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VOLUME XI.-NUMBER 1671. CHARLESTON, WEDNESDAY" MORNING, MAY 3, 1871. EIGHT DOLLARS A YEAR. THE PEOPLE'S CONVENTION. A. X IXTEST J JEW WITH TB. GOVERNOR. Governor Scon's Assurance that there has been no Irregularity in the Fi. nances-A Chance for the Tax, ayers The Offices to be Filled with Good M t- n-Minority Representation-.\ o Repudiation-The Convention to be a Permanent Body to be 'Convened at the Discretion of the President. SPECIAL TELEGRAM TO THE NEWS.] COLOMBIA, Wednesday, May io. T'ae great feature ol to-day's doings lias been the protracted interview ol'[lie committee of the convention with Governor Scott. At ll o'clock to-day the committee ol eleven, appointed to confer with the Governor on various subjects, called upon tile Executive, and an important interview occurred. The committee consisted ol the following dele? gates : M. C. Butler, Cadwalader Jones, Gabriel Cannon, B. W. Ball,.W. H. Wallace, Richard Lathers, A. M. Lowry, G. A. Trenholm, E. J. Scott, B. Smith, T. C. Weatherly. General Butler, as chairman, opened the conversation, by saying that thc committee appeared, pursuant to resolutions of the con? vention, not as partisans or members ol any political organization, but simply as citizens of | the State, to ascertain in what particulars they might be able to co-operate with his Excel? lency, In bringing about a better condition of j affairs in Soutli Carolina. That there was cor? ruption, violence, and a disturbed condition ol society, all parties conceded; but, with a pro? per understanding and an exhibition of the right spirit, he believed that the difficulties might be -emoved. The Governor expressed much gratification at the opportunity to lay before the represen? tatives of the taxpayers ol the State all the facts in his possession relative to the finances ol the State. It has been wildly conjectured, he said, that an illegal and irregular manipu? lation ol' the public funds had taken place: but, in fact, nothing had been done involving the credit of the State not strictly authorized by law. Both the Executive and State offi? cials invite a lull investigation of the books and accounts, and the committee will Hms be able to correct many false impressions. I de? sire, continued the Governor, cordially to co-operate with you in satisfying the pub? lic mind on this subject. At my own invitation, the treasurer, the comptroller gen? eral, the State agent and other officials are present, and all express the utmost willing? ness^ lend their uid to the committee. Con? cerning the public debt statement made by the comptroller, I believe it to be substantially true. Ol necessity, expenses are accumulating and gr?ater than they, ought to be; but, when lhere is distrust of the public credit, the State which owes money is always forced to pay a j larger rate of interest than one perfectly sol? vent. Hence, the value of securities is less? ened and the difficulties of the administration are increased. For this condition of affairs I am not responsible; and I think the officers have done everything they could to give con? fidence to the public concerning the fairness with which their duties have been discharged. Buller. I am happy to state that the^ treas? urer and comptroller have indicated a willing? ness to facilitate investigation, and the sub? committee has been at work this morning The examination, of course, will require time to verify the cor.-ectnes's of the statement of the debt, I would row call' his Excellency's attention to the resolution, inquiring to what ? extent county offices have been unnecessarily increased. In my own county, Ur iostance, twenty-seven men are required lo perform the duties connected with the assessment and col? lection of tuxes, discharged before the war by one. Is it not possible that a portion of these may be dispensed with, thus reducing the local expenses ? We ask nothing which may not be complied with consistently in our judg? ment. Our object is not to impair your ad? ministration, but to aid you in every possible way JaYexerciey:g economy in governmenr. Governor. I 'eel gratified at these assur? ances in behalf ol the convention. The in? crease ot offices was due to the belief tbat the new system of government would require ad? ditional means, but I am satisfied a 'ai ge num? ber of persons can profitably be dispensed with. lt certainly costs Wi much to collect tae tares, and there is abundant room for re? trenchment. So doubt lhere Ls, also, loo much monet paid to whoo] and county coin inibsioseri?. (Jnloctumitely they are not sur? rounded with sufficient, checks. If the Con? vention would take positive action, and ex? press aa opinion concerning the many-offices created by the constitution. I believe lt would have weight with the L?gislature, and Induce economical retrtricttoa1*. In one of the coun? ties, the commissioner gets one thousand dol? lars salary, and ye: there l?j bul one school in the county. That is au absurdity. Again, the comptroller-general might discharge the du? ties ot State auditor, and the ollie; of assistant adjutant-general might oe abolished. Butler. There Is unother class of officers in whom a change ls desirable. I reler to Hie trial Justices. Not being properly distributed, or because they are illiterate men, ruth ;r than use the ordinary legal agencies, being unable to secure them without travelling many wiles, are often tempted to take the law Into their own hands. These tilings tend to violence. All we ask ls, that while we have lo support tin: government we may enjoy the tauellU) that flow^rorn a good ene. Give th-.- people honest officials, and you will have no cause to com? plain. Governor. I fully appreciate your remarks Bad officials have probably b.:en one ol Hie most iruitfui causes of irofible daring the last six or eight months. Until recently, however, from circumstances beyond my control, I have had difficulty in finding suitable persons for trial justices. My impression is that the law should be amended, and magistrates he elect? ed by the people. I ara well couvinced that much violence and Indiff?rence to law is owing to the lad that the people have not had the means of enforcing ihe law within their own reach. With reference to the resolution in? quiring the number of bonds signed aud dis? posed of, the report 01 the comptroller gives all the information I possess. The Governor here recapitulated the state? ment, using substantially the same facts pub? lished in THE NEWS during the interview in Charleston. He added that the only real in? crease to the State debt, in his judgment. wa3 the issue of one million five hundred and filiy eight thousand dollars for funding the bills of | the Bank of the State. Aside from that I hold that the balance is merely ii change in the lora ol the debt. As regards the rumors con? cerning the over issue of bonds, they have no foundation whatever. In reply to a question of General Butler as to /^opinion on minority representation, the Governor remarked that while it would be an extraordinary act of magnanimity on the part ot the majority to concede the privilege, ol the '-realest importance to the people believe it will do more to destroy prejud prevent ill-feeling, and educate the majo than any event that could occur. They wc be the gainers should the Legislature, al next session, pass an act providing lor min ty representation. I .know many of my Htical friends disagree with me, but I fe< my duty to support measures that I bellevi be for the good of the people. Cutler. One of the chief complaints ol' people arises from the recant change in time for the collection ol the taxes, compel?: during Lhe present year, the payment, pra cally, ot two levies. We should be glad hear your v:ews on Hie propriety ol postpi lng the collection, ii such a course is pra cable. Governor. The principal object of change may be briefly stated : We found o selves every year, on the first 01' Janna without money. The interest on the put debt is payable at that time, and it is alw: expensive tiieu to borrow. Again, a large cl of persons realize irom their crops in the 1 anti din ing lhe months of November and 1 cember have more funds than at any otl season of tue year, consequently they can * the pol!, and other tax without feeling the b den. This would add many thousand doll; to the treasury: perhaps pay hall a. year's terest on the public debt. As regards t penalty, it lias no year been attached until t year after.- No sales have been forced lort Iinqucnt taxation in my knowledge. Trennolm. Still tho penalty was incurs and K would* be very desirable if the pub could be assured that the penalty would t be incurred by a moderate delay. I am, pi suaded nothing more is necessary. Governor. The difficulty 7 wish to avoid this: if a public declaration wa? made ti the collection would be deterred til! the fi] oi March, or that the penalty would not be i tached, would it not be equivalent to sayivg the people, your taxes are not wanted t then, and thus induce those who might vol? tarily pay to wait to the last moment ? Trenlioim. flow would such a suggest!' as this do, that alter the period for thc colle Lion of taxes shall have elapsed, you shou make the announcement thal all delinquen who paid taxes before the first of March ?hon have H eir penalties remitted. Governor. That will do. Lathers. What th? convention desires is apprise the public that, in as much as the la bears oppressively upon them during the pre ent ye ir, although exceptional, you will at nounce now that time will be granted thos who ara unable to pay until the 1st ol' Marci Governor. I am perfectly willing to t that. Lathers. That, I think, will be satlsfactoi to the taxpayers of the State. Weatherly. -I think" it important that t'l books should be opened at the time providet especially for the collection of the poll tax. believe it would have a happy, beneficial efte' on the people, and on finances. Ball, (Laurens.) If our people can pay th tax at ?ill, it ls-during the'monthsof Novem ber and December. The crop will then hav been sold, and arrangements are then mad for the ensuing year. Lathers. What, then, may we understand Governor. That,'after the time elapses t< which the penalty would attach, until the li ol' March will be given those who have beei unable to pay, without the penalty. The conversation now btcame more gene ral, the Governor speaking with frankness ot all questions propounded. His views on lh( subjects discussed having been already pub fished, it is unnecessary to recapitulate then here. As the committee were about separa ting, the Governor, after expressing his grati Sealion at the interview, said: "I am sattefiec the convention can accomplish its objects readily, by putting forth influences thatwU aid in the maintenance of law and order, ant I am gl;id to s^o this disposition manifested.' Butler. And if we take that course, yoi will give us good officers ? Governor. 0:' course I will. The visit here terminated, both partie? separat:ng. apparently mutually pleased with the results, and with the prospect ol' reaching an arly solution of the chief existing; din! cult es. All of the committee were present, and, t.y the invitation of the Governor, lian sier, Parker, Deane, State Auditor Neagle. Ki m pto n. Cardozaj^everly Nash and J i ?Ison, also were interested spectator? ol the curious scene. The conversation lasted nearly lour hours. The Judges of the Supreme Court had also been invited, but did not attend. Proceeding* of the Convention. The convention assembled at 12 ox'.ock. A ?urge additional number ol delegates were sealed. Several distinguished men were in rited on the floor. Warley s resoliifloi in relation to the administration of justice, favor? ably reported on by the executive coinmitti-". was adopted. Judge Aldrich offered a resolution, that the executive committee, together with the presi? dent ol'the convention, retain the organisa? tion, with power lo ca 1 the Convention at any expedient time: :i!so, a resolution, that a com? mittee of live be appointed by the executive Committee to prepare u report on the condi? tion of th? State. Referred. Wallace, of Richland, odored a r?solution that, a cominillee of Uve be appointed lo co? operate with the attorney-general ia prosecu? ting officials charged willi the embezzlement ol'public funds and bribery in the Legislature. Referred to the executive committee. Smart, of Beaufort, offered a series of reso? lutions to appoint a committee ol'live to inves? tigate the liubllities ol the Stale, und to request the officers of thu various departments to fur? nish information; lo make the executive com? mittee permanent, am! that lt shall assist the Governor, If desired, in securing the services of good citizens to till the Offices of the State, thus furnishing a guarantee - tor a wise admin? istration. Finally, Unit. Hie convention is op? posed to repudiation ol all legal debts. Refer? red io the executive committee. Wilson, ol' Georgetown, offered a resolution that lhe executive committee provide the means for the payrueul ol' lhe expenses ol' the convention. A recess was then taken lill 7 o'clock this eveulng, this being memorial day. jr EYKMNU SESSION. The convention reassembled at l.all-past 7. Colonel T. V. Simons offered, a resolution embodying Hie second re.-olution ol Hie Board of Traue. Referred. [The resolution of the Charleston Board of Trade here referred to is as follows: "That we deem il our dtnytowarn all persons not to receive, by way of purchase, loan, or other? wise, any bond or obligation hei entier issued, purporting to bind the property or pledge the credit of the State; and that ali such bonds or obligations will be held by us lo be null.ami void, us having been issued corruptly, im? providently and for fraudulent purposes,and .n delegation of the rights ol ihat portion ol the people of this State upon whom the j burdens are made to rest.1'] Adam?, of Richland, offered a resolutk commending that the collection of taxi 1371 be postponed. Referred to the exec committee. Warley, of Darlington, offered a rosoli that the convention declare that it is tl rention o? the people to resist by lawful rr the payment of any debt hereafter contri by the present State government or ai ture government in which property ho are unrepresented. Referred to I he exec committee. J. P. Thomas, from the committee on tions, read a lengthy report, embody'm views on cumulative voting, before pinli by that gentleman. Manning moved tl be laid on the table, which brought spe< from Trenholm, Gary, Cannon, Chesnut Chamberlain. The report finally was ado almost unanimously. The Governor was on thc floor of the vention to-night. THE FIRST RAT'S FROCEEDIXi Personal Sketches of Prominent E gates-The Item arks of Presli Porter-The Various ResolnTi Committee", <fec.-A. Pull Report. [FROM OCR OWN COBRRPONMSST.] COLUMBIA, S. C., May Not since the year I860 has there assem in South Carolina such an array of mai and distinctive men as are now in conven in this city. Scan the names, and you will that they have been repeated lor near generation of public life. Scan the faces, you will see something of the strong indi uality which has left its imprint on the pee directed public sentiment and achieved pot You will find among these delegates mei rare prudence, ability and forethought; j who have filled the highest offices in the S and dignified the councils of the nation; i who have been battered and scarred by tempests ol war; men who once possessed most the wealth ol princes, and dispensed ! pltallty with a lavishness that know no Iii men whose influence at home concentro and directs the publjc will, and mnkes th thc mouthpiece for Its expression; men id tilled with the past, thc present and the fut of South Carolina-tiie owners of its soil, t by right the best representatives ol' its in ests in the body now assembled. Take a look at some ol'them as ?hey si this spacious Senate chamber. There is president, Hon. William D. Porter, of Char! ton, a former lieutenant-governor of the St? and wealing still " the irdut of a statesmai one whose voice in counsel has been heard a thousand occasions, in pence a*hd in w and whose courtly grace as a presiding offii hus lost none of its charm, although, for moment, he occupies Die chair ol a coloi successor to th?* *:onors ol' a Senate. Yonte,' sits Hon. Gabriel Cannon, of Sp tanburg, also a former lieutenant-govern His hair is frosted by time, and his tall flgi droops a little under the burden ol years, I they have been years ol usefulness, and i people love him. Standing near by ls Ma; General M. C.' Butler, of Edgefleld, the hai somest man lu the convention, and one oft brightest Intellects in the Slate. Popular manners, frank in address, fluent in speet and a read* debater, It is no wonder that has met with success in every department Hie. So, too, with that, keen, restless-ey man. General Gary, ah o from Edgefleld. O would not judge from his quick, elastic st and flowing locks^that forty-odd years ha played their pranks with him. but he has bet admirably preserved, and lew men In Sou Carolina enjoy n ore deserved fame. He ii forcible speaker-sharp, incisive; and an ng antagonist. " . On the other side of the chamber is Genet Joliuson Hagood. of Barnwell-caira, under onstratiye, and so full of gentleness in speei that you would not suspect how, on more UK one occasion, he led, us il were, the l,f#rloi hope," and once charged, almost alone, in the jaws of death lo retake his captured ila Generals Kershaw and Kennedy .nre not y here; bul lhere sits Wallace, of Union, ll high-toned Christian soldier, who, alwa, honored by the citizens ol his district, do? efjual honor to them ou every public occas'roi There, too, is lion. James Chesnut, of Ke shaw, ex-Governor, ex-United Slates senato and ex-Confederate general-perfect type the oid time statesman. Sitliug by him is Hoi A. P. Aldrich, ol Barnwell, formerly the speak? ol the House ol' Repr?sentatives and judge. ? magnificent head and face, out of which gleai a pair ol gray eyes that motin business, te you ol' Intellectual power and resource Hint have never Billed the people in their t-m of need. Bul to-day lie is only -a taxpayer. Yonder, three or lour seats distant, is ?motile public man, whose name has been a house hold word in South Caruliua for generalions Ex-Governor Manning, of Clarendon, whos< princely home and library were given to th flames by Sherman's troops. I see, also, ii yonder corner, q.iietly watching Hie tide o events, Hon. George A. Trenhoim, once Uu Secretary ol the Treasury of Hie Conf?d?ral) Stales. Few excel him in speech, and non? in llnanclal ability. At his side is Colone Richard Lathers, who, alter a quarter o? i century in Now York, where he won weaiti and distinction, returns to his nativo Siate tc assist in working out tho problem of her wei lure. Col. Lathers lias such a happy way o presenting dry lads and figures, that ihet seem almost picturesque. One of Hie solk mea ol'the convention, and greatly beloved by hi3 people, is Colonel T. C. Weat) erly, ol Marlboro'. Practical, progressive ami hopelul of the future, np member will, in a quiet way, moro impress his Influence upon this body. Colonel F. F. Warley, ol Darlington, is another strong man, whose "voice was for war when war meant fighting,';1 but in pea'.--' is heard hopefully encouraging bis people and de? nouncing their oppressors, ile is one ol' tho prominent lawyers of the eastern part of the State. I might go on and fill columns with personal descriptions of the distinguished publicists around me, but enough has been written to convey an idea ot' thc character ol' thc conven? tion. Those gentlemen have met to discuss tho Situation calmly and without passion; noi to grieve over Hie past, not to do one foolish act that good Judgment can avoid, and not to wrangle over political differences. They will simply probe Hie loitering wound Iroin which the Stale is now suffering, and, il possible, suggest Hie remedy. They will examine ihe books and accounts of officials, investigate, as lar as lies in their power, the condition ol' the public treasury, strengthen the credit of the State,.and prevent, if practicable, Hie issue ol 'further bonds of indebtedness. The idea of repudiation has not been broached, and would not be entertained !or a moment. KKMARKS OF UO.V. W. D. POUTER. Alter the election o: officers this morning, Messrs. Chesmv, W::-on and Si IT. ons were ap pointed a committee to escort the pres! the chair, on taking which, he address convention, substantially, as follows: Gentlemen of the Convention-I tha for this compliment. It is prized th? highly because I see around me so m the good men and true to whom Soiitl lina in her better days was glad, to confj honor, and who are now as faithful ? ever have been. My only regret ls th occasion is not more happy and pleasat rebuke corruption in high places, an obiiged to take measures to save on: iron irretrievable ruin, is a duty by no pleir-ant. As it bas been placed upon ns discharge it manfully, and With fl The fundamental law of the State ar United States secures to the peopl right to assemble peaceably, aDd to by all lawful means, redress for their anees. We are assembled in si manner and foi" such a purpose. It is adi by fair minded men o? all parties that the great public grievances, and that by presence there has been called Into ex! such a convention as this. A cohventk precedented in all the history ol' the Stai convention to secure to ourselves a i share in a representative government have no legislative power; we are simj advisory body. 'But we can inquire and tlgate; we can collect and embody inve Hon; we caa recommend to the people, have conferred upon us this trust, such ures as we deem necessary for their se In the future. Let- there oe fairness an lice. It we noihibg extenuate, let us set naught in malice! The first great wrc the Increase in the public debt-nn ext? nary iucrease. a? is admitted on all hands people of the State are entitled to knot must know the amount of that debt, mnst know what is the actual as well a contingent liability ol lhe State ol South lina. That the application of the public nu has been extravagant, wild and profligab mils of no doubt; it ls without question, perhaps, never Iii the history of ?a peopl* there an Instance where this recklessnesi profligacy was more shamelessly appa Corruption flaunts itself in the light of and assumes to-itsell'the garb of honesty these things are not checked and rebi they will result not only iu d?moralisa but In bankruptcy and rujn. The credit c State is dearer to none than it is to us. I been our traditional policy to keep and the public credit not only unquestioned, unsuspected. We mean npt repudiation we do mean openly and in the most sol manner to give notice that thc public cree South Carolina has been strained to the i extreme point, and that whatever obllgal flounders take, they must take them at-1 own peril. Let me admonish you to be prudent wise; to avoid party politics. For. every minded man who is willing to put-his se disapproval on corruption, or is willing t with us in correcting abuses, we have a cbmlng hand. These men are our trie and should be welcomed to our ranks. The lute war left this people almost im erished. Upon the issues ol thc war, on the most valuable species of property-n than one-half of what was left to the peop was stricken out al a blow. Never were il a people on the face of the earth who v more entitled to sympathy, than the pe ol South Carolina. In the name of that ] pie, much abused, almost minea, I call u you to bring to your aid your noblest effort this lime. Again thanking the convention lor j honor conferred on him, Mr. Porter closed. A COMMITTEE OF COXFEEEN'CE. General Buller offered the following res* tion, which was adopted : Resolved, That, a committee of eleven be pointed by the chair to confer with his Ex lency. Governor Scott, in pursuance of fourth resolution of the Chamber of Comme and Board of Trade ot the City ol Chariest and report to this convention in writing otherwise. Colonel Richard Lathers said that at t stage ol thc proceedings it would be propel I fix thc duties that would devolve upon J convention, and he therefore would make j suggestion that there be appointed L A committee to confer with the Goveri on the necessity of extending the time for payment of the November taxes. 2. A committee to investigate the lndebt I ness of the Stale, the books and account* I the treasurer and comptroller, and comp I the same with the st annes for raising and ( I bnrsing the moneys of the State. I 3. A committee to investigate the accou j of the fiscal agent of the State in New York 4. A committee lo inquire into the arnot I ot money annually raised by taxation, a j whether there is any necessity lor the exe I sive taxation now imposed on the people. 5. A committee to inquire into the grii anees and necessary frauds and extra" gances, caused by the anti-American princi] } ol taxation without representation, and repi a remedy lor the same. C. Thul?un executive committee be appoii ed, who, together with the president ol'tl convention, shall have it in charge to prott j the interest represented by this convention thc interval ol adjournment, to keep in vii Hie current legislation of any future meeli of the Legislature, and to call together al su Hine as Ihey may deem expedient. 7 That this convention confirm tb.e acth min resolutions of the Board of Trade and tl I Chamber ol Commerce of Charleston, in r j spect to the sterling loaD. I 8. That a committee bc appointed to invt ligate and report a plan lo restore the cred I ot the Slate, and to couler willi the represe tallves of the "fire loan securities" of lhe*Stut I which have been practically repudiated by tl State authority, with a view tb repair il damages to the good failli und honor ol'll State, by influencing an early liqtrldaUon j these obligations.? ItESOLCTIOXS. The following resolutions w<;re offered an adopted: By General J. Hagood. of Barnwell: .Resolved, That Mr. J. P. thomas be invile to a seat on the floor, and io participate in th deliberations of the convention. By General Jaimes Chosnnt: Resolved, That the Hon. A. P. Aldrich b invited toa seat, on the floor ol the convet lion, and to participate in the deliberations o the body. By General M. W. Gary: Resolved, Thal lhe privileges ol lhe floor o this convention be tendered to the Hon. D. A January, ol St. Louis, Missouri. By General M. C. Buller : Resolved, That the Hon. Mr. Milier, Unitet States Setiatorlioin the Slate ot'Georiria. be in fited to a seat on the floor ot' this convention By Hon. G. Cannon : Resolved, Thal it be referred to the commit tee of eleven to inquire O',' the Governor ho? many and what amount, of bonds he has sljrn ed under the various ads authorizing Un same, and what disposition has been made ol said bonds. By Mr. B. W. Bal!, of Laurens : Resolved, That it be-nderred Lo the commit? tee of eleven to confer with Governor Scott, and investigate and report lo this body te what extent Slate and county officers have been unnecessarily increased since the organi? zation of the State government in 1868. ?dd with tile view to rctreitclitnent and reform, and to what extent they might be dispensed with. The following, offered by Mr. Ellison Keilt, ol Newberry, were, on motion of Colonel P. P. Warley, laid on the table, there being but cae J vole in the negative: Resolved, Thal the president of this body be. and he is hereby authorized, lo appoint a coo? ininee of six todmw up a petition sett log fort h the ir.?yvances ol thc people pl this Stale, and asking the President and Congress to take ch irge el" lhe Stale, and put lt upon an endur? ing loiindiuiou-a ioiiiidaiion that will secure a fair representation of the people, that we may go to work, and not only build up our own Stale, but aid in advancing the prosperity and the glory ol Hie republic. Resolved, That the several counties of the Slate are respecllully invited to meei at their respective courthouses on the first Monday In June next, and appoint two delegates, who will meet in Columbia on the Monday follow? ing, wheo, alter organizing, they will proceed in a body io Washington City, ami present the petition lo the President. General E. B. C. C&zh, o:' Chesterfield, offer ' ed tho following, which was adopted: . Resotved, That the Governor of the Su South Carolina be invited to a seat on the of this convention. Colonel Warley offered the following, y was adopted: Resolved, That it be referred to the e: live committee to Inquire and report what terms and for what considerate making and execution of the Blue Ridge road Company, and other companies, mortgage to Henry Clews, Henry Gourdin George S. Cameron, to secure the payrae certain bonds, was ratified and confirme the Legislature, and the said mortgage dared to be a "lien prior to that of the i on all property described In said mort; and on the entire line of the Blue Bidg? road, and on all other properties of the set companies, or which they, or either of tl .may hereafter acquire." Resolved, That the committee he instrn to report what action, If any. can be take this body to prevent the subordination of Slale's.lien upon the line of the Blue B Railroad, and the entire properlies ol other companies, to the junior claims of vate Individuals. General M. W. Gary offered the follow which was adopted: Resolved, That a committee of seven be Eolnted to memorialize the Governor and iclslature of this State as to the exp?die of repealing or modifying th ? election law this State, and that said committee do re] upon the expediency of adopting the cum tl ve system of voting, or such system as protect the rights of minorities. The convention then took a recess uni P. lt Afternoon Session. The president announced the following c mittees : Committee ol Seven on Election and Suffr Laws-M. W. Gary, C. W. Dudley, Will Wallace, B. H. Wilson, J. P. Thomas. E Keitt, J. H. Screven. Executive CommlUee-Jas. Cl!cstnut,John Hugood, Tilomas Y. Simons, C. W. Dudley, B. C. Cash. P. F. Warley. A. P. Aldrich, He Gourdin, H. c. Smart, William Wallace, R, McCatighriu. A. D. Goodwyn. .hL. Westmc land. A. H. Davega, A. B. WocUruff. SPEJ?IJ AND RESOLUTIONS BY HON. C. W. D LET. . . Hon. C. W. Dudley then took the floor i delivered a speech on the political sltuatl He dwelt at length on the errors of the pi but took- a hopeful view of the present, lievlng that if the people would continue conquer their prejudiccs-the thirty thous: majority now against them would soon be ducerl to a degree that would secure a j and stable government and a fair represen lion. He attempted to prove the utter in equacy of this convention or the taxpayers the State to effect any relief from the evils t! oppress us Without the co-operation of I colored people, and speaking hopefully of th willingness to assist and act justly, introduc the following resolutions, which were refer? to the executive committee: Resolved, That Hie people of the State me tate no resistance whatever to the Governra? of the United States* and Intend In respi thereto to* conduct themselves os peacel law-abiding citizens. Resolved, That however distasteful the : construction measures have been to the Sou ern mind, we now view them as finalities, a ? recognize the duty of obeying them in lett and in spirjt; and, as far os in our power li? to make that duty pleasant. Resolved, That we look to time and to pea? ful agencies., only, lor the solution of any di cullies thal how exist, or in Hie administrad of the public offices ot this State; and we * tertairi the belief that all the changes a modifications that may be desired In that cc nectlon can and will be effected by the qa I influence of an enlightened public opinion. Resolved, That the exigencies of the Um demand lrom tue people other efforts th those intended to promote the success of a "party," lheir true interests consisting uniting with good citizens of any an* all pu iles In promoting the welfare of every sectil and of every class ol' the people. Resolved, That we deprecate any and 1 local disturbances arising out ol the irritatii consequent upon Hie supposed mal-admin trutflraof public affairs In the State, and-v appeal to the people to respect the Jaws and look to them only for tile redress of the grievances. ONLY TnE BEST MEN KO lt OFFICE. Colonel F. F. Warley Introduced the folio' lng, which was referred to the executive coi mittee: Resolved. That this convention earnestly e hon the people ol' the State to abstain fro ail acts of violence calculated to supplant ll regular und due administration ol' justice^ ai to rely upon the law and other proper tigei cies l'or tlie redress ol those grievances which they justly complain. Resolved, That his Excellency Covern? Scott having expressed a desire to uppoii good men 10 office,- lt is but due to him th: me citizens of every county should commun cale freely with him in reference to the fe? ings and qiialitlcuiions ol his appointees 1 office, and give him the opportunity to remov those who have shown themselves to be lt efficient, unworthy or unfit for the oillct they hold. - Resolved, That we recommend the peop] throughout the State, without respect to pol t : cal opinions, to assemble In primary mee Ings. and earnestly but respectfully petillo Hie Legislature to abolish Hie numerous us? less offices which are sustained by taxation, t repeal the many obnoxious and- unequal law which encumber our statute books, and to et net'such laws as will secure to Hie taxpayers lair representation in Hie Legislature. TAXATION WITHOUT ItEl*ltK8EXTA.TT0X. Hon. A. P. Aldrich offered ilie tallowing rei elution, which was referred to Hie execuliv committee : Resolved, That the executive committee ?1 inquire and report on the grievances of'taxr Hon without, adequate representation in tb taxing body, and suggest a remedy for the e.\ isling evil." TUi: FINANCIAL AGENT AND TUE E. E. K. Hon. D H. Chamberlain offered the follow ing, which was referred to'the executive com millee: Resolved, That a committee of five be raise? to examine and report upon the accounts o Hie Slate willi the iiuancial agent ol the Stat? in New York, and that ihey apply to the Gov ernor for his aid and authority to make thli examination. Also, the following preamble and resolution1 were referred to the same committee: Whereas, The material welfare ol' the prop? erty-holders and taxpayers ol' Ulis State de? mand the fullbiu? enforcement ol' the laws foi ?lie protection of life and property; and where? as violence and crime, it permitted lo go un? punished, lend Inevitably to derange the in? dustry, paralyze the enterprise, and destroy t he nal ional welfare ot our Stale; therefore. Resolved, That Hie executive committee ol this convention be Instructed to inquire into the alleged violence now prevailing iu several counties of this State, and lo report upon a plan for the heller execution of Ute laws againstsucu violence, and the belter protection ol till citizens in their lives and properly throughout ihe Stale. The convention then adjourned until 12 M. to-morrow. MIJCORITY R I.' PRE SENTATION. Ti.o following letter lias been sent to Colonel Richard Lathers by A. J. Hausier, the Republi? can Lieiiteuani-Governor: COLUMBIA, 8. C., May D, 1871. To Colonel Richard Lathers: DEAR Sm-Yon have ?sked a written opin? ion from me on the subject of "cumulative" voting, or minority representation. This I would most gladly give at length, had I the time just now io wi ite IL in full. Permit me, however, to say in brid, that the scheme meets my most hearty approval; not only be? cause I believe lt would go tar io secure last? ing peace to our now distracted Stale, but be? cause it is right in itself, lt is Republican In its broadest sense, which secures to the whole people .a joint and equal repr?sentation. Hoping to be afforded the opportunity to give my views more fully anil publicly ou the sub iecr, I ara. dear sir, Your obedient servant, (Signed) A. J. SASSIER. That the deliberations of the convention are attracting general attention ls best attested hy? the presence here of correspondents irena the leading journals of the North and West, the Herald, Tribune, Times, World, Sun, Evening Post and Cincinnati Commercial each being represented. These correspondents are de? scribing men and things trom their respective standpoints,, and every* word and act which illustrates the temper of the body or the peo? ple at large ls whisked over the wires to the millions who imagine that we are a bind of Ku-Klux, and that no good can come out pf Nazareth. _ PERSONNE. O UR STATE DEBT. Statement of the Funded Debt af the State of South Carolina, and Informa? tion Relative Thereto. The following is the official exhibit ol the State debt submitted to thc Taxpayer.-' Con . vention by Comptroller-General Neagle: Amount of bonds and scock out? standing on the 1st of October, 1867, as exhibited by the report of the comptroller-general, for No? vember, 1887, pp. 43-46.$7,649,055 23 Less amount issued for Confederate war purpose's... 3,241,840 00 Net total...;.$e,407,215 23 Amount outstanding on thc 1st of November, 1870, as shown by the report or thc comptroller-geueral for the fl?cal year 1869-70, pp. 55-67....-. $7,?6t,908 98 Bonds authorized to be issued by the pressn: ad? ministration are as follows : Under act approved August 20, 1868, for redemption nf bills receivable issued by previous administration. $ 500,000 00 Under act approved August ?6,1868, Tor pay meut of Interest OL public debt. 1,000,000 00 Under act, approved September 15. 1868, fur fUL(Ilng bills of Bank of the Stateof South Carolina. 1,258,550 00 Under net, approved February 17, 1800, for relief of the treasury. 1,000,000 00 Under set, approved March 17,1869, for purposes of land commission.. 200,000 00 Under act, approved March 1. 1870, for purposes or land commission.. 500,000 00 Total.$ 4,401,650 00 . BondS Issued under authority above referred to, to November I, 1870: To financial agent, as per compironer'f report 1863, page* Ul, 154, A-:.: October, as68, for redemption of Dins receivable.$ 501,000 oo October, 1888, as above for payment. Interest on public debt. 1,000,000 00 June*, 1869, as above, for relief of treasury. i,oa),000 00 September, 1809. as above, Tor land commission.... 200,000 oo May, 1S70, as above, for land com? mission . 500,000 oo ._ Total.$ 3,20:1,000 00 Ol which the following have been sold by the financial agent, as will appear by reference to his reports, included In those of the comp \ troller-general, for 18C9 (page 1?3,) and" 1870 (page 101) : '. September, 1869. For redemption of bills receivable.$ 360,000 oo Octobir, 1869. For redemption of bills receivable. 200,000 00 October, 1809. For payment of in? terest on public" debt. soo.ooo oo Total.:.$ l.ooo.ooo oo Leaving unsold in his hands. Novem? ber 1, 1870.$ 2.20JO0O 00 Amount of bonds Bold by financial agent as above, ls...$ l.oco.ooo oo Amount Issued, lu funding, to hold ers of bills on thc Bank of the State ofSouth Carolina. 1*268,6(0 00 Total amount of new bonds bearing interest.;..$ 2.218,550 00 Increase of bonds and stocks issued In funding under acts of Septem? ber and December, ISGO, being ne: amount received rrora parties runding; to make even- sums of . ?mos and $5os. 143 761 RECAPrTUI.ATION. Amount of bonds and- stooks (ex? clusive of invalid war issues) Octo? ber 1, 18G7.$5,407.215 23 Increase of state debt since October 1,188?: By Issue of bonds for funding bills Bank State South Caro.Ina.$1,253,550 00, By issue of bonds sold by financial agent.$1,600,000 00 By issue of bonds and stocks Issued to parties paying In various sums to make even $ioos and $50s. 143 76 Total funded debt, November 1, 1870.$7,e8>,908 98 The comptroller-general. In view of the In? terest at present manifested In the condition und management ol the finances of the State, deems lt proper to present, for the informa? tion ol the public, the foregoing exhibit; and, in doing so, takes occasion to remark that it will afford him pleasure, at all limes, to fur? nish the fullest information relative tnereto; more especially would he be pleased l?o receive and exhibit to acommlltee from the Taxpayers' Convention, to assemble on the 9th Instant, the books and records of? his' office, and to show openly, in-detail, or otherwise, th? man? ner In which its affairs are conducted. J. L. NEAGLB, Cotnpiroller-Geceral. Comptroller-General's office, Columbia, S. C., May 1, 1871. * ' *. " . <?j NEWS FROM WASHINGTON. The High Joint Treaty in Executive Session. WASHINGTON, May 10. The Senate met at noon. The proclamation convening the session was read. A commit-' tee oi two was appointed to wait on thrt Presi? dent and inform him that thc Senate was ready to receive any communication he maybe pleased lo make. The President has signed the treaty between the United States and San Salvador. The nominations sent In to day are Joseph Belk nup, supervising inspector of steamboats, and John M. Francis, of New York. Minister to Greece. The Sib Maryland Regiuient, (clad in gray.) had a champagne lunch at Arlington House this evening, provided by citizens. The affair was brilliant and very orderly. The treaty was read in Executive cession. The reading took about an hour. Cameron spoke in commendation of its provisions, and hoped they would be acceptable to the Senate and people. He moved that the text be given to the press, but withdrew his motion at the suggestion ol' Conkling. Sherman spoke in deprecation of thc treaty, suggesting several amendment?. Adjourned to Friday. PENNSYLVANIA KU-KLUX. SCRANTON, PA., May 10. Three laborers have been found dead in a swamp, beaten and kirked to death, and other outrages have occurred. The police and military are In strong force, but the irritation isgreal._ FAST TYPE-S ETTING. PSI?AO?IjnTA, May 10. The contest for the swiftest type-setting oc? curred throughout the Union and Canada to? day, for a silver composing stick, off ired by the proprietors ol the Printers'Circular. The result here was : George Arenberg, 1822 ems in an hour, and Richard McLean, 1C27. STATE OF THE WEATHER. WASHINGTON, May 10. Partially cloudy and clear weather is proba? ble for the lakes and gulf on this day, and cloudy followed by clearing up'weather on the South Atlantic. No material change i? appre? hended for the Middle ;ind Eastern Stales. TREATY OE PEACE SIGNED The Communists Suffering Further Re? verses-General Rossel Resigns Com? mand, and Asks to be Put In a Cell Treaty of Peace Signed Between France and Germany. . , LONDON, Moy 10. Thlers's circular exults over the capture of Issy and much ammunition and artillery. General Douay having crossed the Seine, Is entrenched within three hundred yards of the wails of Paris. Thiers, in his circular, says the reign ol the infamous faction ie drawing to a ?close. The Versalllists lost heavily before Issy. There was a heavy attack on Montrouge on Tuesday. The result is unknown. A lire is raging in Vanvres. . . . . PAMS, May 9-Night. Last night the insurgents, convinced of the impossibility of holding Issy^ evacuated the fort by way of Vanvres, thereby escaping the fierce cannonade. The enemy became fearful of causing an explosion in Issy and fire in Vanvres. Meanwhile the Insurgents attempt-' etl an.attack in-the direction o? Neuilly, but were swept down by the Versaliltsts' mitrail? leurs with great slaughter. The cannonade* at Neuilly is now violent. General Bossel^ closes a communication to the Commune, complaining that he has not received proper Bupport, In the following words : "Two courses were open to our forceB, viz : to break through the obstacles which environ Paris or to retire; the former has been found impossi? ble, and therefore we have retired. I have the honor to ask of you a cell in the Malzas." Montreto'urt'-i8 furiously bombarding the southwestern portion of Paris, whence the peo* ple fly. VERSAILLES, May 9. All Republicans are uniting. Eight hundred thousand projectiles, chiefly shells, have been taken to Valerien ready for the bombardment of Paris. The assault will be made by Douay, with ten thousand men. LONDON, May 10. The Italian Chambers has passed the Papal guarantee bill, with the Senate's modification. A motion to disestablish the English Church failed in the House of Commons by 285 ma? jority, Disraeli and Gladstone both opposing the move. The Latest. FBANKFORT-ON-THE-MAIN, May 10. A definitive treaty of peace between France and Germany was signed at 2 o'clock r.-wday. LONDO: , May 1?. The following is another version of General Rossel'B letter to the Commune, resigning his command of the army. He says : UI cannot endure to hold the responsibility where every? body d?lib?r?tes, where nobody obeys orders, where nothing Is organized,' and where the guns depend for service upon a few volun? teers." In continuation, the general com? plains that reinforcements had not been grant? ed him when urgently needed, and that in point of fact the Commune was Incapable of discharging the duties appertaining to it. He therefore retires from its service, and asks for a ceil in Malzas prison. The Very Latest. Vanvres is sdll burning, and an attack is momentarily expected. Rossel persists in his resignation. -Desertions from the Commune to the Committee, and between the members of each, are growing. LAWLESS DOINGS IN NORTH CARO' L?NA. WILMINGTON, N. C., May 10. Last night, Lowry and his band of outlaws .?vent to Lurnberton, la Robeson County, and breaking open the Jail, released several of his followers, ile retired without molestation, though a company of United States troops were quartered In the town. The Confederate memorial day was celebrat? ed here with great spirit. In the afternoon all business was suspended, and thousands visit? ed the cemetery, where the decoration of the graves took place. Th? proceedings were very imposing, and an eloquent address was delivered by Major Robert Strange. RAILROAD MEN IN COUNCIL. AUGUSTA, GA., Ma*y 10. The railroad convention met to-day. The Cotton States Horticultural Exhibition opened also, a large crowd being In attendance. The Georgia Press Association met and elected Colonel Christy, ol Athens, president for the ensuing year. The weather is cold and . rainy. GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC. BOSTON, May 10. The national convention of the Grand Army of the Republic has assembled, Logan pre? siding. One hundred and fifty delegates are present, nearly every Northern'State being represented. The proceedings are kept se cre"t._ . '. THE CONNECTICUT CONTEST. HARTFORD. CONN., May 10. The Legislature has been convened. The committee has reported that Jewell ls elected by a majority ol SC A debate Is progressing in the House. SPARKS FROM THE WIRES. -Snow fell to a depth of three inches Tues? day night, at North Mountain, ten miles from Harrisonburg, Va. -A number of cases, involving the effect of the President's pardon, were postponed by the Court of Claims, to await the action of the, Supreme Court upon the constitutionality qf Drake's amendment. -The schooner George Henry, of Brooklyn, was lound broken up at Rockland, Me., with no signs of the crew. -Mace and Coburn were at Erle yesterday, enroute for the battle-field. There is no reason to anticipate a failure of the plans for a fight. JUNE JEWELRY, WATCHES, ?c. THE LATEST .STYLES. Particular attention i3 invited to the NEW, LARGE AND ELEGANT STOCK OF WATCHES, JEWELRY, SILVERWARE AND FANCY GOODS, suitable .'or Presents, just received and opened. AT JAMES ALLAN'S, No. 30J KING STREET. JAMES ALLAN'S. No. 307 KING STREET. JAMES ALLAN'S, No. 307 KING STREET. Ail the newest anil most exquisite designs tn Jewelry, comprising, SETS OF PEARL. GARNET. ALL GOLD, CORAL AND STONE. Leontine, Opera, Neck and Yest CHAINS; Seal IUn?2. Diamond Rings; .Gent's Pms, Pearl and Diamond; Plain Gold and Wedding Rings always on hand or made to order; Sleeve Buttons and ituds, Bracelets, Brooches and Earrings; Armlets and Necklaces, in Gold and Coral; Brooches for Hair or Miniatures, Lockets, Charms and Mas?me Pins, Glove Bands, at JAMES ALLAN'S, No. 307 KING STREET, A few doors above Wentworth street. nov;-!- mwf