THE CONSTITUTIONAL
[ALEXANDRIA, LA]
August 4, 1860 –
June 1, 1861
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 4, 1860,
masthead
C. W. Boyce, Proprietor; Benj. Turner, Publisher, "The
Union—Esto Perpetua"; vol. 1, no. 1
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 4, 1860, p. 2,
c. 1
For President, John Bell, of Tennessee.
For Vice President, Edward Everett, of Massachusetts.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 4, 1860, p. 3,
c. 7
Summary: Advertisements
for the Ice House Cigar and Fruit Store, and the Ice House Saloon at the Ice
House Hotel.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 4, 1860, p. 4,
c. 3
Summary: Advertisements
for the Magnolia Coffee House, and Billiard Saloon; The Eldorado Coffee House,
and Billiard Saloon; The Jewel Coffee House and Billiard Saloon.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 4, 1860, p. 4, c. 3
W. O. Dammon,
Painter, Glazier
and
Paperhanger.
Would respectfully inform the citizens of the town of Alexandria and the parish of Rapides, that he has opened a Show in this town, one door below the Fulton House, where he is prepared to do all kinds of
Painting, &c.
All orders from the country for work, will be promptly attended to.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 4, 1860, p. 4, c. 3
J. Goulden.
House Sign &
Ornamental
Painter,
Glazier, Paper
Hanger, and Imitator of
Wood and Marble.
Flags, Banners and
Transparencies
Executed in Short
Notice.
Plantation work strictly attended to. Shop in the rear of Rapides Hotel, on the corner of Third street.
References:
E. Johnson, S. K. Johnson, Druggists, W. O. Winn, and Dr. S. P. Ward.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 4, 1860, p. 4, c. 6
Eagle Line.
Great Eastern and
Western
Line of Stages.
Central Route
Through Louisiana
and Texas.
From Alexandria
Louisiana,
--To—
Nacogdoches Texas.
Connecting with the Eastern Mail at Alexandria, from New Orleans, also,
with the Western Line of Stages, from Nacogoches to
Douglas,
Linwood,
Alto,
Crockett,
Cincinnati, to
Huntsville.
Also, connects with the Line of Stages to
Tyler, and to
Henderson
and
Mount Pleasant.
N. C. Taylor,
Proprietors.
Stages leave Alexandria three times a week, for Nacogdoches, Tuesday's,
Thursday's, and Saturday's fare through from Alexandria, to Nacogdoches, $15.00,
to Milam, $11.00, San Augustine, $12.50, Cherino, $14.00. Passengers taking this route, will be certain to connect with
all of the above lines, and will be Put Through with dispatch.
Stage Office at the Ice House Hotel.
Thomas Clements, Agent.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 4, 1860, p. 4, c. 6
To the Ladies!
Mrs. A. Legras has just opened, at her Store on Front Street a large and well selected Stock of Spring and Summer
Millinery Goods
consisting in part of the latest and most fashionable Bonnets—
Mohair,
Silk, White
Chip, White Neap-
olitan,
White Braid,
Italian Straw
English Straw
Swiss Straw,
Pedals, &c., &c.,
Ladies Riding
Hats, Flats, children's
Hats, all
descriptions. spring and Sum-
mer Mantles, Lama
Lace Points, Black do,
Black Laces,
Valencienne Lace, Fans, Gloves,
Braids, Ruches,
Artificial Flowers, Parasols,
Berthe Caps, Black
Chantilly Lace Veils,
Black Silk Lace
Veils, Fancy Cmbs,
Embroideries of
all descriptions
Buckles, Plums
latest style
Corsets, Hook
Skirts,
Lace Capes, Lace
Caps, Also
the lar-
gest and best stock of
Ribbons and Dress
Trimmings
in the market. Ladies will please call and examine for themselves.
Dress Making.
Ladies who are desirous of having Dresses, &c., made up in the latest
and most fashionable style, can always be accommodated by calling on Mrs. Legras.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 13, 1860, p. 2,
c. 1
The ladies of the Episcopal Church will hold a Fair at Cheneyville on
Thursday evening, 20th Sept., 1860.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 13, 1860, p. 2,
c. 5
Diabolical Abolition Plot in Texas.—The Origin of the Late Fires.—D.
Pryor, editor of the Dallas Herald, publisher in the Houston Telegraph of
Thursday, a letter giving the details of one of the most diabolical plots ever
concocted by fanaticism.
Before quoting from the letter we must give expression to the hope that
each one of these sleuth hounds of abolitionism may meet with the fate of John
Brown and his bandits.
The particulars briefly are, that the fires occurring in various parts of
the country on the 8th, aroused the attention of the people.
On the 12th inst. Mr. Crill Millers house was burned.
Suspicion fastened on his negroes. They
were arrested, and in the course of the examination the particulars of the plot
were elicited.
It was determined by certain abolition preachers who were expelled from
the country last year to devastate, with fire and assassination, the whole of
Northern Texas, and when it was reduced to a helpless condition, a general
revolt of the slaves, aided by the white men of the North, in our midst, was to
come off on the day of election in August.
The object in fireing [sic] the town of Dallas was to destroy the arms,
ammunition and provisions known to be collected here.
The stores through the country containing powder and lead, were to be
burned, with the grain, and thus reduce this portion of the country to
helplessness. When this was
accomplished, assistance was expected from the Indians and Abolitionists.
Each country has a special superintendent, a white man, and each laid og
[sic] into districts, under the supervision of a white man, who controls the
action of the negroes in that district. The
negroes are not permitted to know what is doing outside of their immediate
sphere of action. Many of our most prominent citizens are to be assassinated
when making their escape from the flames of their burning homes.
Arms have been discovered in possession of the negroes, and the whole
plot of insurrection revealed for a civil war at the August election.
I write in haste; we sleep upon our arms, and the country is deeply
excited. Many whites are implicated
whose names are yet unknown to the public.
Blount and McKimmey, the abolition preachers, are expected with a large
force to be here at that time. We
are expecting the worst, and know not what an hour may bring forth. We may have to call on the lower counties for assistance; no
one can tell—excitement, and distrust.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 13, 1860, p. 4, c. 2
Evans House.
White Sulphur
Springs,
Catahoula, La.
The undersigned respectfully begs leave to inform the public in general,
and his old friends in particular, that he has lately purchased the above
mentioned establishment at the White Sulphur Springs, which he has entirely
renovated and furnished with neat and new furniture, and is confident that he
has prepared everything for the accommodation of travellers and the public
generally, who may wish to visit that well-known place for amusement and
recreation during the coming season.
His table will at all times be supplied with the best the market affords.
His rooms are large and comfortably furnished.
His Bar will at all times be supplied with the choicest
Wines,
Liquors,
And Cigars,
and he has lately received a new and splendid
Billiard Table.
It may not be amiss, for the information of those who are not acquainted,
to say that the Evans House is situated on a beautiful rising ground—about one
hundred yards North of the White Sulphur Springs, situated in the Parish of
Catahoula, State of Louisiana, and about twenty-five miles from Alexandria, and
thirty-three from Harrisonburg, on the public road leading from Natchez by
Alexandria to Texas, and it is located in the high and healthy Pine Woods, about
one half mile from Trout Creek, where the finest of trout fishing will afford
the greatest amusement to those who wish to pass time in that way.
The undersigned acknowledges his gratitude to his old friends and the
public generally for the patronage bestowed upon him during the time he done
[sic] business at the White Sulphur Springs Hotel, and earnestly solicits a
liberal share of patronage at the Evans House, where he will always be ready and
willing to receive and accommodate all who may favor him with a call.
Joseph P. Ward.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 20, 1860, p. 1, c. 6
Rotation of Garden Crops.
By "rotation in a vegetable garden" is meant a regular
succession of crops, so that the same kinds shall not immediately follow each
other. For as plants of the same
sort consume similar elements of food, contained in the soil, it follows that
their continued cultivation on the same spot will more or less deprive the land
of the constituents upon which they feed.
The simplest rule, as to rotations of annual and biennial vegetables, is,
that they should succeed each other as nearly as possible in different classes.
For instance—leguminous class (peas and beans) which have deep growing
roots, should be followed by some of the numerous cabbage tribe, such as
turnips, cabbages, cauliflowers, carrots, parsnips and other roots should again
succeed the cabbage tribe; while onions and other bulbous-rooted vegetables may
again follow the root crop. Onions,
however, make a remarkable exception, as they can be cultivated on the same spot
successfully for many years, if the land is liberally manured.
Let it be remembered, that no soil to which manures are properly applied
ever requires what is called "rest," as it never becomes
"tired," as it were, of producing.
All that is necessary to be done, is to refresh it with those substances
which may have been consumed by the plants it has nourished.
If left uncultivated by the hand of man, it will produce rotations of
natural grasses, weeds, or trees, rather than remain at rest.
The greatest profits are realized in a garden in which the crops are
raised and consumed in rapid succession. the
market gardener who can clear out a square of any particular vegetable in a
single week, and immediately re-sow or re-plant it with another, makes more off
his ground than he who disposes of his crop but slowly, and yet does not break
up his square before the whole has been cleared off. Thus, instead of selecting up and down in a square the most
forward cabbages, it may be better when the ground is wanted and the season
presses, for a new crop, to cut off any other.
The loss of a good season may be the consequence of waiting for a further
growth, even for a single day.
Few vegetables are more benefitted by a proper rotation, than cabbages.
Somehow or other in spite of all manuring, the land constantly devoted to
cabbages will be tired of this crop, and show it by several diseases, such as
"clump-roots," "lice," and others, while a proper rotation
is the best remedy against this evil.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 20, 1860, p. 2,
c. 1
Indian Fracas.—On Thursday afternoon last, a murderous conflict
occurred between a number of Indians, in the rear of the Ice House Hotel, which
resulted in the killing of two of the redskins.
A family feud of Montague and Capulet intensity had been existing for a
long time, which, by the aid of whisky, found active exhibition on the afternoon
aforesaid.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 20, 1860, p. 2,
c. 3
Collegiate.—We have been favored by our friend, Mr. C. L. Walden, with
copies of the catalogue of the Mount Lebanon University and the Mount Lebanon
Female College. Of the former, that
ripe scholar and courteous Christian gentleman, Rev. W. Carey Crane, A. M., is
President. The catalogue indicates
an eminently prosperous career, the students numbering 112.
The Female College, under the Presidency of Rev. J. Q. Prescott, bids
fair to take a prominent position in the ranks of institutions devoted to the
culture of females. The students number 105.
While referring to this institution, we would suggest a reformation in
the rules and regulations of female colleges.
It occurs to us that these rules are of too puritanic a character.
Let us not be misunderstood. The
inculcation of sound moral principle we hold to be perfectly compatible with the
largest liberty of intercourse. Arbitrary
restraint produces the very results which are sought to be obviated.
Worse than all, this sort of restriction inevitably leads to deceit and
recklessness. Show a woman that you
trust her, and your confidence will never be abused. The implied idea of the generally adopted rules and
regulations of female colleges is a doubt of the moral principle of the student.
We trust that a change will be made in the treatment of female students.
Both of these institutions are located at Mt. Lebanon, La.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 20, 1860, p. 2,
c. 3
Education.—The attention of the reader is directed to the dual
advertisement, in another column, the under head "Education."
Rev. J. P. Bellier gives notice that his school for boys will be reopened
on the first Monday in September. The
"Ladies of the Holy Cross" also announce that they will resume their
school for girls on the first Monday in October.
Parents and guardians will take action accordingly.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 20, 1860, p. 2,
c. 4
Public School House.—By reference to our advertisement columns, our
readers will perceive that the Directors of the Fourth School District,
advertise an election for the purpose of testing the sense of the qualified
voters of that district in relation to the erection of a public School House,
for the town of Alexandria. The
election will take place on the 17th of September.
Let no voter fail to express himself in the affirmative.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 20, 1860, p. 3,
c. 4
Chamomile.—A decoction of the common chamomile, it is said, will
destroy all species of insects, and nothing contributes so much to the health
for the garden as a number of chamomile plants dispersed through it. No green house or hot house should be without it, in a green
or dried state; either stalks or the flowers will answer. It is a singular fact that if a plant is drooping and
dying—in nine cases out of ten it will recover, if you plant chamomile near
it.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 20, 1860, p. 4,
c. 1
Turnips.—This is a most important crop for planter and farmer, though
not yet appreciated fully. A
distinguished English statesman has said that England could better afford to
lose its navy than its turnip crop. Therefore,
plant largely; it is indispensable as a winter forage.
We will, hereafter, describe the best and most profitable way of feeding.
If you have not already prepared your land for turnips, do it at once,
pulverizing it thoroughly by several plowing and cross-plowings.
If you have no land which recently has been cow penned, sow guano or
phosphate (250 lbs. per acre) previously to the last plowing, and turn it under
immediately. Sow in rows, at such
distances as to allow the turnips to be worked with "Knox's Improved Horse
Hoe," if you have this excellent implement. Make arrangements to sow often and largely, commencing early,
as it is sometimes extremely difficult to get a stand. Make your first sowing about the 20th of this
month and if that should fail, try again every 10 days until the last of
September, and your perseverance will be crowned with success. Guano, superphosphate of lime, broken bones, or a compost of
woods mould or well rotted stable manure with crushed bones and ashes, are each
and all proper fertilizers for the turnip crop. The manure may be applied in the drill or put on plentifully
broadcast, and plowed in well. The
Rutabaga, Red Top (strap leaf,) Early Flat Dutch, Yellow Aberdeen, Norfolk and
Globe are all good varieties—the two first, fifth and sixth being the best for
field culture. As food for stock,
we believe the Rutabaga is conceded to stand foremost. [Southern Cultivator.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 25, 1860, p. 2,
c. 2
Don't forget the Pole raising to-day.
It will take place about 12 o'clock.
Every thing has been arranged, all friends of the Union candidates will
please be on hand. Addresses will
be delivered by Messrs. Marr and Ogden.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 25, 1860, p. 3,
c. 1
The Ladies' Fair, to be held at Cheneyville, La., has been postponed to
the 4th of October.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], August 25, 1860, p. 4,
c. 1
Queries for Census Takers.—Interrogatories to be Put to the
Ladies.—How many new dresses does your husband allow you a year, and how often
was your last winter bonnet "done up" before you had another?
Are you almost or quite worried to death by Bridget, and how often does
she demand a day out?
How many evenings in the week is your husband detained late at the office
or store on business, and does he belong to a Lodge?
If so, how many "special meetings" does he attend in a month,
and has he ever been called upon to sit up with a sick brother?
Does he smoke? Does he chew?
Is he in the habit, after being kept late at the "office," the
"store" or "Lodge," of taking copious draughts of ice water
the next morning?
Does he allow you to open his letters?
Does he ever grumble when asked to take you to the opera, and is he
limited in his ideas on the subject of gloves?
Does your mamma visit you frequently?
What is the average length of her stay?
What sentiment does she entertain towards your husband?
Interrogatories for Gents.—State your grievances on the subject
of buttons.
Are you familiar with the words "brute" or "wretch,"
and have you ever heard them applied to yourself?
Do you know the meaning of a curtain lecture?
Are you on good terms with your mother-in-law, and if not, why?
What are your ideas relative to the influences of shopping?
Did you ever hear any comparison made between the style in which you live
and the style in which the "Browns" live, who are "not half as
well off as you?"
How often in the course of a year does your wife warn you that
"you'll be sorry for it when she's gone?"
Do you always tell the truth when asked "Where you have been?"
and if not, how often do you do the other thing?
Does your wife belong to a "sewing society," and if so, what is
your opinion concerning the "old cats" who meet there?
How many times per annum do you have to wait for your dinner, and on such
occasions what is your average state of mind?
Have you any friend (?) whose example as a husband you have been
requested to follow?
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 1, 1860, p.
2, c. 3
The Douglas men will give a grand Barbecue on Saturday next. It is expected that some of the most distinguished speakers
in the South will be present. There
will be a chance to hear all sides of the question.
Arrangements are being made to accommodate every body and the "rest
of mankind."
We hope that men belonging to every party which will be supported in the
South will be on hand, as they then can discern the "true path to
tread."
The ladies God bless them! they are expected to be present in large
numbers, as upon them rests the stability and permanency of our glorious
institutions. Much depends upon the
women of America, they should instill into the minds of their children those
noble principles, which have been handed down to us by the fathers of the
Revolution.
The Union of these States will then be ever safe.
It is a proud duty and we know that every patriotic women [sic] in the
land will endorse it.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 1, 1860, p.
2, c. 3
One great difference between Japan and the United States is, that if you
insult a man there, he rips himself open; while if you insult one here, he rips
you open.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 1, 1860, p. 2, c. 4
The Pole Raising.
It was apparent to the most casual observers on Saturday last, that
something unusual was about to occur to break in upon the dull monotony of our
town. At an early hour in the day
people commenced coming in from the country and by 12 o'clock quite a large and
respectable crowd had gathered to assist in raising the Bell and Everett pole,
announced to take place at this hour. . . .
Shortly after the conclusion of the last address, amid the shouts of the
multitude and the booming of cannon, the pole was elevated to its position, and
the national ensign was unfurled to the breeze, having inscribed upon it the
names of Bell and Everett.
Upon the summit of the pole, 125 feet high, is placed a gilded figure of
a bell. Some of our Democratic
friends, with a puerile attempt to be witty, remarked that it has no clapper.
Their favorite figure has been a rooster, but we never heard that the
figure crowed, and now that the Democracy is divided, we have yet to learn which
faction owns the famous rooster.
Our figure is but symbolical of that great National Bell which will ring
out in November next, on occasion of the mighty resurrection of dry bones among
which there is now such a shaking.
The proceedings of the day were characterized by much enthusiasm,
convincing all that Bell and Everett have a deep hold upon the hearts of the
people.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 1, 1860, p. 2, c. 5
Catahoula Wide
Awake!
Great Out-Pouring
of the Union
Men at the White
Sulphur
Springs!
Tremendous Enthusi-
asm!!
The Whole Parish in a
Blaze!!!
One of the largest and most enthusiastic political meetings ever held in
the good old parish of Catahoula, took place at the White Sulphur Springs, in
that parish, on Saturday last, the proceedings of which will be found below.
It shows that the friends of the Constitution, the Union and the
Enforcement of the Laws, are up, and are nobly going on with the good work.
We have no doubt that when the ides of November come, Catahoula will roll
up a good old fashioned majority in favor of our gallant and patriotic standard
bearers, Bell and Everett. May
success attend the efforts of our friends in their noble efforts.
A great number of ladies graced the occasion by their presence.
This speaks well for the cause of Bell and Everett.
We are sure that the eloquent and true-hearted patriot, Everett, is a
favorite with all the ladies who honor the name of Washington. . .
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 1, 1860, p.
2, c. 6
On Thursday night about 10 o'clock a fire broke out in or near the store
kept by a Mr. Davis, situated on the corner, in the rear of the Rapides Hotel,
commonly called "Tucks Row," the whole of which was burnt.
The loss we suppose is about $4,000.
It was by the greatest exertion of the firemen and citizens that the
Rapides Hotel was saved as also the residence of Mrs. Bogan both buildings being
closely connected with the row of buildings which were burnt. The latter building was saved by the use of buckets alone.
It was no doubt the work of an incendiary.
We have no doubt that this is the continuation of that damnable plot
which was concocted and has laid in ruins a number of towns in the State of
Texas.
Our citizens should be on the alert and every suspicious character who
arrives here should be made to leave forthwith.
A strict watch should be kept every night for there is no telling what a
night "may bring forth." We
shall have more to say upon this subject next week.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 1, 1860, p. 2, c. 7
State Seminary of
Learning and
Military Academy.
We are informed that Col. Sherman has succeeded in procuring at
Washington a large number of Minnie rifle muskets made especially for the use of
Cadets, together with other arms and accoutrements, so that he can now fully
equip a corps of two hundred and fifty cadets.
That looks like getting the sons of Louisiana ready for any emergency of
civil war or servile insurrection that may arise; the thanks of the people of
the State are due Col. Sherman for his promptness and efficiency, not only in
this important matter, but in everything that pertains to the good of the
Seminary.
We also learn that steps are being made to secure Bragg's famous
"Buena Vista Battery," which gave the Mexicans "a little more
grape," and the Presidency to Genl. Taylor.
Col. Bragg generously offers to purchase it for the Seminary if the
authorities at Washington can be induced to part with it.
While speaking of the Seminary, we should correct a wrong impression in
regard to the admission of cadets for next session.
It is generally believed that no one can be admitted who has not
obtained, before the beginning of the session a special appointment from the
Superintendent, this is not so. The
session commences the first of November, and any one between fifteen and twenty
one years of age, with a knowledge of the primary English Branches, who presents
himself in person at the Seminary, may be received as a cadet.
It is already known that there will be a large number of cadets next
session, and probably more will apply for admission than the building can
accommodate. We would then advise
those who wish to reap the advantages of the Seminary, not to fail to be present
by the first of November, else the opportunity might be lost.
We will also warn the public not to judge of the course of the study by
that of most other Military Institutions, where very little attention is paid to
literary studies. The Board of
Supervisors of the Seminary being firmly of the opinion that a thorough study of
language is one of the best means of mental discipline and development, has
determined that every facility shall be given for literary culture. Hence there will be taught a very extensive course of ancient
and modern languages.
As the Seminary educates, free of cost, one cadet from each Parish and
four from the city of New Orleans, we hope the city and Parish papers will join
us in laying the above facts before the public.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 1, 1860, p.
3, c. 1
We learn that the free public school in this city will open on Monday
next under the superintendence of M. J. Flanigan Esq., who is said to be an
excellent Teacher.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 1, 1860, p.
3, c. 1
We are pleased to announce to our citizens that Miss E. Losee's young
ladies academy will re-open on Monday next.
Miss Losee is an excellent teacher and should be liberally supported by
our citizens in her efforts to keep up a school—such a one as our community
has felt the [illegible] of, for a long period of time.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 8, 1860, p.
1, c. 6
Tradition is more frequently the inventor of fiction than a preserver of
truth.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 8, 1860, p. 3, c. 3
[From the Union Bell.
Bell and Everett.
Tune.—Wait for
the Wagon.
By May Knevyt.
This is the finest country
On which the sun o'er set,
And the truest men to rule her
Are Bell and Everett;
They'll break apart the chains of shame
With which Buchanan's bound her,
And soon will give her name to fame,
With glory's flag around her.
Then come to the polls, men,
Come with your votes, men,
Hurrah, hurrah, hurrah, men,
For Bell and Everett.
The Eagle of our Liberty
Is in Disunion's net,
And the strongest men to free him
Are Bell and Everett;
Once more he'll proudly soar aloft
To bear our Country's weal,
The Constitution in his beak,
With Union for the seal.
Then come to the polls, men, &c.
Our ship of State is sinking fast,
Abolitions on her set,
And the only men to save her
Are Bell and Everett;
They'll set her, soon, afloat again,
And upon the troubled sea,--
Our lands again, the home will be
Of the brave and the free.
Then come to the polls, men, &c.
The clouds of war are gathering,
O'er head they've nearly met,
And the bravest men to stay the storm,
Are Bell and Everett;
They will light a sun of glory
That will melt away the gloom,
And they'll bury Abolition
And disunion in one tomb.
Then come to the polls men, &c.
Then let each patriot heart, men,
On our country's weal be set,
And carry the next election
For Bell and Everett;
They'll make her history's page, men,
Fairer than o'er its' been,
And a greater, prouder name, men,
They'll for "the Union" win.
Then come to the polls men, &c.
They'll make each foreign pow'r men,
That may glance at us with scorn,
Look on, admire, and fear, too,
The land of freeman born;
So they'll ne'er again an insult
Dare to cast upon our home,
Whilst her name will be a shield, men,
For her sons where'er they roam,
Then come on with your hearts, men
On certain victory set,
Come with your patriot votes, men
For Bell and Everett.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 8, 1860, p. 4, c. 1
Gardening for Women.
There is nothing better for wives and daughters, physically, than to have
the care of a garden—a bowerspot, if nothing more.
What is pleasanter but, to spend a portion of every passing day in
working among plants and watching the growth of shrub and trees and plants, and
to observe the [illegible] of flowers from week to week as the season advances?
then how much it adds to the enjoyment to know that your own hands have
planted and tilled them, and have pruned and trained them.
This is a pleasure that requires neither great riches, nor profound
knowledge. The humble cottage of
the laboring poor, not less than their grounds may be adorned with pet plants
which in due time become redolent with rich perfume, not less than radiant with
beauty, thus ministering to the love of the beautiful in nature.
The wife or daughter that loves home and would seek ever to make it the
best place for husband and brother, is willing to forego some gossiping morning
calls, for the cultivation of plants and shrubs and flowers?
The good housewife is early among her plants and flowers as is the
husband at his place of business. they
are both utilitarians, the one may be in the abstract, and the other in the
concrete, each as essential to the enjoyment of the other as are the real and
ideal in human life. The lowest
utilitarianism would labor with no less assiduity for the substantial things of
life, but would in addition seek also with diligence those things which elevate
and refine the mind and exalt the soul.
The advantages which woman personally delves from stirring the soil and
snuffing the morning air are freshness and beauty of cheek, brightness of eye,
cheerfulness of temper, vigor of mind and purity of heart.
Consequently she is more cheerful and lovely as a daughter, more
dignified and womanly as a sister, and more attractive and confiding as a wife.
Hence the fruits or products of garden culture as they relate to woman,
when viewed objectively are but small relatively as compared with the benefits
secured in regard to herself as the centre of social refinement and enjoyment
amid such a world as ours. A
husband who revolves round such a centre cannot but be a good neighbor, a useful
citizen, a kind father, a loving and confiding companion.
Do not then, mothers and sisters, the latter wives in prospect, neglect
the garden.—Exchange.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 15, 1860, p. 2, c. 4
The National Democratic Barbecue.
The citizens of Rapides turned out in large numbers on Saturday last to
attend upon the barbecue given by the friends of Mr. Douglas, and to listen to
the eloquent Soulé who it had been announced would deliver an address on the
occasion.
Preparations were made on a very extensive scale, and everything passed
off creditably. The gathering was
larger than any political assembly held here during the present campaign,
numbering nearly a thousand persons, and must have been fully twice as large as
the Breckinridge barbecue sometime since. We
observed that a considerable proportion of the fair sex graced the occasion by
their presence, showing that their warm hearts are now, as ever, true to the
UNION.. . . .
The dinner hour having now arrived, the people crowded around the tables
spread in Court House Square, and did full justice to the sumptuous repast which
had been so liberally provided for their wants.
The big gun also was brought into requisition during the day, ever and
anon pealing out its thundering tones.
The spirit and enthusiasm of the day was sufficient to convince all, that
old Rapides is firmly opposed to the disunion schemes of the Breckinridge
faction, and the friends of Mr. Douglas may justly congratulate themselves on
the respectable turnout of their party.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 15, 1860, p.
4, c. 1
Such is Life.—A jotter down of doings in Saratoga says that a gentleman
from New York, married and wealthy, visited the springs last week with his
nephew "Charley"—a bright handsome youth, who attracted the envy of
the men and the attention of the ladies. Charley
rode, smoked, drank, and did many other fashionable things, and was what might
be called "fast." One day
he drank too much, and in consequence talked too much, stating among many funny
things that he was a she—and that "Charley" was a
woman. This proved to be a fact,
and on the development the married New Yorker and the female Charley left for
elsewhere.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 29, 1860, p. 2, c. 4
Make Way for the
"Old
Gentleman."
Rapides Opposed to
Dis-
Union.
"Silence That
Awful
Bell."
700 Union Men on
the
Ground.!!!
Great
Enthusiasm!!!!!!
In accordance with the request of the Executive Committee, the friends of
Bell and Everett rallied in large numbers on Saturday evening last, at the rooms
of the Constitutional Union Club of Rapides, to take part in the grand
torch-light procession, announced for that evening.
It was a success in the fullest sense of the word, realizing our most
sanguine expectations, showing that even here in the very hot bed of
"Fugitive" Democracy, the Union cause has a strong hold upon the
hearts of the people; that it is a power full of life, vigor and energy,
marching onward silently, keeping its own counsels, but like the resistless
waves of the ocean, advancing with constant increasing force, and arriving at
victory over the prostrate forms of secession and disunion.
The procession started from the Hall at an early hour, headed by a wagon
carying [sic] a huge bell, with a transparency at each of the four corners,
bearing the motto, "THE UNION IS OUR WATCH WORD." Throughout the procession were distributed something over
three hundred and fifty flaming torches, thirty-four tri-colored transparencies
representing the thirty three States and District of Columbia, and a number of
larger transparencies with appropriate devices and mottoes. One represented the glorious old ship
"Constitution," about to be dashed upon the rocks, but fortunately the
sound of the fog "bell" is heard in time to rescue her. Another represented John Bell's negro man with a bell
requesting the defaulting post-masters and office holders to "walk up and
settle," and another portrayed Douglas and Breckinridge busily engaged in
sawing the platform apart, while Lincoln coming up with a rail under his arm,
remarks, "I always split 'em." Bringing
up the rear was another wagon containing the members of "The Union Glee
Club," who enlivened us occasionally with their spirit stirring songs.
As the procession paraded through the various streets, with their huge
bell pealing out its long loud notes, the long imposing array of flaming lights
and transparencies, the glorious song and cheer after cheer ascending up.
Democracy sank away abashed, disheartened, while aloft was borne another
note to the grand old song of the Union, which will chime in with the great
National symphony on the sixth of November next.
After completing the circuit of the town, the crowd repaired to the Court
House square and were addressed by Col. A. N. Ogden, and Major John Kelso. . .
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 22, 1860, p.
1, c. 6
Our citizens will please notice the advertisements of Messrs. McKinney
and McClour to be found in another column.
They have opened a new Butchery and are prepared to furnish planters,
citizens and steamboats, with a choice article of Beef at six cts. per pound.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 22, 1860, p.
1, c. 5
Our city is improving fast. There
is no less than eight or ten new brick buildings going up at this time and more
in contemplation.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], September 29, 1860, p.
3, c. 3
The Ladies of the Episcopal Church will hold a Fancy Fair at Cheneyville
on the evening of the 4th of October.
Doors open at ½ past 7 o'clock.
On the evening of the 5th of October (Friday,) will be enacted
from 10 to 12 Tableaux Vivant. Doors
open at 8 o'clock.
Entrance to the Fair Room 50 cts.
"
"
" Supper
1 dollar.
"
"
" Tableaux 1 dollar.
Children half price.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 6, 1860, p. 2, c. 3
Breckinridge Pole
Raising and
Mr. Elgee's
Speech.
On Saturday last the friends of
Breckinridge and Lane raised their flag pole, and as customary this event was
made the occasion of a great demonstration of the strength, resources and
enthusiasm of the party in this parish. The
attendance was quite large and respectable; the raising of the pole, an
operation supposed to be more or less precarious, was most happily achieved and
the first part of the dedication was creditably performed by the glee club. . .
.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 6, 1860, p. 2,
c. 5
State Seminary.—This institution will commence its next regular annual
session on the 1st November. We will not here set forth the many
advantages of this excellent Seminary of learning as we have repeatedly done so
heretofore. Suffice it to say that the Seminary is situated in the very heart of
Rapides, and has an able corps of Professors.
Parents who have sons to educate, and are desirous of promoting home
education, should patronize the "State Seminary of Learning and Military
Academy." For particulars see
advertisement.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 6, 1860, p. 2,
c. 5
Erratum.—In our last issue we stated that Messrs. McKinney &
McClure sold beef at 6 cents per lb. It
was a mistake. It should have been
8 cents per lb., the customary price.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 6, 1860, p. 2, c. 7
Louisiana State
Seminary
of Learning and
Military Academy.
The 2nd Session of this Institution will commence 1st
November and continue, without vacation, till 20th August, 1861.
Terms of Admission: The
applicant must be between 15 and 21 years of age, of good moral character, and
well versed in the primary English branches.
Expenses of the Session.
Tuition, Board, Washing, Lights and Fuel
$220
Uniform Clothing, Text Books, Stationery, Medical Attendance and Rent of
Fixed Furniture
$120
A Deposit of $200 must be made First of November.
Each Cadet must bring with him Bedding, the minor articles of Room
Furniture, or purchase them at the Seminary at a cost of $30
He must also bring a supply of under clothing.
For further information apply to
Col. W. T. Sherman,
Superintendent,
Alexandria, La.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 13, 1860, p. 1, c. 1
Dressing for Church.
Has anybody heard the bell?
You have?—dear me, I know full well
I'll never dress in time—
For mercy's sake, come help me, Jane—
I'll make my toilet very plain,
(This for the sake of rhyme.)
Here lace this garter for me—do—
A hole you say? plague
take the shoe!
Please, Janey, try and hide it.
I know it's Sunday; but my soul,
I cannot wear it with a hole!
The men will surely spy it.
They're always peeping at our feet,
(Tho', to be sure they need'nt peep
The way we hold our dresses,)
I'll disappoint them, though, to-day,
"And cross myself," pray did you say?
Don't laugh at my distresses.
How beautifully the silk will rustle!
(Please hand my "self-adjusting bustle,"
My corset and my hoop,)
There, now, I'll take five skirts or six;
Do hurry, Jane, and help me fix—
You know I cannot stoop.
"How shall I say my prayers to-day?"
As if girls went to Church to pray!
How can you be so foolish!
Here, damp this ribbon in cologne;
"What for?" to paint, you silly one—
Now, Janey, don't be mulish!
Now, then, my bonnet, if you please—
The thing's as big as all out-doors,
The frightful sugar-scoop!
Thank heaven, my mantle's handsome, tho'
It cost enough to be, I know—
(Straighten up this horrid hoop.)
My handkerchief and gloves you'll find
Just in that drawer—you're kind;
(Does my dress trail?)
It's all the fashion now, you know;
(Pray, does the paint and powder show
Through the lace veil?)
Thank you, my dear, I believe I'm dressed;
The saints be praised!
the day of rest
Comes only one in seven.
For if, on all the other six,
This trouble I should have to fix,
I'd never get to heaven.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 13, 1860, p.
1, c. 4
Hung.—The Vigilance Committee of Henderson, Texas, have hung Green
Herndon and his negro woman found guilty of firing the town.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 13, 1860, p.
1, c. 6
Spread of Celibacy.—This is getting to be an alarming fact to the
political economists, and in an article on the subject, "Once a Week"
thus remarks: "The
probabilities of marriage of a maiden at twenty are slightly superior to those
of a bachelor, and incomparably greater than those of a widow of the same age;
but with the lapse of years these ratios change; the probabilities of marriage
at thirty-five being, for a bachelor, cone to twenty-seven; for a spinster, one
to thirty-five; and for a widow, one to five—the attractions of the
widow standing to those of the spinster in the surprising relation of five to
one; or, perchance, that number mystically representing her comparative
readiness to matrimony. Thus the
chance of finding happiness and a home diminishes with years.
The growing disposition to celibacy among the young men of this class,
though in some manner attributable to a selfish and luxurious cynicism, is
chiefly due to the irrational expenditure consequent on marriage, and the
unattractiveness of prospective association with women so unlikely from their
artificial habits, to yield domestic happiness.
If this celibacy frequently defeats the economical consideration deciding
to it (as it should), and ends in much immorality and unhappiness among men, how
immeasurably evil must be its influence on the other sex, and what a violation
of natural law must that social organization be which so harshly represses the
affections, and bereaves so large a class of the support and sympathy they are
entitled to from man! Is the
Rajpoot [sic?] pride that slays a female infant, lest in after-life it should
dishonor its parentage, more cruel than the selfish social system that devotes
it to a solitary and weary life of penury and regrets?"
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 13, 1860, p.
1, c. 7
Summary: "A
Lady's Voice for the Union" reprinted from the New Orleans Picayune, right
side out of focus due to binding—should be readable in the original.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 13, 1860, p.
1, c. 7
Summary: Ladies
Fall Fashions—right side out of focus due to binding—should be readable in
the original.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 13, 1860, p. 2, c. 4
Journalism.
The calm and quiet student of life who looks out upon the world from a
stand point somewhat secluded from the broad public gaze, will doubtless record
as among the most powerful stimulants to the moral, social, and political
advancement of the age, the science of Journalism.
That it is a science we presume no one will deny—and the history of its
first development, rise, and subsequent growth to its present enlarged and
commanding position, fills up a most interesting chapter in the progress of the
age.
We think also it may very justly be denominated a science peculiarly
American wherein our great National attributes, of originality of conception,
rapidity of thought, and indomitable energy, find their most complete
development.
In the busy turmoil of our public marts, in the untiring, unceasing,
onward rush of present humanity, it keeps the even tenor of its way, recording
upon the roll of time the history of every passing event.
Describing the every day thought of the world and extracting wisdom from
each appearing scene. Then again,
it is the vehicle of truth and intelligence, gathering information in every
department of life, necessary alike to the merchant as well as the lawyer, to
the farmer as well as the mechanic.
The journalist therefore occupies no mean position in the active world,
his duties are important, his labors are onerous, and alas but too often pass by
unrewarded. Entertaining these
views as to the character of a public journal, we have ever sought to merit the
confidence of the community by a strict regard for those principles of truth and
justice recognized among men, and in discussing the political questions of the
day, or in canvassing the merits of the different candidates, we have always
endeavored to be guided by every feeling of candor and generosity, but we must
confess our patience at times has been severely tried.
The unprincipled manner in which the Democratic party has conducted the
campaign, by mis-statements, by false statements and false charges, is deserving
of the utmost censure. The late
charge of the Louisiana Democrat, that the convention which nominated John Bell
and Edward Everett was composed of political gamblers, men of such distinguished
ability and prominence before the country, and so often honored by the
confidence of their fellow citizens, we considered in this category and our
sense of truth as well as justice was so grossly outraged, that we could find no
words strong enough in which to denounce it, but to call it "a vile
slander." In our remarks
repudiating the charge we learn the editor has taken them as personally
offensive to himself. We take
pleasure in denying that there were any personalities intended.
Entertaining for the gentleman as we have always done none but the
kindest feelings imaginable. What we did mean, was but to express our indignation of what
in our humble opinion was such an unwarrantable accusation.
The last number of the Democrat makes inquiry as to the authorship of our
remarks, to this we can only reply, that by calling at the proper place any
desired information will be most cheerfully afforded.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 13, 1860, p.
2, c. 4
For three weeks the "fugitives" have been making preparations
for a torchlight procession and to-night they have a turnout.
A brass band from the city has arrived to wake up the
"natives." Carts, drays
and wagons have been procured to carry off the dead, so those attending may not
be uneasy about the funeral services not being properly conducted.
The expenses incurred by this grand outpouring will be paid by the office
holders, the money emanating from the poor and the working class generally.
Those sympathizing with the "fugitives" on this occasion and
having any spare "shad scales" which they wish to contribute, will
find several Government officials on the ground who are in every way
trustworthy, and sworn to do their duty.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 20, 1860, p.
1, c. 7
Summary: "A
Musical Petticoat"—out of focus due to binding. Should be readable in original
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 20, 1860, p.
2, c. 1
There will be a GRAND RALLY of the friends of the Union and of Bell and
Everett, their nominee for the Presidency and Vice-Presidency, on
Saturday, Oct. 27,
at the Court House Square in Alexandria.
The BIG GUN will be brought out on the occasion, and will peal forth
thirty-three times, in thunder tones, in honor of the glorious galaxy of States
which now encircle one glorious center.
The Hon. Randell Hunt and other distinguished speakers will be present.
Come One! Come All!!
Free Discussion
is respectfully invited.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 20, 1860, p. 2, c. 4
Breckinridge and
Lane Torchlight
Procession.
After a vast outlay of means, the long anticipated procession of the
Breckinridge party was made a reality on Saturday evening last.
For the past two or three weeks extensive preparations have been going
on, and no little labor expended in the way of drumming up recruits to make it a
demonstration every way worthy of the "unterrified" Democracy.
All ages were brought into requisition to fill up the ranks, but
notwithstanding all their efforts, they were only able to display about equal
numbers with the late demonstration of the Constitutional Union party.
Well! taken altogether it
was certainly a very creditable demonstration.
The display of lights and transparencies, of which there was a great
superabundance, of course, had a most pleasing effect.
The music from the band was very entertaining, and served to enliven the
otherwise solemnity of the occasion. There
were several rockets thrown off, but unfortunately the whole of them
exploded—rather a forewarning for all Union men to separate themselves from
the dire schemes of disunion. It is
said the caricatures were all taken from the "Rail Splitter," a Black
Republican sheet published in the North. Whether
or not true we cannot say; if so, however, it gives great weight to the charge
of fusion between Breckinridge and Lincoln.
the great efforts put forth here by the Breckinridge party are truly very
commendable, and well worthy a better cause; but we are sorry to say we cannot
wish them success, and thereby obey the precept "rejoice with them that do
rejoice."—Doubtless were the success of Mr. Breckinridge dependent upon
the parish of Rapides he would be our next President, but unfortunately this
parish is but a small speck upon the wide extending plains of Columbia, and we
think the gloomy prospects of Mr. Breckinridge elsewhere are rather calling for
lamentation than exultation, which indeed draws out our sympathies in the sad
duty of condoling with their sorrows. We
cannot rejoice over disunion; our only motto is that simple grand and glorious
one of John Bell, "The Union is our only safety."
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 20, 1860, p.
2, c. 4
We are under especial obligation to the proprietors and publisher of the La.
Democrat for the loan of their "Eagle" for the purpose of
embellishing our posters for the grand Union rally which takes place next
Saturday.
The "Eagle" is the grand emblem of American freeman, and, as
has been truly said "the British Nation may have their Lions and their
Unicorns, but the American Eagle soars high above them all."
May it ever be thus, "and may it never spread its wings "Over
the dismembered fragments of a once glorious Union."
We ordered an "Eagle" some time since, but it has not yet
arrived. Our friends of the Democrat
will please accept our thanks for the favor.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 27, 1860, p.
1, c. 6
An Editor's Hardest Work.—Every one who has had any experience in the
newspaper business will heartily concur in the views presented by a Virginia
paper, in the following article: "Many
people estimate the ability of a newspaper and the industry and talent of the
editor, by the quantity of editorial matter it contains. It is comparatively an easy task for a frothy writer to pour
out daily columns of words. His
ideas may flow in one everlasting flood, and yet his paper be a meagre and poor
concern. But what is the labor and
toil of such a man, to that imposed on the judicious, informed editor, who
exercises his vocation with an hourly consciousness
of its responsibilities and duties to devote himself to the conduct of
his paper with the same care and assiduity that a sensible lawyer bestows upon a
suit, or a humane physician to a patient, without regard to show or display.
Indeed it is but a small portion of the work.
The industry is not even shown there.
The care, the time employed in selecting is far the most
important.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 27, 1860, p.
2, c. 4
It will be seen by perusing our advertising columns, that Mrs. A. Legras
has sold out her interest in the Millinery and Ladies' Fancy store on front
street to Mrs. M. A. Zenker, and R. Legras Esq.
The business will be hereafter carried under the firm and style of M. A.
Zenker & Co., at the same place. They
have made arrangements to be always supplied with all articles of Millinery and
Fancy goods. Dress making done to
order. We know that the will be
well patronized.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 27, 1860, p.
2, c. 6
The most disgraceful slur upon the poor man appeared in the Breckinridge
torch-light procession at Alexandria on the night of the 13th inst.
The transparency bore upon it, a lean haggard individual with his clothes
worn thread bare and torn, with his rifle, leading a dog of lean and miserable
appearance, with the motto, "a DOUGLAS VOTER."
Are the poor men of our country to have slurs of this kind cast upon
them, because they see proper to vote for the man of their choice, by a set of
office holders who have been living for years off of the poor man's hard
earnings.
The poor man has rights, and we know they dare maintain them. We wish that every man in the parish could have seen it.
They would not support men who would dare attempt to cast redicule [sic]
upon them on account of their poverty.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], October 27, 1860, p. 3, c. 3
To the Ladies of Rapides.
Mrs. Zenker has just returned from New Orleans with a large and carefully selected stock of
Ladies Fancy Goods
and Paris Millinery, which she invited the Ladies to call
and examine, feeling assured that her selections cannot fail to please the most
fastidious.
No Lady in this Parish has any excuse for sending abroad for any article
of dress, for she can be supplied at home with as good and as fashionable an
article as can be had in New Orleans or elsewhere, with the advantage of being
able to make her own selections.
Mrs. Zenker would call the attention of the Ladies to the
Dress-Making,
Department of her Establishment. She is now prepared to cut, fit, and make garments of every
discription [sic] for Ladies and children, in the most fashionable style and at
a short notice.
Mrs. M. A. Zenker & Co.,
Successors to Mrs. A. Legras.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], November 3, 1860, p.
1, c. 7
Note: Unfortunately,
the "Ladies' Department" column is always on page 1, column 7, and is
almost always out of focus due to the curve of the binding.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], November 10, 1860, p.
1, c. 2
{From the Printer's News Letter.
The Country Editor.
Editors seem particularly to delight in complaining of their lot, and
some of them, we have not the slightest doubt, would like to have a law made,
that for robbing and cheating an editor, the penalty should be capital
punishment. When they chance, in
common with other men, to have their pockets relieved of a few dollars, or their
sanctum of a coat, they speak of the robbery as so cruel and unjust, as though
they were the poorest of all classes of respectable men in the world.
They have excellent opportunities to lay their grievances and privations
before the public, and probably receive much sympathy in return, as the legs of
venison from the east, legs of ham from the west, the rounds of beef from the
north, which mysteriously find their way into editors' sanctums, can testify.
City editors are more addicted to this fashionable complaint than those
of the country, and for their benefit we will just glance at a few of their
humble brothers' troubles, and perhaps the contrast will serve partially to ally
the irritation of mind which seems to force their pens into the habit of
complaining.
The farmer stops his ox team before the door of the printing office of
his native town, and with his whip over his shoulder, calls on the editor to pay
his yearly subscription. The
editor, perhaps wishing to draw out a complaint, asks him how he likes the
paper. His reply will be that it is
"first rate, only there is not quite enough said about farming," and
as the greater portion of his subscribers belong to that respectable class, he
advises him to read books that treat upon raising cattle, potatoes and corn.
he thinks he has some of the best books to be found on the subject of
farming, and kindly offers to lend them, for which he receives the editor's
thanks. The next morning the
farmer's son calls with two bound volumes of an agricultural paper published a
dozen years ago, with certain articles marked for the editor to insert, one
which recommends very highly a plough patented fifteen years before.
Next comes a pompous young man who has seen two or three productions of
his own in print, and who has the most exalted idea of his own abilities, to
tell the editor, confidentially, that he does not publish original matter enough
in his paper. He is satisfied there
is native talent enough to fill two papers the size of his, every week, and is
perfectly willing to do his part of the work.
The editor begs him not to write any more at present, as he has already
on hand more than a half bushel of original manuscript. The young man turns very red, and gives vent to his anger by
telling the editor he is afraid to publish his articles, and have them
contrasted with his editorials.
Another young gentleman, of studious, literary habits, but devoid of
worldly experience, drops in and expresses his distaste for all the simple or
exciting stories of the day, and proposes to the editor that he commence
republishing one of Scott's novels, to be continued weekly, and the news of the
day would in his opinion, make an excellent family paper.
A pretty, romantic young lady calls, who wishes the editor would print
more love stories and more poetry. She
thinks his paper is too dry.
Then comes the sedate, mater-of-fact man, who would like to have all the
light reading discarded, and the paper, if it would be profitable to the editor
in a pecuniary point of view, and he has no doubt it would be filled with solid
philosophical matter. He has long
wished to see one country paper devoted exclusively to the sciences.
Next follows the minister of a neighboring village, who expresses as
gently as possible, his sorrow that the editor does not devote more space to the
"one thing needful," and proposes to write a few articles on religion,
that will not offend the most liberal thinker.
A few weeks after come an article of twenty manuscript pages, defending
the creed of his church, by an elaborate argument founded on the text of the
Scripture, and because the editor refuses to publish this, the minister says he
is opposed to inculcating the doctrines of the Bible among his readers.
The village politician thinks if his columns were devoted to politics,
his circulation would double itself in less than six months.
One old lady wishes to know if it would be much trouble for him to print
his paper a little coarser, as she finds some trouble in reading it with her
glasses. Another wishes the paper
was'nt [sic] quite so large, as she cannot find time to read all it contains
every week, while a third thinks it ought to be larger, so that the editor can
afford more space in publishing recipes upon cooking and housekeeping.
Each one of these feel that if they help to support a town paper, the
ought to have a voice in determining what it shall contain, so you see, my city
friends, that besides your trials and privations your country brethren are
partially slaves, not belonging to themselves, but being the property of their
subscribers.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], November 10, 1860, p.
1, c. 4
After the 1st of January, 1861, the coffeehouses in the city
of Shreveport are to be closed on the Sabbath.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], November 10, 1860, p.
1, c. 4
The shape of a kiss is said to be elliptical.
This must be derived from the sensation one experiences when enjoying the
luxury, for it is certainly a lip tickle.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], November 10, 1860, p.
2, c. 1
Monday night last was announced for the Bell and Everett torchlight
procession, but owing to the wretchedness of the weather, the turnout was but
small in comparison to their previous magnificent demonstrations.
After the Bell and Everett procession disbanded, the "Whangdoodles,"
some twenty in number, "turned out," dressed in comic costumes, and
disguised with hideous masks, paraded the principal streets of the town.
Their rather comical appearance was quite amusing to all lookers-on.
The "Whandoodles' [sic] is the title of a new order in this town,
and is withal quite a unique concern.
Tuesday dawned clear and pleasant. The
election passed off quietly; less excitement was manifested than perhaps at any
Presidential election ever before held in the parish. The utmost order prevailed throughout the day.
The town presents quite a lively and flourishing appearance. The "dengue" (an unpleasant visitant) has, we
believe, totally disappeared from our midst; navigation is fairly resumed; our
planters are busy harvesting their crops, which we regret to say are
comparatively small; business of all kinds is getting brisk; money market is
unchanged, and politics is slightly on the decline.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], November 10, 1860, p.
2, c. 1
The members of the "Rapides Mechanics' Association" are
requested to meet at the Constitutional office on Monday evening next, at 7
o'clock, to take into consideration a matter of importance concerning the
Association. The Treasurer will
please be on hand.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], November 24, 1860, p.
2, c. 1
We consider it our duty to call the attention of the citizens of the
parish, to the position in which the whole Southern country is placed by the
result of the recent Presidential election.
We consider it to be the duty of the people of each Ward to organize
themselves in such a way, as to protect themselves from "enemies without or
foes within." It is
unnecessary for us to explain our reasons for this notice, as they are known to
all. A strict surveillance should
be kept up.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], December 8, 1860, p.
2, c. 6
We are requested to state that the steamer BANJO will be at Alexandria
with a celebrated Troupe of Minstrels on or about the 26th inst.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], December 8, 1860, p.
2, c. 6
The new Court House is progressing slowly.
We expect that it will be finished about the year 1875, if Gov. Mills
should live that length of time. If
not, there is no telling that it will ever be completed.
We have hope however that the Gov. will do his best while he does live.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], December 8, 1860, p.
2, c. 6
We publish by request the following preamble and resolutions, of the
Board of Supervisors of the State Seminary of Learning and Military Academy.
Adopted at their late meeting:
The Board of Supervisors having had the subject of the Cadets Commons,
all the various complaints, and all the testimony relating thereto, under
consideration; and having made personal examination of the fare themselves, have
come to the conclusion that many of the complaints are whimsical and capricious;
that the fare is generally as abundant and of as good quality as can be
furnished here for the price paid; and more so from the best evidence that the
Board is able [to] get than at most of similar Institutions.
The Board is well aware that no Cookery can always be kept up to
the same point; if it is generally good, an accidental occasional defect
should not be complained of, it is only habitual defects in fare and Cookery,
that should form sufficient ground for complaint.
Therefore,
Resolved, That the Board does not feel itself justified in either
censuring the Steward on the one hand, or increasing the price on the other; the
regulations of the Institution, together with the provisions of the contract
with the Steward, affording an easy and open road to the Cadets themselves, for
redress of any well grounded complaint.
Passed December 5th 1860.
Alexandria, La.
THE CONSTITUTIONAL [ALEXANDRIA, LA], December 15, 1860, p.
1, c. 2
From the Cincinnati Enquirer.
1840 and 1860.
It seems but recently since we were in the midst of the political
campaign of 1840, yet twenty years have flown since that year of humbug, log
cabins, hard cider and gold spoons. Twenty
years is a great period in the life of man, and a whole generation have grown up
who have no recollection of the days of "Tippecanoe and Tyler too."
It is difficult to realize the fact that 1840, with all its memories, has
faded back so far into the history of the past, and that we now stand as far
from that era as we did in 1840 from the date of the Missouri Compromise of
1820; yet, when we look around us we see the indications of the tremendous
ravages which time has made and the momentous changes he has wrought.
Nearly all the statesmen of 1840—those who were connected with the
administration at that time—are in their graves, or have long ceased
participating in public affairs. Of
Mr. Van Buren's cabinet of 1840, John Forsyth, Secretary of State, Levi
Woodbury, Secretary of the Treasury, Mahlon Dickinson, Secretary of the Navy,
John M. Miles, Post-master General, Benjamin F. Butler, Attorney General, Joel
R. Poinsett, Secretary of War, are all dead save Butler.
There is not a man in the United States Senate who was there in 1840.
Nearly all of the prominent Senators are dead, such as Clay, Calhoun,
Webster, Silas Wright, col. Benton, Berrien, Preston, Poindexter and Choate.
In the House of Representatives, save Thos. Corwin, we look in vain for
any of the members of 1840. General
Jackson and John Quincy Adams, venerable ex-Presidents, were then on the stage
of action and exercising a great influence on public affairs. Two of the chiefs of political strife in 1840, Mr. Van Buren
and John Tyler, still alive, in extreme old age, but long ago ceasing to take
part in the strife of the times. In
other respects, what mighty changes have these two brief decades that separate
us from 1840 witnessed! What a
difference between the United States of 1840 and the United States of 1860!
Not a mile of telegraph wire then in all our borders; few railroads
completed—scarcely any in the West; stages and steamboats the general method
of traveling; the daguerrean art, invented in 1839, hardly known in 1840;
seventeen millions of people in the United States then, nearly double, or
thirty-two millions of people now; California, Oregon and our Pacific coast, now
the seat of flourishing members of the American Union, as little known to the
people almost as the centre of Africa is now; gold scarce and hard to obtain,
now it comes almost at the rate of a million dollars a week from California.
when we looked at Europe, we beheld Nicholas of Russia, Louis Phillippe
in France, the Duke of Wellington in England, Metternich in Austria, as the
great representative men of that continent.
They have all gone!
The youthful Queen of Great Britain, then just married—now a
grandmother! Hardly a steamer upon
the ocean, and fifteen or sixteen days considered a quick passage to Europe. The vast continent of Australia has been lifted up from the
mists of the southern ocean, which had obscured it from the light of
civilization, and become a great member of the family of nations, with an
illimitable future before it. The
twenty years past have indeed been active ones in the history of the world, and
will keep the pen of the future historian busy to record their momentous events.
The twenty years from 1820 to 1840 were comparatively quiet and
unimportant. The world was taking
its rest, and recovering from the tremendous shocks and the unparalleled
exertions of the wars of Napoleon and the French Revolution of