Library of Congress Subject Headings, 21st edition, 1998

Languages Used:

• English

LC Subject Headings:

• Legislation -- Virginia.
• Legislative journals -- Virginia.
• Virginia -- Politics and government -- 1861-1865.
• Virginia -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 -- Law and legislation.

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JOURNAL
OF THE
HOUSE OF DELEGATES
OF THE
STATE OF VIRGINIA,
FOR THE
CALLED SESSION OF 1862.

RICHMOND:
WILLIAM F. RITCHIE, PUBLIC PRINTER.
1862.

JOURNAL.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 1862.

        The SPEAKER called the house to order at 12 o'clock M.

        Prayer by Rev. Mr. Solomon of the Baptist church.

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

BY THE GOVERNOR OF VIRGINIA--A PROCLAMATION.

        Whereas it is represented by many citizens of this state, that it is impossible to obtain supplies of the necessary article of salt, except at fabulous prices, and even then not in sufficient quantities to supply the demand; and a portion of the salt works of this commonwealth, from which a large quantity of salt was derived, being in the possession of the public enemy, and the remaining works being owned by private persons, and carried on by private enterprise, are insufficient to furnish the amount necessary for the consumption of our own people, and yet a large proportion of the annual product of the works is continually exported into the neighboring states:

        And whereas the importation of foreign salt has been prevented by the blockade of our ports, and it is not probable that the demand can be supplied from that source; and the season is rapidly advancing when it will be necessary to salt up meats for the ensuing year, to provide our armies and people with suitable provisions; and the legislature having made no appropriation of money to purchase or to manufacture this essential article, or to provide a remedy:

        Therefore, by virtue of authority vested in the executive by the constitution, I, John Letcher, governor of the commonwealth of Virginia, do hereby convene the general assembly, to take the subject into consideration, and to legislate further for the interest of the commonwealth, as they may deem proper, hereby proclaiming to the senators and delegates of the general assembly, that they are required to assemble at the capitol in the city of Richmond, on the fifteenth day of September next, at 12 o'clock.

        [SEAL.] Given under my hand as governor, and under the seal of the commonwealth, at Richmond, this 19th day of August in the year 1862, and in the 87th year of the commonwealth.

JOHN LETCHER.

By the governor:

GEORGE W. MUNFORD,
Secretary of the Commonwealth.

        WILLIAM AMBERS, a delegate elected from the county of Chesterfield, to supply a vacancy created by the resignation of CHARLES T. FRIEND; HENRY L. HOPKINS, a delegate elected from the city of Petersburg, to supply a vacancy created by the resignation of CHAS. F. COLLIER; R. F. TAYLOR, a delegate elected from the election district composed of the counties of Amelia and Nottoway, to supply a vacancy created by the resignation of RICHARD IRBY--severally appeared, were qualified, and took their seats.

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

        Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, Baker, Baskervill, Blue, Bouldin, Carter, Clarke, R. J. Davis, Eggleston, Fleming, Fletcher, Flood, Garrison, Gatewood, George, H. L. Hopkins, Hunter, James, Jones, Jordan, Kyle, Laidley, Lively, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, Mathews, McCamant, R. E. Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Pitman, Prince, Richardson, Riddick, Rives, Robertson, Rowan, Rutherfoord, Shannon, Sherrard, Spady, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thrash, Tomlin, Tredway, Walker, Williams, S. Wilson, Woolfolk, Wootten, Worsham and Wynne.

        No quorum appearing, on motion of Mr. JONES, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 12 o'clock.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 1862.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Doggett of the Methodist church.

        S. A. COFFMAN, a delegate elected from the county of Rockingham, to supply a vacancy created by the resignation of JOHN C. WOODSON, appeared, was qualified, and took his seat.

        The roll was then called, when the following members answered to their names:

        Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, F. T. Anderson, Baker, Barbour, Baskervill, Blue, Bouldin, Brooks, Buford, Carter, Clarke, Coffman, Coleman, R. J. Davis, Edmunds, Evans, Ewing, Fleming, Flood, Franklin, Garrison, Gatewood, George, Gilmer, J. H. Hopkins, H. L. Hopkins, Hunter, James, Jones, Jordan, Kyle, Laidley, Lively, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, Mathews, McCamant, Minor, Murdaugh, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Pitman, Prince, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Rives, Robertson, Rowan, Rutherfoord, Shannon, Sherrard, Spady, Staples, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thrash, Tomlin, Tredway, Tyler, Vaiden, Vermillion, Walker, West, Williams, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woolfolk, Wootten, Worsham and Wynne.

        A quorum appearing,

        On motion of Mr. MCCAMANT,

        Resolved, that a committee be appointed to inform the governor that this house has convened in pursuance of his proclamation of the 19th ultimo, and a quorum being now present, is ready to receive any communication he may have to submit.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee: Messrs. McCamant, Mallory and Gilmer.

        Subsequently, Mr. MCCAMANT, from the committee, reported that the committee had discharged the duty assigned them, and that the governor would communicate a message to the house immediately.

        The governor's message was then received, read, and on motion of Mr. RIVES, laid on the table and ordered to be printed.

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

        On motion of Mr. TOMLIN, leave of absence was granted to H. T. BURRUSS, the sergeant at arms, during the illness of his family.

        Mr. WOOLFOLK submitted the following resolution:

        Resolved, that a special committee be appointed to enquire into the manner in which Messrs. Stuart, Buchanan & Co. of the Smyth and Washington counties salt works, have complied with their county and corporation contracts for furnishing salt; also, how far they have complied with their professions about allowing their salt to go into the hands of speculators, instead of being used to comply with their contracts: that the said committee be authorized to send for persons and papers, to be examined by them in making the said examination.

        Mr. BASKERVILL moved to amend the resolution, by striking out the entire resolution, and inserting the following:

        "Resolved, that so much of the governor's message as relates to the procuring an adequate supply of salt for the people of this commonwealth, be referred to a joint committee of the two houses, to consist of members on the part of the senate, and members on the part of the house."

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

        The question recurring on agreeing to the resolution, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. MALLORY submitted the following preamble and resolution; which, on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance:

        Whereas a doubt exists among the commissioners of the revenue in the different counties of this commonwealth, as to the true construction of section 33, chapter 1 of the Acts of 1861-2, in regard to a license to distill ardent spirits from fruit, &c.: Therefore,

        Resolved by the general assembly, that the true intent and meaning of said section was and is, to exempt all persons who do not distill more than thirty-three gallons, from paying a license tax, or other tax, when made by the owner for his own use.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. THOMPSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to a joint resolution to refer so much of the governor's message as relates to an adequate supply of salt, to a joint committee: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        Subsequently, the resolution was taken up, on motion of Mr. BASKERVILL, and agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee on the part of the house: Messrs. Barbour, McCamant, Magruder, Baskervill, Prince, Anderson of Rockbridge, and Hopkins of Rockingham.

        On motion of Mr. PRINCE,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending chapter 105, section 6 of the Code (1860), so as to increase the reward for the apprehension of runaway slaves.

        On motion of Mr. AMBERS,

        Resolved, that that portion of the governor's message relating to jailors' fees, be referred to the committee for courts of justice, with instructions to report on the expediency of increasing the same; and that the said committee report at as early a day as practicable.

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY,

        Resolved, that so much of the governor's message as refers to the penitentiary, be referred to the committee on the penitentiary.

        On motion of Mr. WEST,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of increasing the penalty of sheriffs' bonds in the several counties of the commonwealth.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee on agriculture and manufactures enquire into the expediency of repealing a bill chartering the Union manufacturing company.

        On motion of Mr. McCAMANT,

        Resolved, that leave be given to bring in a bill incorporating the Pleasant grove lead and zinc mining and manufacturing company in the county of Wythe.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under the resolution: Messrs. McCamant, Minor and Fleming.

        On motion of Mr. JONES,

        Resolved, that so much of the governor's message as refers to the pay of our soldiers, be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. STAPLES,

        Resolved, that a special committee of seven be appointed, whose duty it shall be to enquire into and report to this house the condition of the Virginia sick and wounded soldiers in the confederate hospitals of this state; and also whether any, and if any, what legislation on the part of the state is necessary and proper to better provide for their wants.

        On motion of Mr. BASKERVILL,

        Resolved, that the joint committee to consider the subject of the supply of salt, be authorized to enquire into the expediency of authorizing the purchase of the Washington and Smyth salt works by the commonwealth.

        On motion of Mr. SPADY,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to protect and indemnify loyal citizens of this commonwealth from the action of disloyal men acting as officers of the United States government, under the confiscation bills of the federal congress.

        Mr. JAMES presented the petition of citizens of Botetourt, praying an increase of the fees of the jailor of that county; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. ANDERSON of Botetourt,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs be instructed to ascertain and report to the house how many volunteer troops have been raised under the act passed at the extra session, authorizing a

force of ten thousand men to be raised, and how much expense and liabilities have been incurred in raising and organizing said force.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house the following communication from the governor of the commonwealth; which was read, and ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice:

Executive Department, Sept. 15, 1862.

Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Delegates:

        I have received a communication from Hon. Thomas S. Bocock, speaker of the house of representatives, accompanied by a report of the committee of elections of the confederate congress; which is herewith transmitted for your consideration. The report relates to vacancies in the representation in congress from districts in possession of the public enemy. There is no provision of law applicable to such cases that will enable the vacancy caused by the resignation of the Hon. A. G. Jenkins to be filled, and that will provide for like cases that may occur.

Respectfully,

JOHN LETCHER.

House of Representatives, Sept. 8, 1862.

SIR:

        I am directed by the house of representatives of the Confederate States to communicate to you the enclosed report and resolution.

I have the honor to be,
With high respect,
Your ob'dt serv't,

TH. S. BOCOCK.
His Excellency John Letcher,
Governor of Virginia.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ELECTIONS.

        The committee to whom was referred a communication from the governor of Virginia in reference to the vacancy in the delegation from that state, occasioned by the resignation of A. G. Jenkins, a member of this house, with other papers pertaining thereto, have had the same under consideration, and ask leave to report:

        By section 4, article 1 of the constitution, it is provided, that "the times, places and manner of holding elections for senators and representatives, shall be prescribed in each state by the legislature thereof, subject to the provisions of this constitution; but the congress may, at any time, by law, make or alter such regulations, except as to the times and places of choosing senators."

        By the fourth clause of the 2d section of the same article, it is declared, that "where vacancies happen in the representation from

any state, the executive authority thereof shall issue writs of election to fill such vacancies."

        It is obvious from these provisions that the constitution contemplates the enactment by the states of the necessary laws for securing a full representation in this body. Not only is this duty prescribed to their legislatures, but the executive authority of the states is required to be exercised in giving them effect when vacancies occur. It has been the practice under similar clauses in the constitution of the United States, to leave with the several states the duty of making such provisions as each may deem expedient for the election of their representatives. The committee do not deem it proper to depart from this usage and assume powers not heretofore exercised and not required to be exercised by an existing emergency. The power of the state of Virginia over the subject is full and complete, and defects in the existing law may be remedied by the approaching called session of the general assembly.

        The committee therefore recommend no further action in the premises except the adoption of the accompanying resolutions:

        Resolved, that in the opinion of the house ample power rests with the several states to provide for securing a full representation, and that no legislation on the part of congress is necessary.

        Resolved, that the speaker communicate to the governor of Virginia a copy of the report and of these resolutions.

Richmond, Va., August 5, 1862.

SIR:

        I hereby notify your honorable body that I have this day sent to the governor of Virginia my resignation as a member of the same.

ALBERT G. JENKINS.

HON. THOMAS S. BOCOCK,
Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Executive Department, Richmond, Va.,
August 18, 1862.

        Hon. A. G. Jenkins having resigned his membership in the first congress of the permanent government of the Confederate States, the counties composing the district being in possession of the public enemy, and no provision being made by law for supplying the vacancy under these circumstances, I communicate the letter of resignation to congress for such action as may be deemed proper.

Respectfully,

JOHN LETCHER.

HON. THOMAS S. BOCOCK,
Speaker of the House of Representatives, C. S. A.

Richmond, Va., August 5, 1862.

SIR:

        I hereby resign my seat as a member of the first congress of the permanent government of the Confederate States.

        I have the honor to be,

Very respectfully, yours,

ALBERT G. JENKINS.

HON. JOHN LETCHER,
Governor of Virginia.

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

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 1862.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Doggett of the Methodist church.

        Mr. ANDERSON of Botetourt, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following resolution; which was agreed to:

        Resolved, that the governor be requested to inform this house of the number of troops which have been raised and are in service under the act passed at the late extra session, entitled an act to authorize a force of ten thousand men to be raised for the defence of the commonwealth; and in what manner they have been organized; also the amount of money which has been expended or incurred therefor: and that he further inform the house of the number of troops which have been raised under his recent proclamation calling out the militia in certain counties; the expense attending the same, and the disposition made of said militia.

        On motion of Mr. RIVES,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the expediency of so amending the late tax bill as to exempt from taxation the property of such citizens as may have been stolen or otherwise destroyed in consequence of the presence of the public enemy.

        On motion of Mr. ORGAIN,

        Resolved, that the joint committee on the subject of providing a supply of salt enquire into the expediency of placing immediately at the disposal of the governor of this commonwealth the sum of dollars, to be expended by him, at his discretion, in the purchase of an adequate supply of salt, foreign or domestic.

        On motion of Mr. LIVELY,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire what legislation is necessary in regard to the safe keeping of the property of disloyal persons who have gone to the enemy; and whether said property can be confiscated to the state of Virginia without conflicting with laws of the Confederacy.

        On motion of Mr. RIVES,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of so amending the 81st section of the act imposing taxes for the support of government, passed March 27, 1862, as to allow commissioners of the revenue and sheriffs an increased compensation for assessing and collecting the public revenue.

        Mr. LOCKRIDGE submitted the following resolution:

        Resolved, that in the judgment of this general assembly, its debates and acts should be confined to the subject of salt; and the various other subjects embraced in the governor's message be postponed to an adjourned session; which being objected to, was laid over until to-morrow.

        Mr. HOPKINS of Petersburg submitted the following preamble and resolution:

        Whereas, by the governor's proclamation, the legislature has been convened, in this called session, for the avowed purpose of passing some act to supply the people with salt: and whereas our country and state are involved in an expensive and bloody war with the people of the north, our treasury thereby subjected to greatly increased burdens, and our people to high taxation, and the most extortionate prices for all the necessaries of life; and, in view of the fact, that the adjourned session will commence in less than three months, when all needful laws may be more considerately passed:

        Resolved, therefore, by the general assembly, that on and after the 26th instant, it will be inexpedient, at this called session, to legislate on any other subject than the supply and distribution of salt, thus performing all the duties for which it met, and saving to the people a heavy item of unnecessary expenditure and taxation.

        Objection being made, Mr. WORSHAM moved a suspension of the rule, with a view of considering the preamble and resolution this day; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative--Ayes 53, noes 27.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), F. T. Anderson, Barbour, Brooks, Buford, Cazenove, Clarke, Coffman, Coleman, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Edmunds, Eggleston, Ewing, Fleming, Franklin, George, Gilmer, Grattan, J. H. Hopkins, H. L. Hopkins, Hunter, Jordan, Kyle, Laidley, Lively, Lockridge, Lynn, Mallory, Minor, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Prince, Riddick, Rives, Robertson, Shannon, Sherrard, Staples, Tate, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Tredway, Tyler, Vermillion, Walker, West, Williams, Wootten and Worsham--53.

        NOES--Messrs. Ambers, J. T. Anderson, Baker, Blue, Bouldin, Bradford, Carter, Dabney, Flood, Garrison, Gatewood, James, Jones, Magruder, Mathews, McCamant, Murdaugh, Pitman, Reid, Richardson, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Spady, Thrash, Tomlin, J. L. Wilson and Woolfolk--27.

        Mr. RICHARDSON moved the indefinite postponement of the preamble and resolution; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative--Ayes 49, noes 35.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, Baker, Baskervill, Blue, Bouldin, Bradford Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Clarke, Custis, R. J. Davis, Garrison, Gatewood, George, Gilmer, Grattan, James, Jones, Kyle, Laidley, Lively, Magruder, Mathews, McCamant, Murdaugh, Newton, Pitman, Prince, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Spady, Thrash, Tomlin, Vaiden, Vermillion, West, Williams, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woolfolk and Wootten--49.

        NOES--Messrs. F. T. Anderson, Barbour, Brooks, Coffman, Coleman, Dabney, J. D. Davis, Edmunds, Evans, Ewing, Fleming, Flood, Franklin, H. L. Hopkins, Hunter, Jordan, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, Minor, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Orgain, Rives, Sherrard, Staples, Tate, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Tredway, Tyler, Walker and Worsham--35.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under a resolution heretofore adopted in relation to the contracts for salt, of Stuart, Buchanan & Co. with the counties and corporations of the state: Messrs. Woolfolk, Hunter, Bouldin, Rives, Mallory, George, Fleming, Lockridge and Shannon.

        Subsequently, on motion of Mr. WOOLFOLK, the committee was enlarged, by the appointment of Messrs. WILSON of Isle of Wight, and DABNEY.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under a resolution heretofore adopted to enquire into the condition of the sick and wounded soldiers of Virginia, &c.: Messrs. Staples, Tomlin, Buford, Lundy, Eggleston, Taylor of Amelia, and Gatewood.

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

        No. 1. A bill to incorporate the Union manufacturing company in the county of Fluvanna.

        On motion of Mr. BRADFORD,

        Resolved, that George W. Wilson, jr. be appointed, temporarily, second door keeper during the absence of that officer from the sessions of the house.

        On motion of Mr. WOOLFOLK,

        Resolved, that a special committee be appointed, with instructions to bring in a bill extending the time within which, under existing laws, the sheriff elect for the county of Orange is allowed to qualify.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under the resolution: Messrs. Woolfolk, Rutherfoord, and Anderson of Rockbridge.

        Subsequently, Mr. WOOLFOLK presented the following bill:

        No. 2. A bill extending the time for the qualification of the sheriff of Orange county; which was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time; and on motion of Mr. WOOLFOLK. two-thirds concurring, being amended, was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        On motion of Mr. HUNTER,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to the following effect, to wit:

A bill to suppress the circulation of counterfeit notes within the commonwealth.

        Be it enacted by the general assembly, that whenever hereafter any counterfeit, purporting to be a bank note, confederate treasury note, or other paper issue circulating as currency, shall be presented at any of the banks or branch banks of this commonwealth, either for examination or in the course of business, it shall be lawful for such banks or branch banks, and it shall be their duty, to stamp on the face of the same the word "counterfeit," or otherwise mark it as such, attaching thereto the name of such bank or branch bank as

may perform the act: provided, however, that the owner of any genuine note which may be erroneously so stamped or marked, shall have his remedy at law against the bank so stamping or marking it, for any loss he may thereby sustain.

        This act shall be in force from its passage.

        On motion of Mr. RICHARDSON,

        Resolved, that so much of the governor's message as relates to military affairs, be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. WALKER,

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

        On motion of Mr. TREDWAY,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of increasing the compensation of inspectors of tobacco in the town of Farmville.

        Mr. STAPLES submitted the following resolution:

        Resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that the thanks of the people of this commonwealth are due, and through their representatives in the legislature assembled, are hereby cordially tendered to General ROBERT E. LEE and JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, and to Major General THOMAS J. JACKSON, for the great and distinguished services which they have each rendered their state and the entire Confederacy during this war; and also to the officers and men under their command, for the valor, enterprise and devotion which they have so often displayed.

        Mr. FLOOD moved to commit the resolution to the committee on military affairs; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative--Ayes 73, noes 10.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, F. T. Anderson, Barbour, Baskervill, Blue, Bouldin, Bradford, Brooks, Carter, Cazenove, Clarke, Coffman, Coleman, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Edmunds, Ewing, Fleming, Flood, Franklin, Garrison, Gatewood, Gilmer, Grattan, H. L. Hopkins, Hunter, James, Jones, Jordan, Kyle, Laidley, Lively, Lockridge, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, Mathews, McCamant, Minor, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Pitman, Prince, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Rives, Robertson, Rowan, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, Spady, Tate, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Tomlin, Tredway, Tyler, Vaiden, Walker, West, Williams, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woolfolk and Wootten--73.

        NOES--Messrs. Custis, Eggleston, George, J. H. Hopkins, Lundy, Murdaugh, Staples, F. G. Taylor, Vermillion and Worsham--10.

        Mr. ROBERTSON submitted the following resolutions; which, on his motion, were referred to the committee on military affairs:

        1. Resolved by the general assembly, that the cordial thanks of the people of Virginia are eminently due, and are hereby given to her distinguished son, ROBERT E. LEE, whose genius planned, and to the officers and men whose skill and unsurpassed bravery gave success to that brilliant series of movements and battles, which not only saved the beleaguered capital of the state, but, hurling the insolent invaders, in shame and confusion, back to the safe shelter of their gunboats, has advanced our victorious columns across the Potomac, and is carrying retributive destruction to the property, and terror to the homes of our enemies.

        2. Resolved, that the thanks of Virginia are repeated to General JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, who, alike in retreat and attack, at Manassas, at Williamsburg and at Seven Pines (where his services closed by an honorable wound received in battle), displayed a consummate generalship, and who, by the admirable organization and disposition of his army, prepared the way for its subsequent splendid success.

        3. Resolved, that to the heroic JACKSON, whose flag seems borne by victory herself wherever he advances his irresistible legions on a terror stricken foe, and equally to his officers and men, Virginia gratefully renews her willing tribute of admiration and thanks.

        4. Resolved, that the people of Virginia greet, with fraternal regard and heartfelt gratitude, the thousands of gallant spirits, who, coming from Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas and Florida, from Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee, from Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Maryland, for the protection of our common liberties and common capital, have protected, at the same time, the liberties, the soil and the capital of the state of Virginia.

        5. Resolved, that while rejoicing in our victories and in our vindicated independence, we mourn over our heroic sons who died in achieving them, and offer to their families our warmest sympathies, and commend them to the kindness and sympathy of their countrymen.

        Mr. HOPKINS of Petersburg submitted the following resolutions; which, on his motion, were referred to the committee on military affairs:

        1. Resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that the skill and courage of our officers, and the valor and heroism of our army, in their hard-fought battles and well-won victories of the Chickahominy, crowned with their glorious deeds of successful triumph, on the twice-renowned battle field of Bull Run and Manassas, deserve the thanks and praise of every man and woman in the Confederate States.

        2. Resolved, that the passage of our troops into the territory of down-trodden Maryland, evincing the determination of our military authorities to transfer the seat of war from our own to the enemy's country, command our unqualified approbation; and while advancing in their own chosen pathway of military glory, till, in final triumph, they plant their victorious banners upon the battlements of Lexington and upon the Bunker Hill monument, the prayers of our loyal people for their safety and success, will ascend from every hearth and altar in the south.

        3. Resolved, that while this our acknowledgment of thanks and gratitude is especially due to the confederate army of Virginia, we are by no means unmindful of our obligations to our western army. On the contrary, their noble deeds of recent date, at Corinth, at Vicksburg, at Gallatin, at Murfreesboro', and at Richmond, Kentucky, fill our hearts with admiration and praise.

        4. Resolved, that while our armies are operating in the territory of the enemy, it is no time for us to be idle at home. New levies, sufficient for home defence, and to reinforce our distant armies

promptly, when needed, should be organized at once; and to that important end we trust the authorities of the Confederacy and the states will act in harmony, as far as compatible with their respective jurisdictions, and with the utmost speed and vigor.

        5. Resolved, that with full knowledge of the power, resources and advantages of our enemy to carry on a long war, and of his vindictive and implacable spirit against us, we pledge to our sister Confederate States "our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor," to win our freedom and independence, in persevering co-operation with them, or to perish, not in subjugation, but, if it must be, in the utter extermination of our race, its institutions, its civilization, its religion and its liberties.

        6. Resolved, that in tendering our thanks for the heroic deeds of our officers and men on the historic fields of the Chickahominy, we cannot fail to remember and commemorate the equally heroic conduct of our officers and men at Fort Drewry, who, while the fort was in an unfinished condition, and with only two or three guns mounted, repulsed the iron-clad gunboats of the enemy with great damage, and thus saved the confederate capital from immediate conflagration and rain.

        On motion of Mr. BUFORD,

        Resolved, that in order to enable the members of this house appropriately to unite with the country on to-morrow in thanksgiving to that Divine Providence which has recently conducted our arms to repeated and glorious victory, that when this house adjourns to-day, it will adjourn to meet on Friday next at the usual hour.

        On motion of Mr. HOPKINS of Rockingham,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the propriety of granting to the citizens of the town of Harrisonburg in the county of Rockingham a charter for a savings bank.

        On motion of Mr. GATEWOOD,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill to relieve the securities of R. M. Conn, sheriff of Shenandoah county, from certain excessive interest and damages.

        On motion of Mr. WILSON of Isle of Wight,

        Resolved, that so much of the governor's message as refers to the construction of a rail road to connect the Northwest with the other divisions of Virginia, be referred to the committee on roads and internal navigation.

        On motion of Mr. MATHEWS,

        Resolved, that the committee on roads and internal navigation be requested to take into consideration the subject of rebuilding the bridge crossing the Greenbrier river, on the James river and Kanawha turnpike, and the bridge crossing the Cowpasture river, on the line of the Virginia Central rail road--the former burned by General Heth as a military necessity--the latter burned by the enemy: and to adopt such measures to that end as may be deemed most expedient.

        On motion of Mr. RICHARDSON,

        Resolved, that a committee of be appointed, whose duty it shall be to enquire into the expediency of regulating by law the

prices of all articles of prime necessity, whether in the hands of the farmer, manufacturer, merchant or trader.

        On motion of Mr. ANDERSON of Rockbridge,

        Resolved, that so much of the governor's message as relates to granting amnesty to citizens of Virginia who have taken the oath of allegiance to the government of the United States, be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. FLEMING,

        Resolved, that the committee appointed to investigate the conduct of the proprietors of the Washington and Smyth salt works, be instructed to enquire whether, in the sales of salt made by said parties, the same number of pounds of salt, in a wet state, is estimated for a bushel as is given when the article is in a dry and merchantable condition.

        On motion of Mr. PRINCE,

        Resolved, that the governor communicate to the house of delegates the names of all the commissioned officers (with the dates of their commissions) of the ten thousand men authorized to be raised under the act of May 15, 1862.

        Mr. ROBERTSON presented the petition of inspectors of tobacco of the public warehouse, for an increase of fees; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Mr. TREDWAY presented a similar petition from inspectors of tobacco in Farmville; which was referred to the same committee.

        Mr. MAGRUDER presented the memorial of the Orange and Alexandria and Virginia Central rail roads, praying relief from taxation; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, the house adjourned until Friday, 12 o'clock.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 1862.

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

        No. 3. A bill to increase jailors' fees for keeping and supporting prisoners; which subsequently was read a first time, and two-thirds concurring, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        Mr. BARBOUR, from the committee on finance, presented the following bill:

        No. 4. A bill concerning bonds of sheriffs; which subsequently was read a first time, and two-thirds concurring, was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        Mr. WYNNE presented the petition of Sampson Jones, agent for Mrs. Griffin, for increase of allowance and indemnity against losses sustained by contract for rations furnished the public guard of the state of Virginia; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on military affairs.

        On motion of Mr. BARBOUR,

        Resolved, that the joint committee in relation to salt be enlarged, by the addition of three members on the part of the house and two on the part of the senate.

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

        The following members were added on the part of the house: Messrs. Edmunds, Richardson and Wynne.

        Mr. AMBERS was appointed by the SPEAKER a member of the committee of privileges and elections and of the committee on the library; Mr. COFFMAN, a member of the committee on military affairs and schools and colleges; Mr. HOPKINS of Petersburg, a member of the committee on finance and of the committee for courts of justice; Mr. TAYLOR of Amelia, a member of the committee on banks and of claims.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under a resolution of the house in relation to the subject of extortion in articles of prime necessity: Messrs. Hopkins of Petersburg, Richardson, Saunders of Campbell, Coffman, Baker, Cazenove, Walker, Franklin and Lynn.

        No. 2. An engrossed bill extending the time for the qualification of the sheriffs of Orange and Culpeper counties, was taken up, on motion of Mr. WOOLFOLK, read a third time and passed.

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

        Mr. ROBERTSON presented the petition of the assistant keepers, clerk and interior guard of the penitentiary, praying for an increase of salary; which was ordered to be referred to the committee on the penitentiary.

        On motion of Mr. GARRISON,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of so amending sections 5 and 6 of chapter 178 of the Code of Virginia, as to provide for the appointment of new trustees to act in the place of trustees who may be in the military service of the Confederate States or of the state of Virginia, and of so amending section 2 of chapter 128 of the said Code, as to provide for the appointment of new guardians, committees or trustees for the purpose of instituting suits for the sale or partition of lands belonging to persons under disability, where the existing guardian, committee or trustee is in the said service.

        On motion of Mr. LYNN,

        Whereas the citizens of Prince William county have been driven from their homes, by reason of the invasion of their soil by Yankee forces; their negroes and other property stolen and destroyed, so that her citizens have been prevented from raising almost any thing to subsist upon, so that many families whose husbands and sons that have fallen on the field of battle are left destitute of even bread to subsist on for the next year: Therefore,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be requested to enquire into the expediency of granting some relief, by a release of tax for this year (1862).

        On motion of Mr. VADEN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of so amending the tax bill as to exempt from taxation all property listed by commissioners which has been seized by the federal army.

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY,

        Resolved, that the committee on extortionate prices be instructed to enquire into the expediency of prohibiting by law any person from charging more than one dollar per pound for leather.

        On motion of Mr. WRIGHT,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of reporting an act to legalize the records and proceedings of the county court of Essex, at the June, July and August terms of said court; which is herewith submitted.

        On motion of Mr. CECIL,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of improving the road leading from Dublin depot on the Virginia and Tennessee rail road to the Kanawha salines.

        On motion of Mr. WILSON of Isle of Wight,

        Resolved, that a special committee be appointed to enquire into the expediency of making an appropriation to relieve the necessities of the poor and destitute of our citizens in those regions of the state which have been overrun by the public enemy.

        On motion of Mr. WORSHAM,

        Resolved, that the committee on the penitentiary enquire into the expediency of abolishing some of the offices connected with the penitentiary, and of consolidating the duties of the same in some other of the offices of that institution.

        On motion of Mr. WORSHAM,

        Resolved, that the committee of propositions and grievances enquire into the expediency of regulating by law the charges by express companies on boxes, packages, &c. sent to soldiers in our armies.

        On motion of Mr. JONES,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of so amending the act passed March 12, 1862, to prevent the unnecessary consumption of grain by distillers, as to authorize the distillation of whisky from rye only, by special contract with the government, for hospital purposes.

        On motion of Mr. AMBERS,

        Resolved, that the committee on extortionate prices enquire into the expediency of compelling the rail roads leading to the city of Richmond to transport wood, when brought to their roads for transportation, and of fixing the price at which the same shall be transported.

        On motion of Mr. TATE,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire what, if any, relief can be provided by law for debtors whose creditors refuse to receive in payment the common currency of the country.

        On motion of Mr. STAPLES, the committee as to the condition of the sick and wounded soldiers, was enlarged by the appointment of three additional members.

        The SPEAKER announced the following members as added to the committee: Messrs. Worsham, Nelson of Fluvanna, and Richardson.

        On motion of Mr. BASKERVILL,

        Resolved, that the governor be requested, if, in his opinion, compatible with the public interest, to lay before this house the correspondence between the executive and the secretary of war of the Confederate States, relative to the delivery, to the authorities of this state, of any prisoners of war who may have been charged with offences against the laws of this commonwealth.

        Mr. HUNTER, on his own motion, was excused from further attendance during the present session of the house.

        Mr. JONES was appointed a member of the committee on the salt question, in place of Mr. HUNTER.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. GARNETT, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to a joint resolution for the appointment of a joint committee to consider the propriety of amending the law of enclosures: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        The resolution was agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee on the part of the house: Messrs. Newton, Ward, Evans, Riddick and Huntt.

        No. 1. A bill to incorporate the Union manufacturing company in the county of Fluvanna, was read a first time, and two-thirds concurring, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        On motion of Mr. BOULDIN,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of prohibiting justices of the peace and notaries public from making any charge for administering and certifying oaths necessary for the recovery of the pay or wages of any soldier of the Confederate States.

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

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 1862.

        Mr. NEWTON, from the committee on finance, presented the following bill:

        No. 5. A bill amending the 15th section of an act entitled an act imposing taxes for the support of government, passed March 27, 1862, concerning express companies; which subsequently was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

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

        No. 6. A bill to protect and indemnify citizens of Virginia; which subsequently was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        No. 1. An engrossed bill to incorporate the Union manufacturing company in the county of Fluvanna, was read a third time and passed.

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

        No. 3. An engrossed bill to increase jailors' fees for keeping and supporting prisoners, was taken up and read a third time.

        Mr. BLUE moved to suspend the rule, with a view to reconsider the vote by which the bill was ordered to its engrossment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        The question being--Shall the bill be engrossed and read a third time? Mr. BASS moved an amendment as follows:

        "Provided, that the county and corporation courts of the commonwealth may establish, in their discretion, a different rate, not less than 35 nor more than 60 cents per diem."

        Mr. PRINCE moved to amend the amendment, by striking out "60," and inserting "80;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        The question recurring on agreeing to the amendment as amended, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        The bill as amended was then read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        No. 4. An engrossed bill concerning bonds of sheriffs, was read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        On motion of Mr. DAVIS of Campbell,

        Resolved, that a special committee be appointed, with authority to report a bill legalizing the manufacture of alcohol.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under the resolution: Messrs. Davis, Cazenove, Rives, Buford, and Wilson of Norfolk county.

        Subsequently, Mr. DAVIS, from the committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 7. A bill legalizing the manufacture of alcohol; which was subsequently read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing a letter from Dr. E. W. Johns, medical purveyor of the Confederate States, in relation to the distillation of alcohol and whisky for hospital and medical purposes; which were read, and on motion of Mr. BLUE, referred to a special committee.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under a resolution heretofore adopted in relation to the expediency of making an appropriation to relieve the necessities of the poor and destitute of our citizens in those sections of the state which have been overrun by the public enemy: Messrs. Wilson of Isle of Wight, Tate, Blue, Orgain, Fleming, Garrison and Mathews.

        On motion of Mr. DAVIS of Campbell,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of authorizing the city of Lynchburg to issue an amount of its notes as a currency, in addition to that authorized by the act of March 27th, 1862.

        On motion of Mr. LOCKRIDGE,

        Resolved, that the joint committee on salt enquire into the expediency of securing the salt now in the hands of speculators, for immediate use.

        On motion of Mr. CAZENOVE,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire whether any constitutional method can be devised by which representation in the next general assembly can be provided for such counties as at the next general election may be in the possession of the public enemy.

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY,

        Resolved, that the committee on extortionate prices be allowed to send for persons and papers.

        Mr. PITMAN presented the proceedings of a public meeting in the county of Shenandoah, in relation to the question of an adequate supply of salt; which were ordered to be referred to the special committee on that subject.

        The SPEAKER presented the petition of William A. Burwell, deputy clerk of the county court of Augusta, and of James F. Patterson, clerk of the hustings court of Staunton, praying an increase of fees of clerks; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        On motion of Mr. BARBOUR, the house resolved itself into secret session; and after some time spent therein,

        On motion of Mr. WILSON of Isle of Wight, the house adjourned until Monday, 12 o'clock.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 1862.

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

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

IN SENATE, Sept. 20, 1862.

        The senate have passed a bill entitled:

        An act repealing an act for the relief of Ephraim Bee, No. 2.

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

        ROBERT A. MAYO, a delegate elected from the county of Henrico to supply a vacancy created by the resignation of Z. S. MCGRUDER, appeared, was qualified and took his seat.

        No. 2. A senate bill entitled an act repealing an act for the relief of Ephraim Bee, was read a first and second times, and ordered to be referred to the committee on finance.

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

        No. 8. A bill to authorize the governor to settle the account of Sampson Jones, agent for Mrs. Jane A. Griffin.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing, in answer to a resolution of the house of delegates, a correspondence between the executive of the state and the secretary of war of the Confederate States, relative to the delivery to the authorities of this state of any prisoners of war who may have been charged with offences against the laws of this commonwealth; which were read, and on motion of Mr. BASKERVILL, laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 2.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, in answer to a resolution of the house of delegates requesting information as to the number of troops which have been raised and are in service under the act passed at the late extra session, entitled an act to authorize a force of ten thousand men to be raised for the defence of the commonwealth, and in what manner they have been organized; also the amount of money which has been expended or liabilities incurred therefor; and of the number of troops which have been raised under his recent proclamation calling out the militia in certain counties; the expense attending the same, and the disposition of said militia; which were read, and on motion of Mr. ANDERSON, referred to the committee on military affairs.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, in answer to a resolution of the house of delegates calling for the names of all commissioned officers, with the dates of their commissions, of the ten thousand men authorized to be raised under the act of May 15th, 1862; which were read, and on motion of Mr. ANDERSON of Botetourt, referred to the committee on military affairs.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, enclosing a petition from certain citizens of Southwestern Virginia, addressed to the president of the Confederate States, in relation to extortion on articles of prime necessity; which were read, and on motion of Mr. MALLORY, referred to the special committee on extortionate prices.

        Mr. MATHEWS, at his own request, was excused from further attendance during the present session of the house.

        The SPEAKER appointed Mr. MCDONALD of Wyoming a member of the committee on extortionate prices in place of Mr. MATHEWS.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee to consider the message of the governor and accompanying documents, in relation to the distillation of alcohol and whisky for use of the army: Messrs. Ward, Blue, Bass, Tate, Mayo, Bradford and Dabney.

        On motion of Mr. CROCKETT,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of authorizing Wm. H. Neighbours to act as commissioner of the revenue for the county of Wythe, he having been duly elected, but failed to qualify in the time prescribed by law, in consequence of being detained in the army.

        On motion of Mr. LYNN,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be requested to enquire into the expediency of making some provision for destitute families in Prince William county, whose husbands and sons are now in the confederate army.

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY,

        Resolved, that the SPEAKER cause to be made a correct roll of the members of this house and its officers, and their respective counties, cities and towns, and furnish the same to the secretary of war, with a request that he cause to be furnished for the use of said members and officers, passports, as required by martial law now in force in this city.

        On motion of Mr. CROCKETT,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of authorizing the trustees of the New School Presbyterian church in Wytheville to sell and convey the lot and the church erected thereon, to another religious denomination.

        On motion of Mr. BARBOUR,

        Resolved, that the general assembly of this commonwealth having, by act passed February 18, 1862, and by joint resolution passed March 10, 1862, provided for the exemption from compulsory military service of such classes of the people as the general interest requires to be so exempted, the governor of the commonwealth be directed to communicate to the authorities of the Confederate States copies of the said act and resolution, and to take such other action as may be necessary and proper to secure the said exempted persons from conscription by the confederate authorities.

        On motion of Mr. JONES,

        Resolved, that the governor be requested to inform this house whether any free negroes claiming to be from the United States, invading the soil of this state in violation of its laws, and captured by the armies of the Confederate States, have been surrendered by the confederate authorities; and if so, upon what ground such surrender has been made.

        On motion of Mr. LYNN,

        Resolved, that the committee on salt be requested to make some provision whereby refugees in other counties than their own may obtain salt for their families.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. LEWIS, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to a joint resolution for the appointment of a joint committee to consider the character of the present session of the general assembly: in which they requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        The house resolved itself into secret session; and after some time spent therein,

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

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 1862.

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

IN SENATE, Sept. 22, 1862.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act extending the time for the qualification of the sheriffs of Orange and Culpeper counties, No. 2.

        And they have agreed to the resolution from the house of delegates, to enlarge the committee on an adequate supply of salt.

        They have passed a bill entitled:

        An act amending the 17th section of chapter 36 of the Code of Virginia, concerning the manner of making returns of delinquents, No. 1.

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

        No. 1. A senate bill entitled an act amending the 17th section of chapter 36 of the Code of Virginia, concerning the manner of making returns of delinquents, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee on finance.

        A resolution from the senate for the appointment of a joint committee to consider the character of the present session of the general assembly, was taken up and agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        THOMAS B. BIGGER, a delegate elected from the city of Richmond to supply a vacancy created by the resignation of JOHN O. STEGER, appeared, was qualified and took his seat.

        On motion of Mr. BASS,

        Resolved, That leave be given to bring in a bill to grant power to the trustees of the Evangelical Lutheran church of Salem, Virginia, to sell lot 99, in the town of Salem, belonging to said church.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee, under the resolution: Messrs. Bass, Montague, Dice, Tredway and Reid.

        On motion of Mr. HOPKINS,

        Resolved, that the committee on extortionate prices be enlarged by the addition of five members.

        The SPEAKER announced the following gentlemen as added to the committee: Messrs. Anderson of Botetourt, Mallory, Blue, Pitman, and McDonald of Hampshire.

        On motion of Mr. RUTHERFOORD,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be enlarged by the addition of two members.

        The SPEAKER announced the following gentlemen as added to the committee: Messrs. Buford and Spady.

        Mr. BARBOUR, from the joint committee in relation to an adequate supply of salt, presented the following bill:

        No. 9. A bill to provide for the production, distribution and sale of salt in this commonwealth; which subsequently was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time, and on motion of Mr.

ANDERSON, two-thirds concurring, read a second time; and the question being--Shall the bill be engrossed and read a third time? on motion of Mr. MCCAMANT, the bill was laid on the table and ordered to be printed.

        No. 8. A bill to authorize the governor to settle the accounts of Sampson Jones, agent of Mrs. Jane A. Griffin, was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. BARBOUR presented the petition of sundry persons, citizens of the state, asking the repeal of the ordinance of the late state convention suspending the payment of the salary of the Hon. George W. Thompson, judge of the 20th circuit of the commonwealth; which was ordered to be referred to the committee for courts of justice.

        No. 3. An engrossed bill to increase jailors' fees for keeping and supporting prisoners, was taken up, read a third time and passed--Ayes 81, noes 2.

        AYES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, F. T. Anderson, Baker, Bass, Bigger, Blue, Bradford, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Cecil, Clarke, Coffman, Coleman, Crockett, Dabney, R. J. Davis, Dice, Edmunds, Eggleston, Evans, Ewing, Garrison, Gatewood, George, Gillespie, Gilmer, Grattan, Green, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, James, Jones, Jordan, Kaufman, Kyle, Lively, Lockridge, Lundy, Linn, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, A. W. McDonald, McLaughlin, Minor, Montague, Murdaugh, Newton, Orgain, Pitman, Prince, Reid, Riddick, Rives, Robinson, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, Spady, Staples, Tate, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Tredway, Vaden, Vermillion, Ward, West, Williams, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woodhouse, Woolfolk, Wootten and Worsham--81.

        NOES--Messrs. Barbour and Johnson--2.

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

        On motion of Mr. ANDERSON of Botetourt,

        Resolved, that the governor be requested to inform this house of the number of troops which have been organized and mustered into service under Major General John B. Floyd, by authority of the act of the general assembly passed the 15th day of May 1862, entitled an act to authorize a force of ten thousand men to be raised for the defence of the commonwealth; the number of companies and regiments into which such troops have been organized; the number of men, officers and non-commissioned officers in each company and regiment; and the various arms of the service to which they belong: also what number of militia have been raised under his late proclamation calling out the militia in certain counties, and what disposition has been made of them; and if said information be not at this time in the possession of the governor, that he be requested to procure and furnish the same to this house at as early a day as practicable.

        The house resolved itself into secret session; and after some time spent therein,

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

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 1862.

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

        No. 10. A bill to amend the 43d and 44th sections of chapter 87 of the Code, so as to increase the fees of tobacco inspectors.

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

        No. 11. A bill authorizing the city of Lynchburg to issue a further amount of its notes as a currency.

        No. 12. A bill to incorporate the Rockingham savings bank in the town of Harrisonburg.

        No. 13. A bill to suppress the circulation of counterfeit notes within the commonwealth.

        Mr. MCCAMANT, from a special committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 14. A bill incorporating the Pleasant grove lead and zinc mining and manufacturing company.

        Mr. WARD, from a special committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 15. A bill to amend and re-enact an act entitled an act to prevent the unnecessary consumption of grain by distillers and other manufacturers of spirituous and malt liquors.

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

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under a joint resolution to consider the character of the present session: Messrs. Rutherfoord, Newton, Edmunds, Green and Minor.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. WILEY, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed house bill entitled an act to increase jailors' fees for keeping and supporting prisoners, with an amendment: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN, the house resolved itself into secret session; and after some time spent therein, on motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, the doors were opened.

        No. 9. A bill to provide for the production, distribution and sale of salt to the commonwealth, was taken up and read a first time.

        Mr. ANDERSON of Rockbridge moved to amend the bill, by adding at the end of the first section the following: "And the governor is specially instructed to dispatch an agent to the Kanawha salines, to purchase for the use of the people of this commonwealth, on the best terms it can be obtained, all the salt now made at said salines, and to contract for so much as can be made and removed in the next ninety days, to be paid for when removed, except so much as the officer in command of the confederate forces in that section may deem necessary to retain for the use of the army. The governor is authorized and instructed to provide for the immediate removal of the salt to safe and convenient depositories for distribution and sale, as herein after provided. For the prompt and speedy removal of the

salt, the governor is authorized to contract for or to impress as many wagons and teams as are necessary for that purpose, and also for the repair of the Covington and Kanawha road.

        "2. For the protection of parties who may be engaged in the manufacture of salt for the government at the Kanawha salines, and to insure the safe removal of it, the governor is authorized to employ the military power of the state to the extent he may deem necessary."

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

        On motion of Mr. SPADY, the bill was laid on the table.

        No. 6. A bill to protect and indemnify citizens of Virginia, was taken up on motion of Mr. SPADY, amended, and as amended, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        Mr. BARBOUR moved that the chair be vacated until 5 o'clock P. M. Mr. JONES moved to amend, by striking out "5," and inserting "8;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        The motion was then agreed to, and the chair vacated until 8 o'clock P. M.

EVENING SESSION.

        No. 9. A bill to provide for the production, distribution and sale of salt in this commonwealth, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BARBOUR.

        The first section being under consideration, which is as follows:

        "1. Be it enacted by the general assembly, that the governor of this commonwealth, by and with the advice and consent of the committee of advice herein after directed to be constituted, may adopt every such measure and do every such act as in his judgment may be necessary and proper to be done, in order to secure the possession, production or distribution to convenient places, of such quantity of salt as will in his judgment be sufficient to supply the people of this commonwealth; and to that end may, with the advice and consent aforesaid, bind the faith of the commonwealth for the performance of such contracts and engagements as he may determine to be necessary and proper, and may exercise full authority and control over the property and franchises of any person, firm or company in this commonwealth, whenever he shall judge it to be necessary and proper to exercise the same in order to secure the possession, production or distribution of the quantity of salt aforesaid."

        Mr. MINOR moved to amend the bill, by adding after the words "adopt every such measure and do every such act," the words "not inconsistent with the constitution of this commonwealth;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        Mr. MINOR moved to amend the section, by striking out the last

clause of the section commencing "and may exercise full authority," &c.; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative--Ayes 33, noes 52.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, F. T. Anderson, Bass, Booton, Buford, Cecil, Clarke, Custis, Dabney, R. J. Davis, Dice, Fleming, Forbes, Garrison, George, Gilmer, Green, Jones, A. W. McDonald, Minor, Newton, Reid, Robinson, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Staples, Tate, Tredway, Williams, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson and Wootten--33.

        NOES--Messrs. J. T. Anderson, Baker, Barbour, Bigger, Blue, Carter, Cazenove, Coffman, Coleman, Crockett, J. D. Davis, Edmunds, Eggleston, Ewing, Flood, Franklin. Gatewood, Gillespie, J. H. Hopkins, Huntt, James, Johnson, Jordan, Kyle, Laidley, Lively, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Montague, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Orgain, Pitman, Prince, Riddick, Rives, Rowan, Sherrard, R. F. Taylor, Thrash, Vermillion, Walker, Ward, West, Woodhouse, Woolfolk, Worsham and Wright--52.

        Mr. CAZENOVE moved to amend the section, by striking out the words "by and with the advice and consent of the committee of advice herein after directed to be constituted;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. BLUE demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        Mr. MCDONALD of Hampshire moved to amend the 4th section, by inserting before the words "any rail road," "so much of the rolling stock of" (the section giving the power to impress rail roads); and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        Mr. TATE moved to amend the 4th section, by adding thereto the following: "But the power conferred by this section shall not be so exercised as to interfere with the transportation of troops, munitions of war and army supplies by the confederate government;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. SAUNDERS of Campbell, moved to amend the 5th section which is as follows: "5. The governor shall, by and with the advice and consent aforesaid, designate places in the commonwealth from which the sale and distribution may be made to citizens of this commonwealth, and prescribe rules and regulations for the sale of the same, and the prices at which it shall be sold. When such prices shall be so prescribed and published for two weeks in some newspaper published in the city of Richmond, the sale at any higher price than the price so prescribed shall be a misdemeanor, and the sale of each bushel, or any part of a bushel, at a rate higher than the price so prescribed, shall be a separate offence. Any violation of the rules and regulations so prescribed shall be a misdemeanor. Upon conviction of any person under this act, he shall pay a fine of not less than nor more than dollars," by striking out all after the word "designate," in the second line, and inserting the following: "One or more persons at the salt works, to deliver to the accredited agents of the several counties or corporations (or in the absence of such an agent from any county or corporation, to some person appointed by himself), on the payment of the money, the quota due their respective counties or corporations;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative

        Mr. MALLORY moved to amend the same section, by striking out "corporations;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        Mr. MALLORY moved to amend the 8th section of the bill, by striking out the clause thereof constituting the committee of advice provided for in the bill, of members of the general assembly; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        The bill was then further amended on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, and as amended, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

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

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 1862.

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

IN SENATE, Sept. 24, 1862.

        The senate have passed a bill entitled:

        An act to redress loyal citizens injured by the exercise of usurped power, No. 4.

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

        No. 4. A senate bill entitled an act to redress loyal citizens injured by the exercise of usurped power, was read a first and second times, and referred to the committee for courts of justice.

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

        No. 16. A bill to legalize the records and proceedings of the county court of Essex county, at the June, July and August terms of said court held at Miller's tavern in said county.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, presented the following reports:

        That so much of the governor's message, referred to the committee for courts of justice, as refers to extortion, be referred to the special committee on extortion.

        The committee report adversely to the expediency of authorizing the trustees of the New School Presbyterian church in Wytheville to sell and convey the lot and church erected thereon, to another religious denomination.

        The committee report adversely to the expediency of amending chapter 105, section 6th of the Code of 1860, as to increase the reward for the apprehension of runaway slaves.

        Mr. BARBOUR, from the committee on finance, presented the following bill:

        No. 17. A bill concerning licenses to distill ardent spirits from fruit.

        Mr. BARBOUR, from the committee on finance, to whom had been referred the following senate bills, reported the same without amendment:

        No. 1. A senate bill entitled an act amending the 17th section of chapter 36 of the Code of Virginia, concerning the manner of making returns of delinquents.

        No. 2. A senate bill entitled an act repealing an act for the relief of Ephraim Bee.

        Mr. ANDERSON, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following resolutions:

        1. Resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that this general assembly commemorates, with grateful admiration, the victorious operations of the confederate armies in Virginia during the present campaign, resulting in the deliverance of the capital from siege and the state from invasion.

        2. That the achievements of the army near Richmond, first under the command of Gen. Joseph E. Johnston, and afterwards under the command of Gen. Robert E. Lee, in driving from the environs of this capital a disciplined army superior in number and equipments, occupying formidable and fortified positions, and confident of victory, rank with the most memorable triumphs of skill and valor in the annals of war.

        3. That the army of the valley, under the command of Maj. Gen. Thomas J. Jackson, by a rapid succession of brilliant victories in the valley of Virginia, and afterwards by efficient action as part of the combined army under Gen. Lee, has the conspicuous merit of having won the first triumphs and honorably participated in all the successes of the present illustrious campaign in this state.

        4. That the recent operations of the combined army under Gen. Lee, illustrated by a second decisive victory at Manassas, by the expulsion of the invaders from Virginia, by the passage of the Potomac, by the capture of Harpers Ferry, by the victories at Sharpsburg and at Shepherdstown, and by other triumphant proofs of genius, gallantry, fortitude and patriotism, entitle the officers and men of that army to the profound and perpetual gratitude of their country.

        5. That while rejoicing in our victories and in the valor of our armies, and in the sure guarantee which they furnish of the successful vindication of our liberties and maintenance of our independence, we yet mourn over our heroic sons who have fallen in the sacred cause, and offering to their families our warmest sympathies, commend them to the kindness and generosity of their countrymen.

        6. That these resolutions be communicated by the governor to Gen. Lee, Gen. Johnston and Maj. Gen. Jackson, the distinguished commanders of confederate armies in Virginia, as a memorial of the admiration and thanks of this commonwealth for their eminent ability, and for the skill and gallantry of the officers and men of their respective commands.

        And the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative by an unanimous vote.

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

        On motion of Mr. BARBOUR,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of the house, the petition of Robert Raper and others, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of making more effectual provision for the exemption of state officers from confederate draft.

        On motion of Mr. STAPLES,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of disbanding so much of the army now under the command of Major General John B. Floyd, as may have been called into the field by the recent proclamation of the governor of this state to the militia of Carroll, and certain other western counties, and report to this house whether, in the opinion of the committee, a proclamation from the governor calling out the militia under any other than the organization provided for by law, is not in violation of the constitution of this state, and an unwarrantable and dangerous usurpation of power.

        No. 6. An engrossed bill to protect and indemnify citizens of Virginia, was taken up, on motion of Mr. SPADY, read a third time and passed.

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

        The amendment proposed by the senate to house bill (No. 3) entitled an act to increase jailors' fees for keeping and supporting prisoners, was taken up and agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. I. E. MCDONALD submitted the following resolution:

        Resolved, that the speaker of the house is hereby requested to order an election to be held in the counties of Fayette and Raleigh, to elect a delegate to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of John J. Coleman, and in other counties where vacancies exist and elections can be held; which was ordered to be referred to the committee of privileges and elections.

        No. 9. An engrossed bill to provide for the production, distribution and sale of salt in this commonwealth, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BARBOUR, and read a third time.

        Mr. WILSON submitted the following ryder; which was read a first and second times; and the question being--Shall the ryder be engrossed and read a third time? was put, and decided in the negative.

        "Provided, however, that the governor shall not, with or without the consent of the committee herein before constituted, have authority to purchase what is known as the Smyth and Washington salt works, or any other salt works, until it be clearly ascertained that an

adequate supply of salt for the citizens of this state cannot otherwise be procured."

        The question being--Shall the bill pass? the roll was called, with the following result--Ayes 67, noes 28.

        AYES--Messrs. Ambers, J. T. Anderson, Baker, Barbour, Bayse, Bigger, Blue, Booton, Buford, Cazenove, Coffman, Coleman, Crockett, Custis, Dabney, J. D. Davis, Dice, Edmunds, Eggleston, Evans, Ewing, Flood, Franklin, Gatewood, George, Gillespie, J. H. Hopkins, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, James, Johnson, Jordan, Kaufman, Kyle, Lively, Lockridge, Lundy, Linn, Magruder, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, A. W. McDonald, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Montague, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Orgain, Pitman, Prince, Reid, Riddick, Rives, Rowan, Sherrard, Spady, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Tredway, Vaden, Ward, West, J. L. Wilson, Woodhouse, Woolfolk, Worsham and Wright--67.

        NOES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), F. T. Anderson, Bass, Bouldin, Bradford, Carter, Cecil, Clarke, R. J. Davis, Fleming, Forbes, Garrison, Gilmer, Green, Jones, Laidley, Minor, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Staples, Tate, Vermillion, Williams, S. Wilson and Wootten--28.

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

        On motion of Mr. CUSTIS,

        Resolved, that the committee of claims enquire into the expediency of allowing Samuel C. White dollars, due him for carrying the mail in York and Warwick counties, under a contract made with the governor of the commonwealth.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that leave be given to withdraw from the files of last session, senate bill No., requiring the payment of fees upon the transfer of state securities, and that the same be referred to the committee on finance.

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

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 1862.

        Mr. BLUE, from the committee of privileges and elections, presented the following resolutions:

        1. Resolved, that the speaker of this house issue writs of election to the sheriffs of the election district composed of the counties of Fayette and Raleigh, for election of a delegate for said district to supply the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of John J. Coleman.

        2. Resolved, further, that writs of election be issued by the speaker or governor, as the law directs, requiring elections to be held in any county or election district in which vacancies now exist in the representation of this house, where such election can be held.

        The first resolution was agreed to.

        On motion of Mr. FORBES,

        Resolved, that the second resolution be recommitted to the committee of privileges and elections, and that they enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill changing the time and mode of holding elections for members of the senate and house of delegates, judges

and other officers, in certain counties of the commonwealth which have been in possession of the public enemy.

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

        No. 18. A bill with regard to general and special elections of members of congress during the present war.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, presented the following report:

        A report asking to be discharged from the further consideration of a resolution of enquiry as to whether any constitutional method can be provided for the future representation in the general assembly from counties in the possession of the public enemy, and that it be referred to the committee of privileges and elections.

        The committee ask to be discharged from the further consideration of a resolution instructing them to enquire into the expediency of amending the act passed March 12, 1862, to prevent the unnecessary consumption of grain by distillers, so as to authorize the distillation of whisky from rye only, by special contract with the government, for hospital purposes, and that it be referred to the committee of propositions and grievances.

        Which were agreed to.

        An adverse report to the petition of William A. Burnett and James Patterson; was, on motion of Mr. JAMES, laid on the table.

        Mr. BARBOUR, from the committee on finance, presented the following bill:

        No. 19. A bill authorizing the issue of certificates of debt.

        The names of Messrs. WALKER and RICHARDSON, on their own requests, were ordered to be entered upon the journal in favor of the bill entitled an act to provide for the production, distribution and sale of salt in this commonwealth, passed by the house on yesterday.

        The following senate bills were read a third time and passed:

        No. 1. A senate bill entitled an act amending the 17th section of chapter 36 of the Code of Virginia, concerning the manner of making returns of delinquents.

        No. 2. A senate bill entitled an act for the relief of Ephraim Bee.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, the petition of assistant keepers, clerk and interior guard of the penitentiary, praying for an increase of salary, was withdrawn from the consideration of the committee on the penitentiary, and referred to the committee on finance.

        Mr. BASS, from a special committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 21. A bill authorizing the sale and conveyance of the parsonage lot owned by the Evangelical Lutheran congregation in the town of Salem, Roanoke; which was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time, and on motion of Mr. BASS, laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. BOULDIN,

        Resolved, that the committee of roads and internal navigation enquire into the expediency of amending the existing law for regulating the condemnation of land for rail road purposes.

        On motion of Mr. FLOOD,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of refunding to the securities of William Paris, late sheriff of Appomattox county, all damages recovered against them by the commonwealth in the circuit court of the city of Richmond.

        Subsequently, Mr. FLOOD, from the committee on finance, presented the following bill:

        No. 20. A bill for the relief of the securities of William Paris, late sheriff of Appomattox county.

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

        No. 16. A bill to legalize the records and proceedings of the county court of Essex county, at the June, July and August terms of said court held at Miller's tavern in said county.

        No. 17. A bill to amend and re-enact section 33d of chapter 1st of the Acts of 1861-2, concerning licenses to distill ardent spirits from fruit, &c.

        No. 18. A bill with regard to general and special elections of members of congress during the present war.

        No. 19. A bill authorizing the issue of certificates of debt.

        No. 20. A bill for the relief of the securities of William Paris, late sheriff of Appomattox.

        The following reports from the committee for courts of justice were read and concurred in:

        Referring so much of the governor's message as refers to extortion, as was referred to the committee for courts of justice, to the committee on extortion.

        Adverse report as to the expediency of so amending chapter 105, section 6 of the Code of 1860, as to increase the reward for the apprehension of runaway slaves.

        Adverse report as to the expediency of authorizing the trustees of the New School Presbyterian church in Wytheville to sell and convey the lot and church erected thereon, to another religious denomination.

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

        No. 5. A bill amending the 15th section of an act entitled an act imposing taxes for the support of government, passed March 27, 1862, concerning express companies.

        No. 7. A bill legalizing the manufacture of alcohol.

        No. 8. A bill to authorize the governor to settle the account of Sampson Jones, agent of Mrs. Jane A. Griffin.

        No. 14. A bill incorporating the Pleasant grove lead and zinc mining and manufacturing company.

        Mr. PRINCE submitted the following resolution:

        Resolved, that the house of delegates will, with the concurrence of the senate, adjourn sine die on Tuesday the 30th instant.

        On motion of Mr. ANDERSON of Botetourt, the resolution was laid on the table.

        Mr. JONES was excused, on his own request, from further service

on the committee to investigate the conduct of the owners of the Washington and Smyth salt works, and Mr. CROCKETT appointed in his stead.

        Mr. BIGGER was added to the committee of privileges and elections.

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

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 1862.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Minnegerode of the Episcopal church.

        On motion of Mr. ANDERSON of Botetourt,

        Resolved, that the governor of this commonwealth be respectfully requested to inform the house of delegates under what clause of the constitution, or under what law or laws of the state, his proclamation of the 30th day of August 1862, calling out the militia of certain counties of the commonwealth, and ordering them to report to Major Gen. Floyd, was issued.

        No. 5. An engrossed bill amending the 15th section of an act entitled an act imposing taxes for the support of government, passed March 27, 1862, concerning express companies, was taken up, read a third time, and on motion, laid on the table.

        No. 7. An engrossed bill legalizing the manufacture of alcohol, was taken up and read a third time.

        Mr. MAGRUDER submitted a ryder to the bill; which was read a first and second times, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        The question being--Shall the bill pass? Mr. NELSON of Louisa demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative--Ayes 48, noes 33.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Ambers, Baker, Barbour, Bass, Bigger, Bradford, Buford, Cazenove, Coffman, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Dice, Evans, Flood, Gilmer, Grattan, J. H. Hopkins, H. L. Hopkins, James, Jones, Jordan, Kaufman, Magruder, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, Minor, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T Nelson, Newton, Reid, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, R. C. Saunders, Sherrard, Staples, Tate, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Tomlin, Tyler, Ward, West, S. Wilson, Worsham, Wright and Wynne--18.

        NOES--Messrs. J. T. Anderson, F. T. Anderson, Baskervill, Blue, Cecil, Clarke, Eggleston, Ewing, Forbes, Franklin, Gatewood, Gillespie, Green, Huntt, Johnson, Kyle, Lively, Lundy, Mayo, A. W. McDonald, McLaughlin, Montague, Pitman, Prince, Richardson, Spady, Thrash, Tredway, Vermillion, Walker, Williams, Woodhouse and Wootten--33.

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

        No. 8. An engrossed bill to authorize the governor to settle the account of Sampson Jones, agent of Mrs. Jane A. Griffin, was read a third time and passed--Ayes 76, no 1.

        AYES--Messrs. Ambers, J. T. Anderson, F. T. Anderson, Baker, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bigger, Blue, Booton, Bradford, Buford, Cazenove. Cecil, Clarke, Coffman, Custis, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Dice, Eggleston, Ewing, Fleming, Forbes, Gatewood, Gillespie, Gilmer, Green, J. H. Hopkins, H. L. Hopkins, James, Jones, Kaufman, Kyle, Lively, Lundy, Magruder, Mayo, McCamant, A. W. McDonald, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin,

Minor, Montague, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Newton, Pitman, Prince, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, R. C. Saunders, Sherrard, Spady, Staples, Tate, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Tredway, Tyler, Vermillion, Walker, Ward, Williams, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woodhouse, Wootten, Worsham, Wright and Wynne--76.

        No--Mr. West--1.

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

        No. 14. An engrossed bill incorporating the Pleasant grove lead and zinc mining and manufacturing company, was read a third time and passed.

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

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

        No. 10. A bill to amend the 43d and 44th sections of chapter 87 of the Code, so as to increase the fees of tobacco inspectors.

        No. 12. A bill to incorporate the Rockingham savings bank in the town of Harrisonburg.

        No. 13. A bill to suppress the circulation of counterfeit notes within the commonwealth.

        No. 15. A bill to amend and re-enact an act entitled an act to prevent the unnecessary consumption of grain by distillers and other manufacturers of spirituous and malt liquors.

        No. 16. A bill to legalize the records and proceedings of the county court of Essex county, at the June, July and August terms of said court held at Miller's tavern in said county.

        No. 11. A bill authorizing the city of Lynchburg to issue a further amount of its notes as a currency, was taken up and read a second time; and the question being--Shall the bill be engrossed and read a third time? was put, and decided in the negative.

        No. 17. A bill to amend and re-enact section 3, chapter 1 of Acts 1861-2, concerning licenses to distill ardent spirits from fruit, was taken up and read a second time.

        Mr. BUFORD submitted an amendment to the bill; pending the consideration of which, the bill and amendment were laid on the table.

        Mr. NEWTON, from the joint committee appointed to consider the character of the present session, presented a report, asking to be discharged from the further consideration of the subject.

        On motion of Mr. CROCKETT, leave of absence was granted to him for the remainder of the session.

        Mr. WOOLFOLK, from the committee to investigate the manner in which Stuart, Buchanan & Co. had complied with their contracts with the counties and corporations of the commonwealth, presented a report; which was read, and on his motion laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 3.

        On motion of Mr. WYNNE,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance enquire into the expediency of making a ratable increase of the present compensation paid to such officers of the state government as they may consider advisable.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the expediency of making some provision by law for winding up the affairs of the Bank of Weston and the Bank of Manassas.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill amending the 1st section of the act passed March 27, 1862, to provide for the trial of persons charged with felony, in counties in possession of the enemy.

        On motion of Mr. JAMES,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of changing the times of holding the terms of the courts of the 14th judicial circuit of the state.

        On motion of Mr. MCDONALD of Hampshire,

        Resolved, that the committee on finance be instructed to enquire into the expediency of amending the present tax bill, by increasing the tax on incomes, where such incomes exceed dollars, and of so increasing it as that the per centum of taxation shall increase as said excess shall increase, with the view of securing more revenue from those who are extorting through the necessities of the soldiers, and of discouraging excessive and illegitimate speculation.

        On motion of Mr. AMBERS,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice enquire into the expediency of amending the 29th section of chapter 192 of the Code of Virginia, so as to admit the testimony of slaves and persons of color against any person, not a citizen of the Confederate States, charged with kidnapping or enticing slaves from their masters.

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

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 1862.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Minnegerode of the Episcopal church.

        Mr. TOMLIN, from the committee of privileges and elections, presented the following bills:

        No. 23. A bill changing the time and mode of holding elections in counties and cities of the commonwealth which have been or may hereafter be in possession of the public enemy.

        No. 24. A bill to authorize certain classes of citizens to vote out of their counties and corporations during the present war.

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

        No. 25. A bill to regulate the charges of express companies on parcels or packages forwarded by or for persons in the military or naval service, in time of war, insurrection or invasion.

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

        Mr. CARPENTER, from the committee of roads and internal navigation,

presented an adverse report to a resolution of enquiry as to rebuilding the bridge across Cowpasture river.

        Mr. CARPENTER, from the same committee, presented a report, asking that the governor be requested to make application to the confederate government for the rebuilding of the bridge across Greenbrier river, on the James river and Kanawha turnpike, burnt by the confederate troops in the year 1862.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. THOMPSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed house bill entitled an act for the production, distribution and sale of salt in this commonwealth, with amendments: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        The amendments were taken up.

        The 1st, 2d, 3d, 4th, 7th, 8th and 10th amendments were concurred in.

        The 5th amendment from the senate was amended, on motions of Mr. BOULDIN and Mr. TREDWAY, and as amended agreed to.

        The question being on agreeing to the 6th amendment of the senate, which is as follows: "Add, at end of third section, the following: 'If a sufficient supply of salt water cannot be obtained at the wells now producing salt water, for the production of a sufficient supply of salt for the people of the state, or cannot promptly be obtained from new wells, then the governor is directed to disregard such contracts with the states of the Confederate States; but if a surplus of water may exist, then the governor is directed to furnish to the other states of the Confederate States out of any surplus of salt water that may remain after the supply of a sufficient quantity to the state of Virginia' "--was put and decided in the affirmative--Ayes 56, noes 25.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Barbour, Bigger, Blue, Booton, Carpenter, Carter, Coffman, J. D. Davis, Dice, Eggleston, Ewing, Fleming, Forbes, Gatewood, George, Gillespie, Gilmer, Grattan, J. H. Hopkins, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, Johnson, Jordan, Kaufman, Kyle, Lively, Lockridge, Magruder, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, McLaughlin, Minor, R. E. Nelson, Orgain, Pitman, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rowan, Spady, Staples, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Tomlin, Tredway, Tyler, Walker, Ward, West, Woolfolk, Worsham and Wright--56.

        NOES--Messrs. Ambers, J. T. Anderson, F. T. Anderson, Baker, Bass, Bouldin, Brad ford, Cecil, R. J. Davis, Flood, Franklin, Green, Jones, A. W. McDonald, Montague, Newton, Robertson, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Sherrard, Vermillion, Williams, S. Wilson, Woodhouse and Wootten--25.

        Mr. BUFORD moved to add the following: "Provided, that nothing in this act shall be so construed as to authorize the governor to prevent owners of salt property, or their assignees, from manufacturing and selling salt from salt water or fossil salt remaining after all the uses of the state, under the provisions of this act, are supplied;" which was agreed to.

        The 9th amendment of the senate was then amended, and as amended concurred in.

        Ordered, that Mr. MAGRUDER carry the amendments of the house to the senate's amendments, to the senate, and respectfully request their concurrence.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. LYNCH, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to a joint resolution in relation to the adjournment of the general assembly: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        On motion of Mr. FLEMING, the resolution was taken up and read as follows:

        Resolved, that the senate, when it adjourns on Monday next, will, with the concurrence of the house of delegates, adjourn to meet on the first Wednesday in January 1863, unless sooner convened by the governor, and then on such day as he may designate.

        Mr. FLEMING moved to amend the resolution, by striking out "Monday next" and inserting "Thursday next;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD moved further to amend the resolution, by striking out the words "on such day as he may designate," and inserting "in pursuance of the power vested in him by the constitution."

        Pending the consideration of which, the resolution and amendment were, on motion of Mr. HOPKINS of Petersburg, laid on the table--Ayes 43, noes 42.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Ambers, J. T. Anderson, F. T. Anderson, Baker, Bass, Bigger, Blue, Booton, Bouldin, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, R. J. Davis, Flood, Forbes, Gatewood, Green, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, Jones, Laidley, Mayo, McCamant, A. W. McDonald, Newton, Orgain, Pitman, Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rowan, R. C. Saunders, Spady, Staples, Thomas, Tomlin, Williams, S. Wilson, Woodhouse, Woolfolk, Wootten and Worsham--43.

        NOES--Messrs. Barbour, Bradford, Carpenter, Cecil, Clarke, Coffman, J. D. Davis, Dice, Eggleston, Evans, Ewing, Fleming, Franklin, George, Gillespie, Gilmer, J. H. Hopkins, Johnson, Jordan, Kaufman, Kyle, Lively, Lockridge, Magruder, Mallory, McLaughlin, Minor, Montague, R. E. Nelson, Reid, Rutherfoord, Shannon, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thrash, Tredway, Tyler, Vermillion, Walker, Ward, West and Wright--42.

        On motion of Mr. HOPKINS of Rockingham,

        Resolved, that the committee on banks enquire into the propriety of amending the charter of the Bank of Rockingham.

        Mr. WALKER submitted the following preamble and resolution; which being objected to, were laid over under the rule:

        It being understood that the president of the Confederate States, in a communication this day addressed to the house of representatives, claims the right, and is practically exercising the power, to arrest and imprison citizens of Virginia unconnected with the army or navy, for offences not known to the laws of Virginia or the Confederate States, but constituted wholly by military orders:

        Resolved by the senate and house of delegates, that the governor of Virginia be requested to cause the attorney general and the attorneys for the commonwealth to institute judicial proceedings for the purpose of testing the right so asserted by the president, and of protecting the citizens of Virginia.

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

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 1862.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Minnegerode of the Episcopal church.

        Mr. CARPENTER, from the committee of roads and internal navigation, presented the following bill:

        No. 26. A bill to provide for the assessment of damages on the line of the Piedmont rail road.

        Mr. HOPKINS of Petersburg, from the special committee on extortion, presented the following bill:

        No. 27. A bill to suppress extortion; which was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. STAPLES, from the select committee to consider the condition of Virginia sick and wounded soldiers, presented a report; which was read, and on motion of Mr. STAPLES, laid on the table and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 5.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. BRANNON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to the first amendment proposed by the house of delegates to the amendments proposed by the senate to house bill entitled an act providing for the production, sale and distribution of salt in this commonwealth, and that they had disagreed to the 2d and 3d amendments, and asked a committee of conference upon the subjects of difference between the two houses.

        On motion of Mr. BARBOUR, the resolution for a committee of conference was agreed to.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee on the part of the house: Messrs. Barbour, Robertson, Shannon, Hopkins of Rockingham, and Buford.

        Ordered, that Mr. BARBOUR inform the senate thereof.

        No. 17. A bill to amend and re-enact section 3 of chapter 1 of Acts of 1861-2, concerning licenses to distill ardent spirits from fruit, with the pending amendment thereto, was taken up.

        The amendment being to strike out of the following section of the bill the words "who is the bona fide owner of the distillery:"

        "Provided no license or tax shall be required of any person who is the bona fide owner of the distillery, for manufacturing thirty-three gallons, in one year, out of the fruit, vegetables, syrups, molasses, sugar cane or sugars of his own production, for his own use"--the question on agreeing thereto was put, and decided in the affirmative--Ayes 57, noes 27.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Ambers, F. T. Anderson, Baker, Barbour, Baskervill, Bigger, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Cecil, Coffman, J. D. Davis, Dice, Edmunds, Eggleston, Evans, Flood, Franklin. Garrison, George, Gillespie, Gilmer, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt. James, Jones, Jordan, Kaufman, Kyle, Lively, Lockridge, Magruder, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, Minor, R. E. Nelson, Orgain, Prince, Riddick, Rives, Rutherfoord, Sherrard, Staples, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thrash, Tyler, Vermillion, Ward, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woolfolk, Wootten, Wright and Wynne--57.

        NOES--Messrs. J. T. Anderson, Bass, Blue, Bouldin, Bradford, Clarke, Ewing, Fleming, Forbes, Gatewood, Green, J. H. Hopkins, Johnson, A. W. McDonald, McLaughlin, Montague, Newton, Pitman, Reid, Robinson, Rowan, Shannon, Spady, Walker, Williams, Woodhouse and Worsham--27.

        Mr. PRINCE moved to amend the section as amended, by striking out the whole thereof, and inserting the following:

        "If the distillery is engaged in distilling ardent spirits from fruit, whether produced by the owner thereof or not, and is not so engaged for more than four months, no tax shall be imposed; but if so engaged for more than four months, whether engaged in distilling fruit produced by the owner or not, the tax shall be assessed and collected as in this section provided."

        The question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. BLUE demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative--Ayes 11, noes 74.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Buford, Carpenter, Gilmer, Kyle, Magruder, Minor, Prince, Riddick, Robertson, Staples, J. L. Wilson and Wright--11.

        NOES--Messrs. Ambers, J. T. Anderson, F. T. Anderson, Baker, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bigger, Blue, Bouldin, Bradford, Carter, Cazenove, Cecil, Clarke, Coffman, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Dice, Edmunds, Eggleston, Evans, Ewing, Fleming, Flood, Forbes, Franklin, Garrison, Gatewood, George, Gillespie, Green, J. H. Hopkins, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, James, Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kaufman, Lively, Lockridge, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, A. W. McDonald, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Montague, Newton, Orgain, Pitman, Reid, Richardson, Rives, Robinson, Rowan, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, Spady, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thrash, Tredway, Tyler, Vermillion, Walker, Ward, Williams, S. Wilson, Woodhouse, Worsham and Wynne--74.

        Mr. RICHARDSON moved to amend the bill, by inserting in the first section the following: "Provided, that if the amount distilled in any one year shall exceed 500 gallons, the tax shall be $60 for every such license; and if the amount distilled shall exceed 1,000 gallons, the tax shall be $75 for every such license;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. WILSON of Isle of Wight moved a suspension of the rules, with a view to reconsider the vote by which the amendment was agreed to; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        The question being--Shall the bill be engrossed and read a third time? Mr. MALLORY demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        The SPEAKER presented a communication from the governor, in response to a resolution of the house, in reference to the call made by him on the militia of certain counties to report to Major General Floyd; which was read, and on motion of Mr. ANDERSON of Botetourt, referred to the committee on military affairs, and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 4.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. COLLIER, who informed the house that the senate had agreed to a joint resolution for the establishment of a tan-yard at the penitentiary: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        On motion of Mr. PRINCE, the resolution heretofore communicated from the senate, in relation to the adjournment of the general assembly, with the pending amendment thereto, was taken up.

        The amendment was agreed to.

        Mr. BOULDIN moved to amend the resolution as amended, by

striking out all after the word "adjourn" and inserting "sine die. But the governor is hereby requested to convene the general assembly in special session on the first Wednesday in January 1863, unless he shall deem it necessary to convene the same at an earlier day;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. MALLORY demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        Mr. MAGRUDER moved a suspension of the rule, with a view to reconsider the vote by which the house agreed to an amendment substituting "Thursday next" for "Monday next;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. FLEMING, by leave of the house, withdrew the amendment.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD moved to amend the resolution as amended, by striking out all after the word "Resolved," and inserting "that the general assembly, when it adjourns on Monday next, will adjourn to meet on the first Wednesday in January 1863, unless sooner convened by the governor, in pursuance of the power vested in him by the constitution;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. MCDONALD of Hampshire moved an adjournment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative--Ayes 26, noes 52.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Ambers, Bass, Blue, Carpenter, Carter, Evans, Garrison, Gatewood, Gilmer, Green, Huntt, Johnson, Lively, McCamant, A. W. McDonald, Pitman, Riddick, Robinson, Rowan, Spady, Thomas, Thrash, Vermillion, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson and Worsham--26.

        NOES--Messrs. J. T. Anderson, Baker, Baskervill, Bigger, Booton, Bouldin, Bradford, Cazenove, Cecil, Clarke, Coffman, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Dice, Edmunds, Eggleston, Ewing, Fleming, Flood, Franklin, George, Gillespie, H. L. Hopkins, James, Jones, Jordan, Kaufman, Kyle, Lockridge, Magruder, Mallory, Mayo, I. E. McDonald, Minor, Montague, R. E. Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Prince, Reid, Richardson, Rives, Rutherfoord, Staples, R. F. Taylor, Tredway, Walker, Ward, Williams, Woodhouse and Wright--52.

        Mr. BARBOUR submitted the following preamble and resolution:

        Whereas it has been represented to the general assembly, that the agents of the government of the Confederate States are obtaining from the producers of salt in this commonwealth such quantities of salt, in addition to what is required for those who are in the public service, as enables them to engage in an oppressive traffic with the citizens of this commonwealth, withholding salt from them except in exchange for meat, made at rates exorbitant and oppressive:

        Resolved by the general assembly, that the governor of the commonwealth be directed to call the attention of the president of the Confederate States to these oppressive practices of the agents of the government over which he presides, and to communicate to him the objections, on the part of the authorities of this commonwealth, to the purchase by the authorities of the Confederate States, within the limits of Virginia, of any salt other than such as may be required for the use of those who are engaged in the public service, or for the preservation of their supplies.

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

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

        No. 26. A bill to provide for the assessment of damages on the line of the Piedmont rail road, was taken up, read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        On motion of Mr. BUFORD, two-thirds concurring, the bill was read a second time; and the question being--Shall the bill be engrossed and read a third time? Pending the consideration thereof,

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

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 1862.

        Prayer by Rev. Dr. Minnegerode of the Episcopal church.

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

IN SENATE, Sept. 30, 1862.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act to authorize the governor to settle the account of Sampson Jones, agent of Mrs. Jane A. Griffin, No. 8.

        An act incorporating the Pleasant grove lead and zinc mining and manufacturing company, No. 14.

        An act to incorporate the Union manufacturing company in the county of Fluvanna, No. 1.

        They have passed house bill entitled:

        An act to protect and indemnify citizens of Virginia, No. 6, with an amendment.

        They have agreed to the amendment proposed by the house of delegates to the resolution in relation to the adjournment of the general assembly.

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

        Mr. BARBOUR, from the committee on finance, presented the following bill:

        No. 27. A bill concerning salaries of certain officers of government.

        The amendment proposed by the senate to house bill entitled an act to protect and indemnify citizens of Virginia, was taken up.

        Mr. SPADY moved to amend the amendment, by adding thereto: "provided, that this section shall not apply to any office holders in the counties of Accomack and Northampton, until thirty days after the passage of this act."

        Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. BOULDIN, the bill and amendments were committed to the committee for courts of justice.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. BRANNON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to the

report of the committee of conference as to the differences between the two houses in relation to the bill for the production, sale and distribution of salt in this commonwealth.

        Mr. BARBOUR, from the committee on the part of the house, presented the report; which was agreed to.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        On motion of Mr. WILSON of Isle of Wight,

        Resolved, that leave be given to bring in a bill to provide for the qualification of sheriffs and other public officers prevented from qualifying by reason of the public enemy.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under the resolution: Messrs. Wilson of Isle of Wight, Rutherfoord and Baker.

        Subsequently, Mr. WILSON, from the committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 28. A bill to provide for the qualification of sheriffs and other public officers prevented from qualifying within the periods now prescribed by law, by reason of the public enemy; which was read a first time, and on motion of Mr. WILSON, two-thirds concurring, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

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

        No. 15. An engrossed bill to amend and re-enact an act entitled an act to prevent the unnecessary consumption of grain by distillers and other manufacturers of spirituous and malt liquors, was taken up, on motion of Mr. JAMES, read a third time and passed.

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

        The SPEAKER laid before the house a communication from the governor, transmitting copies of a communication referred to the war department by Maj. Gen. Loring; the reply of Adjutant General Richardson to a letter of Hon. George W. Randolph, secretary of war, transmitting the letter to him, and the report of Major General Floyd in reply; which were read, and on motion of Mr. MCCAMANT, referred to the committee on military affairs, and ordered to be printed. Doc. No. 6.

        On motion of Mr. MCCAMANT,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of authorizing the governor of this commonwealth to vacate the commissions of disloyal brigadier generals, and to commission others in their stead, assigning his reasons therefor.

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY,

        Resolved, that the clerk of this house be required to make out a correct copy of the bill to provide for the production, distribution and sale of salt in this commonwealth, and furnish the same to the public press.

        On motion of Mr. SAUNDERS of Campbell,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of transferring the army of Virginia to the Confederate States.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. GARNETT, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a bill entitled an act to repeal the fence law of Virginia as to certain counties, and to authorize the county courts to dispense with enclosures in other counties: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        No. 17. An engrossed bill to amend and re-enact section 33 of chapter 1 of the Acts of 1861-2, concerning a license to distill spirits from fruit, &c. was taken up, on motion of Mr. MALLORY, read a third time and passed--Ayes 77, noes 4.

        AYES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, F. T. Anderson, Baker, Barbour, Baskervill, Bass, Bigger, Blue, Booton, Bouldin, Bradford, Carter, Cazenove, Cecil, Clarke, J. D. Davis, Dice, Eggleston, Ewing, Flood, Forbes, Franklin, Garrison, Gatewood, George, Gillespie, Gilmer, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kaufman, Kyle, Laidley, Lively, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, A. W. McDonald, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Minor, Montague, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Pitman, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rowan, Rutherfoord, Shannon, Sherrard, Staples, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Tredway, Tyler, Vermillion, Walker, Ward, S. Wilson, Woodhouse, Wootten, Worsham and Wynne--77.

        NOES--Messrs. Dabney, Rives, J. L. Wilson and Wright--4.

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

        The following engrossed bills were read a third time and passed:

        No. 10. An engrossed bill to amend the 43d and 44th sections of chapter 87 of the Code, so as to increase the fees of tobacco inspectors.

        No. 12. An engrossed bill to incorporate the Rockingham savings bank in the town of Harrisonburg.

        No. 13. An engrossed bill to suppress the circulation of counterfeit notes within the commonwealth.

        No. 16. An engrossed bill to legalize the records and proceedings of the county court of Essex county, at the June, July and August terms of said court held at Miller's tavern in said county.

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

        No. 26. A bill to provide for the assessment of damages on the line of the Piedmont rail road, being the unfinished business of yesterday, was taken up.

        The bill was then amended, and as amended, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forth-with engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

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

        Mr. CAZENOVE submitted the following resolutions; which, on his motion, were referred to the committee on military affairs:

        Resolved by the general assembly, that the thanks of the commonwealth of Virginia are due and are hereby tendered to Flag Officer French Forrest, and the officers and men under his command, for the gallant and meritorious conduct displayed by them in the capture, on the 21st of April 1861, of the navy yard at Gosport, Virginia, and the saving from destruction, by fire and pillage, the large amount of

property, as detailed in the report of Commissioner Peters, and for the promptitude and energy displayed by him and those under his command, in the erection of a battery at Hospital point to prevent a recapture.

        Resolved, that these resolutions be communicated by the governor to Flag Officer French Forrest, and by him to the officers and men who served under his command.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, with the concurrence of the senate, that this house will, on to-morrow at 1 o'clock, proceed to the election of the assessors required by the act entitled an act to provide for the production, distribution and sale of salt in this commonwealth.

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

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, the house resolved itself into secret session.

        The doors being opened,

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. COLLIER, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a bill entitled an act amending and re-enacting the 2d section of chapter 22 of the Code of Virginia, respecting persons exempt from all military duties, and providing the mode of exemption, passed Feb. 18th, 1862: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        On motion of Mr. WILSON of Isle of Wight, the bill was taken up, read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. WILSON, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

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

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2, 1862.

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

IN SENATE, Oct. 1, 1862.

        The senate have passed house bill entitled:

        An act legalizing the manufacture of alcohol, No. 7.

        And have agreed to the joint resolution from the house of delegates for the election of assessors authorized by the act for the production, distribution and sale of salt in this commonwealth.

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

        No. 29. A bill for the relief of Judge George W. Thompson; which was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        No. 30. A bill to amend and re-enact section 1 of chapter 80 of the Acts of 1861-2, passed March 27, 1862; which was read a first time, and on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, read a second time, two-thirds concurring, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, to whom had been recommitted house bill entitled:

        No. 9. An act to protect and indemnify citizens of Virginia, with the amendments thereto proposed by the senate, presented the same, with certain amendments to the amendments of the senate; which was taken up, on motion of Mr. GARRISON, and the amendments proposed by the committee agreed to.

        The amendment of the senate was then further amended on motion of Mr. FORBES, and as amended, agreed to.

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

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, to whom had been referred

        No. 4. A senate bill entitled an act to redress loyal citizens injured by the exercise of usurped power, reported the same without amendment.

        The bill was then read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. RUTHERFOORD, from the same committee, presented a report adverse to the expediency of granting amnesty to citizens of Virginia who have taken the oath of allegiance to the government of the United States.

        No. 27. A bill concerning salaries of certain officers of government, was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. GARRISON submitted the following preamble and resolution; which were agreed to:

        Whereas information has been received that Adam Small, a member of the house of delegates from the county of Berkeley, and Matthew Harrison, a member of said house from the county of Loudoun, have been captured by the enemy, and are now confined in prison: Therefore,

        Be it resolved by the house of delegates, that the governor of the commonwealth be instructed to communicate to the president the fact of the capture and imprisonment of the said Adam Small and the said Matthew Harrison, and that he do request the president to use every means in his power, consistent with his duties and the laws and regulations of the Confederate States, to procure the release of the said prisoners.

        No. 9. A senate bill entitled an act to repeal the fence law of Virginia, as to certain counties, and to authorize the county courts to dispense with enclosures in other counties, was read a first and second times, amended, and as amended, read a third time and passed.

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

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. WILEY, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed house bill entitled an act to amend and re-enact an act entitled an act to prevent the unnecessary consumption of grain by distillers and other manufacturers of spirituous and malt liquors, with an amendment: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        The amendment was concurred in.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. THOMPSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed house bill entitled an act to amend and re-enact the 33d section of chapter 1st of the Acts of 1861-2, concerning a license to distill ardent spirits from fruit, &c., with an amendment: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        The amendment was concurred in.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        A resolution from the senate for the establishment of a tan-yard at the penitentiary, was referred to the joint committee on the penitentiary.

        On motion of Mr. BOOTON,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire into the expediency of providing for the protection of citizens against illegal seizures of property in their possession, by partisan rangers, or other military authority of the confederate government.

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY,

        Resolved, that the committee on military affairs enquire into the expediency of so amending the exemption laws of the state as to include commissioners in chancery in the county courts.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the committee for courts of justice be instructed to enquire into the expediency of reporting a bill modifying the stay law at least so far as may be necessary to give protection to securities.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house the following communication from the governor, enclosing a letter from the adjutant general; which were read, and on motion of Mr. BLUE, referred to the committee on military affairs:

Executive Department, Oct. 2, 1862.

Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Delegates:

        I herewith transmit a communication from the adjutant general on a subject of interest and importance, and commend it to your consideration and such action as you may deem advisable.

        I again respectfully renew the recommendation contained in my message at the opening of this session, in regard to officers of the militia who are disloyal or refuse to obey the orders of the executive. In that portion of Western and Northwestern Virginia which has been overrun by the public enemy, we have very few militia officers who can be relied upon to execute the orders of the executive. Under existing laws we have no means of reaching such officers, except through the agency of courts martial, and these cannot be held in that section of the state. It is of the first importance, therefore, that some legislation shall be had upon this subject before your adjournment.

Respectfully,

JOHN LETCHER.

Adjutant General's Office,
September 30, 1862.

SIR:

        Permit me to suggest for your consideration the expediency, under existing circumstances, of extending the provisions of the act of 7th of March 1862, in regard to the second class militia, over the whole state, and a thorough organization of that class, for home service, during the continuance of the war; also, a re-examination of all men who were exempted by the local boards. In many cases, physical disability which then existed, exists no longer, yet many able-bodied men shelter themselves under the exemption. In addition, to constitute a board consisting of three justices for each regiment, with authority to assess, and cause the militia fines to be promptly collected, suspending for a time the sections of the 31st chapter of the Code of 1860, relating to regimental and battalion courts of enquiry, which are now practically inoperative.

Very respectfully, y'r ob't serv't,

WM. H. RICHARDSON,A. G.

His Excellency John Letcher,
Governor of Virginia.

        The joint order of the day for the election of five assessors, under the act entitled an act for the production, sale and distribution of salt in this commonwealth, was taken up.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, the senate concurring, that this house will elect the five assessors at the same time.

        Mr. MCCAMANT nominated Col. John A. Saunders of Wythe.

        Mr. GEORGE nominated Thomas J. Higginbotham of Tazewell.

        Mr. MAGRUDER nominated Thomas Wood of Albemarle.

        Mr. COFFMAN nominated Allen C. Hammond of Berkeley.

        Mr. WOOLFOLK nominated Reuben L. Gordon of Orange.

        Mr. WILSON of Isle of Wight nominated Robert L. Whitfield of Isle of Wight.

        Mr. EDMUNDS nominated William L. Goggin of Bedford.

        Mr. WYNNE nominated Peachy R. Grattan of Richmond city.

        Mr. FORBES nominated Walker P. Conway of Spotsylvania.

        Mr. JAMES nominated C. E. Doddridge of Kanawha.

        Mr. WALKER nominated John N. Hendren of Augusta.

        Mr. LIVELY nominated A. A. Chapman of Monroe.

        Mr. MALLORY nominated James H. Cox of Chesterfield.

        Mr. RICHARDSON nominated Elliott Vawter of Mercer.

        Mr. STAPLES nominated Francis B. Deane, jr. of Lynchburg.

        Mr. WORSHAM nominated George W. Bolling of Petersburg.

        Mr. DABNEY nominated Edmund W. Hubbard of Buckingham.

        Mr. LOCKRIDGE nominated Paul McNeil of Pocahontas.

        Ordered, that Mr. MCCAMANT inform the senate that the house of delegates was ready on its part to proceed to the execution of the joint order, and that the foregoing gentlemen were in nomination.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. THOMPSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to the following resolution:

        Resolved, that the senate will, with the concurrence of the house of delegates, proceed to the election of one of the five assessors authorized to be elected by the provisions of an act for the production, sale and distribution of salt.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER,

        Resolved, that the senate be requested to return to the house of delegates the message just communicated to the senate.

        Ordered, that Mr. MAGRUDER carry the same to the senate.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. THOMPSON, returning the message.

        The resolution from the senate was then concurred in.

        Ordered, that Mr. BARBOUR inform the senate that the house of delegates was ready on its part to proceed to the election of one assessor, and that the gentlemen before named were in nomination before that body.

        On motion of Mr. JONES,

        Resolved, the senate consenting, that this house will take a recess until half-past seven o'clock this afternoon.

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

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. ARMSTRONG, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to the resolution.

        The SPEAKER vacated the chair until 7½ o'clock.

EVENING SESSION.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. THOMPSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to the following joint resolution:

        Resolved, that the senate is ready to proceed to the election of an assessor, under the act to provide for the production, sale and distribution of salt, and that nominations have been made for that office only for the southwestern section of the state. The names of gentlemen in nomination are Arthur C. Cummings of Abingdon, and Elliott Vawter of Mercer.

        On motion of Mr. MCCAMANT,

        Resolved, the senate concurring, that the execution of the joint order, which has for its object the election of assessors, be postponed until 12 o'clock to-morrow.

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

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. BALL, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to the resolution.

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN,

        Resolved, that a committee of three be appointed to consider the propriety of refunding moneys paid for exemption by parties under the exemption laws of Virginia, where such parties were denied the benefit of such exemption by reason of the conscript act.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under the resolution: Messrs. Grattan, Rutherfoord and Edmunds.

        No. 29. A bill for the relief of Judge George W. Thompson, was taken up, on motion of Mr. RUTHERFOORD, and, two-thirds concurring, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, the house resolved itself into secret session.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON,

        Resolved, that when the house adjourns, it adjourn to meet at 9 o'clock to-morrow morning.

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 9 o'clock.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3, 1862.

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

IN SENATE, Oct. 2, 1862.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act to legalize the records and proceedings of the county court of Essex county, at the June, July and August terms of said court held at Miller's tavern in said county, No. 16.

        An act to provide for the qualification of sheriffs and other public officers prevented from qualifying within the period now prescribed by law, by reason of the public enemy, No. 28.

        They have passed a bill entitled:

        An act prescribing the oath to be taken by any person who applies for a license, No. 3.

        And they have agreed to a joint resolution authorizing the branch of the Exchange Bank of Virginia at Richmond to declare a dividend for the six months ending 30th June 1862, and to joint resolutions guaranteeing to the people of the northwestern section of the state the construction of a rail road connecting that portion of the state with the seaboard, at the earliest day practicable.

        In which bill and resolutions they respectfully request the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        On motion of Mr. BIGGER,

        Resolved, that a special committee be appointed to bring in a bill for the relief of Thomas U. Dudley, sergeant of the city of Richmond.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under the resolution:

        Messrs. Bigger, Eggleston, Taylor of Amelia, Davis of Amherst, and Walker.

        Mr. BIGGER, from the committee, subsequently presented the following bill:

        No. 32. A bill for the relief of the sergeant of the city of Richmond; which was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. BIGGER moved that the bill be again read this day; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and two-thirds concurring, decided in the affirmative.

        The bill was then amended, on motion of Mr. HOPKINS of Petersburg, so as to include the sergeant of the city of Petersburg, and as amended, read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.

        No. 27. A bill to suppress extortion, was taken up, amended, and as amended, read a second time; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. MINOR moved the indefinite postponement of the bill. Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, the house resolved itself into secret session.

        The doors being opened,

        The house proceeded to the execution of the joint order of the day, which had for its object the election of five assessors, under the act for the production, sale and distribution of salt.

        The resolution heretofore communicated from the senate in relation to the election of an assessor from the southwestern portion of the state, was taken up; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        Mr. MCCAMANT withdrew the name of John A. Saunders of Wythe.

        Mr. EDMUNDS withdrew the name of William L. Goggin.

        Mr. MALLORY withdrew the name of James H. Cox of Chesterfield.

        Mr. WORSHAM withdrew the name of George W. Bolling of Petersburg.

        Mr. LOCKRIDGE withdrew the name of Paul McNeil.

        Ordered, that Mr. MCCAMANT inform the senate that the house, on their part, was ready to proceed to the execution of the joint order, and that the gentlemen before mentioned had been withdrawn.

        On motion of Mr. WOOLFOLK,

        Resolved, that the senate be requested to return to the house of delegates the message just communicated, that the house was ready on its part, in execution of the joint order, to proceed to the election of one assessor.

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

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. THOMPSON, returning the message.

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN,

        Resolved, that the senate be requested to return the message communicated on yesterday, in relation to the election of assessors, and that the senate be informed that the house is now ready to proceed

to the election of five assessors, and that the name of Samuel Price of Greenbrier had been added to the nominations.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. THOMPSON, returning the message, and informing the house that the senate had agreed to the resolution, and was ready, on its part, to proceed to the execution of the joint order.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. COLLIER, who informed the house of delegates that the name of E. L. Lunsford had been added to the nominations:

        The roll was then called, with the following result:

        For Reuben L. Gordon--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, Baker, Barbour, Bigger, Blue, Booton, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Coleman, Dabney, J. D. Davis, Dice, Edmunds, Garrison, George, Gillespie, Gilmer, Grattan, Green, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, James, Johnson, Jordan, Kyle, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Minor, Murdaugh, W. G. T. Nelson, Newton, Payne, Prince, Richardson, Riddick, Rives, Robinson, Rowan, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, Staples, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Tredway, Vermillion, Walker, J. L. Wilson, Woodhouse, Woolfolk, Wootten, Worsham, Wright and Wynne--66.

        For Peachy R. Grattan--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), J. T. Anderson, Baker, Bass, Bigger, Blue, Bouldin, Buford, Carter, R. J. Davis, Edmunds, Flood, Gilmer, Grattan, Green, Huntt, Jones, Kyle, Laidley, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, Minor, Newton, Orgain, Payne, Prince, Reid, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, Thomas, Tredway, Walker, Williams and Wootten--39.

        For T. J. Higginbotham--Messrs. Ambers, Barbour, Booton, Clarke, Dabney, J. D. Davis, Dice, Dunn, George, Gillespie, Laidley, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, Richardson, Thrash, Williams, S. Wilson and Woolfolk--18.

        For John N. Hendren--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, Coleman, Dice, Dunn, Edmunds, Flood, Gatewood, Gilmer, Grattan, James, Kyle, Lively, Magruder, Mallory, McCamant, Minor, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Newton, Prince, Reid, Robertson, Rowan, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Walker, Williams, J. L. Wilson and Worsham--31.

        For E. L. Lunsford--Messrs. Bigger, Dice, H. L. Hopkins, Lockridge, Minor, Orgain, Rives, Woolfolk, Wright and Wynne--10.

        For A. C. Cummings--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Blue, Booton, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Clarke, Coleman, R. J. Davis, Franklin, Gatewood, Grattan, Green, H. L. Hopkins, Jones, Lockridge, Lundy, Magruder, Mayo, Minor, Murdaugh, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Orgain, Payne, Pitman; Riddick, Robertson, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, Staples, F. G. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Tredway, J. L. Wilson and Wynne--39.

        For A. A. Chapman--Messrs. James, Johnson, Jordan, Lively, Mallory, I. E. McDonald, Pitman, Rives, Rowan and Walker--10.

        For Samuel Price--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker). Baker, Bass, Blue, Bouldin, J. D. Davis, Edmunds, Eggleston, Flood, Gilmer, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, Jones, Laidley, Lockridge, Lundy, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, McLaughlin, Murdaugh, Newton, Prince, Reid, Robertson, Rutherfoord, Staples, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thrash, Williams, S. Wilson, Wootten and Wright--34.

        For Elliott Vawter--Messrs. J. T. Anderson, Bass, Clarke, Dunn, Eggleston, Garrison, George, Gillespie, Kyle, Laidley, Lively, Lynn, McLaughlin, Richardson, Vermillion, Woodhouse, Woolfolk and Wootten--18.

        For E. W. Hubbard--Messrs. Coleman, Dabney, Flood, Lynn, Orgain, R. F. Taylor and Worsham--7.

        For Robert H. Whitfield--Messrs. Ambers, Baker, Bouldin, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Clarke, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Dunn, Eggleston, Franklin, Garrison, Gillespie, Gilmer, James, Johnson, Jordan, Laidley, Lively, Lundy, Lynn, I. E. McDonald, Murdaugh, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Orgain, Pitman, Prince, Richardson, Riddick, Rives, Rowan, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Staples, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Tredway, Vermillion, Walker, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woodhouse, Worsham and Wright--46.

        For Allen C. Hammond--Messrs. Barbour, Bigger, Blue, Booton, Bouldin, Cazenove, Dunn, Eggleston, Gatewood, Grattan, Green, Huntt, Johnson, Lockridge, Lynn, McLaughlin, Pitman, Rives, Robinson, Shannon, Sherrard, Thomas, Vermillion, Williams and Woodhouse--25.

        For Francis B. Deane, jr.--Messrs. J. T. Anderson, Baker, Barbour, Bass, Bouldin, Buford, Carter, Clarke, Dabney, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Dunn, Edmunds, Eggleston, Flood, Garrison, Gatewood, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, Jones, Jordan, Kyle, Lundy, Magruder, Murdaugh, Riddick, Robertson, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Staples, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thrash, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woodhouse, Wootten and Worsham--38.

        For C. E. Doddridge--Messrs. Bigger, Gatewood, James, Johnson, Lively, Mayo, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Payne, Pitman, Richardson, Robinson, Rowan, Thomas and Wynne--15.

        For Walker P. Conway--Messrs. Ambers, Barbour, Bass, Booton, Cazenove, Coleman, Dabney, Franklin, George, Gillespie, Green, Lynn, R. E. Nelson, Newton, Payne, Reid, Robinson, Sherrard, S. Wilson, Woolfolk and Wright--21.

        For Thomas Wood--Messrs. R. J. Davis, Dice, Franklin, Jones, Magruder, Minor, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Reid and Sherrard--10.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee, to meet a committee on the part of the senate, and count the vote: Messrs. McCamant, Hopkins of Petersburg, Magruder, Woolfolk, Wynne, James, Walker, Blue, Richardson, Staples and Coffman, who, having performed that duty, subsequently, through Mr. MCCAMANT, their chairman, reported as follows:

        The committee appointed to count the joint vote cast for the election of five assessors, have discharged the duty assigned them, and submit the following report:

• Whole number of votes cast, . . . . . 116
• Necessary to a choice, . . . . . 59
• Of which Reuben L. Gordon received . . . . . 74
• Samuel Price received . . . . . 56
• Arthur C. Cummings received . . . . . 56
• Francis B. Deane, jr. received . . . . . 55
• Elliott Vawter received . . . . . 33
• C. E. Doddridge received . . . . . 29
• W. P. Conway received . . . . . 33
• Peachy R. Grattan received . . . . . 51
• E. W. Hubbard received . . . . . 19
• Thomas Wood received . . . . . 16
• A. A. Chapman received . . . . . 14
• E. L. Lunsford received . . . . . 14
• John N. Hendren received . . . . . 31
• R. H. Whitfield received . . . . . 46
• Thomas J. Higginbotham received . . . . . 18

        Reuben L. Gordon having received a majority of all the votes cast, was declared duly elected an assessor.

        There being no election for the four other assessors, messages were interchanged between the two houses, of a readiness to proceed to the further execution of the joint order.

        Mr. MAGRUDER withdrew the name of Thos. Wood.

        Mr. COFFMAN withdrew the name of Allen C. Hammond.

        Mr. DABNEY withdrew the name of E. W. Hubbard.

        Mr. LIVELY withdrew the name of A. A. Chapman.

        Mr. RICHARDSON withdrew the name of Elliott Vawter.

        Mr. WALKER withdrew the name of John N. Hendren.

        The roll was then called, with the following result:

        For Samuel Price--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, Baker, Barbour, Bass, Bigger, Blue, Booton, Bouldin, Carter, Cazenove, Clarke, Coleman, J. D. Davis, Dice, Dunn, Edmunds, Eggleston, Flood, Franklin, Garrison, Gatewood, George, Gillespie, Gilmer, Grattan, Green, J. H. Hopkins, H. L. Hopkins, Jones, Jordan, Kyle, Laidley, Lively, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Murdaugh, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Payne, Pitman, Prince, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Rives, Robertson, Robinson, Rowan, Rutherfoord, Shannon, Sherrard, Staples, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Tredway, Walker,

Williams, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woodhouse, Woolfolk, Worsham, Wright and Wynne--77.

        For Arthur C. Cummings--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), J. T. Anderson, Bass, Bigger, Blue, Booton, Buford, Cazenove, Clarke, Coleman, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Dice. Dunn, Eggleston, Flood, Franklin, Gatewood, Grattan, Green, J. H. Hopkins, H. L. Hopkins, Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kyle, Laidley, Lively, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mayo, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Orgain, Payne, Pitman, Reid, Robertson, Robinson, Rowan, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, Staples, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Vermillion, Walker, Williams, Woodhouse, Worsham and Wynne--57.

        For Peachy R. Grattan--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, Baker, Barbour, Bass, Bigger, Blue, Booton, Bouldin, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Coleman, R. J. Davis, Edmunds, Flood, Franklin, Garrison, Gatewood, Gilmer, Grattan, Green, J. H. Hopkins, Jones, Laidley, Lively, Lockridge, Magruder, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Newton, Orgain, Payne, Pitman, Reid, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Sherrard, Thomas, Thrash, Tredway, Walker, Williams and Wynne--50.

        For Francis B. Deane, jr.--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, Baker, Barbour, Bass, Bigger, Blue, Booton, Bouldin, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Clarke, Coleman, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Dice, Dunn, Edmunds, Eggleston, Flood, Franklin, Garrison, Gatewood, George, Gillespie, Gilmer, Grattan, Green, J. H. Hopkins, H. L. Hopkins, Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kyle, Laidley, Lockridge, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, Mayo, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Murdaugh, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Newton, Payne, Pitman, Prince, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Rives, Robertson, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, Staples, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Tredway, Vermillion, Williams, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woodhouse, Woolfolk, Worsham, Wright and Wynne--74.

        For R. H. Whitfield--Messrs. Ambers, Baker, Barbour, Bouldin, Buford, Carter, Clarke, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Dice, Dunn, Edmunds, Eggleston, Garrison, Gillespie, Gilmer, H. L. Hopkins, Johnson, Jordan, Kyle, Lively, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, McCamant, Murdaugh, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Prince, Richardson, Riddick, Rives, Rowan, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Staples, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Tredway, Vermillion, Walker, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woodhouse, Woolfolk, Worsham and Wright--50.

        For W. P. Conway--Messrs. George, Gillespie, Lynn, Murdaugh, Prince, Riddick, Rives, S. Wilson, Woolfolk and Wright--10.

        For C. E. Doddridge--Messrs. Johnson, McCamant, Isaac E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Richardson, Rowan, Tate and J. L. Wilson--8.

        Ordered, that the same committee count the joint vote.

        Subsequently, Mr. MCCAMANT, from the committee, presented the following report:

• Whole number of votes cast, . . . . . 112
• Necessary to a choice, . . . . . 57
• Of which Samuel Price received . . . . . 101
• Arthur C. Cummings received . . . . . 82
• Francis B. Deane, jr. received . . . . . 94
• C. E. Doddridge received . . . . . 18
• Peachy R. Grattan received . . . . . 71
• Allen G. Hammond received . . . . . 11
• R. H. Whitfield received . . . . . 56
• W. P. Conway received . . . . . 12

        Samuel Price, Arthur C. Cummings, Francis B. Deane, jr. and Peachy R. Grattan having received a majority of all the votes cast, were declared duly elected.

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN,

        Resolved, that a committee of three members of this house be appointed, who shall wait upon the secretary of war, and acquaint him with the fact, that certain Virginia officers are still detained as prisoners of war--and learn from him what, if any, redress the confederate government proposes, and report to this house.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee, under the resolution: Messrs. Grattan, Bouldin, and Robertson of Richmond city.

        Mr. GRATTAN, from a special committee presented the following

bill; which was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time:

        No. 33. A bill to refund money received for exemptions from military duty.

        The amendment proposed by the senate to amendments proposed by the house of delegates to senate bill entitled an act to repeal the fence law of Virginia as to certain counties, and to authorize the county courts to dispense with enclosures in other counties, was taken up and concurred in.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        On motion of Mr. GILMER,

        Resolved, that the clerk of this house be and he is hereby authorized to cause to be paid to George W. Wilson, acting second doorkeeper of the house of delegates, the sum due him as such, for his services from the first day of the present session.

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4, 1862.

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

IN SENATE, Oct. 3, 1862.

        The senate have agreed to the amendments proposed by the house of delegates to the amendments of the senate to house bill entitled:

        An act to protect and indemnify citizens of Virginia, No. 6.

        And they have passed a bill entitled:

        An act to amend and re-enact the twelfth section of chapter twenty of the Code of Virginia, so as to compensate the printer to the senate for printing and binding the journals of the senate at extra sessions, No. 18.

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

        No. 18. A senate bill entitled an act to amend and re-enact the twelfth section of chapter twenty of the Code of Virginia, so as to compensate the printer to the senate for printing and binding the journals of the senate at extra sessions, was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. MCCAMANT, read a third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? the roll was called, with the following result--Ayes 63, noes 2:

        AYES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, Barbour, Bass, Bigger, Blue, Bouldin, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Coffman, Coleman, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Dunn, Eggleston, Ewing, Flood, Garrison, Gatewood, George, Gillespie, Gilmer, Green, J. H. Hopkins, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, James, Johnson, Jones, Kyle, Lively, Lynn, Magruder, Mayo, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, Murdaugh, R. E. Nelson, Newton, Payne, Pitman, Prince, Reid. Richardson, Riddick, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Walker, Williams, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woodhouse and Worsham--63.

        NOES--Messrs. Mallory and Rives--2.

        Resolved, that the bill be rejected.

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY, the rule was suspended, with the view of reconsidering the vote by which the bill was rejected; and the bill laid on the table.

        No. 3. A senate bill entitled an act amending an act prescribing the oath to be taken by any person who applies for license, was read a first and second times, and on motion, laid on the table.

        The following preamble and resolutions, communicated from the senate, were concurred in:

        Whereas, by the secession of Virginia from the late Union, and her accession to the Confederacy, the northwestern section of the state has become a border on a foreign and hostile nation, and has no direct intercourse in trade and travel with other and more favored portions of the state, and the prosperity of that, as well as other sections of the state, will be greatly promoted by a closer union and more frequent intercommunication: And whereas, on the 17th day of January 1862, the general assembly of Virginia did resolve to "maintain the jurisdiction and sovereignty of the state of Virginia to the uttermost limits of her ancient boundaries, at any and every cost;" and the congress of the Confederate States, on the 22d day of January 1862, by resolution, did "pledge all the resources of the Confederacy to uphold her determination aforesaid:" Therefore,

        1. Resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that increased facilities of trade and travel between the northwestern section of the state and the capital and seaboard, are demanded alike by the welfare of that section and permanent interest of the whole state, in peace and in war, and that justice and sound policy require that such facilities be established without unnecessary delay.

        2. Resolved, that the general assembly declare, as an assurance to the citizens of the said northwestern section, that the available resources of the commonwealth shall be liberally devoted to the construction of a rail road which shall connect that section with the interior and seaboard of the state, whereby the enterprise, energy and resources of that section may be encouraged and developed at the earliest practicable date.

        3. Resolved, that in the opinion of this general assembly, immediately on the conclusion of the existing war, the state should cause experimental surveys to be made, to ascertain the best, cheapest, shortest and most practicable route for a rail road connection between that part of the state and the capital.

        A joint resolution from the senate, authorizing the branch of the Exchange Bank of Virginia at Richmond to declare a dividend for the six months ending 30th June 1862, was taken up and concurred in.

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

        No. 34. A bill to authorize and require the governor to transfer to the confederate government the army of Virginia, upon certain conditions.

        Mr. HUNTT, from the committee on enrolled bills, presented the following report:

        The committee on enrolled bills have examined sundry such bills,

and finding them correctly enrolled, they are respectfully reported for further examination.

        Mr. HOPKINS, from the special committee on extortion, presented the following joint resolution:

        Resolved by the general assembly, that the board of public works be instructed to adopt such measures as they may deem most expedient, to require the different rail road companies, whose roads terminate in the cities of Richmond and Petersburg, to furnish a sufficient number of wood cars for the transportation of wood into the said cities, to supply the demand for the same; and that they cause the same to be transported to the said cities at a reasonable rate of tolls. To accomplish which, the said board are requested to use all the power conferred on them by law for the supervision and control of said companies: provided, that if the said companies be opposed to the transportation of wood, the burden thereof be apportioned equitably among them, and in such a manner as not to interfere with their transportation for the confederate government.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. ROBERTSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a bill entitled an act to enlarge the powers of the common council of the city of Richmond, No. 12: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. BALL, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed an act entitled an act to change the time of holding the next general election for members of the general assembly, No. 17; an act to prescribe the mode of filling vacancies in the general assembly of Virginia in certain cases, No. 14; an act with regard to general and special elections of members of congress during the present war: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. THOMPSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a resolution authorizing the governor to fill vacancies in the office of assessor under the act to provide for the production, sale and distribution of salt.

        The resolution was subsequently taken up and concurred in.

        Ordered, that the clerk inform the senate thereof.

        No. 29. An engrossed bill for the relief of Judge George W. Thompson, was taken up, on motion of Mr. RUTHERFOORD, read a third time and passed--Ayes 73.

        AYES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, Barbour, Bass, Bigger, Blue, Bouldin, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Clarke, Coffman, Coleman, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Dunn, Eggleston, Flood, Garrison, Gatewood, George, Gillespie, Gilmer, Grattan, Green, J. H. Hopkins, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kyle. Lively, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, I. E. McDonald. McLaughlin, Murdaugh, R. E. Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Payne, Pitman, Prince, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Rives, Robertson, Robinson, Rowan, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon. Sherrard, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Tyler, Vermillion, Walker, Williams, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woodhouse, Wootten, Worsham and Wynne--73.

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

        No. 30. An engrossed bill to amend and re-enact section 1 of chapter

80 of the Acts of 1861-2, passed March 27, 1862, was taken up, on motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, read a third time and passed.

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

        No. 32. A bill for the relief of the sergeant of the city of Richmond and the sergeant of the city of Petersburg, was taken up, on motion of Mr. WYNNE, and read a third time; and the question being--Shall the bill pass? the roll was called, with the following result--Ayes 43, noes 21:

        AYES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, Barbour, Bass, Bigger, Blue, Bouldin, Carter, Cazenove, Clarke, Coleman, Dabney, J. D. Davis, Dunn, Eggleston, Ewing, Franklin, Gatewood, Gillespie, Gilmer, Green, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, Jordan, Magruder, Mayo, McLaughlin, Newton, Payne, Pitman, Richardson, Robertson, Robinson, Rowan, Shannon, Sherrard, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Williams, Samuel Wilson, Woodhouse, Wootten and Wynne--43.

        NOES--Messrs. J. T. Anderson, Flood, Garrison, George, Johnson, Jones, Kyle, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, Orgain, Rives, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Staples, Thrash, Vermillion, Walker and J. L. Wilson--21.

        Resolved, that the bill be rejected.

        On motion of Mr. ANDERSON of Botetourt, the rule was suspended, with a view to reconsider the vote by which the bill was rejected; and the bill laid on the table.

        The unfinished business of yesterday, being a motion to postpone indefinitely a bill to suppress extortion, was taken up; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative--Ayes 34, noes 36.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, Bigger, Bouldin, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Clarke, Coleman, Dabney, R. J. Davis, Dunn, Garrison, Gilmer, Green, Jones, Magruder, Newton, Orgain, Reid, Rives, Robertson, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders. Shannon, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Tyler, Williams, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woodhouse and Wynne--34.

        NOES--Messrs. J. T. Anderson, Barbour, Bass, Blue, Coffman, J. D. Davis, Eggleston, Ewing, Flood, Franklin, Gatewood, George, Gillespie, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, Johnson, Jordan, Kyle, Lively, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, McLaughlin, Murdaugh, Pitman, Richardson, Riddick, Robinson, Rowan, Sherrard, Staples, Vermillion, Walker and Worsham--36.

        Mr. ROBINSON moved that the bill be postponed until the first Wednesday in January next; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative--Ayes 38, noes 33.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, Bigger, Bouldin, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Clarke, Coffman, Coleman, Dabney, R. J. Davis, Dunn, Ewing, Garrison, Gilmer, Green, Jones, Magruder, Mallory, Newton, Orgain, Payne, Reid, Rives, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Williams, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woodhouse and Wynne--38.

        NOES--Messrs. J. T. Anderson, Barbour, Bass, Blue, J. D. Davis, Eggleston, Flood, Franklin, Gatewood, George, Gillespie, H. L. Hopkins. Huntt, Johnson, Jordan, Kyle, Laidley, Lively, Lundy, Lynn, Mayo, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Murdaugh, Pitman, Richardson, Rowan, Sherrard, Staples, Vermillion, Walker, Wootten and Worsham--33.

        Mr. GREEN submitted the following resolution; which being objected to, was laid over under the rule:

        Whereas E. P. Pitts, judge of the 5th circuit of the state of Virginia, has been charged with disloyalty against the state of Virginia and against the Confederate States of America, in adhering to, and

giving aid, comfort and counsel to the enemies of said state and Confederate States, and by other acts and conduct; and it is proper to take such charges into consideration, and if sustained, to remove said E. P. Pitts from his office aforesaid: Therefore,

        Be it resolved (with the concurrence of the senate), that on the 15th day of January 1863, both houses of the general assembly will proceed to consider said charges, and if the same be sustained, to remove said E. P. Pitts from his said office.

        Resolved further, that notice be given said E. P. Pitts, judge as aforesaid, of the proceedings proposed to be had against him, and of the causes alleged for his removal, by a publication of this preamble and resolutions in two newspapers printed in Richmond, for at least eight weeks prior to said 15th day of January 1863.

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

        No. 23. A bill changing the times and mode of holding elections in counties and cities of the commonwealth which have been or may hereafter be in possession of the public enemy.

        No. 33. A bill to refund money received for exemption from military duty.

        No. 19. A bill authorizing the issue of certificates of debt.

        No. 20. A bill for the relief of the securities of William Paris, late sheriff of Appomattox county.

        The following bills were read a second time, and on motions severally made, were laid on the table:

        No. 18. A bill with regard to general and special elections of members of congress during the present war.

        No. 24. A bill authorizing certain classes of citizens to vote out of their counties and corporations during the present war.

        No. 25. A bill to regulate the charges of express companies on parcels or packages forwarded by or for persons in the military or naval service, in time of war, insurrection or invasion.

        On motion of Mr. BUFORD,

        Resolved, that a special committee of five be appointed to enquire into the expediency of amending the third section of the act passed March 7, 1862, amending the charter of the town of Danville.

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee under the resolution: Messrs. Buford, Gilmer, Dabney, Davis of Campbell, and Riddick.

        Mr. MALLORY moved that the house take a recess until 8 o'clock; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put; and it appearing that no quorum voted (the majority of those present being in the affirmative), the SPEAKER decided that the motion was rejected, on the ground that less than a quorum was incompetent to do any business except to adjourn from day to day or compel the attendance of members. From this decision Mr. HOPKINS of Petersburg appealed; and the question being--Shall the decision of the CHAIR stand as the judgment of the house? on motion of Mr. WILSON of Isle of Wight, the appeal was laid on the table.

        On motion of Mr. WILSON of Isle of Wight, the house adjourned until Monday, 11 o'clock.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 6, 1862.

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

IN SENATE, Oct. 4, 1862.

        The senate have passed house bills entitled:

        An act for the relief of Judge George W. Thompson, No. 29.

        An act to amend and re-enact section 1 of chapter 80 of the Acts of 1861-2, passed March 27, 1862.

        The committee on enrolled bills having examined sundry such bills, and found them correctly enrolled, they have been signed by the president of the senate, and are now communicated for further signature.

        On motion of Mr. SAUNDERS of Campbell,

        Resolved, that the message of the governor, with accompanying documents, in reference to the Virginia state line, heretofore referred to the committee on military affairs, be printed.

        Mr. BUFORD, from the special committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 36. A bill to amend the charter of the town of Danville; which was read a first time, and on motion of Mr. BUFORD, two-thirds concurring, was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time; and being forthwith engrossed, two-thirds concurring, was read a third time and passed.

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

        Subsequently, a message was received from the senate by Mr. DICKINSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed the bill.

        A joint resolution to provide for the transportation of wood, on certain rail roads, into the cities of Richmond and Petersburg, was taken up, on motion of Mr. HOPKINS of Petersburg, and agreed to.

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

        Subsequently, a message was received from the senate, that the senate had agreed to the resolution.

        The SPEAKER laid before the house the following communication from the governor; which was read, and on motion of Mr. MCCAMANT, laid on the table:

Executive Department, Oct. 6, 1862.

Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Delegates:

        I have the honor to transmit the enclosed letter from the private secretary of his excellency the president of the Confederate States, in response to your resolution respecting Adam Small of Berkeley county, and Matthew Harrison of Loudoun county, members of the house of delegates. The letter breathes the proper spirit, and cannot fail to command the approval of the general assembly.

Respectfully,

JOHN LETCHER.

Confederate States of America,
Executive Department,
Richmond, Va., Oct. 4, 1862.

SIR:

        I am directed by the president to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 2d instant, enclosing a resolution of the general assembly in relation to the capture and imprisonment by the enemy of Messrs. Small and Harrison, members of the house of delegates of Virginia.

        The case is one which claims of the confederate government every effort which can consistently be made to obtain the release as requested.

        When the agent for the exchange of prisoners answers the demands made upon the government of the United States in relation to the arrest and deportation of non-combatants, the president hopes to be able to assure you of the speedy return of the gentlemen in question to their constituents.

        I have the honor, sir, to present to you the compliments of the president.

Your obt. servant,

BURTON N. HARRISON,
Private Secretary.

His Excellency JOHN LETCHER.

        No. 3. A senate bill entitled an act prescribing the oath to be taken by a person who applies for a license, was taken up, on motion of Mr. BARBOUR, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. BARBOUR inform the senate thereof.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. CARSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a bill entitled an act for the dismissal of militia officers for treason or disloyalty; which was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. MCCAMANT, read a third time and passed.

        Ordered, that Mr. MCCAMANT inform the senate thereof.

        Mr. JONES of Gloucester, from the committee on military affairs, presented the following resolutions; which were agreed to:

        Resolved by the general assembly of Virginia, that the thanks of the general assembly are due, and are hereby cordially tendered to Major General J. B. MAGRUDER, and to the officers and men composing the army of the peninsula, lately under his command, for the skill, energy, endurance and gallantry displayed by them in holding in check and successfully resisting, previous to the arrival of reinforcements under General JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON, the numerous and well appointed army of the United States under Major General McClellan, aided by formidable gunboats, in its advance and attack upon Yorktown, and the adjacent lines and works.

        Resolved, that these resolutions be communicated by the governor to Major General MAGRUDER, and by him, as far as practicable, to the officers and men of the said army of the peninsula.

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

        On motion of Mr. WILLIAMS,

        Resolved, that the clerk be directed to have published the secret journal of the present session.

        On motion of Mr. GREEN, the preamble and resolutions heretofore submitted by him, in reference to the case of Judge E. P. Pitts, were taken up and concurred in.

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

        Mr. BARBOUR submitted the following resolution, which was laid on the table:

        Resolved by the general assembly, that a joint committee, consisting of three members of the house of delegates and two of the senate, be appointed, who shall be charged with the duty of revising the revenue laws of this commonwealth, so as to make them more productive, and that they report such a bill or bills thereon as they may consider expedient. Said committee may sit during the recess of the general assembly.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. DICKINSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed the following resolution, in which they requested the concurrence of the house of delegates:

        Resolved by the general assembly, that the secretary of the commonwealth cause to be printed five hundred copies of the act passed the 3d day of October 1862, entitled an act further to provide for the public defence, and to distribute the same to the clerks of such county and corporation courts as he may deem proper.

        On motion of Mr. NEWTON,

        Resolved, that the thanks of this house be tendered to the SPEAKER, for the frank, able, impartial and courteous manner in which he has discharged the duties of the chair during the present session.

        On motion of Mr. MURDAUGH,

        Resolved, that the thanks of this house be tendered to William F. Gordon, jr., the clerk of this house, for his promptness and faithfulness in the discharge of his duties; and for his uniform kindness and politeness.

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY,

        Resolved, that the thanks of the house be tendered to H. L. Burruss, sergeant at arms, Robert W. Burke and George W. Wilson, jr., doorkeepers of the house, for the prompt and efficient manner in which they have discharged the duties of their respective offices.

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY,

        Resolved, that the thanks of the house be tendered to the pages for their courteous and obliging deportment during the present session.

        On motion of Mr. WOODHOUSE,

        Resolved, that the thanks of the house are due to the reverend clergy of the city, for their kind and efficient ministrations during the present session.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. BRANNON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a bill entitled an act concerning officers of the state who have taken an oath to support an usurped government within the limits of the state: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        The bill was read a first and second times, and on motion of Mr. JONES, laid on the table.

        Mr. GRATTAN presented the following letter from the secretary of war, in response to a resolution of the house of delegates; which was read, and on motion, laid on the table:

Confederate States of America,
War Department,
Richmond, Va., Oct. 4, 1862.

SIR:

        In reply to your letter, enclosing a resolution of the house of delegates, I have the honor to say, that the department had not heard of the detention of the prisoners referred to by you, and will immediately demand their release.

        Hearing some time ago from Gov. Letcher, of the reported intention of the enemy to treat Captains Sprigg and Triplett as felons, the department caused two hostages to be set aside from the commissioned officers of the enemy, and informed General McClellan, through General Lee, that they would be treated in all respects as the United States government treated Captains Sprigg and Triplett. General McClellan referred the letter to his government, and afterwards informed General Lee that Captains Sprigg and Triplett would be treated as prisoners of war.

Your obedient serv't,

GEO. W. RANDOLPH,
Secretary of War.

CHAS. GRATTAN, Esq., Chairman, &c.
House of Delegates of Va.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. NEWMAN, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed a resolution authorizing justices of the peace to issue marriage licenses in certain cases: in which they requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        The resolution was concurred in.

        Ordered, that Mr. MCCAMANT inform the senate thereof.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. PENNYBACKER, who informed the house of delegates that the committee on enrolled bills in the senate had examined sundry such bills, and finding them correctly enrolled, they had been signed by the president of the senate, and were respectfully reported for further examination.

        The SPEAKER proceeded to sign the following enrolled bills:

        An act legalizing the manufacture of alcohol.

        An act to incorporate the Union manufacturing company in the county of Fluvanna.

        An act to amend and re-enact section 33d of chapter 1st of the Acts of 1861-2, concerning a license to distill ardent spirits from fruit, &c.

        An act to amend and re-enact an act entitled an act to prevent the unnecessary consumption of grain by distillers and other manufacturers of spirituous and malt liquors.

        An act amending the 17th section of chapter 36 of the Code of Virginia, concerning the manner of making returns of delinquents.

        An act repealing an act for the relief of Ephraim Bee.

        An act to increase jailors' fees for keeping and supporting prisoners.

        An act to provide for the production, distribution and sale of salt in this commonwealth.

        An act amending and re-enacting an act amending and re-enacting the 2d section of chapter 22 of the Code of Virginia, respecting persons exempt from all military duties, and providing the mode of exemption, passed Feb. 18th, 1862.

        An act to redress loyal citizens injured by the exercise of usurped powers.

        An act incorporating the Pleasant grove lead and zinc mining and manufacturing company.

        An act to authorize the governor to settle the account of Sampson Jones, agent of Mrs. Jane A. Griffin.

        An act extending the time for the qualification of the sheriffs of Orange and Culpeper counties.

        An act to amend the charter of the town of Danville.

        An act amending an act prescribing the oath to be taken by any person who applies for a license.

        An act to repeal the fence law of Virginia as to certain counties, and to authorize the county courts to dispense with enclosures in other counties.

        An act to further provide for the public defence.

        An act to amend and re-enact section 1 of chapter 80 of the Acts of 1861-2, passed March 27, 1862.

        An act for the dismissal of militia officers for treason or disloyalty.

        An act to protect and indemnify citizens of Virginia.

        An act for the relief of Judge George W. Thompson.

        An act to legalize the records and proceedings of the county court of Essex county, at the June, July and August terms of said court held at Miller's tavern in said county.

        An act to provide for the qualification of sheriffs and other public officers prevented from qualifying within the period now prescribed by law, by reason of the public enemy.

        Messages were interchanged between the two houses as to their readiness to adjourn; and then,

        On motion of Mr. BARBOUR, the house adjourned until the first Wednesday in January next.

ADDENDA.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 1862--SECRET SESSION.

        On motion of Mr. BARBOUR, the house resolved itself into secret session.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. THOMPSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had agreed to a joint resolution authorizing the governor to seize salt: in which they respectfully requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        The resolution was taken up for consideration, and is as follows:

        Resolved by the general assembly, that the governor of the commonwealth be and he is hereby directed to cause to be seized, without delay, for further distribution, all the salt now in the hands of persons or companies in the cities of Richmond, Petersburg, Lynchburg and elsewhere in this state, and to hold the same, subject to the future order of the legislature; and that just compensation shall be made by the commonwealth to the owners of such salt as shall be seized and appropriated under this resolution, or any future resolution or act of the general assembly. But no authority is conferred to seize salt held by, or in transitu for counties, cities and towns, or held by heads of families for their own consumption, and by persons for their employees, nor salt held by agents for other states or the Confederate States.

        The question being on agreeing to the resolution, Mr. MALLORY demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative--Ayes 36, noes 48.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Barbour, Blue, Carpenter, Coffman, Coleman, J. D. Davis, Dice, Edmunds, Eggleston, Ewing, Flood, J. H. Hopkins, James, Johnson, Jordan, Kaufman, Kyle, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, Mathews, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Pitman, Richardson, Robinson, Rowan, Sherrard, Staples, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Walker and West--36.

        NOES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, F. T. Anderson, Bass, Bouldin, Bradford, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Cecil, Clarke, Dabney, R. J. Davis, Evans, Fleming, Franklin, Garrison, George, Gilmer, Grattan, H. L. Hopkins, Jones, Laidley, Minor, Montague, Murdaugh, Newton, Orgain, Reid, Robertson, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Spady, Tate, Thrash, Tredway, Vaden, Vermillion, Ward, Williams, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson, Woodhouse, Wootten, Worsham and Wright--48.

        Mr. WILSON moved an adjournment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative--Ayes 46, noes 38.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, J. T. Anderson, Bass, Bouldin, Bradford, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Clarke, Dabney, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Evans, Fleming,

Garrison, George, Gilmer, Grattan, H. L. Hopkins, James, Jones, Jordan, Laidley, Minor, Montague, Murdaugh, Newton, Reid, Robertson, Robinson, Rowan, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, Spady, Tate, Tredway, Vaden, Vermillion, Ward, Williams, J. L. Wilson, S. Wilson and Woodhouse--46.

        NOES--Messrs. F. T. Anderson, Barbour, Blue, Carpenter, Cecil, Coffman, Coleman, Dice, Edmunds, Eggleston, Ewing, Flood, Franklin, J. H. Hopkins, Johnson, Kaufman, Kyle, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, Mathews, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Orgain, Pitman, Richardson, Staples, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Walker, West, Wootten, Worsham and Wright--38.

        So the house adjourned until Monday, 12 o'clock.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 1862--SECRET SESSION.

        The house resolved itself into secret session.

        A resolution from the senate, authorizing the governor to seize salt, being the unfinished business of Saturday, was taken up. Pending the consideration of which,

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

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 1862--SECRET SESSION.

        The house resolved itself into secret session.

        The unfinished business of yesterday, being a resolution from the senate authorizing the governor to seize salt, was taken up. Pending the consideration of which, Mr. ANDERSON of Rockbridge, moved an adjournment; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative--Ayes 29, noes 53.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Ambers, F. T. Anderson, Baker, Bass, Bigger, Bradford, Cazenove, Cecil, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Fleming, Garrison, George, Gilmer, Laidley, A. W. McDonald, Minor, Montague, W. G. T. Nelson, Newton, Robertson, Robinson, R. C. Saunders, Sherrard, Tredway, Vaden, Ward, S. Wilson and Woolfolk--29.

        NOES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), J. T. Anderson, Barbour, Blue, Buford, Clarke, Coffman, Coleman, Crockett, Dabney, Dice, Edmunds, Eggleston, Evans, Ewing, Flood, Franklin, Gatewood, Gillespie, Grattan, Green, J. H. Hopkins, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, James, Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kaufman, Kyle, Lively, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, Isaac E. McDonald, Murdaugh, Orgain, Pitman, Prince, Reid, Richardson, Riddick, Rives, Rowan, Rutherfoord, Shannon, Staples, Tate, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Vermillion, Walker, West, Williams, J. L. Wilson, Woodhouse, Wootten, Worsham and Wright--53.

        The question being on agreeing to the resolution, Mr. MALLORY demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, the roll was called, with the following result--Ayes 60, noes 35:

        AYES--Messrs. Ambers, J. T. Anderson, F. T. Anderson, Barbour, Bigger, Blue, Carpenter, Clarke, Coffman, Coleman, Crockett, J. D. Davis, Dice, Edmunds, Eggleston, Ewing, Flood, Franklin, Gatewood, George, Gillespie, J. H. Hopkins, Huntt, James, Johnson, Jordan, Kaufman, Kyle, Lively, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Murdaugh, W. G. T. Nelson, Orgain, Pitman, Prince, Reid,

Richardson, Riddick, Shannon, Sherrard, Staples, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Tredway, Vermillion, Walker, Ward, West, S. Wilson, Woolfolk, Worsham and Wright--60.

        NOES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Bass, Bradford, Buford, Carter, Cazenove, Cecil, Dabney, R. J. Davis, Evans, Fleming, Garrison, Gilmer, Grattan, Green, H. L. Hopkins, Jones, Laidley, A. W. McDonald, Minor, Montague, Newton, Rives, Robertson, Robinson, Rowan, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Spady, Tate, Vaden, Williams, J. L. Wilson, Woodhouse and Wootten--35.

        The SPEAKER announced that the resolution not having received sixty-four votes, was rejected.

        From the decision of the chair declaring the bill rejected, Mr. BARBOUR appealed; and the question being--Shall the decision of the Chair stand as the judgment of the house? on motion of Mr. RUTHERFOORD, the appeal was laid on the table.

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

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 1862--SECRET SESSION.

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN, the house resolved itself into secret session.

        Mr. VADEN moved to suspend the rule with a view to reconsider the vote rejecting the joint resolution in relation to the seizure of salt; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative--Ayes 67, noes 33.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Ambers, J. T. Anderson, Barbour, Bigger, Blue, Buford, Carpenter, Clarke, Coffman, Coleman, Crockett, Custis, Dice, Edmunds, Evans, Ewing, Fleming, Flood, Franklin, Gatewood, George, Gillespie, J. H. Hopkins, Huntt, James, Johnson, Jordan, Kaufman, Kyle, Lively, Lockridge, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Mallory, Mayo, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Murdaugh, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Orgain, Pitman, Prince, Richardson, Riddick, Rowan, Shannon, Sherrard, Staples, F. G. Taylor, R. F. Taylor, Thomas, Thrash, Tredway, Vaden, Vermillion, Walker, Ward, West, S. Wilson, Woodhouse, Woolfolk, Worsham, Wright and Wynne--67.

        NOES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), F. T. Anderson, Bass, Bradford, Carter, Cazenove, Cecil, Dabney, R. J. Davis, Eggleston, Garrison, Gilmer, Grattan, Green, H. L. Hopkins, Jones, Laidley, A. W. McDonald, Minor, Montague, Newton, Reid, Rives, Robertson, Robinson, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Spady, Tate, Williams, J. L. Wilson and Wootten--33.

        The doors being opened,

        On motion of Mr. EGGLESTON, the house adjourned.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 1862--SECRET SESSION.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, the house resolved itself into secret session.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON,

        Resolved, that a joint committee, to consist of five members on the part of the house and three on the part of the senate, be appointed, to enquire whether any, and what further measures are necessary

for the public defence, and be authorized to confer with the confederate authorities in reference thereto.

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

        The SPEAKER announced the following committee on the part of the house: Messrs. Robertson, Bouldin, Edmunds, Newton and Barbour.

        On motion of Mr. BASS, the injunction of secrecy was removed from the proceedings of the house in relation to the salt question.

        The doors being opened,

        On motion of Mr. WILSON of Isle of Wight, the house adjourned.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2, 1862--SECRET SESSION.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, the house resolved itself into secret session.

        Mr. ROBERTSON, from a special committee, presented the following bill:

        No. 31. A bill to further provide for the public defence; which was read a first time, and ordered to be read a second time.

        Mr. ROBERTSON moved that the bill be read a second time this day; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and two-thirds concurring, decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. AMBERS moved to amend the bill, by exempting from the call therein provided for, slaves engaged in mining coal, iron, salt, copper or lead.

        Mr. MCCAMANT moved to amend the amendment, by striking out "copper;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        Mr. WILSON moved to amend the amendment as amended, by inserting "under any contract with the state or confederate government;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the affirmative.

        The question recurring on agreeing to the amendment as amended, Mr. GRATTAN demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        Mr. PRINCE moved to amend the bill, by inserting in the 1st section the following: "Provided, that any county, city or town can furnish the five per cent. of negro labor, in male free negroes between the ages of 18 and 45 years; and the number of free negroes between the ages aforesaid, furnished by any county, city or town, shall form a part of the quota demanded;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. LYNN demanded the previous' question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        Mr. RIVES moved to amend the bill in the 1st section, by inserting: "provided, that such counties as have already furnished slave labor

to the government, at two different times or more, shall not be called upon until other counties in the state have been called upon to contribute equally for the same purpose;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. GRATTAN demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        Mr. MAGRUDER moved to amend the bill in the 1st section, by striking out "sixteen dollars," the monthly compensation allowed by the bill for slaves, and inserting "twenty dollars;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. WILSON demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative--Ayes 29, noes 47.

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

        AYES--Messrs. J. T. Anderson, Bass, Booton, Buford, Coleman, J. D. Davis, Dice, George, Gillespie, H. L. Hopkins, Huntt, Lundy, Lynn, Magruder, Minor, Montague, R. E. Nelson, W. G. T. Nelson, Orgain, Prince, Rowan, Rutherfoord, R. F. Taylor, Tredway, J. L. Wilson, Woolfolk, Wootten and Worsham--29.

        NOES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), Ambers, Barbour, Bigger, Blue, Bouldin, Cazenove, Clarke, Coffman, Dabney, R. J. Davis, Dunn, Edmunds, Eggleston, Ewing, Flood, Forbes, Franklin, Gatewood, Gilmer, Grattan, J. H. Hopkins, Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Kyle, Laidley, Lively, Lockridge, McCamant, I. E. McDonald, McLaughlin, Newton, Pitman, Reid, Riddick, Rives, Robertson, Robinson, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, Staples, Thrash, Walker, Williams and Wright--47.

        Mr. WILSON of Isle of Wight moved to amend the bill in the 1st section, by inserting "that the governor shall, when requested by the president of the Confederate States;" and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. MALLORY demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative--Ayes 37, noes 36.

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

        AYES--Messrs. Ambers, Bass, Booton, Buford, Cazenove, Coffman, Coleman, J. D. Davis, R. J. Davis, Dice, Dunn, Franklin, George, Gillespie, J. H. Hopkins, H. L. Hopkins, Jones, Kyle, Lundy, Magruder, Mallory, McCamant, Minor, Montague, W. G. T. Nelson. Prince, Riddick, Rives, Staples, Tredway, Vermillion, Walker, J. L. Wilson, Woolfolk, Wootten, Worsham and Wright--37.

        NOES--Messrs. Sheffey (speaker), John T. Anderson, Barbour, Bigger, Blue, Bouldin, Clarke, Dabney, Edmunds, Eggleston, Ewing, Flood, Forbes, Gilmer, Grattan, Huntt, Johnson, Jordan, Laidley, Lockridge, McLaughlin, R. E. Nelson, Newton, Orgain, Pitman, Reid, Robertson, Robinson, Rowan, Rutherfoord, R. C. Saunders, Shannon, Sherrard, R. F. Taylor, Thrash and Williams--36.

        The bill was then further amended, on motion of Mr. WILSON.

        Mr. PRINCE moved to lay the bill on the table, and that it be printed; and the question being on agreeing thereto, Mr. RUTHERFOORD demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the negative.

        Mr. PRINCE moved to amend the bill in the third section, by inserting "and three freeholders shall, after being duly sworn to value the slaves before the said slaves leave the county, city or town; and the question being on agreeing thereto, was put, and decided in the negative.

        Mr. WILSON of Isle of Wight submitted the following amendment in lieu of sections 10 and 11:

        "This act shall be in force from and after the time the president of the Confederate States shall be authorized by congress to receive

the slaves hereby provided to be furnished, upon the terms and on the conditions herein set forth."

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

        Mr. HOPKINS of Petersburg moved to amend the bill, by adding at the end of the third section the following; which was agreed to:

        "Provided, that in no case of a soldier in the confederate army owning or hiring but one male slave, shall the said male slave be subject to requisition under this act."

        The bill was then further amended, and as amended read a second time; and the question being--Shall the bill be engrossed and read a third time? Mr. RUTHERFOORD demanded the previous question; which was sustained by the house; and being put, was decided in the affirmative.

        A message was received from the senate by Mr. COLLIER, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed the following joint resolution:

        Resolved by the general assembly, that the governor be and he is hereby authorized and required, upon the requisition of the president of the Confederate States, to impress immediately the requisite number of slaves and free negroes, as convenient to Richmond as may be, to do the work deemed necessary or expedient to be done on the fortifications for the defence of Richmond. Said persons not to be continued in service, under this resolution, for a longer period than thirty days; and also to make a levy en masse of the arms-bearing population within thirty miles of Richmond, under 45 years old, and to muster all such as are not exempted by special law, into the confederate service for sixty days, if not sooner disbanded. Persons so employed will be entitled to the pay and rations of soldiers of the army of the Confederate States; and the Confederate States shall pay to the owners the value of slaves who may escape to the enemy, and for slaves who shall be killed or taken by the enemy, or who may die or be injured from negligence of the agents of the confederate government.

        The resolution was taken up. Pending the consideration of which,

        On motion of Mr. MALLORY, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 9 o'clock.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3, 1862--SECRET SESSION.

        On motion of Mr. ROBERTSON, the house resolved itself into secret session.

        No. 31. An engrossed bill further to provide for the public defence, was read a third time and passed.

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

        Subsequently, a message was received from the senate by Mr.

DICKINSON, the senator from Prince Edward, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had passed the bill with amendments: in which they requested the concurrence of the house of delegates.

        The amendments were agreed to, except the one raising the monthly hire of slaves from $16 to $20 per month.

        Ordered, that Mr. ROBERTSON inform the senate thereof.

        Subsequently, a message was received from the senate by Mr. DICKINSON, who informed the house of delegates that the senate had receded from their amendment.

        On motion of Mr. GRATTAN, the resolution heretofore communicated from the senate, was laid on the table.

        The doors being opened,

        On motion of Mr. MAGRUDER, the house adjourned until to-morrow, 11 o'clock.

INDEX.

• ADJOURNMENT.

  • See General assembly.

• ADJUTANT GENERAL OF VIRGINIA.

  • His letter in reply to one from secretary of war, transmitting letter from Gen. Loring, printed (Doc. No. 6), 43
  • Communication from, as to second class militia, &c. 48

• ALCOHOL.

  • See Distillation.

• AMNESTY.

  • Message as to amnesty to those taking oath of allegiance to U. S. government referred, 15
  • Adverse report, 46

• APPOMATTOX COUNTY.

  • Resolution for relief of securities of Wm. Paris, late sheriff of, 33
  • No. 20, bill therefor, read first time, 33
  • Engrossed, 59

• ARDENT SPIRITS.

  • See Distillation.

• ARMY.

  • Resolution referring message as to pay of soldiers, 6
  • Resolution for prohibiting charges for oaths necessary for recovery of their pay, 18
  • Resolution of enquiry as to sick and wounded soldiers in hospitals, 6
  • Committee announced, 11
  • Enlarged, 17
  • Their report printed (Doc. No. 5), 39
  • Resolution of thanks to officers and men referred; vote recorded, 12
  • Other resolutions referred, 12 - 13
  • Resolutions adopted unanimously, 29

• ARMY OF VIRGINIA.

  • Military committee to enquire as to number and expenses of, 6
  • Governor requested to inform house, 9
  • And to give names of commissioned officers, 15
  • Information given; messages referred, 21
  • Resolution as to expediency of disbanding, 30
  • Letter of Gen. Loring relative to enlistments in state forces, and Gen. Floyd's report, &c. printed (Doc. No. 6), 43
  • Resolution for transfer of, to Confederate States, 43
  • No. 34, bill therefor, 56
  • Resolution to print governor's message relative to, 60

• ASSESSORS UNDER SALT ACT.

  • Resolution for election of, 45
  • Agreed to by senate, 45
  • Proceedings and votes in the election, 48 , 49 , 51 - 54
  • Resolution from senate authorizing governor to fill vacancies; agreed to, 57

• ASSESSMENT OF DAMAGES.

  • See Damages.

• ATTORNEY GENERAL.

  • Resolution to request him to test president's right to arrest and imprison citizens of Virginia, 38
  • Laid over, 38

• ATTORNEYS FOR COMMONWEALTH.

  • Resolution to request them to test president's right to arrest and imprison citizens of Virginia; laid over, 38

• AUGUSTA.

  • Petition of clerks of Augusta and Staunton for increase of clerks' fees, 20
  • Adverse report, 32

• BANK NOTES.

  • See Currency.

• BANKS.

  • Resolution for winding up affairs of Bank of Weston and Bank of Manassas, 36
  • Resolution from senate authorizing Richmond branch of Exchange Bank to declare dividend, 50
  • Agreed to, 56

• BEE, EPHRAIM.

  • No. 2, S. B. for his relief; read twice and referred, 20
  • Reported without amendment, 29
  • Passed, 32

• BOARD OF ASSESSORS.

  • Under salt act, see Assessors.

• BONDS.

  • Resolution for increasing penalty of sheriffs' bonds, 6

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    Page 74

  • No. 4, bill concerning sheriffs' bonds, read twice and engrossed, 15
  • Passed, 19

• BOTETOURT COUNTY.

  • Petition for increase of jailor's fees, 6

• BRIDGES.

  • Over Greenbrier and Cowpasture rivers; subject of rebuilding referred, 14
  • Adverse report to rebuilding that over Cowpasture. 37
  • Report as to the other, recommending application to confederate government, 37

• BRIGADIER GENERALS.

  • Resolution authorizing governor to remove disloyal, 43

• CERTIFICATES OF DEBT.

  • No. 19, bill authorizing issue, 32
  • Read first time, 33
  • Engrossed, 59

• CHURCH LOTS.

  • Resolution as to authorizing New School Presbyterian church in Wytheville to sell lot; &c. 22
  • Resolution as to authorizing Evangelical Lutheran church of Salem to sell lot, 23
  • Committee, 23
  • No 21, bill authorizing sale; read first time and tabled, 32

• CIRCUIT COURTS.

  • See Courts.

• CITIES.

  • See Counties and towns.

• CITIZENS OF VIRGINIA.

  • Resolution for protection and indemnity of loyal citizens, 6
  • No. 6, bill therefor; read first time, 18
  • Read second time, amended and engrossed, 26
  • Passed, 30
  • Passed senate, with amendment, 42
  • Motion to amend senate's amendment, 42
  • Bill and amendments committed, 42
  • Senate's amendment amended, 46
  • Agreed to by senate, 55
  • Resolution for relief of destitute citizens of Prince William, 16
  • Resolution for relief of such destitution in invaded sections, 17
  • Committee, 19
  • No. 4, S. B. for redress of loyal citizens injured by usurped power; read twice and referred, 28
  • Reported without amendment, read third time and passed, 46
  • No. 24, bill authorizing certain classes of citizens to vote out of their counties, &c. during the war; read first time, 36
  • Read second time and tabled, 59
  • Resolution for testing right of president to arrest and imprison, 38
  • Laid over, 38

• CLERKS.

  • Of Augusta and Staunton; their petition for increase of fees of clerks referred, 20
  • Adverse report, 32

• CODE.

  • Resolution for amending sect. 6, chap. 105, to increase reward for runaway slaves, 5
  • Adverse report, 28
  • Report concurred in, 33
  • Resolution to amend, as to appointment of trustees, &c. in place of those in military service, 16
  • No. 1, S. B. amending sect. 17, chap. 36, concerning returns of delinquents; read twice and referred, 23
  • Reported without amendment, 29
  • Passed, 32
  • No. 10, bill amending 43d and 44th sections of chapter 87, so as to increase fees of tobacco inspectors; reported, 25
  • Read second time and engrossed, 35
  • Passed, 44
  • S. B. amending sect. 2, chap. 22, respecting exempts from military duty, 45
  • Passed, 45
  • No. 18, S. B. amending sect. 12, chap. 20, relative to compensation of printer to the senate, rejected, 55
  • Reconsidered and laid on table, 56

• COMMISSIONERS IN CHANCERY.

  • Resolution for exempting, from military service, 47

• COMMISSIONERS OF REVENUE.

  • Resolution as to compensation of, 10
  • Resolution for authorizing Wm. H. Neighbours to act for Wythe county, 21

• COMMITTEES.

  • See Constitution of committees.

• COMMITTEES FOR PERSONS UNDER DISABILITY.

  • Appointments in place of those in military service; resolution to amend Code, 16

• CONDEMNATION OF LAND.

  • For rail road purposes; resolution for amending law, 32

• CONFEDERATE CONGRESS.

  • Governor's message as to districts in Virginia not represented in, 7
  • Report and resolutions of committee of congress on such vacancies, 7
  • No. 18, bill for elections to, 32
  • Read first time, 33
  • Read second time and tabled, 59
  • S. B. in regard to elections to, during present war, 57

  ---

  Page 75

• CONFEDERATE GOVERNMENT.

  • Resolution enquiring whether any free negroes from U. States, captured in this state, have been surrendered by C. S. authorities, 22
  • Resolution for communicating to confederate authorities former exemption acts, 22
  • Preamble and resolution as to traffic of its agents in salt, 41
  • Resolution for transfer of army of Virginia to, 43
  • No 34, bill therefor, 56

• CONFEDERATE HOSPITALS.

  • See Hospitals

• CONFEDERATE MEDICAL PURVEYOR.

  • See Hospitals.

• CONFEDERATE STATES.

  • President of, see President.

• CONFEDERATE TREASURY NOTES.

  • Resolution for bill to suppress counterfeit treasury notes, &c. 11
  • No. 13, bill therefor; read first time, 25
  • Engrossed, 35
  • Passed, 44

• CONFISCATION.

  • Resolution for protection and indemnity of loyal citizens against, 6
  • No. 6, bill therefor; read first time, 18
  • Amended and engrossed, 26
  • Passed, 30
  • Passed senate, with amendment, 42
  • Motion to amend senate's amendment, 42
  • Bill and amendments committed, 42
  • Amendment of senate amended, 46
  • Agreed to by senate, 55
  • Resolution for confiscating property of persons who have gone to the enemy, 9

• CONN, R. M.

  • Resolution for relief of his securities, 14

• CONSTITUTION OF COMMITTEES.

  • Resolution for committee on contracts, &c. of Stuart, Buchanan & Co. 5
  • Substitute proposed and rejected, 5
  • Resolution adopted, 5
  • Committee announced; and enlarged, 11
  • Members excused and others appointed, 18 , 33
  • Senate resolution for joint committee on salt, agreed to, 5
  • Committee on part of house, 5
  • Enlarged, 16
  • Senate agree to enlargement of committee, 23
  • Committee on incorporating Pleasant grove lead and zinc mining and manufacturing company, 6
  • Resolution for committee to visit hospitals, 6
  • Committee announced, 11
  • Resolution for committee on regulating prices, 14
  • Committee announced, 16
  • Member excused; another appointed, 21
  • Committee enlarged, 23
  • Resolution for committee on relief of citizens in invaded sections, 17
  • Committee announced, 19
  • Additions to standing committees, 16 , 23 , 34
  • Joint committee on fence law, 18
  • Committee on alcohol, 19
  • Resolution for committee on letter of C. S. medical purveyor, relative to alcohol and whiskey, 19
  • Committee announced, 21
  • Senate resolution for joint committee on character of present general assembly, 22
  • Agreed to, 23
  • Committee announced, 25
  • Committee on authorizing Evangelical Lutheran church at Salem to sell lot, 23
  • Committee of conference on amendments to salt bill, 39
  • Committee on extending time for qualification of sheriffs, &c. in certain cases, 43
  • Committee on resolution for relief of sergeant of Richmond city, 50
  • Committee on resolution for refunding moneys paid for exemptions, 50
  • Committee to inform secretary of war of detention of Virginia officers as prisoners of war, 54
  • Committee on amending charter of Danville, 59
  • Resolution for joint committee to revise revenue laws, tabled, 62
  • Resolution for joint committee to enquire of C. S. authorities as to further measures for public defence, 67
  • Committee on part of house, 68

• CONTRACTS.

  • See Public Guard.
  • See Salt.

• COUNTERFEIT NOTES.

  • Resolution for suppressing circulation of, 11
  • No. 13, bill therefor; read first time, 25
  • Engrossed, 35
  • Passed, 44

• COUNTIES AND TOWNS.

  • Resolution for committee on contracts of Stuart, Buchanan & Co. with, for salt, 5
  • Substitute proposed and rejected, 5
  • Resolution adopted, 5
  • Committee announced; and enlarged, 11
  • Members excused; and others appointed, 18 , 33
  • Report of committee; printed (Doc. No. 3), 35
  • Resolution for relief of destitute citizen in regions overrun by enemy, 17
  • Resolution as to representation in next assembly, of counties, &c. in possession of enemy, 20
  • Resolution for changing time for elections in invaded counties, 31

    ---

    Page 76

  • Referred to privileges and elections, 32
  • No. 23, bill therefor, 36
  • Engrossed, 59
  • No. 24, bill authorizing certain classes of citizens to vote out of their counties, &c. during the war; read first time, 36
  • Read second time and tabled, 59
  • Resolution to provide trials of persons charged with felony in counties in possession of enemy, 36
  • No. 30, bill therefor, amending act of March 27, 1862, 45
  • Engrossed, 45
  • Passed, 57
  • Passed senate, 60
  • Resolution authorizing qualification of sheriffs, &c. in certain cases, 43
  • No. 28, bill therefor; passed, 43
  • Passed senate, 50
  • No. 9, S. B. to repeal fence law as to certain counties, 44
  • Amended and passed, 46
  • Amendment of senate to house amendment agreed to, 55
  • Fees of jailors, see Fees.

• COUNTY COURT.

  • See Courts.

• COURTS.

  • Resolution for legalizing certain records, &c. of Essex county court, 17
  • No. 16, bill therefor, 28
  • Read first time, 33
  • Engrossed, 35
  • Passed, 44
  • Passed senate, 50
  • Resolution for changing terms of courts of 14th judicial circuit, 36

• CREDITORS.

  • See Debtors and creditors.

• CULPEPER AND ORANGE.

  • No. 2, bill extending time for sheriffs to qualify, passed, 16
  • Passed senate, 23
  • For previous proceedings, see Orange.

• CURRENCY.

  • Resolution for suppressing counterfeit notes, 11
  • No. 13, bill therefor, 25
  • Engrossed, 35
  • Passed, 44
  • Resolution for relief of debtors whose creditors refuse to receive common currency, 17
  • Resolution for authorizing city of Lynchburg to issue additional notes, 19
  • No. 11, bill therefor; read first time, 25
  • Read second time and engrossment refused, 35

• DAMAGES.

  • No. 26, bill for assessment of, on line of Piedmont rail road, 39
  • Read first and second times, 42
  • Amended, engrossed and passed, 44
  • Joint resolution for election of assessors under salt act, 45
  • Agreed to by senate, 45
  • Proceedings and votes in the election, 48 , 49 , 51 - 54
  • Resolution from senate authorizing governor to fill vacancies, 57
  • Agreed to, 57

• DANVILLE.

  • Resolution for committee on amending charter of, 59
  • Committee announced, 59
  • No. 36, bill therefor passed, 60
  • Passed senate, 60

• DEBT.

  • See Certificates of debt.

• DEBTORS AND CREDITORS.

  • Resolution for relief of debtors whose creditors refuse to receive common currency, 17

• DELEGATES.

  • See House of delegates.

• DELINQUENTS.

  • No. 1, S. B. amending sect. 17, chap. 36 of Code, concerning manner of making returns; read twice and referred, 23
  • Reported without amendment, 29
  • Passed, 32

• DESTITUTION.

  • Resolution for relief of citizens of Prince William, 16
  • Resolution for relief of citizens in regions overrun by enemy, 17
  • Committee, 19

• DISLOYAL PERSONS.

  • Resolution for protection and indemnity of loyal citizens against action of, 6
  • No. 6, bill therefor; read first time, 18
  • Amended and engrossed, 26
  • Passed, 30
  • Passed senate, with amendment, 42
  • Motion to amend senate's amendment, 42
  • Bill and amendments committed, 42
  • Amendment of senate amended, 46
  • Agreed to by senate, 55
  • Resolution as to property of those who have gone to the enemy, 9

• DISLOYALTY.

  • Preamble and resolutions for proceedings against Judge E. P. Pitts for, laid over, 58
  • Passed, 62
  • See United States.
  • See Usurped government.

• DISTILLATION.

  • Resolution as to license to distill from fruit, &c. referred, 5
  • No. 17, bill concerning such licenses reported, 29

    ---

    Page 77

  • Read first time, 33
  • Read second time, amended and tabled, 35
  • Taken up and amendment adopted; vote recorded, 39
  • Substitute for amended section rejected; vote recorded, 40
  • Further amendment adopted, 40
  • Motion to reconsider rejected, 40
  • Engrossed, 40
  • Passed; vote recorded, 44
  • Passed senate, with amendment, 47
  • Amendment agreed to, 47
  • Resolution for authorizing contracts for rye whiskey for hospitals, 17
  • Referred to propositions and grievances, 32
  • Resolution for legalizing manufacture of alcohol. 19
  • No. 7, bill therefor, 19
  • Engrossed, 33
  • Read third time, 34
  • Ryder proposed, read twice and engrossed, 34
  • Bill passed, with ryder; vote recorded, 34
  • Passed senate, 45
  • Letter of C. S. medical purveyor relative to alcohol and whiskey for hospitals, &c.; referred, 19
  • Committee, 21
  • No. 15, bill to amend act against distilling, 25
  • Engrossed, 35
  • Passed, 43
  • Passed senate, with amendment, 46
  • Amendment agreed to, 47

• DIVIDEND.

  • See Banks.

• DOORKEEPER.

  • Appointment pro tempore of second doorkeeper, 11
  • His pay, 55

• DUDLEY, THOMAS U.

  • Resolution for his relief as sergeant of Richmond city, 50
  • No. 32, bill therefor; amended to include sergeant of Petersburg, and engrossed, 51
  • Read third time and rejected; vote recorded, 58
  • Reconsidered; bill tabled, 58

• ELECTIONS.

  • Of delegate for Fayette and Raleigh ordered, 30 , 31
  • Of members of assembly, judges, &c. in invaded counties; resolution for changing time of holding, 31
  • Referred to privileges and elections, 32
  • No. 23, bill therefor, 36
  • Engrossed, 59
  • No. 14, S. B. for filling vacancies in general assembly in certain cases, 57
  • No. 17, S. B. for changing time for next general election to general assembly, 57
  • No. 24, bill to authorize certain citizens to vote out of their counties, &c. during the war; read first time, 36
  • Read second time and tabled, 59
  • No. 18, bill for elections to confederate congress, 32
  • Read first time, 33
  • Read second time and tabled, 59
  • Senate bill in regard to elections of members of congress during the present war, 57
  • Joint resolution for election by general assembly of assessors under salt act; concurred in, 45
  • Proceedings and votes in the election, 48 , 49 , 51 - 54

• ENCLOSURES.

  • See Fence law.

• ENEMY.

  • See Public enemy.

• ENROLLED BILLS.

  • Report of house committee on, 57
  • Reports of senate committee, 60 - 63
  • Bills signed by speaker, 63 - 64

• ESSEX COUNTY.

  • Resolution for legalizing certain records and proceedings of county court, 17
  • No. 16, bill therefor, 28
  • Read first time, 33
  • Engrossed, 35
  • Passed, 44
  • Passed senate, 50

• EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH.

  • Resolution to authorize sale of lot in Salem, 23
  • Committee, 23

• EXCHANGE BANK OF VIRGINIA.

  • Joint resolution from senate allowing branch at Richmond to declare dividend, 50
  • Concurred in, 56

• EXECUTIVE.

  • See Governor.

• EXEMPTIONS FROM MILITARY SERVICE.

  • Resolution for communicating former exemption acts to confederate authorities, 22
  • Resolution as to exemption of state officers, 30
  • S. B. concerning amending Code, sect. 2, chapter 22, 45
  • Passed, 45
  • Resolution to exempt commissioners in chancery, 47
  • Adjutant general recommends re-examination of exempts, 48
  • Resolution for refunding moneys paid for exemptions, 50
  • No. 33, bill therefor, 55
  • Engrossed, 59

• EXPRESS COMPANIES.

  • Resolution for regulating charges by, on boxes, &c. sent to soldiers, 17

    ---

    Page 78

  • No. 25, bill to regulate their charges on packages sent by persons in military service; read first time, 36
  • Read second time and tabled, 59
  • No. 5, bill amending tax law concerning; read first time, 18
  • Engrossed, 33
  • Read third time and tabled, 34

• EXTORTION.

  • Message relative to, referred to committee on courts of justice, 12
  • Resolution for special committee, 14
  • Committee, 16, 21
  • Report of courts of justice referring message to special committee, 28
  • Report concurred in, 33
  • No. 27, bill to suppress extortion; read first time, 39
  • Read second time; motion for indefinite postponement, 51
  • Motion rejected; vote recorded, 58
  • Resolution for limiting price of leather, 17
  • Resolution for compelling rail roads to transport wood to Richmond, and for fixing price, 17
  • Joint resolution therefore, applying also to Petersburg, 57
  • Agreed to, 60
  • Concurred in by senate, 60

• EXTRA SESSION.

  • No. 18, S. B. for compensating printer to senate for journals of, rejected, 55
  • Vote reconsidered and bill tabled, 56

• FARMVILLE.

  • Resolution for increasing compensation of tobacco inspectors at, 12
  • Petition of the inspectors, 15

• FAYETTE AND RALEIGH.

  • Resolution ordering election for delegate, 30, 31

• FEES.

  • Petition for increase of fees of jailor of Botetourt, 6
  • Resolution for increasing jailors' fees for support of prisoners, 6
  • No. 3, bill therefor; read twice and engrossed, 15
  • Read third time, 19
  • Vote on engrossment reconsidered, 19
  • Bill amended and engrossed, 19
  • Passed; vote recorded, 24
  • Passed senate, with amendment, 25
  • Amendment agreed to, 30
  • Of tobacco inspectors at Farmville; resolution for increasing, 12
  • Petition of the inspectors, 15
  • Petition of inspectors at public warehouse for increase, 15
  • No. 10, bill to increase fees of tobacco inspectors; read first time, 25
  • Engrossed, 35
  • Passed, 44
  • Petition of clerks of Augusta and Staunton for increase of clerks' fees, 20
  • Senate bill for fees upon transfer of state securities, withdrawn from files and referred, 31

• FENCE LAW.

  • Joint committee on, 18
  • No. 9, 8. B. to repeal the law as to certain counties, &c. 44
  • Amended and passed, 46
  • Amendment of senate to house amendment agreed to, 55

• FLOYD. MAJ. GEN. JOHN B.

  • See Army of Virginia.

• FORREST, COMMODORE FRENCH.

  • Resolution of thanks to, and to his officers and men; referred, 44

• FREE NEGROES.

  • Resolution enquiring whether any free negroes from United States, captured in this state, have been surrendered by C. S. authorities, 22

• GENERAL ASSEMBLY.

  • Governor's proclamation convening, 3
  • Resolution for securing representation of counties in possession of enemy in next assembly, 20
  • Senate resolution for joint committee on character of present assembly, 22
  • Agreed to, 23
  • Report of committee, 35
  • Resolution for adjournment sine die, laid on table, 33
  • Senate resolution for adjournment, 38
  • Amended, 38
  • Laid on table; vote recorded, 38
  • Taken up and amended, 40
  • Further amendment rejected, 40
  • Vote adopting first amendment reconsidered, 41
  • Amendment withdrawn, 41
  • Substitute for amended resolution adopted, 41
  • Agreed to by senate, 42
  • Resolution for altering time for elections in counties occupied by enemy, 31
  • Referred to privileges and elections, 32
  • No. 23, bill therefor; read first time, 36
  • Engrossed, 59
  • No. 17, S. B. for changing time of holding next general election for members, 57
  • No. 14, S. B. for filling vacancies in, in certain cases, 57

• GOSPORT NAVY YARD.

  • Resolution of thanks to Commodore Forrest and his officers and men, for capture of; referred, 44

• GOVERNOR.

  • His proclamation convening general assembly, 3
  • Committee to wait on, 4
  • Message received, 4
  • Printed (Doc. No. 1), 4
  • Message as to vacancies in congress, 7
  • Communicates report of committee of congress relative to such vacancies, 7

    ---

    Page 79

  • Requested to give information as to state troops, and militia called out by proclamation, 9
  • And names of commissioned officers of state troops, 15
  • Information given; messages referred, 21
  • Requested to communicate correspondence with war department as to prisoners of war charged with offences against laws of this state, 18
  • Communicates the correspondence (Doc. No. 2), 21
  • Message enclosing petition from Southwestern Virginia in relation to extortion; referred, 21
  • Requested to communicate to confederate authorities former exemption acts, 22
  • Requested to state whether any free negroes from U. States, captured in this state, have been surrendered by C. S. authorities, 22
  • Asked for further information as to number, &c. of state line, and of militia called out by proclamation, 24
  • Resolution enquiring as to his authority to issue the proclamation, 34
  • His response received, referred and printed (Doc. No. 4), 40
  • Communicates letters of Major General Loring, Adj. General Richardson and Maj. Gen. Floyd, 40
  • Letters referred and printed (Doc. No. 6), 40
  • Recommends legislation as to disloyal officers of militia, 47
  • Communicates report of adjutant general as to second class militia, &c. 48
  • Message relative to Virginia state line, before referred, ordered to be printed, 60
  • Communicates letter from private secretary of the president, relative to members of the house in hands of enemy, 60

• GRIFFIN, MRS. JANE A.

  • Petition of her agent for relief under contract for rations of Public Guard, 15
  • No. 8, bill for settling agent's account, reported, 20
  • Read first time, 24
  • Engrossed, 33
  • Passed; vote recorded, 34
  • Passed senate, 42

• GUARDIANS.

  • Appointments in place of those in military service; resolution to amend Code, 16

• HARRISONBURG.

  • Resolution for savings bank at, 14
  • See Rockingham savings bank.

• HOSPITALS.

  • Resolution of enquiry as to our sick and wounded soldiers in, 6
  • Committee announced, 11
  • Enlarged, 17
  • Report of committee printed (Doc. No. 5), 39
  • Resolution for allowing distillation of rye whiskey for, 17
  • Referred to propositions and grievances, 32
  • Resolution for legalizing manufacture of alcohol for hospital purposes, &c. 19
  • No. 7, bill therefor; read first time, 19
  • Engrossed, 33
  • Read third time, 34
  • Ryder proposed, read twice and engrossed, 34
  • Bill passed, with ryder; vote recorded, 34
  • Passed senate, 45
  • Letter of C. S. medical purveyor relative to alcohol and whiskey for; referred to special committee, 19
  • Committee announced, 21
  • No. 15, bill to amend act against distilling; read first time, 25
  • Engrossed, 35
  • Passed, 43
  • Passed senate with amendment, 46
  • Amendment concurred in, 47

• HOUSE OF DELEGATES.

  • New members qualified, 4 , 20
  • No quorum; house adjourned, 4
  • Quorum present, 4
  • Adjournment for thanksgiving day, 14
  • Resolution for procuring passports for members and officers, 22
  • Resolution ordering election of delegate from Fayette and Raleigh, 30 , 31
  • Resolution for elections in counties unrepresented, 31
  • Resolution for changing time and mode for such elections, 31
  • Preamble and resolutions concerning members in hands of enemy, 46
  • Response of president, 60
  • Journal of secret sessions ordered to be published, 62
  • Proceedings in secret session, 65 - 71
  • Secrecy removed as to proceedings on salt question, 68
  • Resolutions of thanks to officers of house, &c. 62

• INCOME TAX.

  • Resolution for increasing, 36

• INSPECTORS OF TOBACCO.

  • See Fees.

• JACKSON, MAJ. GEN. THOMAS J.

  • Resolution of thanks to, referred; vote recorded, 12
  • Other resolutions referred, 12 , 13
  • Resolution adopted unanimously, 29

• JAILORS' FEES.

  • See Fees.

• JAMES RIVER AND KANAWHA TURNPIKE.

  • Resolution as to rebuilding its bridge over Greenbrier river, 14
  • Report of committee recommending application to confederate government, 37

• JENKINS, ALBERT G.

  • His resignation as member of congress communicated, 9

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  Page 80

• JOHNSTON, GENERAL JOSEPH E.

  • Resolution of thanks to, referred; vote recorded, 12
  • Other resolutions referred, 12 , 13
  • Resolutions adopted unanimously, 29

• JOINT COMMITTEES.

  • See Committees.

• JOINT RESOLUTIONS.

  • Voting thanks to generals, officers and men for services rendered, 12
  • Resolution referred; vote recorded, 12
  • Other resolutions referred, 12 , 13
  • Resolutions adopted unanimously, 29
  • Voting thanks to Flag Officer French Forrest and to his officers and men; referred, 44
  • Voting thanks to Major General J. B. Magruder and his officers and men for conduct on the peninsula; passed house, 61
  • To guarantee rail road connection with Northwestern Virginia; received from senate, 14
  • Concurred in, 50
  • For establishing tan yard at penitentiary; received from senate, 40
  • Referred, 47
  • For election of assessors under salt act, passed house and concurred in by senate, 45
  • Authorizing governor to fill vacancies in such offices, received from senate and concurred in, 57
  • Allowing Exchange Bank at Richmond to declare dividend, received from senate, 50
  • Concurred in, 56
  • To compel rail roads to transport wood to Richmond and Petersburg, and to fix price, 57
  • Concurred in by senate, 60
  • For proceedings against Judge E. P. Pitts for disloyalty, laid over, 58
  • Passed house, 62
  • For joint committee on revenue laws, tabled, 62
  • For printing for distribution copies of act providing for public defence, received from senate, 62
  • For joint committee to enquire whether further measures are necessary for public defence, 67
  • To authorize justices to issue marriage licenses in certain cases, received from senate and concurred in, 63
  • For impressment of slaves and levy en masse in country adjacent to Richmond, received from senate, 70
  • Laid on table, 71

• JONES, SAMPSON.

  • Petition for relief as agent for Mrs. Griffin under contract for rations of Public Guard, 15
  • No. 8, bill for settling his account, reported, 20
  • Read first time, 24
  • Engrossed, 33
  • Passed; vote recorded, 34
  • Passed senate, 42

• JUDGES.

  • Resolution for changing time and mode of elections of judges, &c. in counties occupied by the enemy, 31
  • Referred to privileges and elections, 32
  • No. 23, bill therefor, read first time, 36
  • Engrossed, 59

• JUSTICES.

  • Resolution for prohibiting charges by, for administering and certifying oaths necessary for recovery of soldiers' pay, 18
  • Joint resolution from senate for marriage licenses by, in certain cases; concurred in, 63

• KANAWHA SALINES.

  • Resolution for improving road from Dublin depot to, 17

• KIDNAPPING SLAVES.

  • Resolution for admitting slave testimony in cases of, against persons not citizens of C. States, 36

• LEATHER.

  • Resolution for limiting price of, 17

• LEE, GENERAL ROBERT E.

  • Resolution of thanks to, vote recorded, 12
  • Other resolutions referred, 12 , 13
  • Resolution adopted unanimously, 29

• LICENSES.

  • Resolution as to license to distill from fruit, &c.; referred, 5
  • No. 17, bill concerning such licenses, 29
  • Read first time, 33
  • Read second time, amended and laid on table, 35
  • Amendment adopted; vote recorded, 39
  • Substitute for amended section rejected; vote recorded, 40
  • Further amendment adopted, 40
  • Motion to reconsider rejected, 40
  • Bill engrossed, 40
  • Passed; vote recorded, 44
  • Passed senate with amendment, 47
  • Amendment agreed to, 47
  • No. 3, S. B. prescribing oath to be taken by applicants for, 50
  • Read twice and tabled, 56
  • Passed, 61
  • Joint resolution from senate to authorize justices to issue marriage licenses in certain cases; concurred in, 63

• LORING, MAJOR GENERAL.

  • His letter in reference to enlistments in state forces and the report of General Floyd in reply; printed (Doc. No. 6), 43

• LOYAL CITIZENS.

  • See Citizens.

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  Page 81

• LYNCHBURG.

  • Resolution for allowing city to issue additional notes, 19
  • No. 11, bill therefor; read first time, 25
  • Read second time and engrossment refused, 35

• MAGRUDER, MAJOR GENERAL J. B.

  • Resolution of thanks to, and to his officers and men for conduct on the peninsula, 61

• MARRIAGE LICENSES.

  • Senate resolution to authorize justices to issue, in certain cases; concurred in, 63

• MEDICAL PURVEYOR.

  • Of Confederate States--See hospitals.

• MESSAGES.

  • See Governor.

• MILITARY AFFAIRS.

  • Message relating to, referred, 12

• MILITIA.

  • Information asked as to number brought out by governor's proclamation, and expense, &c. 9, 24
  • Resolution enquiring by what authority the proclamation was issued, 34
  • Governor's response received, referred and printed (Doc. No. 4), 40
  • Resolution for removal of disloyal brigadier generals, 43
  • Governor recommends legislation as to disloyal officers, 47
  • S. B. for dismissal of such officers, 61
  • Passed, 61
  • Adjutant general's report as to second class militia, &c. communicated, 48

• MILITIA FINES

  • Adjutant general recommends boards for assessment of, 48

• NEGROES.

  • See Free negroes.
  • See Slaves.

• NEIGHBOURS, WILLIAM H.

  • Resolution to authorize him to act as commissioner of the revenue for Wythe county, 21

• NEW SCHOOL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.

  • Resolution for authorizing church in Wytheville to sell lot, &c. 22
  • Adverse report of committee, 28
  • Report concurred in, 33

• NORTHWESTERN VIRGINIA.

  • Message as to rail road connection with, referred, 14
  • Joint resolution to guarantee such connection received from senate, 50
  • Concurred in, 56

• NOTARIES.

  • Resolution for prohibiting charges by, for administering and certifying oaths necessary for recovery of soldiers' pay, 18

• OATHS.

  • Resolution for prohibiting charges for administering and certifying oaths necessary for recovery of soldiers' pay, 18
  • No. 3, S. B. prescribing oath to be taken by applicant for a license, 50
  • Read twice and tabled, 56
  • Passed, 61

• OATHS OF ALLEGIANCE.

  • To U. S. government; message as to granting amnesty to those taking such oaths, referred, 15
  • Adverse report, 46
  • Senate bill concerning officers of the state taking oath to support usurped government; read twice and tabled, 63

• OFFICERS' SALARIES.

  • See Penitentiary.
  • See State government.

• ORANGE AND ALEXANDRIA RAIL ROAD.

  • Memorial praying relief from taxation, 15

• ORANGE COUNTY.

  • Resolution for extending time for sheriff to qualify, 11
  • Committee, 11
  • No. 2, bill therefor, with similar provision as to sheriff of Culpeper; read twice and engrossed, 11
  • Passed, 16
  • Passed senate, 23

• PARIS, WILLIAM.

  • Late sheriff of Appomattox; resolution for relief of his securities, 33
  • No. 20, bill therefor; read first time, 33
  • Engrossed, 59

• PARTIZAN RANGERS.

  • Resolution for protection of citizens against, 47

• PASSPORTS.

  • Resolution for procuring passports for members and officers of the house, 22

• PAY OF SOLDIERS.

  • See Soldiers.

• PENITENTIARY.

  • Resolution referring message relative to, 6
  • Petition of officers for increase of salary, referred to committee on penitentiary, 16
  • Withdrawn and referred to finance committee, 32
  • Resolution for abolishing some of the offices at, 17

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    Page 82

  • Resolution from senate for establishing tan yard at, 40
  • Referred, 47

• PETERSBURG.

  • Resolution for relief of sergeant Richmond city, 50
  • No. 32, bill therefor; amended to include sergeant of Petersburg, and engrossed, 51
  • Read third time and rejected; vote recorded, 58
  • Reconsidered and bill tabled, 58
  • Joint resolution for compelling rail roads to transport wood to Richmond and Petersburg, 57
  • Concurred in by senate, 60

• PIEDMONT RAIL ROAD.

  • No. 26, bill for assessment of damages on line of, 39
  • Read first and second times, 42
  • Amended, engrossed and passed, 44

• PITTS, JUDGE E. P.

  • Preamble and resolutions for proceedings against him for disloyalty, laid over, 58
  • Passed, 62

• PLEASANT GROVE LEAD AND ZINC MINING AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY.

  • Resolution for incorporating, 6
  • Committee, 6
  • No. 14, bill therefor; read first time, 25
  • Engrossed, 33
  • Passed, 35
  • Passed senate, 42

• POOR.

  • See Destitution.

• PRICES.

  • See Extortion.

• PRESIDENT OF CONFEDERATE STATES.

  • Petition addressed to him from Southwestern Virginia, relative to extortion; referred, 21
  • Resolution for testing his right to arrest and imprison citizens of Virginia, 38
  • Laid over, 38
  • Requested to procure release of members of house of delegates in hands of enemy, 46
  • His response, through his private secretary, 60

• PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY.

  • Resolution for relief of citizens of, 16

• PRINTER TO SENATE.

  • No. 18, S. B. for compensating him for journals of senate at extra session, rejected, 55
  • Vote reconsidered and bill tabled, 56

• PRISONERS.

  • Fees for keeping and supporting--See
  • Fees.

• PRISONERS OF WAR.

  • Virginia officers detained as; resolution concerning, 54
  • Request for the correspondence with secretary of war as to prisoners in our hands charged with offences against laws of state, 18
  • Correspondence communicated; and printed (Doc. No. 2), 21

• PROCLAMATION.

  • Of governor, convening general assembly, 3
  • Calling out militia; information asked as to number of men raised, &c. 9 , 24
  • Resolution enquiring by what authority this proclamation was issued, 34
  • Governor's response received, referred and printed (Doc. No. 4), 40

• PUBLIC DEFENCE.

  • Resolution from senate to have printed for distribution act providing for, 62
  • Resolution for joint committee to enquire of C. S. authorities whether further measures are necessary for, 67
  • Committee on part of house, 68
  • No. 31, bill further to provide for; read first time, 68
  • Amendment exempting from call slaves engaged in mining; rejected, 68
  • Amendment authorizing counties to furnish free negroes; rejected, 68
  • Amendment as to counties which have already furnished slave labor; rejected, 69
  • Amendment to increase compensation for slaves; rejected; vote recorded, 69
  • Amendment making the call dependent upon request of the president, adopted; vote recorded, 69
  • Motion to lay bill on table and reprint, rejected, 69
  • Amendment for valuation of slaves, rejected, 69
  • Amendment giving force to act when sanctioned by congress, rejected, 69
  • Amendment exempting from call slave of soldier who holds but one, adopted, 70
  • Bill further amended, and engrossed, 70
  • Passed, 70
  • Passed senate with amendments, 71
  • Amendments agreed to, except that increasing compensation for slaves, 71
  • Senate recedes, 71
  • Joint resolution from senate for impressment of slaves and levy en masse in country adjacent to Richmond, 70
  • Laid on table, 71

• PUBLIC ENEMY.

  • Governor's message, and report of committee of congress, on representation of districts in possession of enemy, 7
  • Resolution for exempting from taxation property stolen or destroyed in consequence of enemy's presence, 9

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    Page 83

  • Resolution as to property of those who have gone to, 9
  • Resolution for relief of the destitution caused by, in Prince William, 16
  • Resolution for such relief in regions overrun by, 17
  • Resolution as to representation of counties in their possession, in next general assembly, 20
  • Resolution for changing time of holding elections in such counties, 31
  • Referred to privileges and elections, 32
  • No. 23, bill therefor; read first time, 36
  • Engrossed, 59
  • Resolution for providing trials of persons charged with felony in counties in possession of, 35
  • No. 30, bill therefor, amending act of March 27, 1862; read twice and engrossed, 45
  • Passed, 57
  • Passed senate, 60
  • No. 24, bill authorizing certain citizens to vote out of their counties, &c. during the war; read first time, 36
  • Read second time and tabled, 59
  • Resolution to extend time for qualification of sheriffs, &c. prevented by enemy from qualifying, 43
  • No. 28, bill therefor; passed, 43
  • Passed senate, 50
  • No. 9, S. B. to repeal fence law as to certain counties, &c. because of devastations caused by, 44
  • Read twice, amended and passed, 46
  • Amendment of senate to house amendment agreed to, 55
  • Preamble and resolutions requesting president to procure release of members in hands of, 46
  • Answer of president, 60
  • At Norfolk; joint resolution from senate authorizing Exchange Bank at Richmond to declare dividend, 50
  • Concurred in, 56

• PUBLIC GUARD.

  • Petition of contractor for rations for relief, 15
  • No. 8, bill for settling his account, 20
  • Read first time, 24
  • Engrossed, 33
  • Passed; vote recorded, 34
  • Passed senate, 42

• PUBLIC PRESS.

  • To be furnished with copy of salt bill, 43

• PUBLIC REVENUE.

  • See Revenue.

• PUBLIC WAREHOUSE.

  • Petition of inspectors at, for increase of fees, 15

• QUALIFICATION.

  • Of new members of house of delegates, 4 , 20 , 23
  • Resolution for extending time for sheriff of Orange to qualify, 11
  • Committee, 11
  • No. 2, bill therefor, and providing for case of sheriff of Culpeper; read twice and engrossed, 11
  • Passed, 16
  • Passed senate, 23
  • Resolution to extend time for qualification of sheriffs and other officers prevented by presence of enemy from qualifying, 43
  • No. 28, bill therefor; passed, 43
  • Passed senate, 50

• QUORUM.

  • No. quorum being present, house adjourned, 4
  • Quorum present, 4
  • Appeal from decision of chair that less than a quorum cannot vote a recess; tabled, 59

• RAIL ROADS.

  • Message as to rail road connection with the Northwest; referred, 14
  • Joint resolution to guarantee such connection, received from the senate, 50
  • Concurred in, 56
  • Resolution for compelling them to transport wood to Richmond, and fixing price, 17
  • Joint resolution therefor, applying also to Petersburg, 57
  • Passed, 60
  • Concurred in by senate, 60
  • Resolution for amending law regulating condemnation of land for, 32
  • No. 26, bill for assessment of damages on line of Piedmont rail road, 39
  • Read first and second times, 42
  • Amended, engrossed and passed, 44

• RALEIGH AND FAYETTE.

  • Election of delegate ordered, 30 , 31

• RANGERS.

  • See Partisan Rangers.

• RAPER, ROBERT AND OTHERS.

  • Petition withdrawn from files, and referred, 30

• RATIONS OF PUBLIC GUARD.

  • See Public Guard.

• RESOLUTIONS OF THANKS.

  • To generals, officers and men, referred; vote recorded, 12
  • Other resolutions referred, 12 , 13
  • Resolutions adopted unanimously, 29
  • To Flag Officer Forrest and his officers and men, referred, 44
  • To Major General Magruder and his officers and men, for conduct on the peninsula; passed house, 61

• REVENUE.

  • Resolution as to compensation for collecting, 10
  • Resolution for joint committee on revenue laws; tabled, 62

  ---

  Page 84

• RICHMOND CITY.

  • Petition of inspectors at public warehouse for increase of fees, 15
  • Resolution for compelling rail roads to transport wood to, and for fixing price, 17
  • Joint resolution therefor, applying also to Petersburg, 57
  • Passed house, 60
  • Joint resolution from senate allowing branch of Exchange Bank to declare dividend, 50
  • Concurred in, 56
  • Resolution for relief of sergeant of, 50
  • No. 32, bill therefor; amended to include sergeant of Petersburg, and engrossed, 51
  • Read third time and rejected; vote recorded, 58
  • Reconsidered: bill tabled, 58
  • No. 12, S. B. to enlarge the powers of the common council of, 57

• ROADS.

  • Resolution for improving road from Dublin depot to the Kanawha salines, 17
  • See Rail roads.

• ROCKINGHAM SAVINGS BANK.

  • Resolution for incorporating, 14
  • No. 12, bill therefor; read first time, 25
  • Engrossed, 35
  • Passed, 44

• RUNAWAYS.

  • See Slaves.

• SALARIES OF OFFICERS.

  • See Penitentiary.
  • See State government.

• SALEM EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH.

  • Resolution for authorizing sale of lot, 23
  • Committee, 23

• SALT.

  • Resolution for committee on contracts of Stuart, Buchanan & Co. and their dealings with speculators, 5
  • Substitute rejected, 5
  • Resolution adopted, 5
  • Committee announced and enlarged, 11
  • Members excused and others appointed, 18 , 33
  • Report of committee printed (Doc. No. 3), 35
  • Resolution of senate for joint committee on salt supply, agreed to, 5
  • Committee on part of house announced, 5
  • Joint committee to enquire as to purchasing Washington and Smyth salt works, 6
  • As to placing money in governor's hands for purchase of salt, 9
  • Resolution to confine legislation to this subject; laid over, 10
  • Resolution so to confine legislation after certain day, 10
  • Rule suspended; vote recorded, 10
  • The resolution indefinitely postponed; vote recorded, 10
  • Resolution of enquiry as to mode of estimating bushel of salt at Washington and Smyth works, 15
  • Joint committee enlarged, 16
  • Member excused; another appointed, 18
  • Resolution for securing salt in hands of speculators, 20
  • Proceedings of public meeting in Shenandoah, 20
  • Resolution for procuring salt for families of refugees, 22
  • No. 9, bill for production, distribution and sale of salt, read twice, 23
  • Laid on table and printed, 24
  • Read first time, 25
  • Section 1, amendment proposed, 25
  • Amendment rejected; bill tabled, 26
  • Another amendment rejected and vote recorded, 27
  • Another amendment rejected, 27
  • Section 4, amendment adopted, 27
  • Section 5, amendment rejected, 27
  • Another amendment rejected, 28
  • Section 8, amendment rejected, 28
  • Bill further amended, 28
  • Read second time and engrossed, 28
  • Read third time, 30
  • Ryder proposed; read twice and rejected, 30
  • Bill passed; vote recorded, 31
  • Passed senate with amendments, 37
  • Amendments of senate (except 5th, 6th and 9th) concurred in, 37
  • 5th amendment amended and agreed to, 37
  • 6th amendment amended and agreed to; vote recorded, 37
  • Further amended, 37
  • 9th amendment amended and agreed to, 37
  • Senate agree to 1st amendment of house, 39
  • Disagree to 2d and 3d, and ask committee of conference, 39
  • Committee of conference agreed to, 39
  • Committee on part of house, 39
  • Report of committee of conference agreed to by senate, 43
  • Agreed to by house, 43
  • Copy of bill to be furnished public press, 43
  • Resolution to elect assessors under salt act; agreed to by senate, 45
  • Proceedings and votes in the election, 48 , 49 51-54
  • Joint resolution from senate authorizing governor to fill vacancies; concurred in, 57
  • Preamble and resolution as to traffic in salt by agents of confederate government; adopted, 41
  • Joint resolution from senate authorizing governor to seize salt, 65
  • Previous question sustained; vote recorded, 65
  • Further proceedings and record of votes, 65 , 66
  • Resolution rejected; vote recorded, 66 , 67
  • Appeal from decision of chair declaring bill rejected, laid on table, 67
  • Motion to reconsider vote rejecting resolution, adopted; vote recorded, 67

    ---

    Page 85

  • Injunction of secrecy removed from proceedings on salt question, 68

• SAVINGS BANK.

  • See Rockingham savings bank.

• SECOND DOORKEEPER.

  • Temporary appointment of, 11
  • His pay, 55

• SECRETARY OF THE COMMONWEALTH.

  • Resolution from senate directing him to have the act providing for public defence printed for distribution, 62

• SECRETARY OF WAR.

  • Correspondence with, relative to prisoners of war charged with offences against this state, called for, 18
  • Correspondence communicated, and printed (Doc. No. 2), 21
  • Resolution to request him to furnish passports for members and officers of house, 22
  • Letter of Gen. Loring to him, printed (Doc. No. 6), 43
  • Resolution to inform him of detention of Virginia officers as prisoners of war, 54
  • His response, 63

• SECRET SESSIONS.

  • Journal ordered to be published, 62
  • Proceedings in secret session, 65 - 71
  • Injunction of secrecy as to proceedings on salt question removed, 68

• SECURITIES.

  • Resolution to modify stay law, for protection of, 47

• SENATE PRINTER.

  • See Printer to senate.

• SERGEANT AT ARMS.

  • Leave of absence, 5

• SERGEANTS.

  • Resolution for relief of sergeant of Richmond city, 50
  • No. 32, bill therefor; amended to include sergeant of Petersburg, and engrossed, 51
  • Read third time and rejected; vote recorded, 58
  • Vote reconsidered; bill tabled, 58

• SHENANDOAH.

  • Resolution for relief of sheriff's securities, 14
  • Proceedings of public meeting in, on salt supply, 20

• SHERIFFS.

  • Resolution for increasing penalty of bonds, 6
  • No. 4, bill concerning bonds, engrossed, 15
  • Passed, 19
  • Resolution as to compensation of, for collecting revenue, 10
  • Resolution for extending time for sheriff of Orange to qualify, 11
  • Committee, 11
  • No. 2, bill therefor, and providing also for case of sheriff of Culpeper; engrossed, 11
  • Passed, 16
  • Passed senate, 23
  • Resolution for qualification of sheriffs, &c prevented by presence of enemy from qualifying, 43
  • Committee, 43
  • No. 28, bill therefor; passed, 43
  • Passed senate, 50
  • Resolution for relief of securities of sheriff of Shenandoah, 14

• SLAVES.

  • Resolution for increasing reward for runaways, 5
  • Reported inexpedient, 28
  • Report concurred in, 33
  • Resolution for admitting slave testimony against persons not citizens of C. States charged with kidnapping slaves, 36
  • Joint resolution from senate for impressment of slaves and levy en masse in country adjacent to Richmond, 70
  • See Public defence.

• SOLDIERS.

  • Message as to pay of, referred, 6
  • Resolution for committee of enquiry as to sick and wounded in hospitals, 6
  • Committee announced, 11
  • Committee enlarged, 17
  • Their report printed (Doc. No. 5), 39
  • Resolution of thanks to officers and men referred to committee; vote recorded, 12
  • Other resolutions referred, 12 , 13
  • Resolutions adopted unanimously, 29
  • Resolution for regulating express charges on boxes, &c. sent to, 17
  • Resolution to prohibit charges for administering oaths necessary for recovery of their pay, 18

• SOUTHWESTERN VIRGINIA.

  • Petition from citizens of, to president, relative to extortion; referred, 21

• SPECULATORS.

  • See Salt.
  • See Extortion.

• SPIRITUOUS LIQUORS.

  • See Distillation.

• STANDING COMMITTEES.

  • Additions to, 16, 23, 34

• STATE SECURITIES.

  • Resolution to withdraw, and refer senate bill requiring fees on transfers of, 31

  ---

  Page 86

• STATE GOVERNMENT.

  • Resolution for increase of salaries of officers, 35
  • No. 27, bill therefor, 42
  • Read first time, 46

• STATE TROOPS.

  • See Army of Virginia.
  • See Militia.

• STAUNTON.

  • Petition of clerks of Augusta and Staunton for increase of clerks' fees; referred, 20
  • Adverse report, 32

• STAY LAW.

  • Resolution to modify, for protection of securities, 47

• STUART, BUCHANAN & CO.

  • Resolution of enquiry as to their contracts with counties, &c. and dealings with speculators, 5
  • Substitute rejected, 5
  • Resolution adopted, 5
  • Committee announced, and enlarged, 11
  • Members of committee excused, and others appointed, 18
  • Report of committee printed (Dec. No. 3), 35
  • Resolution as to purchase of their works, 6
  • As to their mode of estimating a bushel of salt, 15

• TAN YARD.

  • Resolution from senate for establishment of, at penitentiary, 40
  • Referred, 47

• TAXES.

  • Resolution declaring who exempt from tax for distilling from fruit, &c. 5
  • Resolution to exempt from, property stolen, &c., in consequence of enemy's presence, 9
  • Resolution for allowing additional compensation to collecting officers, 10
  • Memorial of Orange and Alexandria and Virginia Central rail roads, asking relief, 15
  • Resolution for exempting property seized by federal army from taxation, 17
  • No. 5, bill amending tax law of 1862, concerning express companies; read first time, 18
  • Engrossed 33
  • Read third time and tabled, 34
  • Resolution for increasing income tax, 36

• THANKSGIVING DAY.

  • House adjourns for observance of, 14

• THOMPSON, JUDGE GEO. W.

  • Petition for repeal of ordinance suspending his salary, 24
  • No. 29, bill therefor; read first time, 45
  • Engrossed, 50
  • Passed; vote recorded, 57
  • Passed senate, 60

• TOBACCO INSPECTORS.

  • See Fees.

• TOWNS.

  • See Counties and towns.

• TREASON OR DISLOYALTY.

  • See Disloyal Persons
  • See Militia.
  • See United States.
  • See Usurped government.

• TREASURY NOTES.

  • See Confederate treasury notes.

• TRIALS.

  • Resolution for providing trials of persons charged with felony in counties in possession of the enemy, 36
  • No. 30, bill therefor; engrossed, 45
  • Passed, 57
  • Passed senate, 60

• TRUSTEES.

  • Resolution to amend Code, for appointments in place of those in military service, 16

• UNION MANUFACTURING COMPANY.

  • Resolution for repealing charter, 6
  • No. 1, bill for incorporating 11
  • Engrossed, 18
  • Passed, 19
  • Passed senate, 42

• UNITED STATES.

  • Resolution enquiring whether any free negroes from, captured in this state, have been surrendered by C. S. authorities, 22
  • Resolution for protection and indemnity of loyal citizens against action of its officers under confiscation laws, 6
  • No. 6, bill therefor; read first time, 18
  • Amended and engrossed, 26
  • Passed, 30
  • Passed senate with amendment, 42
  • Motion to amend senate's amendment, 42
  • Bill and amendments committed, 42
  • Senate's amendment amended, 46
  • Agreed to by senate, 55
  • Message as to amnesty in cases of citizens taking oath of allegiance to, referred, 15
  • Adverse report, 46

• USURPED GOVERNMENT.

  • No. 4, S. B. for redress of loyal citizens injured by usurped power; read twice and referred, 28
  • Reported without amendment, and passed, 46
  • S. B. concerning state officers taking oath to support; read twice and tabled, 63

• VIRGINIA CENTRAL RAIL ROAD.

  • Resolution as to rebuilding its bridge over Cowpasture river, 14
  • Adverse report, 37

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    Page 87

  • Memorial praying relief from taxation, 15

• VIRGINIA CITIZENS.

  • See Citizens of Virginia.

• VIRGINIA OFFICERS.

  • Detained as prisoners of war; resolution concerning, 54
  • Communication from secretary of war relative to such officers, 63

• VIRGINIA STATE LINE.

  • See Army of Virginia.

• VOLUNTEERS.

  • In state army--See Army of Virginia.

• WAR DEPARTMENT.

  • See Secretary of war.

• WASHINGTON AND SMYTH SALT WORKS.

  • Resolution of enquiry as to mode of estimating bushel of salt at, 15
  • See Salt.

• WHISKEY.

  • See Distillation.

• WHITE, SAMUEL C.

  • Resolution for relief of, 31

• WILSON, GEORGE W. JR.

  • Appointed 2d doorkeeper pro tempore, 11
  • His pay, 55

• WOOD.

  • Resolution for compelling rail roads to transport wood to Richmond, and for fixing price, 17
  • Joint resolution therefor, applying also to Petersburg, 57
  • Passed, 60
  • Concurred in by senate, 60

• WRITS OF ELECTION.

  • Ordered for delegate for Fayette and Raleigh, 31

• WYTHE COUNTY.

  • Resolution for authorizing William H. Neighbours to act as commissioner of the revenue for, 21

• WYTHEVILLE.

  • Resolution for authorizing New School Presbyterian church in, to sell lot, &c. 22
  • Adverse report, 28
  • Report concurred in, 33

DOC. No. I. MESSAGE
OF
THE GOVERNOR OF VIRGINIA,
AND
ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTS.

RICHMOND:
WILLIAM F. RITCHIE, PUBLIC PRINTER
1862.

Doc. No. 1.
MESSAGE.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
September 15, 1862.

Gentlemen of the Senate
and House of Delegates:

        I have felt it to be an imperative duty to convene you in extraordinary session, to consider a question of vital importance to our common constituents. The subject commends itself in the strongest terms to our judgments and sympathies, and demands prompt action.

        The people of a large portion of our state are suffering greatly from the inadequacy of the present supply of salt, and the most serious and well-grounded apprehensions are felt as to the prospective supply. An article indispensable to the health and comfort of man and beast, and absolutely necessary to aid in the development of many branches of agricultural and mechanical industry, must be provided, if it be within the range of possibility.

        In consequence of numerous letters, received from gentlemen in different portions of the state, calling my attention to the subject, and earnestly invoking action; and deeply impressed with the fact that the limited supply in the market was commanding such exorbitant prices as placed the article beyond the means of a large class of the people, and especially the private soldiers of our army who had left families at home, I determined to visit the salt works in Washington and Smyth counties, inform myself, as far as it was possible to do so, by observation and enquiry, and then adopt such course as the law authorized and the necessities of the people demanded, for their relief. If the wants and demands of our people cannot be fully met, it behooves us to do all that can be done towards the accomplishment of this desirable result.

        If an appropriation had been deemed advisable, at the last session,

for the purchase of the property, or for the erection of the necessary works for the manufacture of salt, much could have been accomplished by this time for the general relief. Even now, by prompt and energetic action, works may be erected, and a sufficiency for ordinary family purposes, and for the preservation of the fall supplies of meats, may be secured.

        In the revolution our illustrious ancestors experienced the difficulties which now surround us in regard to this article, which enters so largely into the consumption of the country. They however adopted such measures as secured a supply; and they continued to prosecute the war with such zeal and energy as brought it to a happy and glorious termination. The legislation of that day will furnish a useful lesson for study now, and I commend it to your consideration.

        Another occasion has arisen in our history, when legislation is necessary to meet the emergency. It becomes us to follow the example of the legislators of that day--men remarkable alike for practical wisdom, devotion to the country and its institutions, and who exhibited a special regard for the wants of the people under circumstances not unlike those now existing.

        In the year 1776 the convention of Virginia passed "an ordinance for erecting salt works in the colony, and for encouraging the making of salt." This ordinance provided for its manufacture in several of the eastern counties, by the process of solar evaporation, and by boiling from sea water. The erection of the necessary works and their operation, was to be at the expense of the state; and managers were designated in the ordinance to take charge of the establishments, and conduct the business, under certain regulations specifically defined. It directed the manner of disposing of the salt, and regulated the price at which it should be sold. It also prescribed the mode by which lands should be acquired.

        In the year 1777 the legislature passed an act on the same subject, very similar in its provisions to those of the ordinance referred to. To this ordinance and this act I invite your attention. Much will be found in both that cannot fail to aid you in the consideration and wise disposition of this subject.

        At that early day little was known of that portion of the state lying west of the Alleghany, and nothing known of the existence of

salt water there. This indispensable article, together with vast resources of mineral and other wealth, have subsequently been developed in that section of the state. This explains why the legislation on this important subject was confined to the eastern counties.

        The states of Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee have commenced the manufacture of salt at the works in Washington and Smyth counties. The state of Alabama is making the necessary preparations to commence the manufacture, and in the course of a month will be making about five hundred bushels per day. Each of the other states is making about this quantity daily, and in the course of a short time, will increase the quantity considerably.

        On my visit to the salt works, the proprietors, Stuart, Buchanan & Co., made, at my instance, a proposition, which is herewith transmitted, and which will be found published with the accompanying documents. This proposition does not meet my approval. We are required to pay more for the water than is paid by the state of Georgia, and to pay the same price that is paid by the other states: while if any difference is made, it surely should be in favor of the state in which the works are located.

The penitentiary.

        I appointed Thomas S. Haymond, Andrew Johnston and Charles Campbell, Esquires, to make the investigation into the affairs of the penitentiary, directed by your resolution adopted May 15th, 1862, and gave them written instructions. The report of these intelligent gentlemen, herewith presented, is characterized by much ability, and demonstrates that they have investigated, laboriously and faithfully, the entire subject, in accordance with the instructions issued to them. I commend the report to your attention, confident that you will find in it many suggestions and recommendations that will command your cordial approval, and that you will, at an early day in the session, adopt such legislation as will give to them the force of law.

        This report leaves no room for doubt that the management of the institution and the business of the general agent have been inefficient and negligent. My own observation has satisfied me that there has been neither energy, industry or judgment exhibited in the management, and that unless something is speedily done to secure the services of men of industry, energy and business qualifications, the institution will become a very heavy burden upon the treasury. I

have seen no reason to change the opinion heretofore expressed in my messages, that with prudent, judicious and energetic management, the institution can be made self-supporting. But to accomplish this result, we must reform the management, by substituting a large number of the present incumbents with persons better qualified for the positions.

        It affords me pleasure to except from the condemnation pronounced, Mr. John Knote, the present general agent and store-keeper. From all the information I have been able to procure, he has devoted himself faithfully to the performance of the duties of his office, and has settled his accounts with the board of directors with the greatest promptitude.

        In this connection I feel it to be a duty to invite your attention to the free negro and slave convicts who are accumulating most rapidly, and who must be disposed of, at some future day, otherwise than in the mode now prescribed by existing laws. The people in the neighborhood in which a considerable number of these convicts have been hired, are greatly dissatisfied, and have complained, through public meetings, threatening to resort to mob law, unless they shall be withdrawn. As the numbers of these convicts increase, and as the demand for this species of labor diminishes, we may reasonably calculate that the complaints will increase also. I suggest, therefore, that it would be advisable for you to direct your attention to this subject, and devise some means for disposing of them by sale or otherwise, and thus relieve the state from further connection with them.

The war.

        The success which has attended our arms has been of the most gratifying character, and has demonstrated the superior qualifications of our commanding generals, and the indomitable energy, courage and self-sacrificing devotion of our soldiers. Greater gallantry has never been exhibited--a more generous, noble and patriotic spirit never animated an army, in ancient or modern times. Each has vied with the other in the performance of every duty; and all have exhibited an ardor and earnestness for the cause and the country, worthy of men struggling for independence. Their glorious deeds have enshrined them in the hearts of all our people; and from thousands of family altars and places of religious worship, prayers ascend

to heaven for their preservation and protection, and for the deliverance of our country from the horrors of this wicked war, brought upon it by those who are ready to sacrifice all the nobler feelings of our nature to passion, to prejudice, and to avarice.

        Subsequent reflection has tended to confirm and strengthen the opinions heretofore expressed in my previous messages, of the imperative necessity of making this an aggressive war. Our own protection demands it--the quiet of Virginia, whose bosom is scarred all over, and whose people have been harassed, persecuted and plundered, demands it. Duty, patriotism, a speedy termination of this war--all appeal, trumpet-tongued, for an aggressive movement. Happily, we have every reason to believe this policy has at length been inaugurated. It must be firmly pursued. Plant the confederate standard upon the soil of Maryland; and resolute hearts and gallant spirits, animated by generous impulses, and fired with an earnest desire to protect the rights and maintain the laws and institutions, common alike to them and us, will rally around it by thousands, and will raise their oppressed land from the dust. The fire of patriotism is not extinct in Maryland--it has only been smothered. Let the opportunity be presented, and it will burst forth into a flame that will illuminate the land, and give joy and gladness to hearts that have been crushed by a tyrant's power, indiscriminately used, to subdue men, women and children.

        Let aggression, then, be the watchword, and let us push the advantage we have gained, until the north shall be made to feel that war has its horrors, and that they have been made to bear their share of them.

        Every government, like every human being, carries within itself the seeds of its own dissolution. The old Union has lived out its days, has fulfilled the measure of its glory, its influence and its power. Its dissolution is a fact accomplished and understood. In every aspect in which the question can be viewed, educationally, religiously, socially, morally and politically, we are separated from the north--finally and forever separated. It is impossible for human agency to reconstruct the natural body after dissolution; and it is equally impossible for human agency now to reconstruct the Union, in its present dissolved and decomposed condition. Affection, fraternity, kind feeling--every element of adhesion is hopelessly gone.

The tendrils of hate encircle the heart, and enmity and malevolence have crushed all the nobler feelings of attachment and brotherhood. Reunion, therefore, upon any terms, is simply an impossibility, and the idea is not to be entertained even for a moment.

State force under Gen. Floyd.

        Shortly after your adjournment, I commissioned John B. Floyd a major general, in pursuance of your act, passed May 15th, 1862, and gave authority to numerous persons to raise companies, battalions and regiments for service in the state forces authorized to be raised by said act--all of which were authorized to be raised from the non-conscripts between the ages of thirty-five and under forty-five, and those under the age of eighteen years.

        Finding that the non-conscripts were not disposed to volunteer as promptly as I had expected for this service, and ascertaining that the northern government had called for an additional force of six hundred thousand men, and seeing that a large part of the state was overrun by the invader, I called upon the militia of thirty-nine counties to report to General Floyd immediately for service, in the state force; and I have no doubt they would have responded promptly to the call, but for the unwarranted and improper interference of a confederate officer and some other persons, who have used various expedients to produce dissatisfaction with this order. Very shortly after the call for the militia was issued, and while the enrollment was in progress, Major General Loring issued orders to stop the enrollment in Monroe, Giles, and perhaps other counties. A letter addressed by General Loring to the war department, dated August 13th, 1862, in which he admits this interference, will be found with the accompanying documents. As a confederate officer, he had nothing to do with the non-conscripts. They were not under his control, nor subject to his orders. They were under the orders of the state, and subject to the orders of the executive, under the laws of the state. His interference has been essentially mischievous and improper, and has had the effect of demoralizing the militia, and defeating, so far as they were concerned, the objects which the state designed to effect.

        Applications for detail of persons employed in procuring nitre, whenever they have been presented in the mode directed by law, have been granted. I know of no instance in which such an application

has been denied. No application has been made for details for General Loring's commissary or quartermaster's departments.

        I directed the several ranger companies to report forthwith to General Floyd. Many complaints had been made with regard to the rangers, most of which I regarded as unfounded; but, under the circumstances, I deemed it best to place them under control of a competent officer, who would direct their operations.

        My latest information from General Floyd's command assures me that he has a considerable force in the field, and that he expected to move last week towards the Kanawha valley; and I have no doubt he has done so. He was in fine spirits when I parted from him, and manifested a bold and noble confidence, that promised the best results. A copy of my order, issued at Wytheville, and a proclamation subsequently issued, accompanies this communication.

        This state force will be an honor to the commonwealth, if cherished and supported as it should be.

        In this connection, I renew a recommendation, heretofore made, that a law be passed authorizing me to strike from the rolls the names of such militia officers as refuse to obey promptly the orders of the executive. The reasons in each case will be most cheerfully assigned, where I am called upon to take such action. This recommendation would not be renewed, if in my judgment the necessities of the case did not imperatively demand it.

Amnesty to those who have taken the oath of fidelity to the Lincoln
government.

        From information received from various sources, I am induced to believe that many loyal and worthy citizens, in those portions of the state which have been overrun by the enemy, have taken oaths binding them to abstain from all active participation in the war. In all such cases, where the parties are willing to manifest their fealty to the commonwealth, and to show their faith by their works, I recommend that an amnesty be granted, upon such terms and conditions as your wisdom may prescribe.

Northwestern Virginia.

        All the indications are favorable to the recovery of the possession of the portion of the state lying west of the Alleghany mountains.

Indeed, I entertain no doubt that the usurped government, under Pierpoint, will soon be overthrown, and the people will cheerfully return to their allegiance to the rightful government of this commonwealth. Our recent information is full of hope and encouragement; and the immense numbers who are now coming out, and joining the army, show, that although the spirit of patriotism has slumbered long, it has at last been fully aroused, and is manifesting itself in the most effective manner.

        The Baltimore and Ohio rail road has been a positive nuisance to this state, from the opening of this war to the present time; and unless its management shall hereafter be in friendly hands, and the government under which it exists be a part of our Confederacy, it must be abated. If it should be permanently destroyed, we must assure our own people of some other mode of communication with the seaboard.

        "An act to incorporate the Preston and Augusta rail road company," was passed March 30th, 1861, by the general assembly; and if this road were constructed, it would furnish an adequate channel of communication for the present, and would have the effect of clasping the northwestern people more closely to the bosoms of the people of the other three divisions of Virginia. If the state of Maryland shall assume its position as an integral part of the Confederate States, the two roads may exist together, under proper regulations; but if its lot shall be cast with the north, and its people become aliens to us, in principle and interest, and hostile in institutions, then so much of the Baltimore and Ohio rail road, as lies within the state east of the initial point designated in the act referred to, should be destroyed. I recommend, therefore, that such legislative assurance in regard to the construction of this road, as your wisdom may dictate, shall be extended to our northwestern fellow-citizens.

Compensation of clerks.

        The proceedings of a meeting of the clerks of the various departments of the state government, accompanied by a draft of a bill, have been presented to me, with a request that I would lay them before you for consideration, and such action as you may think proper. The expenses of living have increased enormously in the last eighteen months, and a salary that would have furnished an adequate support previous to that time, will fall very far short at this day.

These salaries ought, in my opinion, to be increased. No government, within my observation, ever had in its service more competent, efficient and faithful officers. The cheerful manner in the performance of their duties, the uniform politeness and attention shown to all in their business intercourse, has commanded for them, as a body, the most cordial respect. I commend this subject to your favorable action.

Fees of jailors.

        Complaints have been made to me, by the keepers of the jails in several cities and counties, of the inadequacy of the fees allowed by existing laws for the support of prisoners. The fees were fixed years ago, when flour, meal, bacon, beef and vegetables, sold at greatly less prices than they are now selling for. All these articles now command from four to five times as much as they sold for two years ago; and it is hardly reasonable, under existing circumstances, to expect prisoners to be supported at the present rates of fees. I recommend therefore, that an act be passed for the relief of this class of officers.

Pay of the soldiers.

        On the 1st day of January 1862 a resolution was adopted by you in relation to the pay of non-commissioned officers and privates in the confederate army. That resolution instructed our senators and requested our representatives in the confederate congress to use their influence to procure the passage of a law to increase their pay four dollars per month during the existing war. A large number of these classes are heads of families, and a majority of them perhaps are poor men, dependent upon their daily labor for support. They have cheerfully left their homes and families, to engage in the service of the country. Since they entered the service prices have run up to a fabulous amount for every article that enters into domestic use; and there are many indispensably necessary, which a month's pay will not supply. It should be our policy to have a care for those who are fighting this battle for southern independence, and whose noble deeds are furnishing the material for a history, that will challenge the admiration of mankind, and will be recurred to, by us and our descendants, with feelings of national and individual pride. Under these circumstances, it becomes us to omit no proper effort to secure for them such an increase of pay as will remunerate them for

their services and sacrifices in this holy cause. I respectfully recommend some further action, to bring this subject prominently before congress at the present session, and to secure, if possible, the passage of a bill that will effect the desired result.

Eastern lunatic asylum.

        The city of Williamsburg having fallen into the possession of the enemy, and being still in their possession, the federal authorities dismissed the state officers and agents, and substituted them by their own appointees. I have very recently understood that the state officers and agents have been invited by the military governor of Williamsburg to return and resume their places, and that some (perhaps all) have done so; but of this I have no official information. Since the institution fell into the hands of the enemy, I have been informed that Doctor Galt (the superintendent) and the assistant physician have both departed this life. Nearly all the members of the board of directors are refugees, and have been for months.

Extortion.

        This is one of the serious and alarming evils of the times. A reckless spirit for money making appears to have taken entire possession of the public mind. "The ledger is the Bible, and gold is the God," at this day, of large numbers in every community. Avarice has become the ruling passion, and with heartless gripe, regard-less of the suffering it inflicts, it insists upon its cruel and unconscionable exactions. Patriotism is second to a love of "the almighty dollar." The price of every thing (even the necessaries of life) is put up to the highest point, and those who have not the pecuniary ability to pay these prices, must suffer. A fair price should be paid for every thing, but sellers should not be permitted to take advantage of the necessities of the consumers, to impose upon them.

        What must be the feelings of a man who is fighting the battles of the country, surrendering all the comforts and endearments of home, submitting to all the sufferings and sacrifices of camp life and active military duty, when he (receiving but eleven dollars per month) is informed that a sack of salt costs fifty dollars, or a pair of ladies' shoes costs sixteen, with every thing else in proportion? He must feel that while he is defending the country, his family, unless he be a man of means, must suffer for the necessaries and comforts of

life. With what heart can he fight our battles under such circumstances?

        There is but one remedy for this evil. It is to increase the quantities of the articles upon which the extortion operates. The general law of trade, that the supply must equal the demand, is the only law by which trade can be regulated. When the supply equals the demand, the price will be commensurate with the value of the article. When the supply is deficient, the price will be immediately enhanced. It becomes necessary, then, to turn attention to the means requisite for increasing supplies. This can be accomplished, first, by prohibiting the agents of the government who have control of the lines of transportation, from receiving remuneration for giving preferences in transporting articles, by which the extortioners who pay the largest douceurs, are those only who are accommodated; and secondly, by obtaining an order from the government authorizing the transportation of produce to the exclusion of other things, at least one day in each week. If this were done, the equilibrium so necessary in trade, would restore prices to their natural standard.

        Whatever can be done by the legislature for the relief of the people from the evils visited upon them by the extortioners, I feel persuaded will be done. The evil has become serious and alarming, and is increasing daily. I hope the legislature will direct their attention to this matter, and see whether their combined wisdom cannot devise some measures that will give relief to a suffering people.

Conclusion.

        You reassemble under circumstances very different from those which attended your adjournment. At that day the prospect looked gloomy--the capital was threatened, and many feared it must fall. Now, how bright and glorious the prospect! The insolent enemy, who threatened the capital, has been vanquished in every battle on the Chickahominy, and his forces driven back to the precise location from which they started fifteen months ago. Victory has perched upon our banners in every battle field, and the whole land resounds with the praises of our officers and men, who, through the agency of Divine Providence, have worked out these glorious results. We

must not, however, forget the honored dead, who have fallen in these hotly contested battles. Their courage, their patriotism, their heroic deeds will be embalmed in the hearts of every true and loyal son and daughter of the south: and when this war shall end, and we shall enjoy the blessings of peace, we will gather together the dust of the honored dead, and raise to their memories a splendid mausoleum, which will transmit to the latest posterity a record of their virtues and deeds.

Respectfully,

JOHN LETCHER.