform; and if the volunteers of the state were called into service, we would not know from the uniform, whether they were of us or against us. This should be corrected, but it is not possible to correct it without a positive law. It is very common now with volunteer companies to adopt a uniform, and procure it, and then apply to the executive to recognize it. How can it be refused? I cannot therefore too strongly urge action in regard to this matter.

        The report of the adjutant general will furnish full information in regard to the military strength of the state; the number and condition of the various volunteer corps; the extent of our armament, and the effective force that could be brought into the field in an emergency. It contains valuable suggestions and recommendations, the result of his long experience and observation, which I commend to your adoption. His time and attention have been devoted to the military matters of the state for years. He thoroughly understands her wants in all that relates to her defence and protection, and is ready and willing, although advanced in years, to respond to her call and sacrifice his life, if needs be, in defence of her rights and honor. The views of such a public officer are entitled to great consideration.

        It is necessary that the adjutant general shall have a permanent clerk. My daily intercourse with the office and observation of its numerous and pressing duties, have satisfied me on this point. This officer has exhibited an untiring energy and industry that I have never seen surpassed, and has justly entitled himself to the thanks and the confidence of the people. Under the act of 1858 important and highly responsible duties were cast upon him, and although he was receiving a nominal compensation only, he devoted himself mentally and physically to their performance until the end had in view was accomplished. For these services he ought yet to be compensated.


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        Under your act of the 23d of January last, appointing commissioners to audit and pay the expenses incurred by the executive for the purchase of arms and munitions, and for the defence of the commonwealth, you imposed upon the secretary of state, the auditor of public accounts and the adjutant general a most onerous and responsible duty, in the discharge of which they were employed laboriously for weeks. For the performance of this duty they have received no compensation; and as it did not legitimately belong to either of these officers, some provision ought to be made for a fair and just remuneration to each.

        We should have an efficient military staff, embracing, in addition to the adjutant general, an inspector general, a quartermaster's department, a commissary department, an engineer department, an ordnance department, a pay department and a medical department. All these are necessary to insure efficiency to the service; and I respectfully urge you to give the matter your consideration.

The Public Guard.

        Since your adjournment Lieut. A. G. Layne, an able, accomplished and popular officer, has departed this life. The vacancy has been supplied by the appointment of Heber Ker of Northampton county, a distinguished graduate of the Virginia military institute. The corps is in excellent condition, in drill and discipline, and under the operation of the law of the last session, has been greatly improved in numbers and material. The officers are well qualified for their positions, and their duties have been discharged with ability, industry and faithfulness.

        I accompany this communication with a memorial from the officers, the prayer of which appears to me so reasonable, that I earnestly invite for it your sanction, and hope you will adopt the necessary legislation to give it effect.

The Armory.

        In pursuance of the provisions of the first section of the act passed January 21st, 1860, authorizing me to appoint a commission to arrange and propose a plan for refitting the armory, by the introduction of suitable machinery and otherwise, I appointed Col. F. H. Smith, Col. P. St. G. Cocke and Capt. G. W. Randolph to constitute the commission. They are all gentlemen of fine intelligence, and


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experience in military matters. The first named two are graduates of the West Point military academy, and the last named was for many years connected with the navy. These gentlemen immediately entered upon the discharge of their important duties, and have prosecuted them with a fidelity and zeal deserving of the highest commendation.

        I transmit herewith, several reports made to me from time to time by the commission, which furnish a true history of their acts, and solicit for them your careful consideration. They are all drawn with signal ability, and are replete with valuable information which cannot fail to prove instructive and interesting to every citizen of Virginia. No commission has ever exerted itself more zealously and perseveringly in the discharge of its duties; and under all the circumstances, none has, I think, ever been more successful. The misrepresentations and falsehoods which have been so industriously circulated in regard to the arms they have procured, and to their acts and the acts of the executive, will be most satisfactorily refuted by the general dissemination of these reports.

        I invite your attention particularly to the report of the 7th day of December last. Suggestions and recommendations are therein presented that demand legislative action. It is proposed that certain portions of the public property be sold, and that out of the proceeds of sale a fund be raised, to be expended in constructing a depot for the arms and barracks for the public guard. I cordially approve this recommendation, and trust it will receive your approbation. It is necessary that something shall be done at this session of the general assembly in regard to the recommendations contained in this report.

        From the report of the 17th of August last, you will learn that a contract has been entered into by the commission with J. R. Anderson & Co. for preparing the armory for the manufacture and repair of arms. The work is now going forward with energy and success, and I am persuaded that the contractors will redeem their obligation creditably to themselves and satisfactorily to the state.

        The reports of Maj. R. E. Colston of the Virginia military institute, one of our most intelligent and accomplished young officers, are well deserving of your attention. Maj. Colston was appointed by the chairman of the commission, and charged with the duty of


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making "a series of experiments with small arms of various kinds, with a view to ascertain their relative merits." His reports disclose the results of those experiments, with intelligent and instructive observations on the value of the different arms presented for trial. With these reports before me, I have not deemed it prudent to purchase "the patent rights of any newly invented arms." The tests made were by no means satisfactory to my mind, and I therefore determined to await for experiments of a more decisive character.

Claim against Selden, Withers & Co.

        All the information I have in regard to this claim, is derived from the report of the attorney general. This faithful and able public officer has done his duty, but I am sorry to say the prospect for realizing the amount due to the state is not very flattering. His recommendations ought to be adopted.

Communications from State Executives.

        I communicate herewith, a letter from the executive of Texas, enclosing resolutions adopted by the legislature of that state, and approved February 16th, 1858. The resolutions relate to a convention of all the southern states. They are deserving of and doubtless will receive your early attention, and that consideration which is due to a sister state of the confederacy.

        I also received on the 18th day of December last, from the executive of Kentucky, a communication, herewith transmitted, in relation to the grave and solemn questions which are now agitating the country. In this letter six amendments to the constitution are suggested, all of which are of great importance at this juncture, and eminently deserving of the most mature and serious deliberation. In this day of startling and momentous events, every expression of opinion that may come to us from the southern states, should be cheerfully received and calmly considered.

James River and Kanawha Company.

        Since your adjournment this company has entered into a contract with Messieurs Bellot des Minières, Brothers and Company, for the sale of its entire line of improvement, with all its franchises and immunities, including the commonwealth's interest, and with stipulations for the completion of the entire work. At a meeting of the


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stockholders of the company held in this city in the month of August last, the agreement was amended, and as amended, was approved by a vote nearly unanimous. The approval of the legislature is necessary to give validity to the contract. The accompanying documents will place you in possession of all the facts connected with the transaction.

        The completion of this great improvement is an object of the first importance to the people of Virginia. It has been long on hand, and its progress has been watched with the strongest interest. When completed, it will do more to develop the vast resources of our state than any improvement that has been projected. Immense mineral wealth is to be found all along the line, and the completion of the work will bring it into use, and thereby add greatly to our prosperity. I am in favor of any scheme that is likely to be successful, guarding carefully however the interests and rights of our citizens. The section in regard to tolls ought to be changed and modified, as I am inclined to think it will prove burdensome and oppressive to the coal, salt, and perhaps other interests. I am sure you will scrutinize this agreement, and secure ample protection for the rights and interests of the people of the state; and I am satisfied that very little trouble will be experienced in adjusting the details to the satisfaction of all parties interested.

        I recommend the whole subject to your favorable attention, and earnestly hope that a wise and considerate policy will be adopted, looking to the early completion of this great central improvement. The intelligent president of the company will take pleasure in laying before you such information as you may desire.

        I am informed that Mr. Bellot des Minières is expected here in a short time, and the assurances I have received induces the confident belief on my mind that he will come prepared to execute the contract on his part.

Printing.

        Reform is greatly needed in this branch of expenditure. Under the law the quarterly statements of all the banks are required to be published in the city papers, and at a large annual expense, without corresponding advantages, so far as I can see or understand. For the year ending Sept. 30, 1859, their publication cost $1,623 36, and for the past year, $1,534 87. In addition, you have these statements


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published for your own use, at a heavy cost. No two of them are made up in the same way--and it is utterly impossible therefore to prepare a comparative statement from the returns which are sent to this department. I recommend that the law requiring their publication in the city papers be repealed, leaving so much of the law in force as requires them to be published by the banks in the towns and cities in which they are located. I recommend also that so much of the law as allows a salary of $1,100 to the printer of the senate, be repealed. The public printer receives no salary, and I can conceive of no reason for allowing a salary to the printer of the senate. Let him be paid a fair and remunerative price for the printing he may be required to execute, and that is all he has a right to ask or expect.

        Under the law the public printer is paid a commission of ten per cent. on the purchase of paper required for the execution of the printing. This is wrong both in principle and policy. It is an encouragement to the expenditure of public money. The more paper consumed, the greater are his commissions. A temptation is thus held out constantly to this officer to expend as much as possible in this particular. Enough will be expended even under the most favorable circumstances. Hold out no inducement to expend more than is absolutely necessary for any branch of the public service. In recommending that this clause of the law be repealed, and that the public printer be required to furnish every thing necessary for the execution of the printing, and that he be paid fair and just prices for his labor, I intend to cast no reflection upon that estimable and prompt officer.

The Public Jails.

        Our statute requires that each county and town in which a corporation court is held, shall provide a secure and sufficient jail. I am entirely satisfied that many of the jails in the state, if not absolutely worthless, are certainly insecure and insufficient. Reports of prisoners escaped, and applications to offer rewards for their arrest, are constantly coming in to the executive, and in several cases in which rewards have been offered, the prisoner has been shortly thereafter arrested. If the courts will not see that safe jails are provided, and their criminals escape in consequence of the insufficiency of the jail, I will not tax the whole state to insure their safe-keeping.


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Public Buildings and Grounds.

        I communicate herewith the report of the superintendent. It presents truly the condition of the several public buildings, and the repairs necessary to be made to put them in good condition. On the score of economy, these repairs should be made as soon as practicable. The longer they are delayed, the greater will be the expenditure required. The recommendations made by this faithful and excellent public officer, are deserving of approval. So much of his report as relates to the capitol, I recommend to your special attention, and cordially endorse his recommendation.

Finance.

        The report of the auditor of public accounts will exhibit the financial condition of the state in all its details, and to it I refer you for full and accurate information on this interesting subject. On the first day of October last, the close of the fiscal year, the balance in the treasury was $139,305 18. The estimated receipts for the fiscal year 1860-61, were $3,938,476 38, and the estimated disbursements for the same year, $3,939,512 81. The estimated balance in the treasury on the first day of October 1861, is $138,268 75.

        The total debt outstanding on the first day of January 1861 is $33,920,791 63. Of this amount $23,411,946 33 has been created since the first day of January 1852. The debt guaranteed for the James river and Knawha company, the Chesapeake and Ohio canal company, the city of Petersburg, the Virginia Central rail road, the Richmond and Danville rail road, the city of Wheeling, and the Alexandria canal company, amounted, on the first day of January 1861, to $2,176,575. It affords me pleasure to inform you that the interest on the state debt was paid promptly on the first day of this month.

        The financial derangement and the uncertain condition of public affairs throughout the country, should impress upon us the necessity of practicing rigid economy, individually, and as representatives of the people. In stirring and eventful times, such as are now upon us, "we know not what a day may bring forth." The future is shrouded in gloom--and look in whatsoever direction we may, "we behold nothing but danger and darkness." I recommend, therefore, that you confine your appropriations to objects of indispensable necessity--


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such as are required to carry on the regular and ordinary operations of the government, and such as may be demanded to put the commonwealth in a condition to defend her rights and her honor against assaults from any quarter. We must retrench and economize, and enforce a rigid accountability, that we may ward off the evils which the financial storm, now raging so wildly, threatens to visit upon us.

The Banks.

        On the 21st day of November last the banks in the city of Richmond suspended specie payments, and very shortly thereafter the other banks in the state followed their example. The fact having been communicated to me officially by the treasurer, I caused the accompanying order to be sent to that officer. Under the circumstances, all of which were carefully considered, I came to the conclusion that it was safer and cheaper to make the three deposit banks the special receivers and custodians of the revenue as it should be paid in by the collecting officers. The capitol is not fire-proof; and if I had directed the revenue to be received and retained by the treasurer until it was needed, it would have been necessary to employ an additional clerk, at a salary of perhaps $2,500 per annum. This course, if adopted, would have thrown a heavy responsibility upon the treasurer, and would not have been safer or more convenient than the present mode. The revenue collected since the suspension is on special deposit in the banks, and is to be drawn on special checks. I trust this arrangement will meet with your approbation.

        After the suspension of specie payments, the first important question to be considered was, how are the specie funds to be provided for the payment of the state interest and the redemption of her debt? After serious reflection, I decided that the only fair and proper mode was to ascertain what per centage upon the circulation of all the banks in the state, on the first day of October last (the date of the latest quarterly return of their condition), would realize the necessary amount, and thus save the credit of the state. I ascertained that it would require seventeen per centum; and I then directed the treasurer and auditor of public accounts to prepare a circular, to be sent the banks, calling upon them to furnish the quota necessary "to meet the obligations of the state." Shortly thereafter replies were received from two of the banks, protesting against the arrangement, and insisting that it was the duty of the deposit banks to furnish all the specie required for these objects, but at the same time expressing


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a willingness to aid in saving the credit of the state. After these letters were received, I caused a second circular to be sent to the banks. Both of the circulars are herewith transmitted.

        On the 22d day of December last a convention, consisting of officers of the Valley Bank, the Merchants and Mechanics Bank, the Northwestern Bank, and the branches of each, the Central Bank, the Monticello Bank, and sixteen of the state stock banks, assembled in this city; and after spending some time in the discussion and consideration of the subject, delivered to me a paper, herewith transmitted for your consideration. On the next day a committee, appointed by the convention, waited upon me, and we had a conference of several hours in regard to the plan I had adopted. The objections to the plan, as stated in the conversation, were very much those that are embodied in the paper to which I have referred, and are set forth in three of their resolutions.

        The first resolution sets forth a principle which meets with my cordial approbation. I utterly dissent from the principles avowed and the doctrines asserted in the second and third resolutions, and which are in my opinion in direct conflict with the principle asserted in the first. The policy recommended by the convention would result in placing the burden of providing for the state interest and the redemption of the debt, almost entirely upon the deposit banks, and to that extent embarrass the mercantile, commercial, mechanical and manufacturing interests of this city. The banks as well as the citizens are bound, by every consideration of duty, to aid in preserving the credit of the state, and the burden ought to be made to bear, as near equally as possible, upon all. A policy which imposes that burden upon one city in the state, is in my judgment unjust, and I therefore declined to recognize it. Nor did I approve of the discrimination which this resolution proposed to make between Virginia bondholders and others--in the first place, because it was unjust to our own citizens, and in the second place, because such a discrimination, if sanctioned, was to be regarded as a declaration of inability on the part of the state to meet her engagements, and must have injuriously affected her credit abroad. The preservation of the state's credit is at all times an object of the first importance. It is especially important that she shall maintain her credit now.

        The third resolution demands "a uniform per centage upon the aggregate amount of the capital, circulation and deposits of all the


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banks of the commonwealth on the first day of October last, excluding the state's deposits." A single illustration will be sufficient to demonstrate the injustice of this plan, as well as its impracticability. The Bank of Richmond was chartered at the last session, with a capital of not less than one hundred thousand dollars and not more than one million. When the minimum capital was subscribed and the bank was organized, they applied for an issue of notes to the amount of twenty thousand dollars, having one-fourth of that amount or five thousand dollars in specie. According to the views embodied in this resolution, I would have been required to assess, in this instance, seventeen per cent. upon one hundred and twenty thousand dollars, when the bank never had a circulation, exceeding twenty thousand. Does not this illustration clearly demonstrate the injustice of the rule laid down by the convention? I could not therefore recognize either the justice or the policy of this recommendation.

        Our banking system needs reformation in several respects. We have two competing systems of banking in the state; and I have abundant reason to know that jealousy and distrust exist between them to a serious extent. When the late bank convention was held in this city, the Virginia Bank, the Farmers Bank and the Exchange Bank were not invited to participate in the discussion and consideration of the important questions which had called the convention together. When I proposed to the committee who waited upon me, that I would invite the officers of those institutions to meet and confer with them, the reply was, "that the convention had adjourned, and they had no power to alter the policy fixed upon by that body." My object in presenting this fact, is to demonstrate the existence of a feeling of jealousy and hostility, which I regard as decidedly unfavorable to harmonious action in our monetary system. In 1857 my predecessor, in his message to the legislature, in referring to the existence of this feeling, used this distinct and emphatic language: "They are competing with each other, and their collisions and jealousies are not the best influences to ease the difficulties of the times. Without drawing any invidious comparison between them, I urge merely the fact that the existence of the two is not most favorable to the harmony of our money system. Which was the best or worst, either alone would be better, in my opinion, than the two with an antagonism between them. Antagonism exists, and will exist." My experience and observation, since the suspension of specie payments, confirms fully the accuracy of this statement. Why this is so, I am


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not prepared to say, nor shall I undertake to determine who is to blame for the existence of this state of things. It is certainly prejudicial to the interests of the state, and ought to be corrected, if it can be done, by legislation.

        It affords me great satisfaction to believe that all our banks are in a sound condition, and that they are responsible and reliable. In times of financial embarrassment and pressure, such as we are now passing through, it becomes us to practice as much forbearance as possible in our business intercourse and arrangements, that the evil may not be unnecessarily aggravated. Confidence has been shaken to a great extent, but this was to have been expected. It is a plant of slow growth, and charity, forbearance and prudence is required to prevent it from being uprooted and destroyed. In communities where the credit system prevails to so great an extent as it does here, we must be cautious, or we will involve all in a common ruin.

        Several reforms are necessary, in my opinion, in our system of banking. We ought to abolish all notes of a less denomination than twenty dollars; but this should be done by degrees, and with the utmost caution. It is a reform that will require time to accomplish; but as it is a necessary reform, our attention should be directed to it, and it should be provided for in the renewal of the charters of the banks. Its effect will be to infuse a larger amount of specie into our circulation, and to protect those in the community who, from their want of familiarity with bank paper, are most liable to be imposed upon by counterfeit paper. From 1797 to 1819, a period of twenty-two years, the one and two pound notes of the Bank of England, were allowed to circulate, and according to the returns made to parliament, it is ascertained that the number of prosecutions for counterfeiting or passing counterfeit notes of the Bank of England, were 998, and of that number, there were 313 capital convictions, 530 inferior convictions, and 155 acquittals. The enormous sum of £249,000 (near a million and a quarter of dollars) was expended by the bank in attending to these prosecutions. The returns show that by far the greater proportion of these prosecutions were connected with the one and two pound notes. The detections at the bank, for a period of a little more than six years, from the 1st day of January 1812 to April 10th, 1818, were of one pound notes, 107,238; of two pound notes, 17,787; of five pound notes, 5,826; of ten pound notes, 419; of twenty pound notes, 54; and of all above


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twenty pounds, 35. This covers only six years out of the twenty-two; but it shows a frightful exhibition of crime connected with the small notes. A reference to any reliable counterfeit detector will show that the editions of counterfeits in the United States, of local and state banks, of ten dollars and under, are more than ten to one of the editions of twenty dollars and upwards. These striking facts are extracted from a speech made some years ago, by one of our best informed statesmen, and they well deserve to be pondered in your consideration of the question. If you shall come to the conclusion that no notes of a less denomination than twenty dollars should be issued by the banks, you will of course prohibit the circulation of notes of other states, of a less denomination.

        Second--A custom prevails throughout Virginia, in perhaps all the banks, by which their loans are confined, to a great extent, to those persons who can offer drafts on northern cities. This policy is, in my opinion, not only unjust to the community, but it is unsafe to the banks. So long as the specie of our banks is kept in New York, or other northern cities, to be drawn on in favor of the holders of their notes, we are perfectly at the mercy of those banks. If from any cause they suspend specie payments, we are necessarily compelled to suspend also. This was the case in 1857. Each bank should be the custodian of its own funds; but while this policy prevails it cannot be. We need a greater specie circulation; but this we can never have so long as the vaults of our banks contain little else than bills and notes discounted, most of which are payable out of the state. From such bills and notes very little gold or silver is brought into the state: And besides, the bank which pursues this policy, from the nature of the case, must have a very limited knowledge of the pecuniary condition and responsibility of the acceptor of the draft. Would it not be safer and better to employ their means in discounting the paper of those who are personally known to them as the maker and endorsers of the note, and of whose ability to meet it at maturity they are fully advised?

        There is another objection to this policy, which I will illustrate. An individual borrows say $2,000 from one of our banks, payable in Baltimore. After his note has been discounted the banks suspend specie payments. When the note matures he must procure exchange from the bank that made the loan, or he must go to Baltimore with the notes perhaps of that bank, and pass them to a broker at a loss


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of two or three per cent. to procure Baltimore funds to take up his note. This surely is neither just nor right. I recommend, therefore, that this policy be prohibited by law, or at least that the party be allowed to redeem his obligation, by requiring the bank to receive its own notes in payment in all cases. This policy places an onerous burden upon the borrower, which is unjust in the extreme, and it ought not to be permitted. If A holds my note, and I hold a note of equal amount against A, the law authorizes me to set off A's demand. Why should it not be so with the banks?

        Third--I would prohibit the banks from dealing in exchange, and would require them to furnish it, not at par, but at what it cost them. The rate of exchange between Virginia and New York, in ordinary times, when the banks are paying specie, seldom ranges above the half of one per cent., which is about the cost of transporting specie between the two points. If the banks were denied the privilege of dealing in exchange and realizing a profit, it would take from them the temptation to confine their loans to those who pay in northern drafts, and their accommodations would be diffused more generally amongst our own citizens. Our banking capital would thus be used for the accommodation of our own people. As it now is, much of it is used for the benefit and advantage of citizens of the northern cities.

        Lastly--If the policy of discounting northern drafts is to be continued, I recommend that it shall be restricted to such drafts as have only a short time to run, say sixty days. Many of the northern drafts that the banks are in the habit of discounting, if I have been correctly informed, run from four to six months. This is extending southern credit to the northern agent. He is using the funds of southern banks for his own advantage, at the expense and injury of our own citizens. Our banks were created for the benefit and convenience of the people of Virginia. If the northern agent wishes to purchase our tobacco, or any other article we have for sale, let him come prepared to pay for it. Change a policy which thus makes the south tributary to the north. No policy, financial or other, should be encouraged to strengthen and build up the business of the north, under present circumstances, at our expense.

        I recommend a divorce of the state from the banks; and in making this recommendation, I desire to be understood as striking no blow at those institutions. It is a measure demanded alike by wisdom


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and prudence, and the interests both of the state and the banks. I can conceive of no system which is so well calculated to restrain the banks from excessive issues, and to confine them within prudent and safe limits, and which at the same time will tend to the enlargement of the specie circulation of our state. Where there is a demand, there will necessarily be a supply in any article that may be required for the comfort, the convenience or the business interests of the community. The amount collected by the various state governments (and mainly in bank paper) is about the sum of $50,000,000 annually. Our revenue amounts to about $3,938,000, in round numbers, and if collected in specie, it is plain to the commonest understanding, that it would exert a powerful influence in restraining over issues by the banks, and thus prevent over trading. It would prevent the deposit banks from discounting on the faith of the revenue, collected by the state, in the notes of her various banks, and which are on deposit in their vaults. This stimulant to overtrading being withdrawn, we would have a healthier and a more uniform circulation.

        The adoption of this policy would result in retaining in our state a sufficient amount of specie not only for the purposes of the government, but in a time of bank suspensions, would furnish sufficient specie for the ordinary transactions of the people. The divorce is demanded by principle and policy. The connection involves the state as a partner in the misfortunes of the banks; and whenever the law is violated, by the suspension of specie payments, the fact that the state is a stockholder, induces the legislature to look upon the act more favorably than would be the case, perhaps, if she held no interest in them. Whatever is calculated to impair or destroy independence in legislation, must sooner or later exert an injurious influence upon the public interests.

        Entertaining very decided convictions on this subject, I felt it to be my duty, in the canvass which preceded my election, to avow my opinions freely and frankly, and to declare my purpose to recommend the adoption of the independent treasury system to the consideration of the legislature. The recent suspension of specie payments (a result I did not then anticipate), and the difficulties that have attended the arrangements for the payment of the state's semi-annual interest, growing out of the hostility existing between our two systems of banking, shows, in my judgment, the necessity for adopting this policy at as early a day as practicable, consistently with a due regard


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to the interests of the commonwealth, arising from her ownership of stock in the banks. So long as the connection between the state and the banks exists, those banks, which receive no portion of the state revenue, will complain of the preference which has been given to the three banks in this city, as prejudicial and injurious to them, and will always protest against any demand that may be made upon them by the state, beyond the redemption of so much of their paper as is received in payment of revenue. As between the systems, we should not exhibit a preference for one over the other. Let the state manage her own affairs in her own way, and leave the banks to manage theirs, subject only to the requirements of the law. The divorce of the state from the banks will remove one ground of jealousy. Let the two systems demonstrate their relative advantages.

        Against this policy many objections are urged--some of the more prominent of which I propose to notice briefly. Most of these are the same objections which were urged against the adoption of the independent treasury system by the federal government. When this great measure was proposed in congress, its opponents were fully satisfied that the effect of such a policy would be ruinous, and serious apprehensions were felt and expressed by the timid of its friends. The measure was pressed, adopted, and after an experience of years, very few would be willing to return to the old system, and revive it as the settled policy of the government. I can see no reason why the adoption of a like policy by the state would not operate equally as well, and produce results equally as satisfactory.

        The first objection is, that it would operate oppressively upon the people, in this--that they could not procure specie enough to pay their taxes. The same objection was urged when the system was proposed to be adopted by the federal government; but the result has proved in that case that it was unfounded. So I think it would be in this case. In four-fifths of the states the taxes are now paid in notes of the banks. These notes upon their face profess to be the representatives of specie. If this be true, then there would be no difficulty in converting them, and the specie thus obtained would be used in the payment of the taxes. If they are not convertible, the people, the most of whom are interested in banking upon sound principles only, should know the fact, and neither they nor the state should receive them. We want a sound paper currency--a currency that is convertible into specie--and if our present currency is not convertible at the will of the holder, it ought to be made so.


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        The second objection is, that we have not specie enough in Virginia to carry this policy into operation. The wisest statesmen of the nation have for more than twenty-five years felt the necessity of infusing into the circulation of the country a larger amount of specie, and to this end they have been shaping the legislation of congress. They have abundant reason to be gratified with the success that has attended their efforts. In October 1833 we had in specie, in active circulation, $4,000,000, and in the banks, in specie, $25,000,000; on the 1st day of January 1834, $12,000,000 in active circulation, and $27,000,000 in the banks; on the 1st day of January 1835, $18,000,000 in active circulation, and in the banks $43,000,000; on the 1st day of January 1836, $23,000,000 in active circulation, and in the banks, $40,000,000; and on the 1st day of December 1836, $28,000,000 in active circulation, and in the banks, $45,000,000. These are the results of the policy inaugurated by those statesmen, who were ridiculed and stigmatized at that day as "hard money men;" and they are valuable practical results, reflecting the highest credit upon their sagacity and statesmanship, and producing the best effects upon the business and interests of the country. I come down to a later period, and present the results as they exhibit themselves to us. Since the discovery of gold in California in 1849, more than $400,000,000 have been added from that source to the gold of the world. It was estimated that we had in the United States, at that time, $120,000,000 in specie, showing an increase between 1837 and 1849, of $47,000,000. In December 1857 it was estimated that there was at least $260,000,000 in specie in the United States, $60,000,000 of which were in the banks, and $200,000,000 in active circulation.

        In our own state, according to the quarterly returns made by the banks to this department, of their condition on the 30th of September last, their capital amounts to $16,566,510; their circulation, $9,806,837 83; their deposits, $6,699,283 60; their discounts, $25,532,391 67; and their specie, $2,804,930 19. Thus it is seen that we have a circulation of near ten millions, upon a banking capital of more than sixteen millions and a half. The question that presents itself in this connection is, do the five, ten, twenty, thirty, fifty and hundred dollar notes, now in circulation, represent specie? Upon their face, they purport to be convertible into specie, at the will of the holder; and it would be regarded as an attack upon the solvency of the banks which had issued them, to say they were not convertible.


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We thus have within a fraction of ten millions in the circulation of the banks, besides the specie in active circulation in the state, which must be several millions more. Can it be possible, with these facts before us, that the revenue of the state cannot be collected in specie? If there shall be doubt on the subject, let the law prescribe that one-fourth shall be collected in specie the first, one-half the second, three-fourths the third, and the whole amount, the fourth year. This will afford the people ample time to provide for the change in the system of collecting the revenues of the state.

        In 1849 the banks held $43,000,000 in specie, upon which they issued a circulation of $114,743,415. In 1857 they had $60,000,000 in specie, upon which they issued a circulation of $214,778,822. Thus it will be seen that in a period of eight years the banks increased their specie only $17,000,000, while their circulation was increased more than $100,000,000 in the same time. Could such a result have occurred, if the operations of the various state governments had been conducted upon the principle, for which I contend, viz: the independent treasury system. It requires no prophet to foretell the end of a system which exhibits such startling results.

        Another objection urged is, that the system is not safe. Why not? Cannot the treasurer of the state be as safely entrusted with the keeping and disbursement of the public money as the officers of the banks? They are all respectable gentlemen; and is there reason to suppose that an officer of the state is less trustworthy than an officer of the bank? Experience, however, is the safest guide in all such cases. Has not the experiment worked well under the federal government; and if it has, have we reason to suppose that the officers of our state government would be less honest, less prompt, or less faithful in executing the law? I trust not.

        The state of Mississippi has collected her revenue in specie since 1836. The states of Arkansas, Texas and California have collected their revenue in specie also, from the time of their organization as states. The receipts into the treasury of Mississippi from the 1st day of January 1850 to the 16th of February 1852, amounted to $482,818 65. The revenue of Texas, for the year ending October 31st, 1852, amounted to $139,222 51; and at that date she had a surplus in specie in her treasury, of $533,651 20. On the 1st of October 1850 Arkansas had in her treasury $203,961 08, and received from all sources, from the 30th of September 1850 to the


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30th of September 1852, the sum of $386,767 03, making a total of $590,738 11. The receipts of California, as estimated for the year ending June 1st, 1853, amounted to the sum of $434,150. These are the latest returns that I can conveniently refer to, but they serve to illustrate my view; particularly when it is remembered that in the space of eight years the amount of revenue collected in each of these states, with their increasing wealth and population, must have been greatly augmented. There is no connection with banks in either of these states; their revenue is collected in specie; deposited in their treasuries, in custody of their own officers, and disbursed in species by those officers, to the creditors of the government. In each of these cases the independent treasury system has worked as well as in the case of the federal government.

        The policy I recommend has been tried by the national government, the states of Mississippi, Arkansas, Texas and California, and it has worked safely, and to the public satisfaction. This policy, in a time of suspension by the banks, such as we now have, would furnish a sound and healthy specie currency for all the ordinary wants of business intercourse, and would have a powerful influence in restraining bank issues within legitimate limits.

        The statistical facts that I have presented in support of my views, are drawn from the most reliable and authentic sources. They are drawn from congressional and other records, and have my entire confidence in their accuracy. I commend this subject to your consideration, assured that its importance will be fully appreciated, and that whatever your action may be, it will be the result of your convictions of what is due to the public interest.

        Events crowd upon each other with astonishing rapidity. The scenes of to-day are dissolved by the developments of to-morrow. The opinions now entertained may be totally revolutionized by unforeseen and unanticipated occurrences that an hour or a day may bring forth. We must meet them as they arise, and our opinions and actions must be controlled by our judgment of the requirements of the occasion. Whatever duty to the state demands, must be done, and to do it effectually, we must throw away all pride of opinion and of consistency. While we can have no idea of what the future will develop, it is the part of wisdom to prepare for the worst. In a military point of view, our state is perhaps better prepared than any other, but to place her on a safe footing, much remains to be done.


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        That your action may be guided and controlled by wisdom and patriotism; that your proceedings may be conducted in a spirit of harmony and conciliation; that the honor, the rights and the institutions of this commonwealth may be vindicated, protected and preserved, and that our common country may be relieved from the horrors of threatened anarchy and civil strife, is my earnest wish.

JOHN LETCHER.