]> <emph>House Journal—10th Sess. A Journal of the Proceedings of the House of Representatives of the General Assembly of the State of Florida, at Its Tenth Session, Begun and Held at the Capitol, in the City of Tallahassee, on Monday, November 26, 1860:</emph> Electronic Edition. Florida. General Assembly. House of Representatives Funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services supported the electronic publication of this title. Text transcribed by Apex Data Services, Inc. Text encoded by Lee Ann Morawski and Natalia Smith First edition, 2000 ca. 1MB Academic Affairs Library, UNC-CH University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2000.

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 House Journal—10th Sess. A Journal of the Proceedings of the House of Representatives of the General Assembly of the State of Florida, at Its Tenth Session, Begun and Held at the Capitol, in the City of Tallahassee, on Monday, November 26, 1860. 390 p. Tallahassee: OFFICE OF THE FLORIDIAN AND JOURNAL. PRINTED BY DYKE & CARLISLE. 1860. Call number 1505.1 Conf (Rare Book Collection, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)

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 Library of Congress Subject Headings, 21st edition, 1998 English Secession -- Florida. Legislation -- Florida. Legislative journals -- Florida. Florida -- Politics and government -- 1861-1865. 2001-02-23, Celine Noel and Wanda Gunther revised TEIHeader and created catalog record for the electronic edition. 2000-11-13, Natalia Smith, project manager, finished TEI-conformant encoding and final proofing. 2000-10-27, Lee Ann Morawski finished TEI/SGML encoding 2000-10-24, Apex Data Services finished transcribing the text.

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 HOUSE JOURNAL—10th Sess. A Journal of the Proceedings OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, AT ITS TENTH SESSION, Begun and Held at the Capitol, in the City of Tallahassee, on Monday, November 26, 1860. Tallahassee: OFFICE OF THE FLORIDIAN AND JOURNAL. PRINTED BY DYKE & CARLISLE. 1860. JOURNAL Of the House of Representatives of the General Assembly of Florida at the Tenth Session thereof, begun and held at the Capitol, in the City of Tallahassee, in the State of Florida, on Monday, the twenty-sixth of November, eighteen hundred and sixty:

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

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

Quorum present.

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

TUESDAY, November 27th, 1860.

House met pursuant to adjournment.

Journal of yesterday's proceedings read and approved.

On motion, Mr. Vogt took the Chair.

The roll was called—a quorum present.

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

The House then proceeded to the election of a Speaker.

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

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

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

The Speaker addressed the House as follows:

Gentlemen of the House of Representatives:

I thank you for the honor which you have done me in electing me to preside over your honorable body, and shall show my appreciation of the same by exerting myself to the utmost of my ability to preserve that order and promote that dispatch of business which is so necessary, especially at this time, in which I ask, and trust I shall receive, your unanimous co-operation. Never before has a Legislature of Florida been called upon to consider of such grave and weighty matters as those which we will have to pass upon at this time. The long continued, persistent and unscrupulous aggressions of a majority of the Northern people upon the rights and interests of the Southern States of this Confederacy, have culminated in the election of a man to the Presidency of these United States pledged to make war upon the institutions of the South. The Southern mind is indignant at the result, and the Southern soul is in arms. The people of Florida cannot, must not, will not submit tamely to these insults and wrongs. To us the people look for the initiation of measures of redress, and the ways and means of sustaining our State during this crisis. Let us approach these questions with that earnest, temperate consideration that the vastness of their results demand. Within the next few months we will decide the political destiny of ourselves and of our posterity for ages. No crisis in our history can be more solemn and important than the one in the midst of which we now are. It should obliterate all traces of party and personal discord or jealousy. The petty contests among ourselves become contemptible in this great emergency, and all men of all parties and sections in our State should unite their best counsels as brothers embarked in a common ship. If the State of Florida is thrown upon her own resources for the support of a national government, it is vitally important that we should give prompt attention to that local legislation which may be immediately demanded by the interests of our own citizens. Let us apply ourselves to these great subjects with energy, and that success which ever attends a virtuous, a brave, and a free people when in the right, will crown our labors and preserve the peace, the rights, and the dignity of the State of Florida.

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

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

Who were duly sworn into office.

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

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

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

Which motion was agreed to.

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

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

Which motion was adopted.

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

Which motion was lost.

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

Which motion was agreed to.

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

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

Which motion was adopted.

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

Which was placed among the orders of the day.

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

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

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

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

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

Yours Respectfully, D. L. YULEE. To the Speaker. WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 1860. To the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the General Assembly of Florida:

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

Respectfully your servant, D. L. YULEE.

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

Mr. Hawes introduced the following petition:

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

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

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

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

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

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

B. FRISBEE.

Which was read and referred to the Committee on Elections.

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

GOVERNOR'S MESSAGE. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, TALLAHASSEE, November 26th, 1860. Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives:

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

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

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

But some Southern men, it is said, object to secession until some overt act of unconstitutional power shall have been committed by the General Government; that we ought not to secede until the President and Congress unite in passing an act unequivocally hostile to our institutions and fraught with immediate danger to our rights of property and to our domestic safety. My countrymen! if we wait for such an overt act, our fate will be that of the white inhabitants of St. Domingo.

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

Let it be constantly had in mind, this essential difference between the relation in which the thirteen colonies stood to the British empire and its government and that relation which the States of this Union occupy towards the federal power and authority. The colonies were fractional parts of one consolidated State. They had no separate organization or powers, except such as they derived from the King and Parliament of Great Britain, consequently they stood in the same relation to that government that the counties of Florida do to the State government. But how different is our condition! Our general government was created by separate, independent sovereign States. It was established for certain specified purposes, defined by a constitution, which constitution is a compact between the sovereign States who created it and all who have become parties to it. The COLONISTS were subjects of the British crown. This they often acknowledged by petitioning that power for a removal of their grievances. When, therefore, they resisted the authority of their confessed sovereign, they placed themselves in a state of rebellion, the purpose of which was revolution. They knew this, yet did they falter even with the penalty of treason staring them in the face? No—they met in conventions—they declared “that governments derived their just powers from the consent of the governed—that they were instituted to protect the people in the enjoyment of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, and that whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it.” Had they failed to maintain their asserted rights by the sword, they would have been amenable to the penalties denounced against treason. But they succeeded in establishing their independence. After this consummation of their noble struggle, the people of the several colonies, then acknowledged to be free and independent States, formed a new Confederation by framing and adopting, voluntarily, and each one for itself, that Constitution which is so flagitiously violated by many of the parties to the compact of fraternity.

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

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

Entertaining these views, I most earnestly recommend a call of a Convention of the people of the State, at an early day, to take such action as in their judgment may be necessary to protect and preserve the rights, honor and safety of the people of Florida. I would further recommend a revision of the Militia laws, with a view to a more effective organization of the Military, and an appropriation of one hundred thousand dollars as a military fund for the ensuing year, to be expended ar fast as the public necessities may require.

Very respectfully, M. S. PERRY.

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

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

Which motion prevailed.

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

Which was agreed to.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The rule being waived, Mr. Vogt offered a resolution that the General Assembly of the State of Florida proceed, on the 29th inst., to the election of Secretary of State, Treasurer, Attorney General and Comptroller;

Which was placed among the orders of the day.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Which motion was agreed to.

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

Which prevailed.

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

 3 O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session—a quorum present.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

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

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

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

Was read and adopted.

Ordered to be engrossed and certified to the Senate.

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

MEMORIAL OF THE CITY OF APALACHICOLA. To the General Assembly of the State of Florida:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FOREIGN IMPORTS FROM 1ST JANUARY, 1859, to 1st AUGUST, 1860. VALUE. Salt, $19,101 36 Sundries, 4,685 47 Molasses, 9,529 49 Total value of invoices, $33,316 32

FOREIGN COTTON EXPORTS. SHIPPED FROM 1st SEPTEMBER, 1859, TO 1ST AUGUST, 1860. No. Bales of Cotton. Value of Cotton. To Liverpool, 52,577 $2,832,524 19 To Liverpool, 391 28,230 57 To Gibralter, 2,068 116,200 00 To Havre, France, 1,420 81,396 50 To St. Petersburgh, Russia, 2,634 151,219 07 Total foreign cotton trade, 59,090 $3,209,570 33

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

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

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

To do so great an amount of business you will readily perceive that there must necessarily be a great amount of capital and commercial ability at this City; and that her citizens must command the confidence of the commercial world. We point to our criminal docket and challenge the State to produce records that exhibit a less amount of crime. Such is the character of the City, and such the amount of Foreign and home business that she transacts; this is your own Gulf City of Apalachicola. She has paid into the State Treasury many thousands of dollars; and she now asks you to allow her twenty-five hundred dollars per year for ten years out of the State Tax that she pays, to improve her Harbor and Bay.

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

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

Our isolated position has prevented us from reaping any of the advantages of the system of Internal Improvements of this State. We are cut off from the advantages that the interior and the cities of Fernandina, St. Marks, Jacksonville, Cedar Keys and Pensacola and the Gulf, have derived from it. Millions of dollars have been appropriated out of the Internal Improvement Fund by the State for the purpose of building these roads; they cross our river about one hundred miles from this city; they will not allow us, even with our own means, to bring it to an accessible point to us. Now, we most respectfully insist that the Internal Improvement Fund was donated for the use of the whole State. We had a like interest and a common property in that fund with the rest of the people of Florida, and we should have had our interests provided for by the State out of that fund; but as the whole of that fund is now appropriated to build the different lines of railroad, and as we have not got, and cannot get any benefit whatever from that fund of millions of which we are part owners, we now respectfully ask that you will allow, out of the sum that this county pays each year for State taxes, the sum of twenty-five hundred dollars for ten years.

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

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

SAMUEL BENEZET, Mayor City Apalachicola. W. D. MACLAY, C. THIGPIN, J. M. G. HUNTER, ANSON HANCOCK, Councilmen.GEO. BUCKMAN, Pres. Apalach. and New Orleans Steam Nav. Co. RICHARD G. PARKER, Pres. Apalachicola Cham. of Com. Signed by one hundred and thirty-six others. OFFICE OF COLLECTOR OF CUSTOMS, District of Apalachicola.

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

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

GEO. L. BROCKENBROUGH, Deputy Collector of Customs.

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

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

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

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

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

The Speaker announced the following Standing Committees:

Committee on Judiciary. Messrs. MAYS, BLOUNT, HOLLAND of H'n'do, LOVE, HOLLAND of Fr'klin, On Finance & Public Accounts. Messrs. BELLAMY, YON, VOGT, VANZANT, LEE. On Federal Relations. Messrs. HOLLAND of Fr'klin, MAYS, BOWNE, BLOUNT, WILLIAMS. On Corporations. Messrs. HOLLAND of H'n'do, BLOUNT, CANOVA, BROXSON, COFFEE. On Indian Affairs. Messrs. BISSELL, HOWELL, PARKER, RICHARDSON, YATES. On Agriculture. Messrs. HULL, MICKLER, MURPHY, PRICE, RUSSELL. On Schools and Colleges. Messrs. HAWES, SCOTT, WILKINSON, WELLS, HOWELL. On Engrossed Bills. Messrs. VOGT, STEWART, SCOTT, COLE, WELLS. On Claims. Messrs. HAWES, OLIVER, NEWBERN, BISSELL, MIZELL. On Internal Improvements. Messrs. CANOVA, BLOUNT, McCORMICK, HULL, DANSBY. On Propositions & Grievances. Messrs. POOSER, CAMPBELL, CARTER, COLLINS, CLYATT. On Enrolled Bills. Messrs. HOLLOMAN, HADDOCK, YATES, CANOVA, MEANS. On Elections. Messrs. BIRD, PARKER, VANZANT, WILKINSON, LOVE. On Militia. Messrs. WILLIAMS, MAYS, HOLLAND of H'n'do, McKINNON, ROBINSON.

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

 WEDNESDAY, November 28th, 1860.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

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

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

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

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

Which motion was carried.

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

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

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

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

Which was adopted.

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

Which was adopted.

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

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

REPORT:

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

GEO. W. CALL, Chairman Senate Committee. D. P. HOLLAND, Chairman House Committee.

Which was read.

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

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

ALEX. C. BLOUNT, BURTON W. BELLAMY, C. C. COFFEE. STANDING RULES OF THE HOUSE.

RULE 1. The Speaker shall take the Chair every day, precisely at the hour to which the House shall have adjourned on the preceding day; shall immediately call the members to order, and, on the appearance of a quorum, shall cause the Journal of the preceding day to be read.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. When a question is under debate, no motion shall be received but to adjourn, to lay it on the table, to postpone indefinitely, to postpone to a certain day, to commit or to amend; which several motions shall have precedence in the order in which they stand arranged; and the motion for adjournment shall always be in order, and the motions to adjourn or lay on the table shall be decided without debate.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

19. When a question has once been made and carried in the affirmative or negative, it shall be in order for any member of the majority to move for a reconsideration thereof; but no motion for the reconsideration of any vote shall be in order after a bill, resolution, message, report, amendment or motion upon which the vote was taken, shall have gone out of possession of the House announcing their decision; nor shall any motion for reconsideration be in order unless made on the same day on which the vote was taken, or within the two next days of the actual session of the House thereafter.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

28. The following Standing Committees, to consist of not less than five members each, shall be appointed by the Speaker at the commencement of each session, with leave to report, by bill or otherwise, viz: A Committee on the Judiciary; a Committee on the Militia; a Committee on Finance and Public Accounts; a Committee on Claims; a Committee on Schools and Colleges; a Committee on Internal Improvements; a Committee on Enrolled Bills and Engrossed Bills; a Committee on Elections; a Committee on Propositions and Grievances; a Committee on Federal Relations; a Committee on Corporations; a Committee on Indian Affairs; a Committee on Agriculture; a Committee on Commerce and Navigation; a Committee on Taxation and Revenue, and a Committee on the State of the Commonwealth.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The report of the committee was concurred in, and on motion of Mr. Blount 80 copies of the Rules were ordered to be printed for the use of the House.

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

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

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

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

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

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

EXECUTIVE DEPARTEMNT, TALLAHASSEE, Nov. 27, 1860. Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives:

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

Very respectfully, M. S. PERRY.

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

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

By Mr. Murphy:

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

By Mr. Canova:

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

By Mr. Clyatt:

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

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

By Mr. Holland, of Franklin:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

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

Which report was concurred in.

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

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

Which were read.

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

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

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

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

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

The Senate returned to their Chamber.

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

 THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session—a quorum present.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon—42.

Nay—Mr. Bowne—1.

So the resolution passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

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

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

D. H. MAYS, Chairman Judiciary Committee.

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

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

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

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

 THURSDAY, November 29th, 1860.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Glover officiated as Chaplain.

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

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Call, Brokaw and Bowers waited on the House and informed them that the Senate had unanimously passed the bill to be entitled an act to provide for the calling of a Convention of the People of the State of Florida, as reported by the Joint Committee, without amendment.

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

By Mr. Williams:

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

By Mr. Canova:

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

By Mr. Russell:

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

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

By Mr. Mickler:

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

By Mr. Holland of Hernando:

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

By Mr. Parker:

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

By Mr. Love:

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

By Mr. Yates:

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

By Mr. Means:

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

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

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

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

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

By Mr. Cole:

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

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

By Mr. Newburn:

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

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

By Mr. McKinnon:

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

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

By Mr. VanZant:

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

By Mr. Williams:

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

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

By Mr. VanZant:

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

By Mr. Lee:

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

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

By Mr. Mizell:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Respectfully submitted, D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

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

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

By Mr. Blount:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Which was read and referred to the Committee on Claims.

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

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

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon—40.

Nays—None.

So the Resolution passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

Which was agreed to.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

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

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

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

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

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

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

So the amendment was lost.

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

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

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Mickler moved that a committee be appointed to inform the Senate that the House is ready to go into the election of State officers;

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

The committee having performed their duty were discharged.

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

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

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

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

The vote was:

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

Blank—Mr. VanZant—1.

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

The joint meeting proceeded to the election of Treasurer.

Mr. McCall nominated C. H. Austin.

The vote was:

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

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

The joint meeting proceeded to the election of Attorney General.

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

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

The vote was:

For GALBRAITH—Senate—10. House—Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Cole, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, McKinnon, Murphy, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Scott, Williams, Yates and Yon—21. Total—31.

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

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

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

The joint meeting proceeded to a second ballot.

The vote was:

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

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

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

The President declared that there was no election.

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

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

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

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

The vote was:

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

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

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

The President declared that there was no election.

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

Which motion was lost.

The Joint meeting proceeded to a second ballot for Comptroller.

The vote was:

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

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

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

Blank—Mr. Richardson—1.

The President declared that there was no election.

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

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

 3 O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session—a quorum present.

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

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

Which motion was agreed to.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following amendment:

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

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

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

Nays—Mr. Speaker—Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McKinnon, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Scott, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon—28.

So the amendment was lost.

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

Which motion was agreed to.

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

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

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

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

All of which is respectfully submitted, D. H. MAYS, Chairman.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

 FRIDAY, November 30th, 1860.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Glover officiated as Chaplain.

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

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

By Mr. Stewart:

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

By Mr. Hawes:

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

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

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

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

Which were read.

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

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

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

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

Respectfully submitted, D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

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

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

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

REPORT:

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

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

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

JOS. JOHN WILLIAMS, Chairman.

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

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER, November 30th, 1860. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

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

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

Very respectfully, B. F. PAKKER, Secretary of the Senate.

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

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

REPORT:

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

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

All of which is respectfully submitted,

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

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

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

Which motion was agreed to.

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

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

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

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

So the motion was lost.

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

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

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

So the resolution passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

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

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

 THREE O'CLOCK, P. M.

The House resumed its session—a quorum present.

Mr. Dansby moved that the rules be waived and the House act upon the Senate bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Gen. William E. Anderson and others;

Which motion was lost.

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

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

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

Nays—None.

So said bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

The following message was received from his Excellency the Governor:

EXECUTIVE CHAMBER, TALLAHASSEE, Nov. 30th, 1860. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

NASSAU COUNTY.

Auctioneer—E. J. Acosta.

Very Respectfully, M. S. PERRY.

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

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER, November 30, 1860. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

Joint Resolution in relation to the Convention; also

Resolution in relation to electing a United States Senator.

Very Retpectfully, B. F. PARKER, Secretary of the Senate.

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

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

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

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER, November 30th, 1860. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

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

Very respectfully, B. F. PARKER, Secretary of the Senate.

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

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

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

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

Which bill was placed among the orders of the day.

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

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

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

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

Which motion was lost.

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

Was, on motion of Mr. Blount, taken up, read the first and second times by its title and referred to Committee on Corporations.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER, November 30th, 1860. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

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

B. F. PARKER, Secretary of Senate.

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

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER, November 30th, 1860. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

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

Very respectfully, B. F. PARKER, Secretary of Senate.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Respectfully submitted, D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Which was agreed to.

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

Which bill was placed among the orders of the day.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, Vogt, Wilkinson, Yates and Yon—35.

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

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

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

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

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

Nay—Mr. Love—1.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 SATURDAY, December 1st, 1860.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Glover officiated as Chaplain.

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

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER, December 1st, 1860. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

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

Very respectfully, B. F. PARKER, Secretary of the Senate.

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

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

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

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

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

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

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

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

All of which is respectfully submitted, N. W. HOLLAND, Chair'n Com. on Corporations.

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

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

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

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

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

Which were received and read.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Very respectfully submitted, D. W. HOLLOMAN, Chairman.

Which was read.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Respectfully submitted, D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

REPORT:

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

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

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

All of which is respectfully submitted.

P. B. BIRD, Chairman.

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

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following resolution:

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

Which was not agreed to.

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

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

WHEREAS, for many years a political party having existence only in the Northern States of this Union, notoriously hostile to the Southern States, their institutions and dearest interests, has been growing most surely and rapidly, gaining strength in numbers, in hostility and in arrogance, until finally, after a long course of determined unconstitutional aggression, the election which has recently taken place throughout the Union for Electors for President and Vice President of the United States, has resulted in the triumph of this party by a large majority, and in the virtual choice of the sectional candidate of this party for President and Vice President, who have avowed their intention to wage against these Southern interests and institutions, a war, “irrepressible, irreconcilable and everlasting,” until their fatal purpose shall be effected in the abolition of negro slavery in America. And whereas, This Confederacy has ceased to answer the purposes for which it was instituted, namely, the promotion of the happiness and prosperity of the several States composing it. And whereas, We recognize the right of each State to resume at pleasure all the rights and sovereignty which were delegated to the General Government for the purposes specified in the Constitution of the United States. Therefore,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be it further resolved, That Gen. J. M. Commander be specially delegated to furnish the Senator and Representatives of Marion County in the General Assembly with a copy of these resolutions, and that they be requested to lay the same before their respective Houses.

J. M. COMMANDER, Ch'n. S. D. MCCONNELL, W. MCCASLAN, Secretaries.

Which were read.

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

EXECUTIVE CHAMBER, TALLAHASSEE, December 1, 1860. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

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

Respectfully, M. S. PERRY.

Which was read.

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

Which was agreed to.

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

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

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

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

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER, December 1st, 1860. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

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

Very respectfully, B. F. PARKER, Secretary of Senate.

Which was read and the accompanying resolutions ordered to enrolled.

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

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

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

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

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

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

Which motion was lost.

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

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

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

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

Which was agreed to.

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

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

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

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

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

So the motion was lost.

The following message was received from his Excellency the Governor:

EXECUTIVE CHAMBER, TALLAHASSEE, Dec. 1st, 1860. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

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

Very respectfully, M. S. PERRY.

Which was read.

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

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

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

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

So the motion was lost.

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

Which motion was lost.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 DOCUMENTS ACCOMPANYING THE GOVERNOR'S MESSAGE. COMPTROLLER'S REPORT. TREASURY DEPARTMENT, COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE, TALLAHASSEE, Nov. 1st, 1860. To his Excellency, MADISON S. PERRY, Governor of Florida:

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

The receipts at the Treasury for the year ending on the 31st October, 1860.amount to . . . . . $115,894 89 To wit:—From License Tax, . . . . . $6,554 51 From Fines, . . . . . 2,685 38 From Auction Tax, . . . . . 2,285 96 From Revenue, 1856, . . . . . 39 51 From Revenue, 1857, . . . . . 1,773 99 From Revenue, 1858, . . . . . 6,858 49 From Revenue, 1859, . . . . . 93,263 99 From Revenue, 1860, . . . . . 2,352 06 On Account of Rent, . . . . . 60 00 On Account of Contingent Fund, . . . . . 16 00 On Account of Sale of Books, . . . . . 5 00—$115,894 89 The Warrants issued amount to . . . . . $117,808 85 To wit:—Judicial Department— On account of Salaries, . . . . . $23,575 00 On account of Contingent Expenses of Supreme Court, . . . . . 1,694 02 On account of Fees paid acting Solicitors, . . . . . 235 00 On account of Additional compensation to Judges, . . . . . 79 50 On account of Attendance of Attorney General on Supreme Court, . . . . . 61 00—$25,644 52 Executive Department— On account of Salaries, . . . . . $5,100 00 On account of Governor's Residence, . . . . . 500 00—5,600 00 Military Department— On account of Salaries, . . . . . 168 83 Ninth General Assembly Adjourned Session— On account of Pay of Members and Clerks, . . . . . $12,627 00 On account of Contingent Expenses proper, . . . . . 465 58 On account of Printing General Laws, . . . . . 324 40 On account of Printing Miscellaneous, . . . . . 3,965 50 On account of Copying House Journal, . . . . . 270 00 On account of Copying Senate Journal, . . . . . 50 00—17,702 48 Jurors and Witnesses, . . . . . 31,250 82 Criminal Prosecutions, . . . . . 23,274 02 Contingent Expenses of State, . . . . . 4,136 25 Certificates for Interest due on Scrip issued for Military Service of 1849 . . . . . 4,315 42 Maintenance of Lunatics, . . . . . 2,993 00 Protection of Public Property, . . . . . 906 35 Payment for the value of Negro hung, &c. . . . . . 525 50 Post Mortem Examinations, . . . . . 594 00 Indian Hostilities of 1849, . . . . . 395 86 Pay of U. S. Marshal for Repairing Room in the Capitol, . . . . . 178 00 Expense Surveying County Lines, . . . . . 75 25 Repairing of Capitol, . . . . . 48 55—$68,693 02—$117,808 85 SCHOOL AND SEMINARY FUNDS. The following are the receipts during the fiscal year, 1860: On account of the School Fund, . . . . . $15,044 23 On account of the Seminary Fund, . . . . . 4,776 03 On account of the Interest on School Fund, . . . . . 6,802 41 On account of the Interest on Seminary Fund, . . . . . 1,104 58—$27,727 25 The following are the Warrants drawn during the fiscal year, 1860: Upon School Fund for the purpose of Investment, . . . . . $15,037 50 Upon Sem'y Fund for the purpose of Investment, . . . . . 5,012 50 Upon School Fund Expense of Investment, . . . . . 112 66 Upon Sem'y Fund Expense of Investment, . . . . . 18 34 Upon Sem'y Fund East Florida State Seminary, . . . . . 2,349 58 Upon Sem'y Fund West Florida State Seminary, . . . . . 2,344 58 Upon School Fund Contingent Expenses, . . . . . 7 00 Upon Sem'y Fund Contingent Expenses, . . . . . 3 00 Upon School Fund Register's Salary, . . . . . 700 00 Upon Sem'y Fund Register's Salary, . . . . . 700 00 Upon Interest School Fund—Expense of Printing, . . . . . 40 00 Upon Interest School Fund—For pay of Teachers, . . . . . 3,390 45 Upon Interest School Fund—Under the amended Act to establish Common Schools, . . . . . 9,100 62—$38,816 23 Very respectfully, T. W. BREVARD, Comptroller. TREASURER'S REPORT. TREASURY DEPARTMENT, TREASURY OFFICE, TALLAHASSEE, Nov. 19, 1860. To His Excellency, M. S. PERRY, Governor of Florida:

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

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

For Jurors and Witnesses.   For Criminal Prosecutions and Contingent Expenses Circuit Courts. 1854 $10,033 10 $13,520 81 1855 11,901 35 12,216 22 1856 15,220 22 11,560 88 1857 16,096 51 11,974 41 1858 16,558 01 8,377 32 1859 18,931 27 14,952 21 1860 30,296 84 21,818 87

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

Very Respectfully, C. H. AUSTIN, Treasurer. The Treasurer in account with the State of Florida:

1860. DR.  Nov. 1.—To balance per report of Nov. 1, 1859,$20,423 77 To amount received on account of revenue, 1856,39 51 To amount received on account of revenue, 1857,1,773 99 To amount received on account of revenue, 1858,6,858 49 To amount received on account of revenue, 1859,93,263 94 To amount received on account of revenue, 1860,2,352 06 To amount received on account of Licenses,6,554 51 To amount received on account of Fines,2,685 38 To amount received on account of Auction Tax,2,285 96 To amount received on account of Contingent Fund,16 00 To amount received on account of Rent,60 00 To amount received on account of Sale of Books,5 00 To Balance,4 43  $136,323 04 1859. CR.  Nov. 1—By amount of warrants paid and other disbursements, viz:  For sinking fund of State Bond account, $ 5,000 00For Executive Department, 6,100 00For Judicial Department, 25,186 02For Military Department, 168 38For Indian Hostilities of 1849, 755 60For Jurors and State Witness, 30,296 84For Criminal Prosecutions and contg. exps. Circuit Courts, 21,818 87For Contingent Fund, 5,000 00For Supreme Court contingent expenses, 1,898 84For Adjourned Session of Ninth Gener l Assembly, viz:  Pay of Members, Officers, &c$12,957 00 Pay to Floridian & Journal, printing,2,251 70 Pay to Florida Sentinel, printing,2,038 20 Pay to McDougall & Co., Stationary, &c.455 58—17,702 48
For Maintenance of Lunatics,3,036 00 For Interest on State Bonds,10,079 60 For Interest on State Scrip,5,434 68 For J. W. Baker, Judge, extra judicial services,400 00 For T. F. King, Judge, extra judicial services,400 00 For Post Mortem examinations,634 70 For Protection of public property and repairs of Capitol,954 90 For Special act of relief,1,163 50 For Taxes refunded Jesse M. Willis,39 38 For Rent, &c., refunded E. E. Blackburn U. S. Marshal, (with recourse upon the General Government),178 00 For Survey of County lines of Washington, Jackson and Calhoun counties, to determine venue,75 25  $136,323 04 

 The Treasurer in account with the School Fund:

1859. DR.     Nov. 1. —To balance per report of this date,   $17,484 07 11. —To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register,   894 60 Dec. 6. —To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register,   978 88 1860.       Jan. 9. —To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register,   978 34 Feb. 11. —To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,   3,264 69 Mch. 9. —To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,   874 75 April 4. —To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,   987 58 25. —To amount received from T. W. Brevard, Comptroller,   835 00 May 8. —To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,   2,588 40 Aug. 4. —To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,   2,265 35 Oct. 4. —To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,   1,376 74   —To amount Interest received,   9,292 41       $41,820, 70 1860. CR.     Jan. 9. —By Cash paid quarter salary of D. S. Walker, Register,   $ 175 00 Mch. 31. —By Cash paid T. W. Brevard, Comptroller for investment,   15,037 05 April 7. —By Cash paid quarter salary of H. A. Corley, Register,   175 00 July 10. —By Cash paid quarter salary of H. A. Corley, Register,   175 00   —By Cash paid Warrant for Dyke & Carlisle,   4 00   —By Cash paid Warrant for H. A. Corley, Register, interest for disbursement,   9,100 92   —By Cash paid Warrant for T. W. Brevard, Comptroller,   64 50   —By Cash paid Warrant for H. Archer,   48 16 Oct. 6. —By Cash paid Warrant for C. Findeisen,   3 00   —By Cash paid quarter salary of H. A. Corley, Register,   175 00   —By Cash paid Warrants of Comp., int. to School Teachers,   3,740 58   —By balance on hand,   13,122 04       $41,820 70 1860.       Nov. 1. —To balance cash on hand,   $13,122 04   Other assets, viz:       State stock, $41,500 00     Bond of city of Tallahassee, 3,300 00     Bond of Gadsden county, 2,071 37     Land notes, 194 22— 47,065 59       $60,187 63

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

 The Treasurer in account with the Seminary Fund:

1859. DR.     Nov. 1. —To balance per report of this date,   $ 3,155 63 11. —To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register,   13 55 Dec. 6. —To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register,   699 10 1860.       Jan. 9. —To amount received from D. S. Walker, Register,   1,582 34 Feb. 11. —To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,   744 19 Mch. 9. —To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,   439 61 April 4. —To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,   296 71 Aug. 4. —To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,   160 10 Oct. 4. —To amount received from H. A. Corley, Register,   840 43   —To amount interest received,   4,084 58       $12,016 24 1859. CR.     Oct. 31. —By amount paid East Florida Seminary,   $ 854 58   —By amount paid West Florida Seminary,   854 58 1860.       Jan. 9. —By amount paid quarter salary, D. S. Walker, Register,   175 00 20. —By amount paid East Florida Seminary   745 00   —By amount paid West Florida Seminary   745 00 Mch 31. —By amount paid T. W. Brevard Compt. for investment,   5,012 50 April 11. —By amount paid quarter salary, H. A. Corley, Register,   175 00 July 10. —By amount paid quarter salary, H. A. Corley, Register,   175 00 Aug. 8. —By amount paid Warrant for T. W. Brevard, Comptroller,   10 50   —By amount paid Warrant for H. Archer,   7 84 Oct. 6. —By amount paid Warrant for C. A. Findeisen,   3 00   —By amount paid quarter salary, H. A. Corley, Register,   175 00   —By amount paid West Florida Seminary,   745 00   —By amount paid trans. to credit W. F. Sem., (advised)   552 29   —By amount paid trans. to credit E. F. Sem., (advised) 745 00     —By amount paid trans. to credit E. F. Sem., (advised) 552 29— 1,297 29   —By balance,   488 66       $12,016 24 1860.       Nov. 1. —To balance cash on hand,   $488 66   Other Assets, viz:       State Stocks, $48,500 00     Duval county bond, 1,000 00     Land notes, 666 57— 50,166 57       $50,655 23

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

 A Summary of the Receipts and Disbursements at the Treasury, from the 1st day of November, 1859, to the 31st day of October, 1860. RECEIPTS. On Account of State of Florida, . . . . . $136,323 04 On Account of School Fund, . . . . . 41,820 70 On Account of Seminary Fund, . . . . . 12,016 24 $190,159 98 PAYMENTS. On Account State of Florida, . . . . . $136,323 04 On Account School Fund, . . . . . 28,698 66 On Account Seminary Fund, . . . . . 11,527 58 BALANCES. School Fund, . . . . . 13,122 04 Seminary Fund, . . . . . 488 66 $190,159 98 STATE REGISTER'S REPORT. STATE REGISTER'S OFFICE, November 1st, 1860. To his Excellency MADISON S. PERRY, Governor of Florida:

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

SEMINARY FUND.

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

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

Received in cash: From cash payments made for entries of lands, . . . . . $3,683 65 From bonds given for credit instalments, . . . . . 4,410 56 From balance on hand per last report, . . . . . 3 72 $8,094 21 Disbursements: Amount paid to C. H. Austin, Treasurer, . . . . . 8,040 31 Balance on hand not paid over, . . . . . 53 90 $8,094 21 SCHOOL FUND.

From October 31st, 1858, to November 1st, 1860, there have been sold, of lands belonging to this Fund, 14,827 11-100 acres, at an average price of a little more than $1.38¼ per acre, yielding, in cash, $8,421.44, and, in bonds, $12,578.98. Add this number of acres to the 46,881 96-100 acres stated as having been sold in the last report from this office, and it appears that the whole number of acres belonging to this Fund sold since November 23d, 1850, is 61,709 7-100 acres, producing, in cash and bonds, the sum of $99,681.01.

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

Received in cash: From sales of lands, being cash payments, . . . . . $8,421 44 From payment of instalment bonds, . . . . . 21,749 46 Balance not paid over per last report, . . . . . 28 64 $30,199 54 Disbursements: Paid Williams, Gwynn and Harris for appraising, . . . . . $1,621 11 Paid for binding and printing 1 vol. certificates, . . . . . 8 00 Money refunded upon an erroneous entry, . . . . . 15 00 Paid C. H. Austin, Treasurer, . . . . . 27,657 79 Balance not paid over, . . . . . 897 64 $30,199 54 COMMON SCHOOLS.

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

A. The Apportionment of Interest accruing on the School Fund from July 1st, 1858, to July 1st, 1859, among the several Counties in the State. COUNTIES. No. Children. Amount. Remarks. Escambia, 650 $270 18 Amount apportioned for each child a little over 41-57 cents. Santa Rosa, 1,044 434 00   Walton, 520 216 13   Washington, 466 193 70   Holmes, 331 137 60   Jackson, 1,946 808 85   Calhoun, 250 103 92   Franklin, 506 210 33   Gadsden, 1,062 441 42   Liberty, 265 110 15   Leon, 1,210 505 00   Wakulla, 501 208 25   Jefferson, 839 348 73   Madison, 973 404 44   Taylor, 160 66 50   Lafayette, 160 66 50   Hamilton, 651 270 60   Columbia, 1,745 725 32   Nassau, 351 145 89   Duval, 1,602 665 88   Alachua, 900 374 09   Marion, 929 386 15   Sumter, 233 96 85   St. Johns, 452 187 88   Putnam, 507 210 73   Orange, 220 91 44   Volusia, 208 86 46   Brevard, 100 41 56   Levy, 272 113 05   Hernando, 269 112 80   Hillsborough, 700 290 96   Manatee, 148 61 51   Monroe, 590 245 23     20,760 $8,630 10  

B. Apportionment of Interest accruing on the School Fund from July 1st, 1859, to July 1st, 1860, among the several Counties of the State of Florida. COUNTIES. No. Children. Amount. Remarks. Escambia, 567 $255 15 Amount apportioned for each child, 45 cents. Santa Rosa, 1,044 469 80   Walton, 485 218 25   Washington, 435 195 75   Holmes, 410 184 50   Jackson, 1,995 897 75   Calhoun, 200 90 00   Franklin, 421 189 45   Gadsden, 1,058 476 10   Liberty, 272 122 40   Leon, 1,133 509 85   Wakulla, 527 237 15   Jefferson, 862 387 90   Madison, 1,081 486 45   Taylor, 412 185 40   Lafayette, 160 72 00   Hamilton, 875 393 75   Suwannee, 328 147 60   Columbia, 919 413 55   New River, 500 225 00   Nassau, 386 173 70   Duval, 434 195 30   Clay, 313 140 85   St. Johns, 624 280 80   Putnam, 510 229 50   Alachua, 900 405 00   Marion, 1,200 540 00   Sumter, 233 104 85   Orange, 220 99 00   Volusia, 208 93 60   Brevard, 100 45 00   Levy, 341 153 45   Hernando, 408 183 60   Hillsborough, 867 390 15   Manatee, 148 66 60   Monroe, 602 270 90     21,178 $9,530 10  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 SEMINARIES.

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

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

HUGH A. CORLEY, Register.

 SALESMAN'S REPORT. Tallahassee, Fla., Nov. 1, 1860. To his Excellency, Madison S. Perry, Governor of Florida, and President of the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Fund:

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

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

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

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

HUGH A. CORLEY, Salesman, &c.

A. Statement of Sales of Internal Improvement and Swamp Lands, from November 1st, 1858, to November 1st, 1860.   SWAMP LANDS.     INTER'L IMP. LANDS.     MONTH. No. Acres Sold. A't. Cash Payme't. Amt. Bonds Received. No. Acr's Sold. A't. Cash Payme't. Amt. Bonds Received. November, 1858, 2,928.01 $1106 43 $3,418 53 480.22 $287 85 $768 44 December, 1858, 3,432.08 1721 33 3,551 73 80.19 52 00 139 15 January, 1859, 4,373.94 2572 23 4,367 91 242.82 179 00 482 65 February, 1859, 6,537.45 2881 48 7,497 00 210.08 133 00 357 48 March, 1859, 2,730.62 2499 51 1,180 60 232.36 190 11 193 54 April, 1859, 1,364.77 1645 25 — 160.14 289 00 — May, 1859, 3,211.97 3688 02 239 50 160.98 339 24 — June, 1859, 1,837.35 2320 92 Credit system abolished. 131.15 71 91 195 26 July, 1859, 3,039.42 4020 06   40.17 96 66 — August, 1859, 2,140.40 2639 30   197.02 107 05 291 99 September, 1859, 2,097.19 2342 11   119.84 79 15 213 90 October, 1859, 1,996.24 2256 17   78.94 44 00 117 32 November, 1859, 2,465.45 3057 48   80.02 44 24 119 26 December, 1859, 2,991.53 3465 68   200.07 153 18 413 19 January, 1860, 2,460.56 3001 65   40.00 71 90 — February, 1860, 2,759.59 3076 14   160.12 125 18 338 73 March, 1860, 1,772.78 2093 60   118.72 65 66 176 98 April, 1860, 2,490.50 Received by C. H. Austin, Treasurer.   80.00 Received by C. H. Austin, Treasurer. Credit system abolished. May, 1860, 1,210.63     2751.02     June, 1860, 1,519.26     1321.00     July, 1860, 1,566.23     240.00     August, 1860, 1,331.23     704.14     September, 1860, 2,296.15     120.37     October, 1860, 1,520.60             60,073.95   $20,255 27 7949.37   $3,807 89

B. Statement of the amount af Cash received on account of Sales of Swamp and Internal Improvement Lands from November 1st, 1858, to April 1st, 1860. MONTH. Cash Payments. Notes Paid. Inter. on Notes. TOTAL. November, 1858, $1,394 28 $3,013 63 $65 27 $4,473 18 December, 1858, 1,773 33 2,997 54 30 71 4,801 58 January, 1859, 2,751 23 4,699 69 148 08 7,599 00 February, 1859, 3,014 48 5,814 74 4 80 8,834 02 March, 1859, 2,689 62 3,359 60 49 09 6,098 31 April, 1859, 1,934 25 2,201 46 6 96 4,142 67 May, 1859, 4,027 26 3,079 02 10 57 7,116 85 June, 1859, 2,392 83 2,920 92 69 38 5,383 13 July, 1859, 4,116 72 2,690 63 16 88 6,824 23 August, 1859, 2,746 35 2,301 30 44 77 5,092 42 September, 1859, 2,421 26 1,165 30 39 21 3,625 77 October, 1859, 2,300 17 4,384 08 535 06 7,219 31 November, 1859, 3,101 72 4,320 19 126 02 7,547 93 December, 1859, 3,618 86 3,609 34 22 30 7,250 50 January, 1860, 3,073 55 3,601 57 37 62 6,712 74 February, 1860, 3,201 32 6,032 41 103 50 9,337 23 March, 1860, 2,159 26 3,248 36 31 97 5,439 59 Total, $46,716 49 $59,439 78 $1,342 19 $107,498 46

TREASURER'S REPORT. TREASURY OFFICE, TALLAHASSEE, Nov. 20, 1860. To His Excellency, MADISON S. PERRY, Governor of Florida;

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

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

From sale of lands—cash, . . . . . $321,000 00 In Tallahassee Railroad bonds, . . . . . 3,100 00—$324,100 00 From the General Government on account of land reclamations, . . . . . 42,038 55 From sales of State stocks, . . . . . 52,000 00 From the several Railroads of the system on account of net earnings, . . . . . 18,336 04 From Interest account—in cash, . . . . . $13,080 00 In bonds, . . . . . 2,000 00—15,080 00 From bills payable, . . . . . 19,000 00 From Calhoun county loan, . . . . . 300 00 From miscellaneous sources, . . . . . 230 40 $471,085 00 Tallahassee Railroad Company Bonds on hand from land sales and interest account, . . . . . 5,100 00 $465,985 00 Which has been disbursed for the following purposes: Invested in Bonds of the several Railroads of the system, . . . . . $120,145 00 Disbursed for the interest on the Bonds of the said Railroad Companies, . . . . . 231,300 00 Disbursed for the St. Johns and Indian River Canal, . . . . . 6,000 00 Disbursed for selecting lands: Paid H. Wells and A. M. Randolph, . . . . . $82,475 00 Paid Walter Gwynn, . . . . . 4,151 00—86,626 00 Disbursed for management and sale of lands, . . . . . 6,500 00 For legal services, . . . . . 500 00 For rescinded land contracts, . . . . . 600 00 For interest account, . . . . . 1,887 00 For bills payable account, . . . . . 8,706 04 For miscellaneous purposes, . . . . . 3,222 61 Balance on hand, . . . . . 498 35 $465,985 00 The Florida Rail Road Company. The amount of interest paid upon the bonds of this Company with that which has accrued on their bonds held by the Trustees is, . . . . . $195,195 00 To which add land dividend and stock interest, . . . . . 19,265 91 $214,460 91 For which there have been received certificates of Stock, . . . . . $130,100 00 Cash on net earnings account . . . . . 6,937 33—137,037 33 $77,423 58

They have acknowledged receipt of statement and say that the certificate for the balance shall be forthcoming, and have presented a draft for the amount of $4,379 30 to be applied to there net earnings account.

 The Pensacola & Georgia Rail Road Company. The amount of interest paid for this Company, with that which has likewise accrued, &c., is, . . . . . $32,100 00 For which has been rec'd certificates of stock, . . . . . $26,900 00 Cash on net earnings account, . . . . . 5,200 00—$32,100 00 The Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Rail Road Company. The amount of interest paid and that which has accrued, &c., . . . . . $22,505 00 For which has been rec'd certificates of stock, . . . . . $16,300 00 Cash on net earnings account, . . . . . 6,198 71 Balance, . . . . . 629 00—$22,505 00 The Tallahassee Rail Road Company.

This Company did not apply to the Fund to provide for the interest of their bonds.

They have provided for the sinking Fund account to July 1859, by their bonds amounting to, . . . . . $5,100 00 And cash, . . . . . 505 00 $5,605 00 ASSETS.

The assets of the Fund are as follows:

Railroad Stocks, viz: The Florida Railroad, . . . . . $130,100 Pensacola & Georgia Railroad, . . . . . 26,900 Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad, . . . . . 16,300 $173,300 00 Railroad Bonds: Tallahassee Railroad, . . . . . $53,600 Deduct exchg. with Comp'tr for Florida R. R. do. (by order of Board,) . . . . . 50,000 3,600 Of sinking Fund, . . . . . 5,100 Of interest account, . . . . . 2,000 10,700 Florida Railroad Company Bonds, . . . . . 95,000 Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Bonds,* *This item was erroneously published $41,500 in last Report. See original extension of Oct. 8, 1858. . . . . . 41,000 Deduct amount returned to equalize rate of purchase, (by order of Board,) . . . . . 2,000 39,000 Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad Bonds, . . . . . 23,000 167,700 00 County Bonds: Gadsden County, . . . . . 1,150 Calhoun County, . . . . . 650 Less collected, . . . . . 300 . . . . . 350 1,500 00 Land Bonds: Per Register's List, . . . . . 94,634 81 Less Collected, . . . . . 8,672 20 85,962 61 Per list of last Report, . . . . . 986 13 Less collected, . . . . . 451 38 . . . . . 534 75 86,497 36 $428,997 36 Very respectfully, C. H. AUSTIN, Treasurer Board Trustees In. Imp. Fund.

The Treasurer, in account with the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Fund:1858.DR.  Nov. 1.—To balance per report of this date,$ 14,895 99 3.To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,2,703 11 Dec. 6.To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,4,458 18 16.To amount received from Florida Railroad Company for 50 per cent. net proceeds of receipts from 1st March to 31st August,261 19 1859.   Jan. 3.To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,4,801 58 26.To amount received from Tallahassee R. R. Company 6 months int. on $5,600 bonds,196 00  To amount received from same, interest on $3000 bonds of sinking fund,105 00  To amount received from same, on sinking fund account,130 00 27.To amount received from I. B. Stone, sheriff Calhoun county on loan to said county in 1853,300 00 Feb. 5.To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,7,599 00 9.To amount received from Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company, for 50 per cent. net proceeds of receipts to December 1, 1858,2,000 00 18.To amount on hand, notes221 94 April 6.To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,11,881 33 May 2.To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,4,142 67 June 3.To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,7,066 85 22.To amount received from Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company for 50 per cent net proceeds of receipts to 31st ultimo,1,200 00 Sep. 3.To amount received from Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad Company for 50 per ct. net proceeds of receipts to July 1, 1859,883 71 Oct. 6.To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,20,975 65 Nov. 1.To amount received from D. S. Walker, sal,7,219 31 10.To amount received from Gov. Perry, a United States Treasury Warrant No. 1262—No. 811 as a part of the land reclamation of this fund from the General Government,42,038 55   $133,080 86 1858.CR.  Nov. 3.—By cash paid Randolph & Wells, on account contract for selecting lands,$1,047 79 15.By amount paid W. A. Forward, Chairman Board of Commissioners, on account of a survey for a canal between Indian and St. John's Rivers,1,000 00 Dec. 6.By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract1,531 91 10.By amount paid to Charleston Mercury for advertising for proposals to cut St. John's and Indian River Canal,36 00 18.By amount paid S. Turman's bill for advertising change in price of swamp lands,2 50 1859.   Jan. 3.By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract2,104 17 
5.By amount paid interest on $18,000 of Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company bonds for 6 months,630 00 17.By amount paid McDougall & Hobby for stationary for salesman's office,46 00 18.By amount paid Geo. Damon for a desk for Secretary's office,15 00  By amount paid qr. salary of officers, viz:   D. S. Walker, salesman, 200 00   M. D. Papy, secretary, 100 00   C. H. Austin, treasurer, 125 00—425 00 25.By amount paid Wm. A Forward, Chm'n Board Commissioners on account survey of Canal between St. Johns and Indian rivers,1,000 00 Feb. 4.By amount paid interest on $127,000 bonds of the Pensacola & Georgia   Railroad Company, 4,445 00   Exchange, 22 23—4,467 23  By amount paid interest on $1000 bond of Florida Railroad Company, 35 00   Exchange, 18—35 18  By amount paid Randolph & Wells on account contract,2,772 22 9.By amount paid Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company, making the rate of investment in their bonds equal with the other Roads,2,000 00 10.By amount paid M. Nash, P. M., postage bill for Salesman's office,46 46 19.By amount paid John Bradford, Eng. balance for services rendered for examination upon Fla. Railroad,100 00 24.By amount paid interest on $86,000 bonds   Florida Railroad Company, 3,010 00   Exchange, 15 05—3,025 05 24.By amount paid interest on $10,000 bonds   Florida Railroad Company, 350 00   Exchange, 1 75—351 75 25.By amount paid T. W. Brevard, Comptroller, for School and Seminary Fund, in the exchange of $50,000 of Tallahassee R. R. Co. Bonds for same amount of Florida R. R. Co. Bonds, being the difference in the accumulated interest,1,166 66 Mch. 17.By amount paid Florida Peninsular advertising change in price of Swamp Lands,5 00  By amount paid Randolph and Wells on account contract,2,620 73  By amount paid Interest on $2.000 Bonds of Pen. & Geo. R. R. Company,70 00  By amount paid interest an $10,000 Fla. R. R. Co. (two instalments,)700 00 22.By amount paid Marianna Patriot, advertising change in price of swamp lands,7 50  By amount paid Jacksonville Standard for same,6 50  By amount paid interest on $628,000   Fla. R. R. Co. bonds, $21,980 00   Exchange, 109 90—22,089 90 
 By amount paid interest on $1,000 bond of Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co. 35 00   Exchange, 17—35 17  By amount paid interest on $1,000 bond of Fla. R. R. Co., 35 00   Exchange, 17—35 17 30.By amount paid interest on $6,000 bonds of Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co.,210 00 April 2.By amount paid Independent Press, publishing change in price of Swamp lands,5 00 8.By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract,2,610 49  By amount paid quarter salaries of officers, viz.:   D. S. Walker, salary to 1st inst. $248 87   M. D. Papy, salary to 1st inst. 100 00   C. H. Austin, salary to 1st inst. 125 00—473 87 25.By amount paid Jacksonville Republican, advertising change in price of swamp lands,6 50 May 2.By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract,1,828 43 June 3.By amount paid Randolph & Wells, on account of contract,3,266 28 13.By amount paid Milton Courier, advertising change in price of swamp lands,5 00 Sept. 8.By amount paid quarter salaries of officers, viz.:   D. S. Walker, Salesman, $300 00   F. L. Villepigue, Secretary, 100 00   C. H. Austin, Treasurer, 125 00—525 00 15.By amount paid interest on $12,000 bonds of Florida Railroad Company, 420 00   Exchange, 4 20—424 20  By amount paid interest on $175,000 Pen. & Geo. Railroad bonds, 6,125 00   Exchange, 61 25—6,186 25 17.By amount paid interest on $10,000 Florida Railroad bonds, (2 instal.)700 00 Oct. 6.By amount paid qr. salary officers, viz:   D. S. Walker, Salesman, 300 00   F. L. Villepigue, Secretary, 100 00   C. H. Austin, Treasurer, 125 00—525 00  By amount paid Florida Sentinel bill printing for Salesman's office,45 00  By amount paid M. Nash, P. M. postage for same20 35  By amount paid Randolph & Wells on account contract,3,222 95  By amount paid interest on $743,000 of Florida Railroad Company bonds 26,005 00   By amount paid interest on $66,000 of Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad bonds, 2,310 00   By amount paid State Bank of Florida, Exchange on above 331 80   Interest on above 280 00—28,926 80 31.By amount paid Randolph & Wells on account contract,2,143 84  By amount paid M. Nash, P. M., postage bill for Salesman's office,46 86  By amount balance interest paid State Bank,28 65  By balance,34,506 71   133 080 86 
1859.DR.  Nov.—1.To balance, $34,506 71Dec. 5.To amount received from D. S. Walker, Salesman, 7,547 957.To amount received from Tallahassee Railroad on sinking fund account, 40 001860.   Jan. 6.To amount received from D. S. Walker, Salesman, 7,250 50Feb. 6.To amount received from H. A. Corley, Salesman. 6,663 3120.To amount received from Florida Railroad Company, as half net earnings, for periods ending 1st March and September, 1859 6,676 3324.To amount received from Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad Company, on account one-half net earnings, 1,400 00March 1.To amount received on land notes, 229 444.To amount received from H. A. Corley, Salesman, 5,439 59.April 14.To amount received from Pen. & Geo. Railroad Company, as one-half net earnings, period ending November 30, 1859, 2,000 0020.To amount received from Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad Company, on account one-half net earnings, 175 00July 30.To amount received from same, on account same, 870 00Oct. 4.To amount received from same, on account same, 2,870 00 To amount received from bills payable, 19,000 0031.To amount received from land sales, 24,891 00 To amount received from land notes, 8,672 20   $128,232 031859.CR.  Dec. 5.—By amount paid Randolph & Wells on account of selecting lands, 3,051 2323.By amount paid Pensacola Gazette, advertising change in price of swamp lands, 7 50 By amount paid Milton Courier for same, 5 001860.   Jan. 6.By amount paid officers salary, viz:   D. S. Walker, Salesman,300 00  F. L. Villepigue, Secretary,100 00  C. H. Austin, Treasurer,125 00—525 0016.By amount paid Floridian & Journal advertising change in price of swamp lands, 7 5023.By amount paid Wm. Law, Esq., Att'y, for legal opinion relation to the power of a majority of the Board of Trustees, 500 0031.By amount paid interest on $87,000 of the Pensacola & Georgia Railroad Company, 3,045 00Feb. 8.By amount paid two instalments on Bond 116 Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co. 70 009.By amount paid interest on $22,000 Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co. bonds, viz.: 21st July, 1859, coupons; 22d January, 1860, do, 1,505 0024.By amount paid interest on $40,000 Fla., At. & Gulf Cen. R. R. Co. bonds, 1,400 00March 7.By amount paid McDougall & Hobby, bill stationary for Salesman's office, 61 13 By amount paid interest on $10,000 Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co. bonds, 350 00
8.By amount paid M. Nash, P. M., postage bill Salesman's office, 32 55 By amount paid interest on $1,012,000 Florida R. R. Co. bonds, 35,420 00 By amount paid interest on $71,000 Fa., At. & Gulf Cen. R. R. Co. bonds, 2,485 00 By amount paid interest on $82,000 Pen. & Geo. R. R. Co. bonds, 2,870 00 By amount paid advertising in New York and express transportation, 7 50 By amount paid exchange balance, 42 2928.By amount paid interest on $10,000 Florida R. R. Co. bonds, 350 00April 2.By amount paid interest on $8,000 Fla., At. & Gulf Cen. R. R. Co. bonds, 280 0012.By amount paid do. on $1,000 do. do. do. 35 0017.By amount paid do. on $2,000 do. do. do. 70 0018.By amount paid quarter salaries officers, viz.:   H. A. Corley, Salesman,$300 00  F. L. Villepigue, Secretary,100 00  C. H. Austin, Treasurer,125 00—525 0020.By amount paid interest on $5,000 Fla., At. & Gulf R. R. Co. bonds, 175 00May 2.By amount paid Fla., At. & Gulf R. R. Co., balance on net earnings account, 17 2820.By amount paid bill Florida Dispatch advertising sale of lands, 24 00 By amount paid Floridian & Journal, blanks for Salesman, 22 50July 16.By amount paid M. Nash, P. M., postage account Salesman's office, 23 1519.By amount paid quarter salary officers, viz:   H. A. Corley, Salesman,200 00  F. L. Villepigue, Secretary,100 00  C. H. Austin, Treasurer,200 00—500 0030.By amount paid interest on 24,000 dollars Florida Atlantic & Gulf Central Railroad Company Bonds, 840 00August 2.By amount paid bill Florida Peninsular, advertising public sale lands, 10 00 By amount paid bill Eastern Herald for same, 24 00 By amount paid bill Home Companion for same, 15 00Oct. 4By amount paid quarter salary officers, viz:   H. A. Corley, Salesman,200 00  F. L. Villepigue, Secretary,100 00  C. H. Austin, Treasurer,200 00—500 00 By amount paid W. D. Moseley, Ch. Indian River and St. Johns Canal Company, to meet interest on bonds of said company, 4,000 00 By amount paid interest on $1,198,000   Florida R. R. Company Bonds,41,930 00  Exchange,419 30  Advertising and Express transportation,650 00—42,355 80 By amount paid interest on $340,000   Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central   Railroad Company Bonds,11,900 00  Exchange,90 30  Advertising and Express,4 25—11,994 55
 By amount paid interest on $172,000   Pen. & Geo. Railroad Co. bonds,$6,020 00  Exchange,60 20  Advertising and Express,3 05—6,083 25 By amount paid on account of bills payable, 8,706 04 By balance, 498 35   $128,433 621860.   Nov. 1.—To balance, $498 35

C. H. AUSTIN, Treasurer Board of Trustees Internal Imp't. Fund. ATTORNEY GENERAL'S REPORT. ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE, TALLAHASSEE, November 19, 1860. His Excellency, M. S. PERRY, Governor, &c.

Sir: The act of July 23d, 1845, directs the Attorney General to report to the Governor “as to the effect and operation of the acts of the last previous session, the decision of the Courts thereon, referring to the previous legislation on the subject, with such suggestions as in his opinion the public interest may demand.”

The act to amend the militia and patrol laws of this State, approved 22d December, 1859, has not, to my knowledge, been sufficiently tested in its practical workings to enable me to suggest any amendments, except such as seem to be needful when considered in reference to the exigency for which it was intended to provide.

One of the purposes of the act was to secure the enrollment of all persons subject to military duty, with the view of ascertaining the effective military strength of the State, and of obtaining the basis upon which a proper distribution of arms might be made. By the proper discharge of their duties by the several officers elected under the act, this purpose may be easily accomplished. But another, and perhaps the more important object, was the efficient military organization and discipline of those upon whom the State has to rely in any case of emergency making it necessary to call its forces into the field. It is impossible to foretell when this emergency will arise, but in view of the present aspect of affairs the ordinary rule of action should be discarded, and the possibility of a danger be held sufficient to exact the best and most efficient measures to place the military forces of the State on the best possible footing. It might perhaps not be considered wise to abolish the militia system altogether. but in connection with it the General Assembly might, by suitable enactments, encourage the organization of volunteer companies, batalions and regiments. To do this in a proper way, a fund should be raised, and although the people are ever alive to any new impositions, it is believed that in times of emergency a true patriotism will not shrink from a necessary burthen. Money performs its part in the protection of the people as well as men, and those who do not give the State their services should not object to yield her the small amount necessary to attain the end in view. Many of our citizens would willingly enrol themselves in volunteer companies if much of the expense incident to their proper organization and discipline were borne by the State. A properly organized volunteer force in each county would form the nucleus of an army around which the citizens generally could rally in case of need, and render more effective service than we could expect under the militia laws.

I beg leave to call the attention of the General Assembly to the Act of last session to amend the laws now in force in this State relative to ejectment suits. The fictitious parties are abolished and the declaration is required to contain a simple statement of the cause of action, but no provision is made in reference to the manner of bringing the party defendant into Court. As the law stands, difficulties may arise in practice as to the manner of serving the defendant with notice, and I therefore suggest that the General Assembly should so amend the law as to provide for the issuing and service of process, as in ordinary common law actions.

I would respectfully call the attention of the General Assembly to those provisions of the laws establishing the ad valorem system of taxation, requiring returns to be made of and imposing a tax upon book accounts, as being in many instances unequal. The merchant who has already paid a tax upon his capital, and who, according to the common practice, sells his goods on a credit, in the expectation of realizing his money on the first of January, when the accounts become due, is compelled, if the accounts remain unpaid, to submit to a second tax upon the same capital, without the opportunity of increasing his profits by its re-investment.—Add to this the difficulty of estimating the value of such accounts, many of which are never collected, and it becomes apparent that the law operates with inequality and oftentimes with injustice.—Capital can easily elude the restraints of the law. It may, in a moment, be transferred to those points where the least restrictions are thrown around it. The wisest policy is to encourage its introduction into the State, and leave it as free as possible to seek those channels of trade in which it promises the best returns.

I am, very respectfully, &c., M. D. PAPY. HOUSE JOURNAL. MONDAY, January 7th, 1861.

This being the day to which the House adjourned, the same was called to order by the Speaker, and the roll being called, the following members answered to their names:

Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Bowne, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mizell, Murphy, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Scott, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates—29.

So there was a quorum present.

On motion of Mr. Williams, a Committee consisting of Messrs. Williams, Bowne and Hawes, were appointed to make arrangements for the procurement of a suitable room for the sitting of this body in contemplation of the Representative Chamber being occupied by the State Convention.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Hernando, the Speaker appointed a Committee, consisting of Messrs. Holland of Hernando, Vogt and Robinson, to confer with a similar committee appointed by the State Convention, for the purpose of making permanent arrangements for suitable and separate rooms to accommodate the sitting of the Convention and General Assembly at the same time.

On motion of Mr. Williams, the House adjourned until Wednesday morning, at 12 o'clock.

 WEDNESDAY, January 9th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

The journal of Monday was read and approved.

Mr. Blount moved, if concurred in by the Senate, that the House adjourn until Monday next;

Upon which, the yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Love and Coffee, the vote was:

Yeas—Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Holloman, Mizell, Scott, Stewart and Wilkinson—8.

Nays—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bowne, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams and Yates—29.

So the motion was lost.

Mr. Haddock moved that the House adjourn until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock;

Upon which, the yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Love and Coffee, the vote was:

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Bowne, Broxson, Carter, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mays, Means, Mickler, Mizell, Murphy, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates—29.

Nays—Messrs. Blount, Coffee, Collins, Hull, Love, McKinnon, Oliver, Parker, Robinson, Vogt and Williams—11.

So the motion was carried, and the House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

 THURSDAY, January 10, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

The Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

Mr. Pooser moved that the House adjourn until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

Upon which, the yeas and nays being called for by Messrs. Coffee and Williams, the vote was:

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Lee, Mickler, Murphy, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Scott, Stewart, Vanzant, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates—21.

Nays—Messrs. Bird, Bowne, Coffee, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Love, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Oliver, Price, Robinson and Williams—13.

So the motion was carried, and the House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.

 FRIDAY, January 11, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present

The Rev. Mr. Ellis was introduced and officiated as Chaplain, having been selected to fill the vacancy occasioned by the absence and removal of the Rev. J. K. Glover, the former Chaplain.

The Journal of yesterday was read and approved.

Mr. Blount, in pursuance of previous notice, introduced the following bills:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Which were placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Price gave notice that he would on some future day ask leave to introduce a bill to empower William J. Tucker to assume the management of his own estate.

Also, a bill to change the names of certain persons therein specified.

Mr. Vanzant gave notice that he would on some future day ask leave to introduce a bill to empower William F. Williams to assume the management of his own estate.

Also, a bill to change the names of certain persons therein specified.

Mr. Bird gave notice that on some future day he would introduce a bill to allow Morris Leob to assume the management of his own estate.

Mr. Blount moved that the rules be waived to allow him to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola and Mobile Railroad and Manufacturing Company, and also a bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Florida and Alabama Railroad Company:

Which was agreed to, and said bills received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Vanzant introduced a petition from sundry citizens of Columbia county praying that an appropriation of fifteen sections of the lands belonging to the State may be donated to the authorities of said county to aid in building a Court House for the use of said county;

Which was referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

The following reports were received and read:

The Committee appointed by the House to make arrangements for the sitting of the House of Representatives during the sitting of the Convention, beg leave to make the following report:

That they have secured the Supreme Court room for the temporary use of the House.

JOS. JOHN WILLIAMS, Chairman.

The Special Committee appointed to consult with a Committee from the Convention in relation to a room for the sitting of that body, beg leave to report that they have consulted with said Committee, and have tendered the use of the Representatives' Hall to that body for their use while in session, which tender has been accepted by the Convention.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman, D. A. VOGT, JAMES ROBINSON.

The following communication addressed to the House from M. J. Murphy of Clay county, was received and read:

CAPITOL, TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA, January 10th, 1861. HON. JOHN. B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

Sir:—You will please communicate to the House over which you have the honor to preside, that I tender my resignation as a member of the same.

My reasons for so doing are that T. J. Hendricks, Esq., Delegate from Clay county to the State Convention, has this day cast his vote against the passage of the Ordinance of Secession, and he having more recently come from the People of said county than myself, perhaps represents their sentiments more fully than I do; therefore I am unwilling longer to represent them, holding as I do principles so adverse to theirs, as expressed through their Delegate.

By accepting my resignation you will enable the People of said county to elect a Representative more worthy of their confidence, and enable your humble petitioner to seek a sphere in which he will be able to do his country more efficient service.

Very respectfully, M. J. MURPHY.

After some discussion the paper above was withdrawn until the report of the Committee on Elections concerning the contestation of the seat of said member from Clay should be considered.

Mr. Russell offered the following resolution:

Resolved, The the Committees on the Militia of the House and Senate act in conjunction in considering all bills introduced in either body relative to Military Affairs;

Which was read and adopted.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of William Henry Fitts to William Henry Bull;

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

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

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

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

Was read the first time, and on motion referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

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

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

A Committee from the Senate waited upon the House to inform them that the Committee on the Judiciary of the Senate, if concurred in by the House, would act in conjunction with the Committee of the Judiciary of the House in considering such matters as should be brought before them.

The rule being wavied, Mr. Coffee moved that the Judiciary Committee be a joint Committee of the House to act with a similar Committee on the part of the Senate to transact such matters as may be referred to them;

Which was agreed to.

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

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

Senate resolution for the relief of L. J. Fleming,

Was read the 1st time and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

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

Was read the second time and referred to Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

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

To which, after being read a second time, Mr. Wilkinson offered the following amendment: After the words “Escambia county,” insert “Santa Rosa county;”

Which, with the bill, was referred to the Committee on Corporations.

The following communication was received from the State Convention:

HOUSE OF DELEGATES, TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Jan'y 11th, 1861. Hon. Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR:—By a resolution of this Convention, your honorable body is respectfully invited to attend at the Capitol this day at 1 o'clock, P. M., to witness the ratification of the Ordinance of Secession. Your attendance is respectfully solicited.

Very respectfully, WILLIAM S. HARRIS, Secretary.

Which was read and a communication addressed to the Convention informing them that the House would accept their invitation.

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

Was placed back upon its second reading and referred to the Committee on Elections.

A bill to be entitled an act to allow Jefferson Felmer Ault to change his name to Jefferson Felmer Johns,

Was placed back on its second reading and referred to Committee on the Judiciary.

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

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Claims.

Senate joint resolution in relation to the Comptroller's Office;

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

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Catharine A. Joiner;

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

On motion of Mr. Mays, the House took a recess until 15 minutes past 1 o'clock.

At the appointed time the House resumed its session.

The rule being waived, Mr. Blount moved that leave be granted the member from Orange to absent himself on to-morrow from the service of this House,

Which was agreed to.

A Committee from the Senate waited upon the House and informed them that they had been appointed to act with a similar Committee if appointed by the House to wait upon the State Convention and inform them that they were now ready to proceed to the Convention and witness the ratification of the Ordinance of Secession in pursuance of the invitation extended to them by said Convention;

Whereupon Messrs. Blount, Mays and Holland were appointed a Committee to act with the Committee of the Senate, who after a short absence reported that they had performed that duty and were discharged.

A bill to be entitled an act providing for a State uniform and flag,

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

The rule being waived, Mr. Blount moved that this House, preceded by the Speaker, do now proceed to witness the ceremony of the ratification of the Ordinance of Secession of this State from the Union of the confederacy once known as the United States of North America, and at the conclusion of that ceremony that this House do return to its chamber;

Which motion was agreed to.

After witnessing the signing and ratification of the Ordinance of Secession, on the East portico of the Capitol, the members of the House, preceded by their Speaker, returned and resumed their session.

On motion of Mr. Wilkinson, the House adjourned until tomorrow morning at 10 o'clock.

 SATURDAY, January 12th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

Upon motion of Mr. Williams, the further reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

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

By Mr. Carter:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the pilot laws now in force for the port of St. Marks.

By Mr. Hull:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the act of the 4th March, 1841, in relation to the sale of real estate of deceased persons.

By Mr. Love:

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of David McLewis of Gadsden county to that of McDavid Lewis.

By Mr. Howell:

A bill to be entitled an act to permit Erasmus M. Thompson, of Hillsborough county, to practice law in the several counties of this State; also,

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Dr. S. B. Todd, of Hillsborough county.

By Mr. Bellamy:

A bill to be entitled an act to allow William R. Taylor to assume the management of his own estate.

By Mr. Russell:

A bill to be entitled an act to encourage the citizens of this State to arm themselves.

By. Mr. Howell:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William H. Fannen.

Mr. Cole moved that the rule be waived, and that he be allowed to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws of this State;

Which was agreed to, and said bill received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Richardson moved that the rule be waived, and that he allowed to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to permanently locate the county site of Volusia;

Which was agreed to, and said bill received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Vogt presented a petition from Marion county, signed by James T. Hopkins and two hundred others, praying for a stay law;

Which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Pooser, from the Committee on Propositions and Grievances, made the following report:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Joseph B. Wood, of Columbia county, have considered the same and recommend its passage with the following amendment: Provided that the said Joseph B. Wood, shall first make affidavit before some legal officer that the State is justly indebted to him in said amount.

J. W. POOSER, Chairman.

Which was received and read.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the pilot laws for the Port of Fernandina,

Was read the second time, and on motion of Mr. Love, the future consideration of the same was postponed until Wednesday next.

Senate resolution for the relief of L. J. Fleming,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Finance and Public Accounts.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize the county of Polk from the counties of Hillsborough and Brevard,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

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

Was read a second time, and on motion referred to the Committee on Finance and Public Accounts.

Senate joint resolution in relation to the Comptroller's office,

Was read a second time, and upon motion was laid on the table.

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

Was, upon motion, placed back upon its second reading, and with the bill to stay Judicial Sales in this State, were referred to the joint committee of the Judiciary of the House and Senate for further consideration.

The rule being waived, upon motion of Mr. Vogt, the petition of sundry citizens of Marion County relative to a stay law was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Upon motion, the rule being waived, Mr. Stewart introduced a bill to be entitled an act to authorize Henry C. Grovenstine to plead and practice law;

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

Upon motion the rule being waived, Mr. Richardson introduced a bill to be entitled an act permanently to locate the County Site of Volusia County;

Which on motion of Mr. Love, was read the first and second times by its title and with the petition accompanying the same, referred to the Committee on Corporations.

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

Was read the second time and the amendment proposed to the same by the Committee on Propositions and Grievances adopted, and the bill ordered for a third reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate and define the duties and liabilities of railroad corporations in this State,

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

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the acts creating liens in favor of builders, material men, mechanics, laborers and others,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for filling vacancies in the offices of Justices of the Peace in this State,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Alabama and Florida Railroad Company in relation to the election of Directors,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

On motion of Mr. Love, the report of the Committee on Elections, relative to the contested seat of Clay county, was taken up and made the special order of the House.

After some discussion of said report, the same, with all the evidence touching said contested seat, on motion of Mr. Love, was referred to a Select Committee of five.

The Speaker appointed Messrs. Blount, Mays, Hawes, Holland of Hernando and Cole said Committee.

On motion of Mr. Love, the rule was waived and he allowed to introduce the following resolution:

Resolved, That the House inform the Senate that they will be ready on Tuesday, 15th inst., at 12 o'clock, to go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller of Public Accounts for the State of Florida;

Which was adopted, and the same ordered to be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act passed Nov. 21st, 1829, sec. 3d, Thomp. Dig., page 242, fixing the compensation of Auctioneers,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola and Mobile Rail Road and Manufacturing Company,

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

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

Was read the first and second times by its title, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Upon motion of Mr. Love, the House adjourned until Monday next, 12 o'clock, M.

 MONDAY, January 14th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Campbell, the reading of the journals of Saturday's proceedings were dispensed with.

Mr. Blount moved that leave of absence from the service of this House be granted to the member from Walton (Mr. McKinnon) for the space of fifteen days;

Which was granted.

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

By Mr. Campbell:

A bill to be entitled an act to consolidate the office of Judge of Probate and Clerk of the Circuit Court in the county of Liberty.

By Mr. Oliver:

A bill to be entitled an act authorizing James Addison, a citizen of Leon county, to build a dam across Ocklockonee river for mill and other purposes.

By Mr. Yates:

A bill to be entitled an act to reorganize Brevard county, and for other purposes.

Mr. Newburn, in pursuance of previous notive, introduced a bill to be entitled an act to organize a new county to be called Baker county, with a petition from the citizens of New River county;

Which bill and petition was referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances.

Mr. Bloxson introduced a petition from W. C. Gillis and a hundred other citizens of Holmes county, praying the location of the Court House at Hewett's Bluff;

Which petition was referred to Committee on Corporations.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER, January 10th, 1861. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

A bill to be entitled an act to charter the Southern Export and Import Company;

A bill to be entitled an act to make Senean Brown, wife of Henry Brown, a free dealer;

Also, House bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge of the Middle Circuit of Florida to hold an extra term of the Circuit Court in Hamilton county.

Very respectfully, B. F. PARKER, Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read and the House bill which had passed the Senate ordered to be enrolled, and the Senate bills placed among the orders of the day.

Also the following:

SENATE CHAMBER, January 14th, 1861. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: The Senate has concurred in the House resolution to elect Attorney General and Comptroller on Tuesday, the 15th instant.

Very respectfully, B. F. PAKKER, Secretary of the Senate.

Which was read.

The rules being waived, the following bills were introduced without previous notice:

By Mr. Means:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Alachua County Railroad Company.

By Mr. Vanzant:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the criminal laws of this State;

Which bills were read and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Hawes, from the Committee on Schools and Colleges, made the following reports:

The Committee on Schools and Colleges, to whom was referred a bill entitled an act to amend the school laws of Columbia county, beg leave to make the following report, viz:

That they find nothing that is objectionable in the bill, and, as it is entirely local in its application, they see no reason why it may not pass.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read.

Also the following:

The Committee on Schools and Colleges, to whom was referred a bill entitled an act for the relief of Walton county, relative to the school fund, beg leave to report that they have had the same under consideration, and recommend its passage.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was read.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws,

Was read the first time, and on motion of Mr. Vought was read the second time by its title and referred to Committee on Internal Improvements.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Henry C. Grovenstine to plead and practice law,

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

A bill to be entitled an act to organize the county of Polk from the counties of Hillsborough and Brevard,

Was read the second time, and on motion referred to a Select Committee, consisting of Messrs. Howell, Yates and Parker.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act passed November 21st, 1829, section 3d, (Thompson's Digest, page 242,) fixing the compensation of auctioneers,

Was read second time by its title, and on motion was referred to the Committee on the Sudiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize a new county to be called Baker county,

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

Senate bill to be entitled an act to make Senean Brown, wife of Henry Brown, a free dealer,

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

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Walton county, relative to the school fund,

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

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Alabama and Florida Railroad Company in relation to the election of Directors,

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

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the school laws for Columbia county,

Was read a second time, and on motion referred to a Select Committee, consisting of Messrs. Vanzant, Hull and Newburn.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the acts creating liens in favor of builders, material men, mechanics, laborers and others,

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

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for filling vacancies in the office of Justices of the Peace in this State,

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

A bill to be entitled an act to make constables elected by the people and the mode of taking bonds, &c.,

Was read the first time, and on motion, the rule being waived, was read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Alachua County Railroad Company,

Was read the first time, and on motion, the rule being waived, was read a second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the criminal laws of this State,

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

The rule being waived, Mr. Blount moved that the Sergeant-at-Arms of this House (John Kilby) be granted leave of absence from the service of this House for fifteen days, and that the Speaker be authorized to appoint a Sergeant-at-Arms pro tem. during such absence;

Which was agreed to.

On motion of Mr. Campbell, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 11 o'clock.

 TUESDAY, January 15, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Russell the reading of the Journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

On motion of Mr. Mays, Mr. Means of Alachua was added to the Standnig Committee on the Judiciary.

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

By Mr. Canova:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the German Saving and Building Association of Jacksonville.

By Mr. Robinson:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Town of Campbelton, of Jackson county; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to incorporate the Town of Marianna, approved Jan. 8th, 1853.

Mr. Mays moved that 80 copies of the bill to be entitled an act to amend the pleading and practice of the Courts of this State, now in the hands of the Judiciary Committee, be printed for the use of this House;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that the bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola & Mobile Railroad and Manufacturing Company be printed, and eighty copies of the same be furnished for the use of the House and Senate;

Which was agreed to.

The following memorials were presented and read:

By Mr. Canova:

A memorial from Davis Floyd praying to be released as surety on a Tax Collector's bond;

By Mr. Love:

A memorial from sundry citizens of Liberty county praying for a division of said county;

Which memorials were referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances, with instructions to report by bill or otherwise.

The rules being waived, in pursuance of previous notice, the following bills were introduced:

By Mr. Oliver:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Addison to construct a dam across Ocklocknee river, for the purpose of erecting a mill.

By Mr. Parker:

A bill to be entitled an act to declare Peas Creek a navigable stream;

Which bills were received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Poser, from the Committee on Propositions and Grievances, made the following report:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Howell A. Barsden, former Sheriff and Tax Collector of Putnam county, beg leave to Report:

That they have had the same under consideration, and recommend the bill to be put upon its passage.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

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

Also the following:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, to whom was referred a petition from sundry persons of Columbia county, praying a donation from the State of fifteen sections of land belonging to the State, for the purpose of building a Court House in said county, and after having duly considered the petition, there being no limitation to the location of the lands, and for other reasons, we deem it inexpedient to report favorably.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Which was read.

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

The Committee on Engrossed Bills Report:

The following bill as correctly engrossed, viz: A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Walton county relative to the School Fund. Respectfully submitted,

D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

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

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

The Committee on Corporations, having had the bill to be entitled an act to repeal an act authorizing a bridge tax in Walton county under consideration, beg leave to report that they have carefully considered the same and recommend that the bill do not pass.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

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

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to regulate and define the duties and liabilities of Railroad Companies in this State, having had the same under consideration, beg leave to report, that they have carefully examined and considered said bill, and recommend that it do not pass.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

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

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom a House bill entitled an act permanently to locate the county site of Volusia county was referred, beg leave respectfully to report the same as duly considered by them, and in lieu of it report back to the House the following as a substitute.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

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

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of the county of Escambia to borrow money for the purpose of building a Court House and Jail, with the amendment thereto, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to report the same back to the House with the following additional amendments, to wit:

Insert the word “counties” in every case in which the word “county” occurs in said bill.

And an additional section, to be numbered

SEC. 5. Be it further enacted, That at the next election to be held in the counties aforesaid it shall be the duty of the Judges of Probate thereof to submit the provisions of this act to the voters of said counties, requiring each voter to endorse on the ballot by him deposited his approval or disapproval of the same, and if, upon a canvass of the votes cast, it shall appear that a majority of the legal votes are in favor thereof, then this act shall take effect and be in force, and not sooner.

With these amendments the Committee recommend that the bill do pass.

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

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to charter the Southern Export and Import Company, having had the same under consideration, beg leave to report that they have carefully examined said bill, and would recommend that the bill be amended in the following manner, to wit:

After the words “capital stock,” in the 12th line of the 6th section, insert the words “as well as the private property of each and every one of the stockholders of said Company.”

With this amendment the Committee recommend that the bill do pass.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

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

Mr. Bellamy, from the Committee on Finance and Public Accounts, made the following report:

The Committee on Finance and Public Accounts have had under consideration the following bill and resolution, and recommend that they do pass:

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

A resolution for the relief of L. J. Fleming.

B. W. BELLAMY, Chairman.

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

Also the following:

The Committee on Finance and Public Ats, to whom was referred a bill to to be entitled an act for the relief of Gen. William E. Anderson and others, have had the same under consideration, and report:

That they recommend the passage of the bill, with the following amendment: “Provided that the said accounts shall be audited and allowed as proper and just by the Comptroller.”

B. W. BELLAMY, Chairman.

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

The Joint Committee on the Judiciary of the House and Senate made the following report:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to allow Matthew L. McKinney to assume the management of his own estate, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to

REPORT:

That they entertain serious doubt as to the propriety of interfering, by special legislation, with that general rule of the law which prescribes a certain age, twenty-one years, to be attained by persons to entitle them to the full and complete dignity of citizenship. A rule of law so ancient in its origin, and one that has shown, by its operatione and effects, so much wisdom in its conception, should not, in the opinion of your Committee, be broken in upon by special legislation, except for reasons so apparent, and upon facts so evident as to address themselves to the common sense of every one with such force as to give assurance that “the sanctity of the general rule may not be injuriously affected by its violation in the particular instance.” Your Committee are not aware that any circumstances exist, in connection with the case referred to them, that should induce them to depart from the old rule, and therefore recommend that the bill do not pass.

GEO. W. CALL, Chairman Senate Committee. D. H. MAYS, Chairman House Committee.

Which was read.

A Select Committee, through Mr. Howell, made the following report:

The Select Committee to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to organize the county of Polk from the counties of Hillsborough and Brevard, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me, their Chairman, to report the same with amendments, and recommend the passage of said bill.

Respectfully submitted, JOSEPH HOWELL, Chairman.

Which was received and read, and said bill and amendment placed among the orders of the day.

A Select Committee, through Mr. Vanzant, made the following report:

The Committee report that the bill be amended by inserting counties where the word county appears, and Judges of Probate where Judge of Probate appears, and after the word Columbia insert Suwanee, New River, Lafayette, Nassau and Sumpter.

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

On motion, the House took a recess for ten minutes.

The House resumed its session at the appointed time.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Call, Chain and McCall, informed the House that the Senate was ready to go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller.

On motion of Mr. Pooser, a Committee of Three were appointed by the House, consisting of Messrs. Pooser, Broxson and Bellamy, to inform the Senate that the House is ready to go into the election of officers.

The Committee having performed their duty, were discharged.

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

The President declared the object of the joint meeting to be to elect an Attorney General and Comptroller of Public Accounts.

The joint meeting proceeded to the election of Attorney General.

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

Mr. Holland of Hernando nominated Mr. J. B. Galbraith, of Leon county.

The vote was:

FOR MR. GALBRAITH—Senate 8. House—Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Love, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Scott, Williams and Yates—18. Total—26.

FOR MR. LONG—Senate 9. House—Messrs. Bird, Clyatt, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt and Wilkinson—20. Total—29.

Blank—Senate none. House—Mr. Coffee—1.

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

The joint meeting proceeded to a second ballot.

The vote was:

FOR GALBRAITH—Senate 8. House—Messrs. Bellamy, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Love, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Scott, Wells, Williams and Yates—19. Total—27.

FOR LONG—Senate 8. House—Messrs. Bird, Clyatt, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt and Wilkinson—19. Total—27.

Blank—Senate 1. House—Messrs. Coffee and Lee—2.

The President decided that there was no election.

On motion of Mr. Call of the Senate, the joint meeting proceeded to the election of Comptroller of Public Accounts.

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

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

Mr. Finlayson nominated Mr. William Scott of Jefferson county.

The vote was:

FOR WILLIAMS—Senate 8. House—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxon, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Oliver, Parker, Robinson, Scott, Williams and Yates—19. Total—27.

FOR PYLES—Senate 8. House—Messrs. Clyatt, Coffee, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt and Wilkinson—18. Total—26.

FOR SCOTT—Senate 1. House—Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Russell and Scott—4. Total—5.

BLANK—Senate—None. House—None.

The President decided that there was no election.

The joint meeting proceeded to a second ballot for Comptroller.

The vote was:

FOR WILLIAMS—Senate 7. House—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Cole, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Oliver, Parker, Robinson, Scott, Williams and Yates—19. Total—26.

FOR PYLES—Senate 9. House—Messrs. Clyatt, Coffee, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt and Wilkinson—18. Total—27.

FOR SCOTT—Senate 1. House—Messrs. Bellamy, Bird and Russell—3. Total—4.

The President decided there was no election.

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

Mr. VanZant moved that the House adjourn until to-morrow morning, 11 o'clock;

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newbern, Parker, Richardson, Stewart, VanZant, Wilkinson and Yates—21.

Nays—Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Bowne, Campbell, Coffee, Dansby, Hull, Love, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Vogt and Williams—16.

So the motion was carried, and the House stood adjourned until to-morrow morning, 11 o'clock.

 WEDNESDAY, January 16th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Bellamy, the further reading of the Journal of yesterday's proceedings, after certain corrections being made, was dispensed with.

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

By Mr. Holland of Hernando:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of the Florida Volunteers and others, who have not been paid for services actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians.

By Mr. Hull:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William G. Parker, Sheriff of Suwannee county.

By Mr. Love:

A bill to be entitled an act to change the times for holding the Circuits Courts in the Middle Judicial Circuit; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the rules of Chancery practice in this State in reference to granting orders of publication to perfect service upon non-residents, &c.

Mr. Love moved that the Speaker be authorized to employ such assistance as may be necessary to bring up the Journals of the House;

Which was agreed to.

The following bills were introduced in pursuance of previous notice, viz:

By Mr. Robinson:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the town of Campbellton of Jackson county.

By Mr. Canova:

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Jacksonville Light Infantry of Jacksonville.

By Mr. Price:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize William J. Tucker to assume the management of his own estate; also,

A bill to be entitled an act authorizing and directing the Secretary of State to furnish the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Columbia county with seal of office.

By Mr. Murphy:

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

By Mr. Stewart:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize William J. Duncan and Elizabeth Zipperer to establish a toll bridge across the Suwannee and Allapaha rivers;

Which bills were received and placed among the orders of the day.

The following memorials were presented and read:

By Mr. Holland of Hernando:

A memorial from Thomas Law and sundry others, for the relief of Hamilton Kersey; also,

A memorial from B. F. Jackson and sundry others, praying for the relief of Jackson L. Andrews and others, citizens of Hernando county; also,

A memorial from C. R. Alexander and sundry other citizens of Hernando county, praying for the release of John Townsend and others, sureties on a Tax-Collector's bond.

By Mr. Clyatt:

A memorial from James F. Prevatt, former Sheriff and Tax-Collector of Levy county, for relief;

Which memorials were referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances, with instructions to report by bill or otherwise.

The Joint Committee of the House and Senate on the Judiciary made the following report:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to provide for filling vacancies in the office of Justice of the Peace, have had the same under consideration, and have instructed me to

REPORT:

That they have examined the said bill, and do not deem the enactment of such an act as the bill contemplates necessary to the public welfare at present, and therefore return the bill, and recommend that the bill do not pass.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

D. H. MAYS, Chairman House Committee. GEO. W. CALL, Chairman Senate Committee.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Jefferson Filmer Ault, of New River county, to Jefferson Filmer Johns, have had the same under consideration, and ask leave to

REPORT:

That the legislation provided by the act of 1852, chapter 532, fully embraces the relief sought by this bill. The Committee further report that the 2d section of the bill referred, provides that the name of Benjamin Keyton Durance, of Clay county, be changed to that of Benjamin Keyton Kennedy, and that he be made an heir at law of James H. Kennedy. The Legislature has heretofore provided the manner and form in which persons may be legitimated, and heirship to estate created, through the Courts of the State. They therefore deem the legislation asked for unwise and inexpedient, and recommend that the bill do not pass.

D. H. MAYS, Chairman House Committee, GEO. W. CALL, Chairman Senate Committee.

Which were received and read, and said bills placed among the orders of the day.

The committee on Claims and Accounts through Mr. Hawes, made the following report:

The committee on Claims, to whom was referred a resolution to pay Benjamin F. Whitner for surveying and marking the boundary line between the States of Georgia and Florida, beg leave to report, that they have had the same under consideration and recommend its passage.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

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

The committee on Proposition and Grievances, through Mr. Pooser, made the following report:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances having before them an act to be entitled an act to divide New River county, at the centre line of township four, running from east to west across said county, and that a new county be created out of the northern portion thereof, to be called Baker county, and after duly considering the case in all its bearings, have agreed in our report that the bill pass.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

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

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER, January 16th, 1861. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act regulating pilots and pilotage of the Bay of Pensacola;

A bill to be entitled an act in relation to the common school fund of Santa Rosa county;

A bill to be entitled an act to empower William H. Webster, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate, and to contract and be contracted with;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road law, and to repeal certain acts relating to Santa Rosa county, herein named; and

A bill to be entitled an act declaring who shall be held and considered as orphans.

Very Respectfully, B. F. PARKER, Secretary of Senate.

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

A committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. Call, Magbee and Walker, waited upon the House and requested the return of the Senate bill entitled an act to amend the Pilot laws for the Port of Fernandina.

The Speaker appointed a committee consisting of Messrs. Coffee, Murphy and Bellamy, to return said bill;

Who reported that they had performed said duty, and were discharged.

The rule, being waived, Mr. Love moved that the petition from sundry citizens of Liberty county be withdrawn from the Committee on Propositions and Grievances and referred to a select committee of five;

Which was agreed to, and Messrs. Love, Campbell, Oliver, Wells and Stewart, were appointed said committee.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to make Senean Brown, wife of Henry Brown, a free dealer,

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

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Henry C. Grovenstine to plead and practice law,

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

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

Was read the second time, amendments adopted, and ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

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

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

A bill to be entitled an act permanently to locate the county site of Volusia county,

Was read the second time, the substitute proposed by the Committee on Corporations adopted, and the bill ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

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

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

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the criminal law of this State,

Was read the second time by its title and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

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

Was read the second time, and, on motion of Mr. Mays, the House resolved itself into Committee of the Whole to take the same into consideration, Mr. Love in the Chair.

After some time spent therein, the Committee rose and reported the bill back as amended, and recommended its passage. The amendment thereto proposed by the Committee on Corporations was adopted and the same ordered to be engrossed and appended, and said bill ordered for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to charter a Southern Export and Import Company,

Was read the second time, and, on motion of Mr. Mays, the House resolved itself into Committee of the Whole to take the same into consideration, Mr. Hawes in the Chair.

After some time spent therein, the Committee rose and reported progress and asked leave to sit again.

The rule being waived, Mr. Love moved that 80 copies of the bill be printed for the use of the House;

Which was agreed to.

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. McQueen, Rogers and Baldwin waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had passed the following resolution:

WHEREAS, A monument to the late Captain John Parkhill, who was killed in the service of the State, has been procured by the voluntary subscription of his fellow-soldiers and citizens:

Resolved, That the same be erected in the Capitol Square, under the supervision of Major General G. W. Parkhill, at a point to be chosen by him;

Which, upon the rule being waived, was adopted by the House and the same ordered to be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Stewart moved that the House adjourn until to-morrow morning, 11 o'clock;

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Richardson, Stewart and Wells—20.

Nays—Messrs. Bowne, Canova, Dansby, Haddock, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates—16.

So the House stood adjourned until to-morrow morning, 11 o'clock.

 THURSDAY, January 17th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

On motion of Mr. Holloman, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

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

By Mr. Haddock:

A bill to be entitled an act to charter the Bank of Alachua, situated at the city of Fernandina; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to prevent persons from penning or detaining stock without the consent of the owners of Nassau co.

By Mr. Holloman:

A bill to be entitled an act for the protection of slave property.

The following bills were introduced in pursuance of previous notice, viz:

By Mr. Love:

A bill to be entitled an act to change and define the boundary line between the counties of Gadsden and Liberty; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to change the time of holding the Circuit Court of the Middle Circuit of Florida; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to change the Chancery practice in this State in reference to granting orders of publication, &c.

By Mr. Carter:

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate the compensation of pilots at the Port of St. Marks.

By Mr. Holland of Hernando:

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of the Florida Volunteers and others, who have not been paid for services actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians.

Which bills were received and placed among the orders of the day.

The rule being waived, the following bills were introduced without previous notice:

By Mr. Blount:

A bill to be entitled an act to enable rail-road companies to obtain the right of way.

By Mr. Robinson:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to incorporate the town of Marianna, approved January 8th, 1853.

By Mr. VanZant:

A bill to be entitled an act to legalize the acts of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Columbia county and for other purposes.

By Mr.—:

A bill to be entitled an act enlarging the time for making demands on rail-road companies and for other purposes.

Said bills were received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Richardson presented a memorial from sundry citizens of Volusia county for the relief of A. J. Baker, &c.;

Which was received, read and referred to the Committee on Propositions and Grievances, with instructions to report by bill or otherwise.

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, through Mr. Pooser, made the following report:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having before them a memorial or petition for the relief of Joseph F. Prevatt, Sheriff and Tax Collector of Levy county, and after having fully examined the case carefully, we mutually agree that the prayer of the petition should not be granted.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Also the following:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having before them a petition from John Townsend, Cornelias Seals and Elias J. Knight, bondsmen of Ezekiel L. Selph, Tax Collector and Assessor in Hernando county, praying to be relieved from an indebtedness, not stated, subject to said bond, we, the Committee, having weighed all the circumstances embracing the case, to the best of our knowledge, do hereby concur in our opinions that the prayer of the petition should not be granted.

J. H. POOSER, Chairman.

Also the following:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances have taken into consideration a petition for the relief of Enoch H. Anders and William M. Lang, for services rendered in Capt. R. D. Bradley's Company of Mounted Volunteers, beginning with the 22d of July and up the 23d of October, 1849, inclusive, and having carefully examined all the circumstances connected with the case, we are of the opinion that the prayer of the petition should not be granted.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Also the following:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having under consideration a petition for the relief of Hampton Kersey, who served under the command of Capt. E. T. Hendricks, as a mounted volunteer, in 1856 and 1857, and after having examined the case according to the best evidences before us, we do all agree that the petition ought not to be granted.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Also the following:

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, having before them a memorial for the relief of Davis Floyd of Clay county, security on the bond of Nathan H. Voght, Tax Collector and Assessor of Duval, praying to be relieved of an indebtedness of three thousand dollars, subject to said bond, we, the Committee, having carefully investigated the case before us, do hereby agree not to recommend the prayer of the petition.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

Which reports were received and read, and upon motion concurred in.

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

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

A bill to be entitled an act permanently to locate the County Site of Volusia county;

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

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

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

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties to borrow money to build a Court-House and Jail.

Respectfully submitted, D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

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

The following report was received from the Joint Committee of the Judiciary of the House and Senate:

The Joint Committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the acts creating liens in favor of builders, material men, mechanics, laborers and others, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to report the same back to the House with the following amendments, to-wit:

Strike out from the 13th and 14th lines of the first section, all after the word “labor” to the word “shall,” and insert the words “which notice upon being accepted in writing by the said owner, or proprietor, or his agent.”

Strike out from the 17th line of the same section, the words “of a copy.”

Strike out the entire 5th (fifth) section.

With these amendments the Committee recommend that the bill do pass.

D. H. MAYS, Chairman House Committee. GEO. W. CALL, Chairman Senate Committee.

Which was read.

The rule being waived, Mr. Love moved the adoption of the following additional Standing Rule of the House:

That all motions made during motion hour of intention to introduce bills, or concerning any bill, and all motions necessary to appear upon the journals during motion hour, or motions to waive the Rule, shall be reduced to writing by the mover and sent to the desk of the Clerk to be read by him, and it shall not be required of the Clerk to enter upon the minutes of the proceedings of the House any motion not so reduced to writing and sent to the desk of the Clerk as aforesaid.

Which was adopted.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER, January 16, 1861. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

A bill to be entitled an Act to change the name of Nepcy Williams to that of Nepcy Cheshire.

Very respectfully, B. F. PARKER, Secretary of Senate.

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

A Committee from the Senate, consisting of Messrs. McCall, Starke and Walker informed the House that the Senate will be ready at 1 o'clock, P. M., to go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller.

Mr. Means moved that at 10 o'clock to-day the House enter into an election of Comptroller and Attorney General, and that a Committee be appointed to wait upon the Senate and inform them of the same.

The rule upon vote, not being waived, said motion was not acted upon.

Mr. Love moved that the rule be waived, and he be allowed to introduce the following resolution:

Resolved, That the House inform the Senate that they will be ready to-day at one o'clock to go into election of Attorney General and Comptroller of Public Accounts for the State of Florida.

The rule upon vote, not being waived, said resolution was not acted upon.

Mr. Love moved that a Committee be appointed to wait on the Senate and inform them that the House would not concur to go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller at 1 o'clock, P. M.;

Which motion was agreed to.

Whereupon Messrs. Love, Coffee and Blount were appointed said Committee.

The Committee returned and reported that they had performed that duty, and were discharged.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

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

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

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

Was placed back on its second reading and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

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

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

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

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Finance and Public Accounts.

Senate resolution for the relief of L. I. Fleming,

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

A bill to be entitled an act to organize the county of Polk from the counties of Hillsborongh and Brevard;

Which on motion, was laid on the table.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the school laws of Columbia county,

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

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

Which on motion, was laid on the table.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Addison to construct a dam across the Ocklockonee river for the purpose of erecting a mill,

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

A bill to be entitled an act to declare Peas Creek a navigable stream,

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

A bill to be entitled an act to Incorporate the town of Campbellton in Jackson county;

Rule waived, read the first and second times by its title, and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Jacksonville Light Infantry of Jacksonville;

Rule waived, read the first time by its title, and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow,

Senate bill to be entitled an act to empower William H. Webster, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate and to contract and be contracted with;

Rule waived, read the first time by its title, and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Ozias Buddington,

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

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize William J. J. Duncan and Elizabeth Zipperer to establish a toll bridge across the Suwannee and Alapaha rivers;

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

A bill to be entitled an act to empower Wm. J. Tucker to assume the management of his own estate,

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

A bill to be entitled an act authorizing and directing the Secretary of State to furnish the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Columbia county with a seal of office,

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

Senate bill to be entitled an act to make Senean Brown, wife of Henry Brown, a free dealer;

Which, upon motion, was laid upon the table.

Senate bill to be entitled an act placing certain minor children under the guardianship and protection of the Probate Court,

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

Senate bill to be entitled an act to authorize the County Commissioners of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties to borrow money to build a Court House and Jail,

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Scott, Stewart, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates—35.

Nays—Messrs. Mays, Oliver, Russell and VanZant—4.

So said bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Winkinson and Yates—36.

Nays—Messrs. Holloman and Scott—2.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to permanently locate the county site of Volusia county,

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates—37.

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates—37.

Nay—Mr. Holloman—1

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the acts creating liens in favor of builders, material men, mechanics, laborers and others;

Was read a second time and the amendments proposed by the Joint Judiciary Committee adopted, and the bill ordered to be engrossed for a third reaning on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Nepcy Williams to Nepcy Cheshire;

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

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to regulate pilots and pilotage of the Bay of Pensacola;

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

Senate bill to be entitled an act in relation to the common school fund of Santa Rosa county;

Rule waived, read first time by its title and ordered for second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to fill vacancies in the offices of Justices of the Peace,

Was read the second time, and on motion was laid upon the table.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the road law and to repeal a certain act relating to Santa Rosa county therein named;

Rule waived, read first time by its title and ordered for a second reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to organize a new county to be called the county of Baker,

Was read the second time, and on motion was laid on the table.

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

Was read the second time, and on motion was laid on the table.

On motion of Mr. Carter, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning at 11 o'clock.

 FRIDAY, January 18, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Bird, the reading of the Journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with, after certain corrections were made therein.

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

By Mr. Carter:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of G. G. Holt and Thaddeus Rees, of Wakulla county.

By Mr. Holland of Hernando:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Spencer T. Thomas, of Hernando county.

By Mr. Hull:

A bill to be entitled an act to allow Lewis Clarke, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate.

By Mr. Holland of Hernando:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of John Townsend, Cornelius Seals and Elias J. Knight, bondsmen of Ezekiel L. Selph, Tax Collector of and Assessor for Hernando county.

In pursuance of previous notice, the following bills were introduced:

By Mr. Howell:

A bill to be entitled an act to permit Erasmus M. Thompson, of Hillsborough county, to practice law in the several counties in this State; also,

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William H. Fannin.

By Mr. Russell:

A bill to be entitled an act to encourage the citizens of this State in procuring arms and accoutrements, and for other purposes.

By Mr. Newburn:

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge of Probate and County Commissioners of New River county to draw and select the Grand Jurors from such persons as are qualified to serve as jurors.

By Mr. VanZant:

A bill to be entitled an act to empower William F. Williams to assume the management of his own estate.

Said bills were received and placed among the orders of the day.

The rule being waived, the following bills were introduced without previous notice:

By Mr. Williams:

A bill to be entitled an act to grant certain privileges to the Leon Artillery Company, and to provide an armory and accoutrements for the same.

By Mr. Love:

A bill to be entitled an act concerning the office of Clerk of the Supreme Courts of this State.

Said bills were received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that a bill to be entitled an act to organize the county of Polk from the counties of Hillsborough and Brevard; also, a bill to be entitled an act to organize a new county to be called the county of Baker, be taken from the table and placed among the orders of the day;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Blount moved, that the bill entitled an act to regulate the duties and liabilities of Railroad Companies be taken from the table and placed among the orders of the day;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Mays moved that leave of absence be granted to Messrs. Stewart of Hamilton, Hull of Columbia and Price of Columbia counties until Tuesday next 1 o'clock;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Hull moved that leave of absence from this House be granted to Mr. Love of Gadsden until 12 o'clock, Monday next;

Which was agreed to.

Mr. Bellamy offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That the House (with the consent of the Senate) will go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller of Public Accounts at half past 7 o'clock P. M. on Tuesday, January 22d inst.;

Upon which the yeas and nays were called for and were:

Yeas—Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Holloman, Hull, Lee, Love, Newburn, Parker, Price, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wells and Yates—23.

Nays—Messrs. Bowne, Canova, Clyatt, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Murphy, Oliver, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Vogt and Williams—19.

So the resolution was adopted.

On motion of Mr. Bird, a Committee was appointed to convey said resolution to the Senate and inform them of its adoption.

The Speaker appointed Messrs. Bird, Bellamy and Robinson said Committee.

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

Mr. Canova offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That the Comptroller of this State be and he is hereby requested to render statements to the General Assembly of the condition of the several Banks organized and in operation within this State under the act authorizing the same;

Which was adopted and the same ordered to be certified to the Senate.

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

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

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Addison to construct a dam across the Ocklockonee river for the purpose of erecting a mill;

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

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the School Laws of Columbia county;

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize William J. J. Duncan and Elizabeth Zipperer to establish a toll bridge across the Suwannee and Alapaha rivers;

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

Respectfully submitted, D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

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

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary of the House and Senate made the following report:

The Joint Committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to make Constables elective by the people, and the mode of taking bonds, &c., have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report the accompanying bill as a substitute for the bill referred to them, and recommend its passage.

All of which is respectfully submitted, D. H. MAYS, Chairman House Committee. GEO. W. CALL, Chairman Senate Committee.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to incorporate the Alachua Railroad Company, ask leave to return the said bill to the House and respectfully suggest its reference to the Committee on Corporations.

All of which is respectfully submitted, D. H. MAYS, Chairman House Committee. GEO. W. CALL, Chairman Senate Committee.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the Criminal law of the State, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to

REPORT:

That they recommend that the second section of said bill be struck out, and with this amendment that the bill be passed.

D. H. MAYS, Chairman House Committee. GEO. W. CALL, Chairman Senate Committee.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend an act, passed November 21st, 1829, section 3d, (Thompson's Digest, page 242,) fixing the compensation of Auctioneers, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to

REPORT:

That they do not think it advisable to make the changes in the law respecting Auctioneers which the bill contemplates, and therefore return the bill to the House and recommend that it do not pass.

All of which is respectfully submitted,

D. H. MAYS, Chairman House Committee. GEO. W. CALL, Chairman Senate Committee.

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

The Committee on Claims, through Mr. Hawes, made the following report:

The Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the memorial of John M. Irwin, Surveyor and Engineer, asking to be remunerated for a survey of the Ocklawaha River, in this State, having duly considered the same, beg leave to

REPORT:

That the services rendered in the said survey by the petitioner, and for which he asks remuneration, were at the time entirely unauthorized by the State or any of its officers, and consequently entitle him to no compensation from this Legislature. But it is due to the petitioner to state that, subsequently the Legislature of this State adopted a resolution, authorizing and requesting the Trustees of the Internal Improvement Fund to employ a competent Engineer to survey the said Ocklawaha river, and that the Governor, instead of incurring the expense of a new survey of that river, used the survey of the petitioner as the basis of his message to the Legislature on that subject. Your Committee, therefore, have deemed it best to present these facts to the House, and leave the whole matter to the sense of justice and liberality of the Legislature.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Which was received and read.

The Committee on Internal Improvements, through Mr. Canova, made the following report:

The Committee on Internal Improvements to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the Road laws, beg leave respectfully to report the same back to the House without amendment, and recommend its passage.

A. A. CANOVA, Chairman.

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

The Committee on Propositions and Grievances, through Mr. Pooser, made the following report:

We, the Committee on Propositions and Grievances, after having advisedly examined the claim of the petitioners of Volusia county, recommend that the above bill be put upon its passage.

JACOB H. POOSER, Chairman.

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

The following report was received from the Select Committee on the memorial from Liberty county:

The special committee, to whom was referred the petition of sundry citizens of Liberty county praying to change the boundary lines between the counties of Liberty and Gadsden, so as to include them in Gadsden county, have had the same under consideration and beg leave to

REPORT:

That they deem the prayer of the petitioners reasonable and just, and recommend that a bill be passed in accordance with the prayer of said petitioners.

All of which is respectfully submitted, S. B. LOVE, H. H. WELLS, A. OLIVER, J. Q. STEWART.

Mr. Campbell made the following minority report:

The undersigned being compelled to differ in opinion from the views expressed in the majority report of the Special Committee, appointed to take under consideration a petition from several citizens of Liberty County, praying that a change be made in boundary line, beg leave to

REPORT:

That several of the petitioners are not citizens of Liberty county, and several others who signed the petition signed a former petition to be cut off from Gadsden county, making the reasons assigned for signing the petition neither reasonable nor just, is of opinion that the petition should not be granted.

ARCH'D CAMPBELL.

Which were read.

The rule being waived, Mr. Williams offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That on and after Tuesday the 22nd inst., the daily sittings of this House shall be as follows: From 10½ A. M. to 1½ P. M., and from 3½ P. M. to 5½ P. M.;

Which, upon motion of Mr. Love, was laid upon the table until Tuesday next.

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER, January 17th, 1861. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR—I am instructed to return Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the pilot laws for the Port of Fernandina.

Very respectfully, B. F. PAKKER, Secretary of the Senate.

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

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER, January 17th, 1861. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

House bill to be entitled an act to establish the Records of Columbia county and for other purposes.

Very respectfully, B. F. PARKER, Secretary of Senate.

Which was read and the amendments proposed by the Senate adopted, and the bill with amendments ordered to be enrolled.

The Select Committee on the contested seat from Clay county made the following report:

The Select Committee to whom was referred the contested election case from the county of Clay, have had the same under consideration, and ask leave to

REPORT:

That from a full and careful examination of all the testimony adduced before them, they are of opinion that B. Frisbee, Esq., has been legally elected by a majority of two votes, and is therefore entitled to the seat in this House now held by Miles S. Murphy, Esq.

All of which is respectfull submitted, ALEX. C. BLOUNT, G. E. HAWES, A. S. COLE, D. H. MAYS, N. W. HOLLAND.

Which was received and read, and on motion to concur in the same, the yeas and nays were call for, and were:

Yeas—Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Parker, Vogt and Yates—20.

Nays—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Broxson, Canova, Clyatt, Dansby, Holland of Hernando, Hull, Lee, Love, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wells and Williams—20.

So the report was not concurred in.

Mr. Holland of Hernando offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That in the contested election from Clay county, the seat be declared vacant, and that the Judge of Probate of said county be required to order a new election to fill said vacancy.

Upon which the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Collins, Dansby, Holland of Hernando, Hull, Lee, Love, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Russell, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wells and Williams—23.

Nays—Messrs. Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Holloman, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Robinson, Vogt and Yates—17.

So the resolution was adopted, and the seat from Clay county declared vacant.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

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

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Clyatt, Collins, Cole, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Hull, Lee, McCormick, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Price, Richardson, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wells and Yates—27.

Nays—Messrs. Campbell, Carter, Mays, Means, Pooser, Robinson, Russell, Vogt and Williams—9.

So the bill passed, title as stated and ordered to be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize James Addison to construct a dam across the Ocklocknee river for the purpose of erecting a mill,

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Stewart, VanZant, Vogt and Williams—30.

Nays—Messrs. Campbell, Holloman, Love and Scott—4.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Scott, Stewart, VanZant, Wells and Yates—33.

Nay—Mr. Haddock—1.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Williams moved that the House adjourn until Monday, 12 o'clock, M.;

Upon which the yeas and nays being called for, the vote was:

Yeas—Messrs. Carter, Coffee, Cole, Holloman, Love, Mays, Means, Scott, Stewart, VanZant and Williams—11.

Nays—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Hull, Lee, McCormick, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Vogt, Wells and Yates—30.

So the motion was lost.

On motion of Mr. Haddock, the House adjourned until tomorrow morning, 10 o'clock.

 SATURDAY, January 19th, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

Upon motion of Mr. Bird, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with, after certain corrections were made therein.

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

By Mr. Haddock:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the road laws of Nassau county.

By Mr. Carter:

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of John Stevens.

Mr. Blount moved that the bill to be entitled an act to make Senean Brown, wife of Henry Brown, a free dealer, be taken from the table and placed among the orders of the day;

Which was agreed to.

In pursuance of previous notice the following bill was introduced:

By Mr. Carter:

A bill entitled an act for the relief of George G. Holt and Thaddeus Reece, of Wakulla county;

Which was read, and on motion placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that a Select Committee be appointed to report a bill to this House, providing for a uniform for the troops of Florida, and that the Senate be requested to appoint a Committee to act with the House Committee, as a Joint and Select Committee;

Which motion was adopted, and Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Coffee, Bird, Russell and Wells were appointed said Committee.

Mr. Pooser gave notice that he would, on some future day, ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to change the name of the Big Spring creek, in Jackson county, to Spring river, and make the same a navigable stream.

Mr. Coffee offered the following resolution:

Be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Florida in General Assembly convened, That the two bodies adjourn on Saturday, 26th instant;

Which was laid on the table.

Mr. Means offered the following resolution:

Be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Florida in General Assembly convened, That the Comptroller and Treasurer be, and they are hereby required to audit and to pay the account of B. Frisbee, late contestant for the seat of Clay county in this House, at the rate of per diem and mileage allowed the members of this House, up to the 18th day of January, 1861, and that M. S. Murphy be allowed the same pay for his services in this House up to same date.

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

Yeas—Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, VanZant, Vogt, Wilkinson and Yates—30.

Nays—None.

So the resolution passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Canova offered the following resolution:

Be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Florida in General Assembly convened, That the sum of two hundred and ten ($210) dollars be, and the same is hereby allowed to John M. Irwin, for services rendered in surveying the Ocklawaha river, and that the Comptroller of the State is authorized to draw his warrant on the Treasurer for said amount.

Which was read, and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

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

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill entitled an act to repeal an act authorizing a bridge tax in Walton county, beg leave to report that they have carefully considered said hill, and being convinced that no one can be injured thereby, respectfully recommend that the bill do pass.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola and Mobile Railroad and Manufacturing Company, have had the same under consideration, and ask leave to

REPORT:

That, upon an examination of the said bill, they perceive that it is intended to substitute the name of the “Pensacola and Mobile Railroad and Manufacturing Company” for that of the “Junction and Perdido Railroad Company,” a Company now in existence under the act of 1849, providing for the formation of associations for purposes of internal improvement, and which Company has now progressing and in operation a large portion of their works and have expended large sums of money upon the same under the franchises granted by said act. The Committee therefore recommend that the bill do pass, with the following amendment, to wit: Strike out of the 9th line of the 7th section the words “or of the United States.”

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

Also the following:

The Committee on Corporations to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Florida and Alabama Railroad Company in relation to the election of Directors, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to report the same back to the House with the recommendation that said bill do pass.

N. W. HOLLAND, Chairman.

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

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

The Committee on Elections, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the Election laws in force in this State, have had the same under consideration and

REPORT:

That they deem the amendment proposed by the bill a judicious one, and would ask leave to return the same to the House and recommend its passage.

P. B. BIRD, Chairman.

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

The Select Committee to whom was referred the memorial of sundry citizens of Escambia county made the following report:

The Committee to whom was referred the memorial of sundry citizens of Escambia county, praying that Saturne Rainey, and others, be exempt from the operation of the act of 1856, Chapters 794 and 795, have had the same under consideration and beg leave to

REPORT:

That it appears from the facts set forth in the memorial that most of the persons in whose favor this memorial has been presented, or their immediate ancestors, were inhabitants of the Territory of Florida at the time of its cession to the United States by the crown of Spain; that under the treaty of settlement and limits entered into between the United States and his Catholic Majisty, the King of Spain, and ratified by the U. States February 19th, 1821, it is provided in the sixth Article of the same that “The inhabitants of the territories which his Catholic Majisty cedes to the United States by this treaty, shall be incorporated in the Union of the United States as soon as may be consistent with the principles of the Federal Constitution, and admitted to the enjoyment of all the privileges, rights and immunities of the citizens of the United States.” This being a treaty stipulation solemnly entered into between the high contracting powers thereto, creating vested rights in these persons, sound policy as well as the obligations of justice, require that it should be inviolably carried out and performed, that no act should be done by this State, in her sovereign capacity, which would tarnish her honor, as nothing adds so much to the glory of a nation as the reputation of an inviolable fidelity in the performance of promises. We therefore recommend that the accompanying bill do pass, in accordance with the prayer of the memorialists.

ALEX. C. BLOUNT, D. A. VOGT, AVIN OLIVER.

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

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

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

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the town of Campbellton of Jackson county;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the acts creating liens in favor of builders, material men, mechanics, laborers and others.

Respectfully submitted, D. A. VOGT, Chairman.

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

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the School laws of Columbia, Suwannee, New River, Lafayette, Sumter and Nassau counties,

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

Yeas—Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Holloman, Lee, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, VanZant, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates—32.

Nays—None.

So said bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Engrossed bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the town of Campbellton in Jackson county,

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

Yeas—Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Holloman, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Vogt, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates—32.

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the time of holding the Circuit Courts of the Middle Judicial Circuit of Florida,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the Chancery practice in this State in reference to granting orders of publication, &c.,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act enlarging the time for making demands on Railroad Companies for stock killed or injured and for other purposes,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate the compensation of Pilots at the Port of St. Marks,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to enable Railroad Companies to obtain the right of way,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to incorporate the town of Marianna,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to legalize the acts of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Columbia county and for other purposes,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of T. C. Bolling, administrator of R. A. Child, deceased,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on Claims and Accounts.

A bill to be entitled an act to declare Peas Creek a navigable stream,

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

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Jacksonville Light Infantry of Jacksonville,

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

Senate resolution for the relief of L. I. Fleming,

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

Yeas—Messrs. Bellamy, Bird, Bissell, Blount, Canova, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Mays, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, VanZant, Vogt, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates—27.

Nay—Mr. Haddock—1.

So said resolution passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to empower William H. Webster, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate, and to contract and be contracted with,

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

A petition from sundry citizens of South Florida respecting the fisheries, was presented by the Speaker;

Which was read, and the petition with the accompanying bill referred to a Select Committee consisting of Messrs. Parker, Howell, Robinson, Canova, Bowne and Clyatt.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Ozias Buddington,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Claims and Accounts.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the pay of the Florida Volunteers and others who have not been paid for services actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians,

Was read the first time, and, on motion of Mr. Holland of Hernando, was read a second time by its title and referred to a Select Committee, consisting of Messrs. Blount, Parker and Lee.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the road law and to repeal a certain act relating to Santa Rosa county therein named,

Was read a second time and referred to the Committee on Internal Improvements.

On motion of Mr. Canova, the rules were waived and a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the German Savings and Building Association,

Was taken up and the bill read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act declaring who shall be held and considered as orphans,

Was read a second time and ordered for a third reading on Monday.

Senate bill to be entitled an act in relation to the common school fund of Santa Rosa county,

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

A bill to be entitled an act concerning the office of the Clerk of the Supreme Court of this State,

Was read the first and second time by its title, the rule being waived, and referred to the Joint Committee on the Judiciary.

On motion, the rules were waived, and

A bill to be entitled an act to grant certain privileges to the Leon Artillery, and to provide an armory and accoutrements for the same,

Was read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on Militia.

A bill to be entitled an act to reorganize the county of Brevard, and for other purposes,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

Senate bill entitled an act to amend an act regulating pilots and pilotage of the bay of Pensacola,

Was read a second time, when

Mr. Blount offered an amendment to strike out the 7th section of the bill;

Which was adopted, and the bill ordered for a third reading on Monday.

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Jacksonville Light Infantry of Jacksonville,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Militia.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act passed Nov. 21st, 1829, Sec. 3, (Thompson's Digest, page 242,) fixing the compensation of Auctioneers,

Was read the second time, and on motion of Mr. Holloman, was indefinitely postponed.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize the Judge of Probate and County Commissioners of New River county to draw and select the grand jurors from such persons as are qualified to serve as jurors,

Was read the first time and ordered for a second reading on Monday.

On motion of Mr. Williams, the rule was waived, and Messrs. Holland of Franklin and Coffee were added to the Committee on Militia.

A bill to be entitled an act to charter the Southern Export and Import Company,

Was read the second time, and on motion, the House went into Committee of the Whole on said bill, Mr. Holland of Franklin in the Chair.

After some time spent therein, the Committee rose and reported the bill back to the House as amended and recommended its passage;

Which amendments were concurred in by the House, and the bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on Monday.

On motion of Mr. Bird, the House adjourned until Monday next, 12 o'clock M.

 MONDAY, January 21st, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Mickler, the reading of the proceedings of Saturday was dispensed with.

The following bills were introduced without previous notice, viz:

By Mr. Blount:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to organize the Supreme Court of this State.

By Mr. Pooser:

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Big Spring Creek in Jackson county to Spring River, and make the same a navigable stream.

By Mr. Holland of Franklin:

A bill to be entitled an act respecting the sale of wines and spiritous liquors to slaves or free persons of color in the city of Apalachicola;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Clinton Thigpen;

A bill to be entitled an act to incorporate an Insurance Company in the city of Apalachicola, to be called the Florida Home Insurance Company; also,

A bill to be entitled an act regulating the admission of Attorneys and Counsellors at Law in the Courts of the State of Florida;

Which bills were receibed and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following resolution:

Resolved,The a Joint and Select Committee of three members be appointed by the House to act with a like Committee from the Senate to report a bill providing for Finances for this State; and that said Committee be instructed to invite gentlemen of financial abilities to appear before said Committee and confer with them for the best interest of the State; and the Treasurer and Comptroller are requested to furnish said Joint Committee with any information which they may require;

Which was adopted, and a Committee consisting of Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Robinson and Howell were appointed to inform the Senate of its adoption.

Mr. Blount, from a Select Committee, made the following report:

The Select Committee, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of the Florida Volunteers and others who have not been paid for service actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians, have had the same under consideration and ask leave to

REPORT:

That they recommend that the entire fifth section be stricken from the said bill and the following be substituted therefor, to-wit:

SEC. 5. Be it further enacted, That there shall be made before the Judge of Probate satisfactory proof that the person or persons applying for the benefit of this act has or have actually rendered the service of the kind and for the time specified; to which the said Judge of Probate is required to certify the same, and to affix the proper seal of his office; upon the production of which certificate the Comptroller shall issue his warrants or script as aforesaid.

With this amendment the committee recommend that the bill do pass.

All of which is most respectfully submitted.

ALEX. C. BLOUNT, JOHN PARKER, JOSIAH A. LEE.

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

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to allow A. J. Baker, of the county of Volusia, to practice medicine in said county,

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

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Saturne Remerez and others, inhabitants of the county of Escambia,

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

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the rule be waived to allow him to introduce a bill to be entitled an act requiring the Judges of the Supreme Court to hold a term of said Court at Pensacola;

Which was agreed to, and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act to aid the citizens of this State in procuring arms and accoutrements, and for other purposes,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on Militia.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William H. Fannin,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on Claims.

A bill to be entitled an act to authorize Erasmus M. Thompson, of Hillsborough county, to practice law in the several courts of this State,

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

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER, January 18th, 1861. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

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

A bill to be entitled an act to facilitate the Express business;

A bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Thomas Jefferson Danford to Thomas Jefferson Cook and for other purposes; and

A bill to be entitled an act to alter the majority of women.

Very Respectfully, B. F. PARKER, Secretary of Senate.

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

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend the pilot laws of the port of Fernandina,

Was read the first time, rule waived, read a second time by its title, and on motion, referred to a Select Committee consisting of Messrs. Haddock, Blount and Love.

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

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

A bill to be entitled an act to charter the Southern Export and Import Company.

Respectfully submitted, WM. H. SCOTT, Chairman.

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

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that the rules be waived in order that he, according to previous notice, be allowed to introduce

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Spencer T. Thomas of Hernando county;

Which was agreed to, and the bill introduced and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Williams moved that the rules be waived and he be allow-to introduce

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Maria de los Dolores Justiniani and Maria Isabel Justiniani;

Which was agreed to, and the bill introduced and placed among the orders of the day.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of George G. Holt and Thaddeus Reece, of Wakulla county;

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

Senate bill to be entitled an act to make Senean Brown, wife of Henry Brown, a free dealer;

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Love, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates—18.

Nays—Messrs. Bird, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Mays, Means, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott and Williams—14.

So said bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Holland of Hernando moved that the rule be waived, and that a bill to be entitled an act to incorporate the Pensacola and Mobile Rail Road and Manufacturing Company be read a second and third time by its title and put upon its passage;

Which was agreed to, and said bill taken up, read a first and second time, and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson aud Yates—29.

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Mays, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Wells, Wilkinson and Yates—26.

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Alabama and Florida Railroad Company in relation to the election of Directors,

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

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

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

A bill to be entitled an act authorizing and directing the Secretary of State to furnish the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Columbia county with a seal of office,

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Lee, Love, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates—27.

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the Road Laws, &c.;

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

A bill to be entitled an act act to incorporate the Town of Campbellton of Jackson County;

Rules waived, read a third time by its title and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, McKinnon, Means, Murphy, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates—27.

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act creating liens in favor of builders, material-men, mechanics, laborers, and others;

Rules waived, read the third time and put upon its passage, upon which the vote was:

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Campbell, Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Mays, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates—27.

Nay—Mr. Haddock—1.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

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

The following message was received from the Senate:

SENATE CHAMBER, January 21st, 1861. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR—The Senate has passed the following resolution, viz: Resolution for the relief of B. Frisbee and M. S. Murphy.

Very respectfully, B. F. PARKER, Secretary of the Senate.

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

Senate bill to be entitled an act to empower William H. Webster, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate and to contract and be contracted with,

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

Yeas—Messrs. Bowne, Broxson, Hawes, Love, Parker and Wilkinson—6.

Nays—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Coffee, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Wells, Williams and Yates—20.

So the bill was lost.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to change the Chancery practice in this State in reference to granting orders of publication, &c.,

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

A bill to be entitled an act enlarging the time for making demands on railroad companies for stock killed and injured and for other purposes,

Was read the second time and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

Senate bill to be entitled an act declaring who shall be held and considered as orphans,

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates—31.

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to reorganize the county of Brevard, and for other purposes,

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates—29.

Nays—None.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to amend an act regulating Pilots and Pilotage in the port of Pensacola,

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Canova, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Mays, McCormick, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Richardson, Russell, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates—28.

Nay—Mr. Love—1.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to provide for the payment of the Florida Volunteers and others who have not been paid for services actually rendered the State of Florida in the last war with the Seminole Indians,

Was read the second time and the amendment proposed there-to by the Select Committee adopted, and said bill as amended ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to change the name of Thomas J. Danford to Thomas Jefferson Cook, and for other purposes,

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

A bill to be entitled an act to change the time of holding the Circuit Courts of the Middle Circuit of Florida,

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

A bill to be entitled an act to regulate the compensation of Pilots at the Port of St. Marks,

Was read the first time, and referred to the same Select Committee to which a bill to be entitled an act regulating Pilots and Pilotage at the Port of Fernandina was referred.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act to incorporate the Town of Marianna, approved Jan. 8th, 1853;

Rule waived, read a second time by its title, and referred to the Committee on Corporations.

A bill to be entitled an act to enable Railroad Companies to obtain the right of way,

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

A bill to be entitled an act requiring the Judges of the Supreme Court to hold a term of said Court at Pensacola;

Rule waived, read the first and second times by its title, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Senate bill to be entitled an act to alter the majority of women,

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

Senate bill to be entitled an act to facilitate the express business,

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

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Maria los Dolores Justiniani and Maria Isabel Justiniana,

Was read the first and second times by its title, and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to organize the Supreme Court of this State,

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

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Spencer T. Thomas of Hernando county;

Rules waived, read the first and second times by its title and referred to the Committee on Claims.

The following communication was received from the Comptroller:

Resolved, That the Comptroller of this State be and he is hereby requested to render statements to the General Assembly of the condition of the several Banks organized and in operation within this State under the act authorizing the same.

COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE, TALLAHASSEE, Jan 21st, 1861. HON. JOHN B. GALBRAITH, Speaker of the House of Representatives:

SIR: I have the honor herewith to transmit to the House of Representatives a statement of the Banks in this State, in accordance with the above resolution.

Respectfully, R. C. WILLIAMS, Comptroller. STATEMENT By the BANK OF ST. JOHNS, Jacksonville, Fla., January 1st, 1861, made in accordance with chapter 480, sections 26 and 27 of the Laws of Florida. First—Capital stock certified, am't, . . . . . $125,000 00 Second—Value of real estate, . . . . . None. Third—Shares of stock held, . . . . . None. Fourth—Debts owing association, am'ts specified, . . . . . $84,671 61 12,468 40 97,140 01 Fifth—Debts owing by the association, amounts specified, . . . . . 46,258 29 6 50 46,264 79 Sixth—Debts not acknowledged, . . . . . None. Seventh—Amount bound for security, . . . . . None. Eighth—Amount of notes and circulation, and of loans and discounts, and amount of specie on hand: Circulation, . . . . . 51,150 00 Loans and discount, . . . . . 84,671 61 Specie, . . . . . 15,021 24 Ninth—Amount July 1st, 1860, as specified: Circulation, . . . . . 58,230 00 Specie, . . . . . 4,951 73 Bills of other Banks, . . . . . 3,401 00 Due from other Banks, . . . . . 16,566 67 Loans and discounts, . . . . . 88,321 77 Tenth—Amount of loss, . . . . . None. Eleventh—Description of public securities deposited with Comptroller as security for notes issued, par value: Columbia county bonds, 8 per cent, . . . . . 73,550 00 City of Jacksonville bonds, 8 per cent., . . . . . 21,450 00 F. A. & G. C. Railroad 1st mortgage bonds, 7 per cent., . . . . . 30,000 00 125,000 00

Coupons paid to stockholders direct.

Signed, A. M. REED, President. Signed, J. H. H. BOURS, Cash'r. JACKSONVILLE, E. FLA., Jan'y 1st, 1861.

Sworn to and subscribed before me this first day of January, A. D. 1861.

Signed, I. P. BOUSE, Notary Public. COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE, Jan'y 19th, 1861.

I do hereby certify, that the foregoing is a true and correct copy from the original on file in the Comptroller's office.

R. C. WILLIAMS, Compt'r. (COPY.) ANNUAL STATEMENT Of the STATE BANK OF FLORIDA, made in conformity with Act of Legislature, viz: “An Act to authorize the Business of Banking,” sections 26 and 27 of said Act. First—Amount of capital stock, . . . . . $300,000 00 Second—Value of real estate owned by Bank, . . . . . None. Third—Shares of stock held as collateral, . . . . . None. Fourth—Amount of debts due to the Bank, viz: From Banks—Bank of America, . . . . . 2,087 75 Bank of Commerce, . . . . . 6,431 75 Bank of Charleston, . . . . . 163 14 Bank of Middle Georgia, . . . . . 6,072 13 From notes and bills of exchange, . . . . . 457,849 94 Fifth—Amount of debts owing by the Bank, viz: On demand—Importers and Traders Bank, . . . . . 29,712 18 Depositors and others, . . . . . 71,560 96 Capital stock and profits on hand, . . . . . 338,175 74 Sixth—Amount of claims against the Bank not acknowledged, . . . . . None. Seventh—Amount for which the Bank is bound as surety, . . . . . None. Eighth—Amount of notes in circulation, . . . . . 85,265 00 Amount of loans and discounts, . . . . . 457,849 94 Amount of specie on hand, . . . . . 29,050 90 Ninth—Amount of circulation July 1st, 1860, . . . . . 86,350 00 Am't loans and discounts July 1st, 1860, . . . . . 425,392 93 Am't specie July 1st, 1860, . . . . . 32,481 44 Tenth—Am't of losses, . . . . . None. Am't dividends paid since Jan'y 1, 1860, . . . . . 20,000 00 Eleventh—Am't of bonds, public stocks deposited with Comptroller, viz: Jefferson county bonds, . . . . . 60,950 00 Madison county bonds, . . . . . 14,300 00 Leon county bonds, . . . . . 12,600 00 Pensacola & Georgia Railroad bonds, . . . . . 58,200 00 Tallahassee Railroad bonds, . . . . . 76,700 00 Interest on all of above bonds paid as due. The estimated value of the above bonds is, . . . . . 185,000 00 (E. & O. E.) Signed, WM. BAILEY, President. W. R. PETTES, Cash'r. TALLAHASSEE, January 1st, 1861.

Sworn to and subscribed before me this 19th day of January, 1861.

ANDREW J. HUDSON, Notary Public.

I do hereby certify that the within is a true copy from the original on file in the Comptroller's office this 19th day of January, A. D. 1861.

R. C. WILLIAMS, Comptroller.

Bank of Fernandina.—No Report.

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

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that a Select Committee of one member from each sea port town and city in this State be appointed, to report a bill to this House regulating the duties and appointments of pilots, and a form of oath to be taken by pilots.

Which motion was agreed to.

Mr. Haddock moved that all bills relating to Pilotage be placed in the hands of the Committee to be appointed by the Speaker in pursuance of Mr. Holland's motion;

Which was agreed to and the reference ordered to be made.

On motion of Mr. Means, the House adjourned until to-morrow morning, 11 o'clock.

 TUESDAY, January 22, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Bird, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

On motion of Mr. Love, Mr. Holland of Hernando was excused from further attendance on the House until Wednesday, 30th inst.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the rule be waived, and he be allowed to introduce the following bills without previous notice, and that said bills be made the special order of the day:

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to improve the navigation of the Harbor and Bay of Apalachicola; also,

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the tax laws of this State;

Which motion was agreed to, and said bills received and placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Clyatt moved that the rules be waived and he be allowed to introduce without previous notice a bill to be entitled an act to locate the county site of Levy county;

Which was agreed to, and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Coffee moved that the resolution for the relief of B. F. Whitner be taken up and placed first among the orders of the day, after the bills just introduced and made the special order by Mr. Holland of Franklin;

Which was agreed to, and said resolution placed among the orders of the day.

A Committee from the Senate consisting of Messrs. Call, McQueen and Bowers waited upon the House and informed them that the Senate had concurred in the House resolution to go into the election of Attorney General and Comptroller of Public Accounts with the amendment of the 23d inst., at 12 o'clock, M., instead of the 22d inst., at 7 o'clock, P. M.

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary of the House and Senate made the following report:

The Joint Committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act to amend the pleading and practice in the Courts of this State, have had the same under consideration and have instructed me to report:

That they recommend the bill be amended by striking out the fortieth section, and with this amendment that the bill be passed.

All of which is respectfully submitted, D. H. MAYS, Chairman House Committee. GEO. W. CALL, Chairman Senate Committee.

Also the following:

The Joint Committee of the Judiciary to whom was referred the petition of his Honor, B. A. Putnam, Judge of the Circuit Court of the East Judicial Circuit of this State, soliciting the General Assembly that he be allowed pay for extra judicial services which he has performed in the Supreme Court of this State, required of him by law, which has been allowed to other Circuit Judges of this State for similar services, having had the same under consideration, instruct us to

REPORT:

That there remains no doubt of the services set out in said petition having been faithfully performed by the petitioner; that by reference to chapter 995, No. 137, of the published acts of the General Assembly of 1858-'59, it appears that $600 was allowed to his Honor, J. J. Finley, for extra services in holding Courts; and by reference to chapter 1093, No. 88, of the published acts of the General Assembly of 1859-'60, it will appear further that $400 was allowed to his Honor J. W. Baker and $400 to his Honor Thomas F. King, for extra judicial services in the Supreme Court, and as the petitioner only asks that the same ($400) be allowed to him for his said extra services, we can see no good reason why the petitioner's request should not be granted. We therefore recommend that four hundred dollars be allowed to Judge B. A. Putnam for extra judicial services in the Supreme Court performed by him, and that the same be provided for in the act which the present General Assembly shall pass, making appropriations for the expenses of the State Government for the fiscal year 1860-'61.

D. H. MAYS, Chairman House Committee. GEO. W. CALL, Chairman Senate Committee.

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

The Committee on Schools and Colleges, through Mr. Hawes, made the following report:

The Committee on Schools and Colleges, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act in relation to the common school fund in Santa Rosa county, beg leave to report that they have duly considered the same and recommend its passage.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

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

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the tax laws of this State, Was taken up.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin, the rules were waived and the bill read the second and third times by its title, and the House went into Committee of the Whole for its consideration, Mr. Hawes in the Chair.

After some time spent therein, the Committee rose and through their Chairman reported the bill back to the House as amended and recommended its passage.

The amendment proposed by the Committee of the Whole was concurred in by the House.

On motion of Mr. Love, said bill was referred to the Joint and Select Committee of the House and Senate on Finance and Public Accounts to be appointed;

Which was agreed to.

The Speaker appointed on said Joint Finance Committee on the part of the House, Messrs. Love, Mays, Blount, Pooser and Bowne.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend an act entitled an act to improve the navigation of the harbor and bay of Apalachicola;

Came up.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin the rule was waived, and the bill read the second and third times by its title, and the House went into Committee of the Whole for its consideration—Mr. Canova in the Chair.

After some time spent therein the committee rose and through their chairman reported the bill back to the House as amended, and recommended its passage.

The amendment of the Committee of the Whole was concurred in by the House.

Mr. Love moved that said bill be referred to the Committee on Internal Improvements;

Upon which motion the yeas and nays were called for and were:

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Clyatt, Coffee, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Howell, Love, Mays, Means, Price, Robinson, Wells, Williams and Yates—20.

Nays—Messrs. Holland of Franklin, Mickler, Newburn, Pooser, Russell and Wilkinson—6.

So the motion was carried and said reference made.

The Speaker announced as the Committee on Pilotage, appointed in pursuance of a resolution adopted on yesterday, Messrs. Blount, Holland of Franklin, Canova, Haddock, Clyatt, Carter, Bowne, Howell, Bissell and Yates.

Mr. Blount moved that the rule be waived and he be allowed to make the following motion:

That the rules of this House be so amended as to authorize the Speaker to appoint a standing committee to be entitled the Committee of Ways and Means, and also a committee to be entitled the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Which was agreed to and said motion adopted.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Franklin the rule was waived and he was allowed to introduce the following bills:

A bill to be entitled an act to aid the civil authorities of corporate towns; also,

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

Which bills were placed among the orders of the day.

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

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

A bill to be entitled an act to allow A. J. Baker of the county Volusia to practice medicine in said county;

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Alabama and Florida Railroad Company in relation to election of Directors;

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

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Maria de los Doloes Justiniani and Maria Isabel Justiniani;

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Satrene Remerez, and others, inhabitants of the County of Esbambia.

Respectfully submitted, W. H. SCOTT.

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

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

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

The rules being waived, Mr. Holland of Franklin was allowed to introduce

A bill to be entitled an act governing vessels propelled in whole or in part by steam in this State;

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

Mr. Blount moved that the rule be waived and that the bill to be entitled an act to amend the Pleading and Practice in the Courts in this State be now taken up;

Which was agreed to and said bill taken up and read the second time, and the amendment proposed by the Joint select Committee adopted.

Mr. Holland of Franklin offered the following amendment:

SECTION 78. Be it further enacted, That this act shall not take effect until the first Monday of January, A. D. 1862.

Which was adopted and the bill ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on to-morrow.

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

Was placed back upon its second reading and referred to the Committee on Elections.

Mr. Holland of Franklin moved that the rule be waived, and that the vote on the Senate bill to be entitled at act to empower William H. Webster, a minor, to assume the management of his own estate, and contract and be contracted with be reconsidered;

Which was lost.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Maria de los Dolores Justiniana and Maria Isabel Justiniana,

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

Yeas—Messrs. Blount, Canova, Coffee, Dansby, Hawes, Hull, Lee, Love, Mickler, Newburn, Richardson, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates—14.

Nays—Messrs. Bird, Campbell, Carter, Collins, Mays, Means, Parker, Pooser, Robinson, Russell and Wells—11.

So said bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Satrene Remerez and others, inhabitants of the county of Escambia,

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Canova, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Hull, Love, Oliver, Price, Russell, Scott and Wilkinson—14.

Nays—Messrs. Bird, Bowne, Campbell, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Howell, Mays, McCormick, Means, Parker, Pooser, Robinson, Wells, Williams and Yates—16.

So the bill was lost.

A bill to be entitled an act to amend the charter of the Alabama and Florida Railroad Company in relation to election of Directors,

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Holland of Franklin, Howell, Hull, Love, Mays, McCormick, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott, Wells, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates—33.

Nays—None.

So said bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

Mr. Parker moved that the House adjourn until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock;

Upon which the yeas and nays were called and were:

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Campbell, Carter, Clyatt, Coffee, Collins, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Lee, Mays, Means, Newburn, Oliver, Parker, Richardson, Scott, Williams, Wilkinson and Yates—23.

Nays—Messrs. Canova, Dansby, Haddock, Howell, Hull, Love, McCormick, Pooser, Price, Robinson, Russell and Wells—12.

So the House stood adjourned until to-morrow, 10 o'clock.

 WEDNESDAY, January 23d, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

Mr. Holland of Hernando arose from his seat and announced to the House, in a few appropriate and affecting remarks, the decease of Dr. BENJAMIN. W. SAXON, a delegate from the county of Hernando to the late State Convention, and one of the signers of the Ordinance of Secession. He spoke of the virtues of the deceased, his ardent and long devotion to the cause of Southern Independence and Southern Rights, and his connection with the public service in the States of South Carolina, of which he was a native, Alabama, and last in Florida. Though feeble in health and scarcely able to attend the daily sitting of the Convention, he was always found at his post, and it was to be feared that the love of his adopted State and desire to serve her may have carried him beyond the bounds of prudence and contributed to bring on his much to be lamented and untimely end.

Mr. Holland, on the conclusion of his remarks, offered the following resolution:

Resolved, That in respect to the memory of the late Dr. SAXON, a delegate to the State Convention from the county of Hernando, and one of the signers of the Ordinance of Secession, who departed this life in this City, on yesterday at 4 o'clock, P. M., that this House do now adjourn to meet again in this Hall at half-past three o'clock, when they will attend the burial obsequies of the deceased in a body; and that the members of this House wear a badge of mourning for thirty days;

Which was unanimously adopted.

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

 THURSDAY, January 24, 1861.

The House met pursuant to adjournment—a quorum present.

The Rev. Mr. Ellis officiated as Chaplain.

On motion of Mr. Holland of Hernando, the reading of the journal of yesterday's proceedings was dispensed with.

Mr. Campbell moved the reconsideration of the vote upon a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of Satrene Remerez and others, inhabitants of Escambia, taken in this House on Tuesday, the 22d inst.;

Which was agreed to, and said bill placed among the orders of the day.

Mr. Wilkinson gave notice that at some future day he would ask leave to introduce a bill to be entitled an act to clean out and improve the navigation of Yellow river, in West Florida.

The Speaker announced the following additional Standing Committees:

Committee on Ways and Means—Messrs. Blount, Russell, Bowne, Mays and Means.

Committee on Foreign Relations—Messrs. Pooser, Canova, Bird, Cole and Lee.

Mr. Love, in pursuance of previous notice, introduced a bill to be entitled an act to amend attachment laws now in force in this State;

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

Mr. Canova offered the following resolution:

Be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Florida in General Assembly convened, That his Excellency the Governor be and he is hereby solicited to transmit to both Houses of the General Assembly any statement or return of the Bank of Fernandina which may be on file in his Department, as prescribed by the act incorporating said Bank, approved January 15, 1859.

Which was adopted.

The Committee on Claims, through Mr. Hawes, made the following report:

The Committee on Claims, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of S. C. Bolling, administrator of the estate of R. A. Childs, deceased, having had the same under consideration, ask leave to

REPORT:

That evidence having been laid before the Committee to show that the said S. C. Bolling paid the taxes upon certain property belonging to the estate of R. A. Childs, deceased, through ignorance of the fact that the deceased had already paid the taxes upon the said property previous to his death, your Committee deem it an act of justice to refund the money thus erroneously paid into the Treasury, and therefore recommend that the bill do pass.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

Also the following:

The Committee on Claims and Accounts, to whom was referred a bill to be entitled an act for the relief of William H. Fannin, having duly considered the same, ask leave to report:

That the object of the bill is simply to authorize the issue of a duplicate of scrip that has been lost, and there being ample provision in the bill to guard the State from loss, the Committee respectfully recommend the passage of the bill.

G. E. HAWES, Chairman.

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

The Special Committee reported the following:

The Special Committee to whom was referred a petition from the citizens of Hillsboro and Manitee counties, relative to protection of the fisheries on the coast of this State, beg leave respectfully to report the accompanying bill, and recommend the passage of the same.

JOHN PARKER, Chairman. JOSEPH HOWELL, A. A. CANOVA, JAS. L. ROBINSON.

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

The rules being waived, Mr. Holland of Hernando presented a petition from Spencer T. Thomas of Hernando county;

Which was received and read, and on motion referred to Committee on Claims.

ORDERS OF THE DAY.

A bill to be entitled an act to allow A. J. Baker, of the county of Volusia, to practice medicine in said county,

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Blount, Bowne, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Dansby, Hawes, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee, Love, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Parker, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Russell, Stewart, Wilkinson and Yates—30.

Nays—Messrs. Haddock, Hull, Robinson and Wells—4.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

A bill to be entitled an act to charter the Southern Export and Import Company,

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

Yeas—Mr. Speaker, Messrs. Blount, Broxson, Canova, Campbell, Carter, Coffee, Collins, Cole, Dansby, Haddock, Hawes, Hull, Love, Mays, McCormick, McKinnon, Means, Mickler, Newburn, Oliver, Pooser, Price, Richardson, Robinson, Russell, Scott and Wilkinson—28.

Nays—Messrs. Bird, Bissell, Bowne, Holland of Hernando, Howell, Lee and Yates—7.

So the bill passed—title as stated.

Ordered that the same be certified to the Senate.

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

The Committee on Engrossed Bills repo