OTAGO STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY'S SHIP, " SCOTIA."

Otago Witness, Issue 643, 26 March 1864, Page 4

OTAGO STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY'S SHIP, " SCOTIA."

A few days since, the directors of the Otago Steam Navigation Company issued invitations to the shareholders to visit their first vessel, the Scotia, (No. 94), prior to her departure for Melbourne, which was fixed tor Tuesday afternoon. The invitation extended to each shareholder the privilege of bringing a " limited party of friends," and stated that the harbor steamer would leave the jetty with the guests at twelve o'clock sharp. * The etormy severity of the weather during yesterday morning, naturally checked any jaunting humour that might have otherwise influenced a good proportion of th« shareholders and their friends ; and the indifference as to time shown by some who were not gueßts, delayed the start of the Golden Age from the jetty until a quarter to one. Ac the three quarters of an hour spent at the jetty ceased only to be simply unpleasantly windy because there were frequent fierce showers of rain, the delay was not an agreeable one, nor were the causers of it uniformly blessed by those kept in waiting. The run to Port Chalmers was diversified by squalls amounting to the force of a gale, which happened to be favorable, and were therefore not objected to ; by heavy down-pours of rain, relieved by some beautiful rainbows ; and by three or four pelting falls of hail, which .thickened the air ahead and astern to the appearance of a fog, and hit down upon the faces of those who remained on deck, with the force of hazenuts out of a spring-gun. The weather subsequently was similar, although not quite so bad ; but the air, though keen, was so pleasantly bracing, that we are sure those who went the trip gol a convincer, if they needed it, that the pleasure of an excursion by no means depends upon the good or bad temper of the " clerk of the weather." After landing her ordinary passengers at the Tort Chalmers Jetty, the Golden Age steamed off for the Scotia. The party on board numbered about 35, and included— His Houor. Mr Justice Richmond, and two daughters ; Mr E. B. Cargill, chairman, and Mr John Oirgill, secretary, of the Company ; Mr R. B. Martin, agent for the Tasmanian Steam Navigation Co. (Mr Mudie, one of the agents for tho Melb6urne Adelaide, and New Zealand Company came on board the Scotia at; a later period) ; Mr E. M'Glashan, Mr W. H. Reynolds ; Captains Sharp and Robertson, Wardens of the Marine Board ; Mr Hamilton, government inspector of steam machinery ; Captain Clark, late of the Lightning, and now resident manager for Messrs Bright Brothers, at Melbourne ; Cap-

tain Dawson, of the Saldanha ; Captain Morris, who brought out the llangatira, for the Australian Steam Navigation Company ; Captain Ferguson, I.C.R.M. Co.'a screw steamer Airedale ; and Captain Wilkie, of the Aboukir, which sails to-morrow, for London, with passengers, gold, and wool. There weie also two or three ladies of the parly.

The Government steamer St. Kilda, a high and rather humpish looking crafr, evidently with no excessive power, hal steam up for her first experimental tiip, and left her moorings just before the Golden Age started from the jetty. She first took a run between the Islands, then dodged about the harbor, and afterwards ventured outside the Sandspit. as to which we shall write more hereafter.

The Golden Age was soon alognside the Scotia, and the small number of visitors, when they got on board the latter speedily disappeared, through scattering over her noble flush deck, or diving into the cabins or

engine rooms. We have before published some particulars as to the Scotia, but ; at the risk of repetition, something more rony well be said here. She is 209 ft. long, between perpendiculars ; 27ft. wide ; and 22ft. deep. Her tonnage, N.R , is 647 ; but her gross capacity is equal to 900 tons, at least. She is. like most large steamers, barque rigged . We think she has been inaptly described, whether as a " big Aldinga," or as having much of an appearance in common with the City of Dunedin. She has not the long, j perky looking low and cntnmco of the Aldinga, nor has she anything like the fulnesa of floor, fore and aft, of the City of Dunedin. She has a bow which resembles, but is finer than, that oftheN.Z.S.N's Co.'s vessel RangaI tira, neither long nor hollow, but fine enough for good speed, and substantial enough not to be too dippy at sea ; and she has a moderate run aft, and a fairly rounded side. She was still too light in the water yesterday, but she | looked a vessel that would at once command the good opinion of all, as a fast and pleasant sea-boat She has a pair of inverted double cylinder engines by Messrs Denny and Co. (her builders), which are well known for their solidity and good work ; but there is the added peculiarity and advantage of Spencer's patent condensing apparatus, by which the fresh water resulting from condensation is returned to the boilers, hot and unmixed with anything salt. The engyies worked admirably yesterday: there was not a wheeze to be heard, nor was there a drop of water visible upon or near any of their bearings — nothing but a moderate supply of oil. The cylinders are 44in. diameter, and the length of atrokc, .2fr. 9in. Mr M'Nicol, the chief engineer, is proud of the engines oi the Scotia, and not without cause. There are two tubular boilers, with six furnaces ; and there is a tunnel forming a communication between the lowest stage or storey of the engine room and the stokehole. The furnaces are so fitted that, it is believed, any kind of coal can be burned in them ; and the ventilation, or some other" arrangement, is so good, tnat the heat even in the stokehole, is but moderate. There is no finery about the cabin fittings of the Scotia ; they are simply of polished wood, with a few gilded ornaments. But the cabin is a noble apartment, with table room for over 40 passengers ; and the berths are fitted with every conve ience, and are ventilated by means of louvre boards below, and by perforated iron work above. There ia not an inch of looking-glass more than is necessary; but if anybody wants hot water while the boat is under steam, he can obtain it by going to any one of two or three things that look like miniature gas stoves, and turning a tap of polished brass. The water comes from the boilers • aud the apparatus will be found not only in the chief cabin, but in that set apart for the ladies, those classed as intermediate, and those used by the principal ofHcers. There is nothing in the Scotia's cabin at all resembling a" view" of any real or imaginary scene, upon a gilt-bordered panel; but if the weather be cold, it will only be necessary to send one of the stewards to the engineer, and he will tend steam through a copper tube running the length of the cabin, and upon which all seated at the table can place their feet if so minded, Lavatories, with hot and cold water laid on ; closets, pantries, and other apartments and appliances necessary for comfort, abound. Everywhere show is sacrificed and utility consulted.

On deck, there is not an inch of superfluous raised woodwork. The bridge is contracted as much as is consistent with the freedom of movement of the officer in charge ; and there is no other provision for shelter than is afforded by the possible lee-side of the boards thus used. The only approach to a deckhouse is under the bridge. One portion of this occupied by an upright boiler which supplies steam for driving a couple of winches on deck, and by a condensing apparatus which renders the ship independent of any shoresupply of fresh water, AH this machinery and apparatus has been supplied by Messrs Paull and Co. of Dumbarton. The other portions of the housing are devoted to lamproom, store-room, &c. The "officers and engineers" have their own cabins below, approached by a common stair ; adjoining which are the intermediate cabins, the berths in which all have curtains, and everything else necessary for comfort. In the steerage proper, no fittings have yet been put up.

The official estimate of the accommodating capacity of the Scotia, is as follows :— Saloon, G6 ; ladies' cabin, 10 ; intermediate, GO ; steerage. 170 : total, 30G. We understand it to be the opinion ot all competent judges, whether official or otherwise, that no stramer has ever beibre entered the Port of Otago which was equal to the Scotia, in the usefulness, completeness, and solidity of her fittings."

At 20 minutes before three o'clock yesterday afternoon, the Scotia was gotfairlv underweigh, and she slowly went by the Ramsey,

that strangi-l_. -bow (-•! hut mischievous looking craft, which i-= ;iH but ready for sea. The steamer was ihcn put on a course for the Heads, anrt wd- s.n>n going before the wind, thien^ini-s >iuu!i£ 68 revolutions, the steampressure t'eing bw, and only markin? 19lb. A rapid run ma made, until the Scotia was nearly three miles outside Taiaroa Head, the Malay, from Adelaide, loaded with flour, which was at anchor within the Heads, being passed at a short distance. The Scotia was then put about, and had to run in aga'nst a strong ebb-tide, and dead in the teeth of the wind, which occasionally blew with the force of a gale. But the steam had meanwhile been got up to 231b or 241b to the inch ; the engines were making trom 73 to 75 revolutions a minute ; and the inward run was made quicker than the outward one. The boat was under steam a little over an hour and twenty minutes, during which time she ran nearly 18 miles. Oa the return, despite the strong wind and tide, she ran from the Heads to her anchorage, fully six miles and a half, in 32 minutes; which, as gossip hath it, was three minutes less than the shortest time in which the Aldinga has ever done the same distance. When the Sandspit was being neared, the St. Kilda was seen coming out, and she rounded and lay-to, as if inclined for a trial of speed. But she soon put on all steam, and did her best to get away. At this time, the guests were called to partake of refreshments ; and while occupied therewith, they had the pleasure of seeing the St. Kilda, through the sternwindows, making a pitiful tail run. The absence of vibratory motion in the Scotia while umier steam, was the subject of general remark on board.

At the luncheon , Mr E. B. Cargill presided, and the vice-chair was filled by Mr W. H. Reynolds; Capt. Newlands, of the Scotia, who should have occupied the latter post, prefening to keep his place on the bridge, until the anchor was down. After luncheon,

The Chairman said it was not proposed to have a formal set of toasts But loyalty fhrbade their passing over thnt of " Her Mast Gracious Majesty, the Queen," especially when the event being celebrated was the inauguration of a line of steam communication which would bring Otagans more closely and directly into ronnection with home-— a thing which wa* certainly calculated to Rtimulate and to strengthen the most fervent loyalty.

The toast was duly honored.

Mr Justice Richmond said : There i<?. gentle men, a toast which has been mentioned to me as one most proper to the occasion. We mu«t all have very much enjoyed our trip on board this most magnificent stenmen On such occasions, people commonly look back and compare the past with the present. It is wonderful what we see and expe rience, when we remember that to-morrow is only the 16th anniversary of the settlement of Otapo ; and that we are at the antipodes nf England, in one of some islands which, within the memory of persons, not only living but bow present, were simply cannibal islands — known as such and only such, 'f hi^e considerations cannot hutinfluence persons of reflecting minds, especially on an occasion when they are met to celebrate another step in advance ; and I say that the arrival of the Scotia distinctly marks a step in ad-v-we. Our worthy chairman and host has adverted to one of the great uses which steam navigation will serve. He has said, and I reciprocrate the feeling most heartily, that it will connect us more closely with the mother country, and that I consider to be a most important thing. This most magnificent steamer is owned- almost wholly owned— in Dune lin ; and she is a splendid specimen of a new clasa of ve«sel. She is called the Scotia, and most properly ; for this is antipodean Scotland, and she is one of the noble productions of the industry and science of < 'Id Scotland, her mission beiner to lead us on in the cweer of civilisation. 1 recollect when some of the first vessels arrived here, initiating s^eam navigation in these seas. They belonged to a Company that has certainly made grea si provements since then. But at the time, I was ft member of the Government of the Colony ; and I know that we did not altogether express ourselves as satisfied with those stsamers. We had some notions of what a steamship ought to be ; and although we were landsmen, I do not think that those notions were other than correct. The representatives of the Company said, "Oh ! you Colonists are very particular. What is it you want?" They seemed to think that we did not know how things ought to be done; but we thought we knew the difference between a passenger vessel and a cargo boat, and we expressed our perhaps vague notions as strongly as we could, though vre might not have been able, by words, to describe exactly what we wanted. I should have liked to be able to point to a New-Zealand-owned vessel, and to say, " That is like what we want ;" bat I could not do it. Now, however, if any Company makes the least mistake as to what the Colonists want steamers to be, whether as regards hull, or engines, or passenger accommodation, I shall to able to say, "Let there be no further difficulty : the Scotia is the sort of vessel we want,"— (Applause) I am quite cure that the Scotia will be able to take care of herself in any competition to which she may be expo -el ; but slie will be none the worse for our pood wishes. She has mice, mo3t heartily; and I now call upon you to joia with me in drinking, " Success to the Scotia."

The toast was drunk amidst loud applause.

Mr John CARQiiiii re-ponded. His Honor the Judge had very felicitously remarked upon th* somewhat strange circumstance that the first vessel of the Otigo Company should be appointed to sail on her first voyage to the Australian Colonies on the 16th anniversary of the settlement of the Province. He was one of those who arrived Id years ago ; and he well remembered tho appearance of the beautifully wooded bay of Port Clialmeis, and the very Robinson-Crusoe-like life they all intended to lead.— (Laughter.) Then, if they hml any idea about steam boats at all, it was much the ?ame as was expressed eight yeai slater, by the firm at Nelson to whom the Nel on steamboat was consigned — " Oh ! it will he time enough for steam 20 years hene<%" lie remetnberel, that when Port Chalmers consi-ted of one house and onecLimmy, the two standing- somewhat apart— (laughter) — the rich inhabitant told him to go and look at his garden. He went to the spot indicated at the top of the hill, and findine only a patcb of potatoes and some cabbages, Le

returned and said lie could not find the garden. '• Nonsense," said the rich man, " you nnvst have seen my garden." He replied that he hal seen nothing but potatoes and cabbages. •' Well," was the n, joinder, " that's my garden."— (A. laugh ) Since then, the people of Otago had tjot different notions as to gardens and som° few other thing?, including steamboats. Tlif views rf the promotpra of the Otago Steam Navigation Company dM not need much explanation They desired to secure to New Zealand the advantages of steam communication ; they thought that the interests of tlie Colony woul.i b- more closely stulied and better served, if the vesse's were owned in New Zealand, than if they were owntd in and sailed from Australia ; and they thought that it was better that any profit realised Bhould be retained in NewZealand, lhaa that it should go into the pockets of tho«e who, t-> ali intents and purposes, must be regarded hs foreign capitalists. He trusted that the success of the Scotia might be commen«ur,ite with the wishes of the promoters of the Company. Thpy had done their utmost to secure the very be t vessels possihle. Those present had had experience of the first vessel to arrive ; and the second might be expected here in about a for might. It was not for the promoters to crow before fairly getting into their work ; and he wouM only say, that they hoped to prove that they deserved a fair share of public patronage. He couid not conclude without reference to Capt,. New lands, who had to successfully brought out the Scotia, and still commanded her. She was not the first boat, by many, commanded by Capt. Newlands, whom some of those present would no doubt well remember as having the JKoyal Biide, which loaded in the port some four years ago He (Mr Cargill) asked the company to drink heartily '• The health of Oapt. Newlands," Capt. Newlands, in returning thanks, said he wis nether a stranger nor an " Old Identity ;" hut in the wor/'s of the immortal Will Sbakspere, he would do his best to earn for himself and his ship, *' a local habitation and a name." He knew the r e were some fast men in the trade, who could go from Tort Chalmers to Melbourne in three days six hour-, and ten seconds (a laugh)— and come back in even leas time ; but he hoped to show, without descending to fractions, that the Pcotia could do the run as fast and as satisfactorily as any other hoat on the station.

Mr E. M'Glisiian, as one of the shareholders, felt that tht>y were nil very much indebted to the directory. He could very well perceive that if the directors went on in the same determined spirit as that in which they had begun, the Company would be a success. It would, he believed, make a shift under any circumstances. He hoped the directors would be able soon to Bhow a good dividend ; but he was sure they would not do it without very much labor and anxiety owing to the competition that would have to be met. He had pleasure in proposing " The health of the directors of the Otago Steam ship Company," and would couple with it the nam. of Mr W. H. Reynolds. Mr Ke?no£Ds in returning thanks, said he felt that it would be the bounden duty of the directors to endeavor to secure the confidence, not of the shareholders only, but of the public at large. He was sure that they would have every possible assistance from Captain Newlands, in their efforts to seenre a paying traffic for the Scotia and her sister boats.

The Chairman said he should be very sorry if it was supposed that by anything said that day, it was seriously meant to cast a reproach upon the past steam communication enjoyed by the Province. He thought that, an a community they had room for a great deal of gratitude, aa regarded the mode in which the different services between Otago and Australia— and particularly between Otago and Melbourne— »bad been performed during the last three or four years. They w«re very largey indebted for the prosperity of the place to the Australian Companies that hod maintained the communications so well and efficiently. He would propose, "Success to the steamers that have heretofore traded between Otago and Australia," coupling with it the name of Mr R. B. Martin, the very worthy representative of the Tasmanian Company. Mr Martin responded. It had afforded him great satisfaction to be present during the day : and, as agent for the City of Hobart, ho could assure the directors of the Otago Company, that they would always find him and hi> firm ready to co operate with them. There was plenty of scope for all if the matter was only properly managed. Mr Reynolds proposed " The Press," and Mr J. 8. Webb responded. "The Laics" having been duly toasted, Mr John G'abgili. craved to propose " The Builders of the Scotia, and Mr Peter Denny in particular.''

Captain Nbwlands said he would walk miles to respond to any toast with which the name of Mr Peter Denny was connected. Mr Benny was not only & ship builder — he was one of the most benevolent men in Scotland, From him, any man who was in real distress would receive succor. The man who faithfully served Mr Denny was not only paid in coin, but he secured a friend for life. (Applause.) He should not fail to inform Mr Denny of the estimation in which the firm was held in Otago. " The health of the Wardens of the Marine Board of New Zealand," was proposed by Capt. Newl\nds, and responded to by Capts. Sharp and Robertson.

The guests then made their way to the Golden Age, the shrill whistle of which had some time before announced that Capt. Malcolm was impatient to get to Dunedin. There was plenty of rain and wind during the run up; but there was a common consent that, taken altogether, a very pleasant day had been spent in connection with the official trip of the Scotia.

Years ago, long ere Gabriel's Gully was a phrase of terror to Victoria, a Scotia was the mainstay of Otago. She was but a poor schooner, owned by Mr J. Jones. But she was worked for Otago ; aud while other more pretentious vessels looked in at duU Otago's port when their skippers were so minded, little Scotia sailed on between Sydney and Port Chalmers, bringing supplies of flour and other much-needed provisions. This Scotia was a success to her owner, as well as a decided benefit to the community. Times have changed and there is another Scotia, like circumstanced, in one main respect, with the now unheard of schooner. And we heartily wish to the steamer and her fellows, an enlarged measure of the success of the schooner. "

(FROM THB DAILY TIMES CORRESPONDENT.)

26th January, 1864. Sir -The Princess of Wales presented the Queen with a grandson nt 9 p.m, on the Bth inst Mamma and babe, God be prated, both doing 'well. The announcement of this event came suddenly on the nation ; it was expecte 1 in March at Marlbro' House, where preparations were being made. At Kroi'more, on the day in auestion, P. P. Wales incited some friends to do q'uadrilJes and polkas ou Vireinia Water ; the gay party arrived at the glacial wall zing ground before 12 a.m., and stayed on the ice till s— guess then our surprise on reading next morning that the unexpected event took place 4 hours after reaching home. Anyway it is a splendid new year's gift, and we are prouder than ever of Albert Kdward and his wife -we have now two heirs in a direct line of descent to thegnndest crown the world ha 3 known ; and Her Majesty is not more delighted than the people at these glad fidinas— as for the happy prince he is almost beside himself with loy, and exclaims with Old Dornton •' who would not be a father V

Italian assassins have been trying it on again in Paris ; another infernal machine plot was discovered just in time to prevent calamity; ard Once more the life of Napoleon is providentially saved from ths insane veiigeance of Red republicanism We all rejoice at the confounding of these "knavish tricks; for, however it ia to be de plored that the security of Kurope should hang on the life of one man, it cannot be denied that the Emperor's preservation is at this moment of the highest importance. The gentry now in custody try to fix the origin of their guilty scheme on Mazziui, which leads to close investigation ; and be the result what it may, we shall show our honest indignation at the bire thought of such infamy being /'oncocted by foreign exiles in this "land of the free."

The German shout ot " Augustenburgfor ev?r' J &c, has besn the echo of the month ; revolution succeeded enthusiasm ; King Christian was de posed in Holstein ; the wanes retired ;' Augustenburg entered, made a speech, aud was proclaimed the Sovereign Duke. At the risk of re peatine myself I will briefly go throusrh thUsuhject and divide it info two purls, " the MuwesMon question" and " the Constitutional or Political question.' 1 The original dispute was the obseryance of certain mutual rights in Holstein. and to enforce those rights, the German Diet resolved on Federal execution ; then revolutionary impulses seized the Teutonic mass, and they determined to wrench the Duchies from Denmark altogether, and create a new German principality tinder the Augusten burgs— then the minor States of Germany are now in arms to'upport the Pretender'd claims to the Duchies ai lawful Sovereign — and this is called the Succession question. Austria and Prussia having signed the London protocol of 1852, which settled the Succes-ion on Denmark, dare not now join the popular movement, but fearful of losiug position as leaiing powers, they are both compelled to opnose Denmark in some shape, so they issue an ultimatum calling on King Christian within 48 hours to renounce the Decree of November last which incorporates, under one fomraou constitution, the Duchies with Denmark; this demand is positively refused, and the Danes prepare to resist it even at the cost of war, consequently a laree Austro- Prussian army is marching "on Sohleswfe, and this is called the political question. A revolution having been < fleeted in Holstein ; Christian deposed ; Augustenbur,? proclaimed ; the minor f-tates determined to uphold if,'threatening also to enter tfcbleswig and thereby provoke hostilities without farther parley, Au-tria and Pru«sia having a more wholesome dread of European war, hope to arrive at the scene of action in time to take the case out of the han's of their revolutionary bretlir-u, and at the head of 200,000 men give Denmark one more opportunity of saying yea or nay. Denmark, though resolveu not to yield the** points to the threat of force, is willing to submit them to a general conference, and should this le ngreed to war may be averted ; but, the rapid mirch of hostile armies gives the present portion a most alarming aspect The muuh desirei Conference r«stH with Bonaparte, who really meant something latflv when, on issuing )m pnlife invitu'on, h* said," ' Congress or war." England's refusal dispersed Utopian drenms. N. 111. took the sulks ard has never shaken hands with us sine;. We now invite Prance to it Confcrvnce, " not if I knows it, says the sullty man; wi<ei one word f(Oin the Tudleries would effectually quench the bonfire and stop the frizzling of these German sausages- - he tben_ writes to the small Germans asking their opimnn -about this " Conference." nnd plainly says that until he ascertains their wishes he shall return no answer to the request of JinglßDd. Common report says that at the Tuillenes, both by day and by night, attentive cars are listening for the first sound of cannon on the Eider; meanwhile ths mine ti BUrung and the match is lighted; hostile forcea are ranted in order of battle, and there they stand-on thp banks of the Eider and the eve of war • what ■will come of it nil remains to be seen. Lejour de Van passed off dull enough, commercially speaking, and open air shopkeepers must have bad a sorry time of it ; in fact the elements were outrageous aud the tradesmen were ruined— but these are mere flsa bitoi compared with other ceremonies of the annual fraternisation ; politically speaking it was al! serene, the Emperor was graciously pleased to be full of peace; a tone he will probably retain till he secures '• the ready," let him once get that paltry twelve millions sterling into thelmpermlhand, and then we shall see what we *'' ;; M.M '. Parliamentaiy ocposition is most violent; Thiers has been eloquently fierce Berryerand others ditto, and If. 111., not only lo«es riis temper, but exhibits it in angry speeches, although he mu^t have known the natural consequence of the thin end of the wedge when he granted this modicum of French liberty to parlia ment and press. But in admiring these Senators' eloquence, we recollect something of their antecedents; what they formerly did in accordance with their individual notions of liberty, they would evident y repeat if opportunity offered; and it may be well for Francs that there is some one at hand capable of keeping them within bounds. tonflictingnewß comes from Mexico; triumphiai marches; doubtful campaigns; severe losses; native ecclesiastical opposition, &c, certain it is Bpx?™^ 6 tn ? pS ? re bein & sent >t; that the Mexican question is now established as a French difficulty; that Thiers and Co. demand the inSirT ' w^ 1 " >°$™ a or a limit t0 tiie expedition ; that Maximilian is in no hurry to don 2?nSrt!JV/A d that Forey is a PP°^ted to command the 2nd Army corps, and so gets out of the

way of all enquiry. In fact, truth, things are. notrosey in Paris; the newly found Augustenhurg essayed a soapy letter to the great, man, but was not very succ s ful ; and even Lord Cowley has had anything but, a haopy berth there of late.

_ Fr tngois Cug, who deserted from the French lines at Seba>>topol and went over to the Russian enemy, has bes-n tried and sentenced to be shot in front of the reciment ; bis defence was, " taken nrisoner whilst fishing, an ' detiined against his will," but Rups-an evidence waa adduced, which completely upset his iuuocent theory — and hentp his doom.

Prussia enjoys a respite from domestic politics -so long as thp German fever lasra, King Wiu. and Bisimrck have time to pr^par for the reaction, and if there's any wisdom left at Sans Souci, the opportunity will not be neglected. Kossuth and hi< agents are dealing largely in pr- cl miations : th ir chief points ? are "Hungary awakes," " 1840 an 1 vic'ory," and such like. A general committee is formed, nnd a'so a determination to shake oft' tbo detected G'irman yoke — there are awkward signs just now for Francis Joseph, hopelessly involved as he is, and stru» d'ng for another loan, with danger all around"; insurrection in the East; Bonaparte in the West; Italian patriots in the South.

Russia grant* unlimited powers to De Berg, who undertakes to tuppres3 rebellion in two months— nil foreigners are treated as Polos, and flogged, executed, or exiled at pleasure; and newspaper correspondents have lnzivdnus occupations. Poland ia reported in the last throes of hfr long ago-iy. and yet there are sanguine hearts whisay she will live through it— let her only survive n few short weeks, and the coming spring shall tell a diffeient ta.'e, meantime all nations have enouch to dj in taking cave of themselves, anl poor Polind is left to rough it. Garibaldi gets well apace, ami the " p-rty of action" buzz ahout him for guidance in the coming storm ; he resigns Parliamentary honors in di-gust at his country's debasement, anl says when Italy really means business he'a all 'he way there, be it Rome or Venetia— he and Kossuth are composing a duet which will grate harshly in Austrian ears ; Mazzini too lets of? his venemous squib 3 an-l crackers; and if the Dano-German question is prolonged Master Hapsburg will have hjs work to do -fir he. of the Red shirt plants himself at the head of a "Central Union Committee," and talks of ihe near approach of that long wished for day of battle which is to dot'ide the salvation of Italy. The Grecians are inquiring in turbulent Parliamentary meetings ;. dishonest notion* of repudiation ; indignant and unholy grumblings on the proposed demolition of the Corfu fortifications ; general antagonism amongst all classes, and especially between National guards and police —the young King is popular but uncomfortable ; and money tight. Georgey saya he has already had enough of royalty ; and, if permitted by his big iriends abroad, would show his loving subjects & clean pair of heels and take pot-luck again in Denmark' 3 troubled waters.

America furnishes an infamous history of gigantic frauds by naval nnd military officials almost incredible, and generally speaking a very sad tale. Charleston c ntinually shelled and set on fire vet holds out ; whilst the Federal monitors have all been disabled, and Admiral Dupont is in disgrace accordingly. Sora3 of old Abe's pet niggers] have been misbehaving Fadly ; they muzzled their masters, seiz.d Fort Jacks»n, and repulsed two wbite regiments sent against them The brief winter quarters give a slight re prieve from slaughter in some districts, but at Kuoxville and other placs the same frantic struggle eontiuues— all the armies are preparing for crushing camoaigns ; and one millioa volunteers und^r Grant are about being enrolled for 90 days t» march ou liichmond M Cleilan, Lincoln, and Grant are all on for next Presidency ; the younsr Napoleon as the conservative champion is to put things straight in less than no time ; Lincoln i< to restore the Uni n, a'olish slavery, &c. ; whist Grant i ia fact " the coming man" who promises the oue grand tbi^g ; tie will revenue European neutrality, liberate Mexico, iuvrtde Ciniida, mulct England in 2) million dollars for losses by Confederate cruisers, an t chaw up all creation that stops the way to Ynn'w supremacy- President Grant will do all this, so lpt the world beware.

Lord Lyons prophecies an cml to the war in th' uionth-i : hi; may or may not in hU official character have good grounds for prophecy, but we have bitten our fingeis more than once "at th ; s erame, and shall eoutentsdly leave to his lordship all th.3 fame, simply hoping it may prove true. The txtremitits of the South being most deplorable favors this prediction, as also tho tone of of the people dictated by their sufferings ; conscription can no lontrer be evaded ly fine or sub-titntiou ; youth and manhood are off to the frontiers ; while the interior presents to our view old men, nefftoes, and unprotected homes of women and children. Northern mi cries may likewise be on a par with all this, but knowing the resources of Washington and the unscrupulous determination to us* them, we may seriousjy ask a question ns to Lord Lyons' prophecy. Jeff. Davi-N 5 speech admits his looses on the Mississippi and in Tennessee, the awfui destitution existing, and the fresh sacrifices required—if he meant surrendering would he talk thus 1 ? But other prophet* are out beside Lyons ; New York peace meetings are numerously attended ; and we hear from many sources the war will end before June— nevertheless we cannot believe in American affairs ; and even as they now enter on the fourth year of their dreadful war, so must we leave them to prosecute or terminate it at their own good pleasure. Captain Sherard Osborn's naval expedition to China has terminated most ridiculously— the original idea (however left-handed it may be called) was to assist young Pig-tail in quelling rebellion ; to clear the Chinese waters of piracy ; to open up the commerce of the world, and render universal service— but celestial eyes didn't see it ; malignant tongues perhaps had whispered our Indian tricks t3 willing ears in the New Summer Pnlare ; or the cloud- brained brother of the moon had the toothache, or was otherwise out of sorts at the critical moment. When Osbora presented his credentials to tha mighty Mandarin of 300 buttons, Prince Kung took offence at some presumed want of etiquette, repudiated the treaty altogether, and sent each lusty biue jacket oh* with a flea in his ear. Imagine the dignified figurecut by our nautical frieud on this amiable reception after all his troubles and long voyages in the cause of Imperial Tartary ; but there was no help, he pocketed the afiront and took precious good care to bo out of hearing before he said what he thought of it. Of course Osborn cornea home rather disgusted ; a glorious future was before bun, and fortune within the grasp of self and crew— his service would only be accepted as a mercenary : and, as honor was too bright to be

tarnished by truckling to Mandarin chicanery, a fitting reward for his integrity awaita him in K nglanrl (or ought to) John Chinaman concludes be can settle his quarrels without John Bull's aid, so we must l»ave him to it, congratulating ourselves on escaping an embroglio which, beginning with Osborn's flotilla might have ended with_ Admirals of the red, white, and blue, and a British fleet. It's a pity too, because we are hard at worktwith the Tuepingp, and may yet want tho very h°lp this little squadron might have afforded There's sad bungling somewhere, and as China seems bent on a retrogade policy, our difficulties there are evidently recommencing. In India we want our new Viceroy to quiet the frontiers, frghten the fanatics, and rievelope the re°ources ; we want cotton and tea which may b? had for the a«king ; and we wnnt to see a rpsolute and enlightened government which stall set good works aftr-t and convincsdisiffec ed fribes how we can all pull t 'gi-ther for our mutuil betiefir. That inglorious war with the Eusufzaies seems over for the present, and the British army once more, as by a rnitacle, on the saf-j side of the terrible (Jmbeylah Pa>s, compared with which the fatal Khyber was insignificant 'Uir losses are much h°avier thin was thought; the casualties in this hasty, ill-advised, luckless campaign are 23 officers and near 600 men ki led and wounded, &nd it appears that in rushing «o madly af'er these hidden robbeis of the mountains^ve got into such a moss that to advance was certain destruction, and to retreat dangerous and discreditable ; but whatever disgrace to military optics may attend the backward movement, it is good news to know our troop 3 aye sate, and now the sooner Sir John Lawrence arrives at his post the better -hoth for 'oldier, civilian, and native, Japanese affairs be^n most CTitical ; foreigners were b \a% most brutually expelled, nnd threats of horrid vengeance uttered by the highest officials— but, making due allowance for .4 siatic insincerity, we now have hefcter news ; they drop the bullying tone and offer almost any terms for p_°ace. Richard*.on's indemnify is to be immediately paid ; a mausoleum erected on the spot where he fell, and his murderers brought to speedy retribution. All this may be merely to gain time and inflict upon us another slaughter in some unguarded moment, but for the present we receive these amicable advances for what they are worth, and again prepare to enforce atonement and security at the cannon's mouth. It agrees not with the o ward nurch of civilisition that these Islanders should make and break treaties after their murderous f,i3hion ; and considering that in their blood-stained wa r ers may now be counted good ships by the dozen of England, France, and other countries, all eager for justice and alike determined to exact it, the Messrs Tycoon, Satsuma, and Co. may perhaps seß the propriety of ahstainins: from further jugglery and in their negotiations with the " outer birbarian" stick to business like rational humanity ; much hlond and trea-un will ihus be spared, and another sound link be a Wed to the commercial chain. At a formal meeting of on* consuU with Japanese aristocracy, Hatsuma at first didn't relish his punishment, but afterwards deigned to think he had fairly met his match, sought closer acquaintance with such noble people, and talked of sending his children here for educUiou. Now if these are not altogether pie-crust pnmisea— if we may take it all for gospel, aa also the Indian news, we may hope to begin the year with two great troubles off our hands ; and Bmidsr. our European botherations these happy releases come very agreeably. A week's sharp frost, and winter disappears— all over Europe it set in with suoh severity as did justice to meteorological predictions: London's ■♦ olde-t inhabitant" was consult»d about 1814 and the probability of another jollification on the br^ad shout fers of •■ Id Fathf"r Thames; in eager haste our Parks were crowded by hundreds of thousanls and many poor fellows paid dearly "for I hair temerity We had foir or five diys good sport before the thaw; whilst acro-s the Channel tin plucky Kmperor, despite secret assassination and pon'tical tr.iublps, etscorted Eugenic and the Child of Prance to the skating districts, where, accompanied by groups of gay citizens, tht-y disported their figure.* in the far famed Bois de Boulogne. Penny a liners tell us how Royalty played hop sootoh and hockey with true Parisian gusto on le Lac d* Madrid; how the Empress, all dressei in velvet and gold, measured her fair length on the frozen lake; how Majesty smiled when released trom this undignified position ; how the mide.n Craw challenged "the talent" for a two mile spin ; and how L. N. looked somewhnt older than he did fifteen years ago. Other wonders are recorded of this our short lived wintar, but they mmt all give place to more startling wonders of the coming sprinar.

Parliament m?ets 4th February for a stormy session— I he Tories mean mhc^ief, and having counted noV fancy they can clutch the reigns] but our jovial State coachman n ill not yield withoit a tussle. N. Zealand, Australia, Japan, China, Poland, Germany, Denmark, France, Russia, and America, are subjects for discussion ; and some of them, if well handled, may disturb the serenity of Pam and Johnny— serious domestic grievances must likewise ba forced on their attention ; and if Ministers mean to keep in place and power they'll ira prove the short interval yet remaining. Under existing circumstances a change would probably be most calamitous; but many grave questions at home and abroad require satisfactorily answering and admit of no further delay. If things go on at the present rate the reporting of parliamentary debates will be a poser even for the talent of our pre<s. Where's the space ? Wars and rumours of war must be given^t some length ; and high crimes and misdemeanors daily crowd our journals ; murder is rife and Jack Ketch has no sinecure; and although garotting has not resumed its prominent place in criminality the people are far from being so well-bevaved S3 one could wish. /, case of mutiny with all its horrors has just gone through preliminary stages, and villains eight are committed for trial ; the ship was the Flowery Land from London to Singapore; in September last, whilst breasting the Atlantic, Captain Smith and his brother, with the chief mate and others, were killed in the darkest hours of night ; the second mate being kindly spared to navigate the vessel, and through his means the murderers are brought to justice. " Inniskilling and Lilleyskilling " is Mr Punch's introduction to a rerent article. Colonel Crawley's acquittal is confirmed by the Queen ; aud Cambridge speechifies on the ill-used colonel and ungectlemanly proiecution. Crawlev is invited forthwith to resume his functions, and the unhappy witnesses are ordered not to do ditto • they are in fact ignominiously discharged with threats of future proceedings. • Crawley goes back to India with flying colors, and the British public may chew the cud of bitter fancy oa the

wrongsof poor John Liliey. Nevertheless there's a soldier in the House of Commons who cares far no man, named Be Lacey Evans, and we shall soon hear his opinion of these transactions • swallowing in the meanfme the AJdershot verdict and the observations of H.R.H commanding in chief. In relation to ibis Buatter, the papers announce the appenrance of another victim, Sergeant- Mnj or Wakefield, who has entered an action against his colonel in the Queen's Bench for false imprisonment ; and the In ian witnesses are'to be detained in London till the trial is over.

Townley and Wright are household names in London just now. Victor Townley. a wealthy ove-sick swain of Derbyshire, recently murdered his sweetheart (Miss Emma Goodwin), because she jilted him. ' Samuel Wright was a Lambeth nmkiayer, who mmdered his ladye love at the (■upper table in a drunken brawl ; and both gentlemen were sentenced to be hung. The Derbyshire gentlefolks, disapproving ot CaleralVs acquaintanceship, set up a pleaot nndness, and ruratnascd out an old Act of Far'.iamenr, which specifies that medicii certificates of insanity signed by two professional* and countersigned by two mngi-tiutes shall bo sufficient to deprive the common hangman of his fee, and send the culpnt to Beth'ehera ; and thus the rf d-hanried yokel escape! the rope. The hapless bricklayer pleaded guilty, and was vesignefi to his fate, but public opinion arose in his behalf—the crime was committed under great provocation, his victim, heing a notorious drunkard, and a quarrel-ome, bad woman—" one law for the rich and another for thft poor, ' was London's angry shout: and lownley's reprieve made Wright's execution somewhat akiu to judicial murder. A young t J nnce is born, and deputations and clergymen and M.P.'s wait on the Qjeen and the Home Secretary, but all to no purple ; and amidst the r<j ticings on the Royal birth Samuel Wright wa3 hanged -the wretched man knowing the sympathy felt for him. bowed his last farewell, the people yelled, the authorities of the land are in disgrace.

On the 15th inst, a ship, bavins on board 1U 1 tons of gunpowder, took flre in the Mersey, on the eve «jf departure for Africa, the crew escaping before the explosion. Between seven and eight p.m, she blew up with such an awfui discharge as to terrify the Birkenhead and Liverpool inhabitants into the belief that the world was at an end ; shock succeeded Bbock, rending the earth and the air; huge splinters of wood a_d iron were hurled amongst the affrighted people, who wure rushing trom their dwellings in the wildest alarm, seeking safety they knew not whither. Fortunately no lives were lost, but the damage to property is immense. The Charing Cro M Railway (the first great link in the proposed new system of metropolitan communication by rail) opened on the 11th iast. Hungerford market is now a thing of the past, and on its site we have a magnificent structure. This railway crosses the Thames ; drops passengers at Blac.kfriars, London Bridge, \c, an 1 is a central terminus for the Kent and Susst x linea. Other London stations are being formed • others contemplated; and Parliament b called on tor sensible legislation in these matters, so that the whole imy result harmoniously, for it will never do to leave an innocent people in the hands of unconscionable corporations. Judging from present appearances, our city is to be twisted inside out ; and if science is to run riot, and the Legislature be content to pocket the fees, and pass all the 30 or 40 metropolitan bills which are applied for, oar absent mends will m future have to address their customers at "New London," for there'll be very little left of the old shop. Kiug and Heenan could not stomach, the provincial juried of Messrs Shallow and Dogberry, nor the chiilirit; prosp eta of a Sussex gaol, so, cash hems plentiful, thy 'ske counsel'^ opinion, obtaia a certwrari and tin ow themselves en the tender inemea of a t p->ci£i jury in H.M. Queen's Bench. Colonel Crawhy has taught these warriors the luxury of beioj: tried by one'a peers : and if these ffladialors escape as easily from the judicial dutch of Uhief Justice Erie, 83 the bold dragoon did from the militaiy cor.'.on surrounding him at Aldershot, we shall re* l of a banquet at Owyn Swift's, where all wh > are " famed for deeds of arm," will da a fine ol I pipe, and drink to the glory of Queen aa I constitution. , But legal celny is proverbial, ay' tlii\ g->.llant phalanx ucain change th-ir heroic ninds, and transfer the vcmt ■ once more into ;r>u^sex. Our East End, giant is frightened out ot his wits at the whopping counsels, fees looming in the distance, and they all condescend to risk their precious liberty at next Lewes assize 3 . Wherever it may be trid, the exceptional features of this remarkable ease give it an exciting interest ; on it hangs, apparently, the doom of pugilism, and the consequent poace aud decorum of many beauteous rural district within the magic circle of this fair land. Both in England and America the excitement over the late fight was extreme. The turnup bstweeu the Shannon and Chesapeake was as nothing to it ; and now when Heenan's defeat is attributed to the foulest of foul play Jonathan's indignation knows no bounds, and in his usual elegant diction he vents his wrath on our devoted heads. It is no secret that immense fortunes depended on the result, and the Benicia Boy, amongst other honors, would by this time ha.ye bean elected President of the States had he whipped the Britisher. But the cruel fates were adverse; American supremacy is not toshipein the English prize ring, and the general wish here is that it may never again be attempted. The Shakespearian tercentenary movement, after the long continued pompous parade has broken down through, a 3eries of bungling jealousy and pettifoggery, shameful in such a cause. All has to be begun de novo. aud there are but two months to do it in. Fussy Committees have been successfully formed, only to " dissolve into thin air." And even now at the 11th hour, funds are wanting for a suitable memorial. The leading proposition is to buiti in London "A Shattspearian theatre," in every respect worthy thejame of him who waa "not of an age but for all time;" but before this can be possibly accomplished the anniversary must pass away. Nevertheless, if by tb.B energy of really practical men the cash is collected, and the whole thing put in train, some fitting preliminary ceremonial will come off in April, and hopes arise of due honor yet *o England's poet. In the theatrical world, Shakespeare and his fellows are shelved for the nonce; pantomime ia all the go, and our agile artistes, whilst doing ditto, repeato week after week, cut their funny capeis to the aeligut of a rising generation ; and at all cardinal points overflow the treasury money boxes with half-crowns, shillings, and six-pences. A great success has attended every Christmas production ; wherever we go we see " the best, pantomime out," and our worthy managers retp

% bountiful harvest. It appears that amidst; the general prosperity of late the rule, there was a sorrowful exception at Covent Garden ; but things look brighter now in that magnificent theatre, and the gorgeous spectacle of St. George and the Dragon bids fair to reimburse the charming Louisa for all bad tirops past. This is posi* tively the last season of Pyne and Harrison's English Opera ; and a just reward for their ex ertions would be to wind up with a bumper. • Chas. Matthews repudiates the Monkish tricks laid to his charge and is still a bright star at the Haymarket. Sothern is "himself again" as Dundreary, and popular as ever. Seport says this brace of talent contemplate the Antipodean tour when their metropolitan course is run. The enthusiastic reception of the Keans makes some of our cracks very uneasy here, and anxious to realise those golden opinions of the colonists which as yet they only bear of. At the Pavilion a fortnight back, anofche shocking accident occurred through sudden contact of gauze oress with gas light. Miss Mary Anne Thome as Columbine, approached too near an unguarded side jet, was instantly in flames, and poor thin? burnt to n'eath. There's one more victim to culpable negligence ; but the Coroner this time is resolved to enquire deeply into it, and adopt such measures as shall prevent a repetition of such melodramatic horrors.

Richard Earl Clare has just died, he was the only son of Lord Chancellor Clare, the fierce orponent of the Union, yet one of the irish peers in the English Upper House. Francis Caulfield Karl of CharJemont died 26th ult. aged 88 ; and awny goes the last link but one connecting pa«t and present parliamentary Government iv Ireland. Tom Staples tbe barrister being now sole surviving member of the old Irish House of Commons, illustrated by Grattan, Burke, and Uurran. Ths dead nobleman outlived all the rest of those 28 patriots who represented St. Patrick's peerage at the Onion. He was a sensible statesman, kind master, and true friend of his country ; his father was famous as Comniander-in-Chief of the hundred thousand volunteers, when invasion threatened.

The Duke of Athole of Glen Tilt oelebrity died last week, sged 50. Henry Vane, Duke of Cleveland, dies at 76, and fa succeeded by his brother Lord Wm. Poulett, a patron of tbe turf and owner of Tim Whiffler. SirWm. Atherton, our late Attorney-Ueneral, died after long suffering, 22nd instant, aged 58. Sir William resigned through illness six months back, and was succeeded in his high office by Roundell Palmer of the Equity Bar. Tom Turton, BUhop of Ely has died at 82; also, Mr Combe the police magistrate, at 75. Tbe state funeral of General Hamelon, took place oil the 21st instant, on which occasion the streets of Paris were filled with troops in full dress — the Emperor made a speech ; the army and navy enjoyed a French holiday; and peaceable citizens had to clear the way or put up with the consequences— this naval hero of the Crimean war has gone to his rest at 67, and N. 111. losesa champion. Th* Ocean Chief left Plymouth 4th iast., with 355 Governor nt emigrants for Adelaide. The Sandringham is chartered to leave Plymouth for Sydney. 22nd February. 'the Golcouda, from New- Zealand, has arrived Bafe.

The barque Great Britain from London to New Zealand, was wrecked De 'embar Bth, off St. J&go, Captain Bannister, crew, and passengers, escaped with their bate lives, and have arrived at Southampton ; ship and cargo lost beyond recovery The Milwall, from London to Sydney, was compelled to put in at Scilly, January '4th, so much damaged as to be compelled to relinquish the TOyage and return to London. The W. Zealand Gov?rnment having been reconstructed, it is highly satisfactory to find the new Ministry resolved on a vigorous prosecution of the v. ar and a durable peace ; and as the happy thought of miiitu-y settlement? i* in the programme, you may as well be assured at once that the 15.0U0 settlers from Englan.i will be readily forthcoming. Tha occupation of Mere Mere, and the clearance of rebel 1 * from that large district, leaves us to* expect next mail will brinjj the war within a smaller focus; and that on receiving hh reinforcements. General Cameron will be enabled speedily to give a good account of the enemy. It appears to us at home that the war cannot now be a lingering one ; and we hope soon to congratulate you on it* entire suppression. Of the bravery of our troops it would be idle to speak; they are in N. Z aland as they are every where, just what lßexpectel and required of them. Whilst your newly made soldiers in their first brush with the enemy shewed the British pluck that's in them. With such materials '"grim vi«aged war will smooth his wrinkled front," and the colony may then be safely left to the protection of such valiant sons of mother country. The decoration of the Victoria Cross is conferred by the Queen on Colour Serjeant (now Ensign) Fdward M'Keuna, and Lance Corporal Ryan, both of the 65th Regiment, for their gallant conduct on the 7th September, when Capt. Swiit and Lieut. Butter fell.

The omission in Sir George Grey's opening address of allusion to the Otago gold fields strikes one at a glance ; it is most unaccountable, and much to be lamented —nevertheless, although official recognition by the Governor of a Colony of its valuable productions is at all times desirable, your discoveries are established beyond question ; and in spite of the misrepresentations from Melbourne and the studied silence of your Governor, the reputation of Otago f>r its gold is sufficiently notorious to cause you butlittle apprehension or unrusine^HS. Th'j London press advertise the subject freely ; notice is ateo taken of the '66 Exhibition in New Zealand, and the best wiahss are uttered for success. Your Bioners will, of course, avoid the foibles of their letters ; and in c nstruefcing the building you will (without aiming at perfection) not only have an eye to a pleasing appearance but also to permanency, ior even as your present conspicuous position warrants this graud demonstration, surely will incrfasing prosperity require its periodical repetition. The wide-spread brigandage of Now South "Wales causes much auxiety at home ; any mail may brinft tidings of slaughter amongst our friends and relations engaged in their peaceful callings. The colonial police seem to be openly defied and totally unequal to the emergency. At home, when the garoltors took possession of our thoroughfares, it was in contemplation to call out the military, and fa'lina: other means of repressing the evil, this, course would have bten adopted. Why such wholesale villany should be allowed, is an oft repeated question. Let us hope that an early lesson will be taught in New Zealimd to such blootl -thirsty maurauders, -who, \w regret to perceive are flocking to the new

El Dorado. Short shrift with such gentry is the best and only remedy. The Cape mail, just in, gives a cheering nccnunt in many respects of that fine colony ; but most direful news about Dr Livingstone. The Expedition is reported as an entire failure, and the worthy Doctor himself is stated to have been savagely murdered by the native on Nyassa -this ia most melancholy news, let us pray it be not true. Bishop Colenso is found guilty on all the charges ; two months being allowed him to retiact his blasphemy, or apide the punishment awarded. An appeal against this decision was entered on behalt of the absent heretic ; nnd the next proceedings will take place in London. An enquiry was being held on the outraareous conduct ot the Vanderbilt, the seizure of the Saxon and murder ot the chief mate.

January 26th.

The Austro-Prussians are new in the neighborhood of Schleswig, and the hostile armies face t > face on either side the Eider. At this critical juncture Denmark agrees to annul the obnoxious constitution of November, on obtaining the sanction of her Parliament King Christian requests England and France to mediate with Austria ami Prussia for six weeks' grace, such being the time necessarily requisite for such purpose 3 and tbe Gernmn powers are morally bound to grant it. N. 111. has fortunately got out of his sulky fit, and agrees to join as ; consequently it only remains now for Germany to accede to this reasonable delay. Thus the war cloud which has been gathering so heavily for a month past appears now to be lifting, and we breathe more freely. It is, howeve-, still on the cards that ierman nationality has gone too far a head to be so suddenly stopped ; but if Austria and Prussia are seriously inclined for peace, reason and justice, we think the Frankfort Diet will scarcely venture on further violence. Denmark now yields everything demanded of her, and ai Kin? Christian meets the case in this manner by and with the advice and consent of England and France, we shall be his staunch allies should another atom cf aggression be attempted. Our channel fleet is in port, ready to sail for Copenhagen at an hour's notice, and Admiral Dacres has his instructions unsealed ; and as the first gun fired now must inevitably lead to European war, we have only to pray that no fool-hardy partisan on either side ■will commit such a sinful act.

Mazzini publicly denies all participation in the sanguinary intentions of Anti-Bonapartistn—ar-dent love he professes not, but this sort of fun certainly 19 not part and parcel of his policy— so says Mazzini. The conspirators are to be tried next week: and although the affair from beginning to end is, in some quarters, supposed to be a mere political rw*e, the French papers say there will be evidence sufficient not only to convict the prisoners but also to implicate others. The Princess ot Waleß and child are progressing most favorably. The Queen and Bojal j family all well. J January 26, i o'clock p.m. i P.S. — Official information is communicated to the papers that intelligence has been received by H. M. Government of the refusal by Austria and Prussia to suspend or delay the entry of their troops into Schleswig. The Anstrian Parliament disapproves of the above refusal, and therefore declines sharing any responsibility which may attend the steps of the Government.