Sunday, January 31, 1864.

     Gen. Ewing left for Ohio yesterday.  We understand he received intelligence of the severe illness of his father.

     Chaplain Hamilton, of the Second Colorado Regiment, will preach this evening, at 7 o'clock, at the Methodist Church.

     A sale of contraband stock and other property will take place on Tuesday, February 2d.

     The ice in the river in front of the city commenced breaking up and running last evening.  If the mild weather continues the river will soon be open.

     A discharged soldier of the 11th Kansas was shot out on the Santa Fe road, near the State line, on Thursday night by three soldiers of the 15th Kansas.  They took his overcoat and pony and left him for dead.  The Fort Scot stage came along and took him in, and brought him to the hospital at Westport  He is severely wounded, but may recover.  It is alleged that the soldier had stolen the pony and other articles somewhere in Kansas.  A force was sent yesterday to arrest the men who shot him.  The whole affair will be investigated.

     Wyandot Items -- Higley, Hoffaker & Co. are going into the brick business heavily in the Spring.  -- There will be a Temperance meeting at the Congregational Church Tuesday evening.  -- A dog, supposed to be mad, was shot last Thursday.  --  A statement from the Adjutant General's office, credits Wyandot county with ninety-one soldiers in the U. S. service.  The county has furnished nearer 1,500.  The foregoing items we gather from the Gazette.

     Rev. Mr. Harlow lectures this evening at Long's Hall, on Main street.  Subject -- Men of Authority.  This lecture will be a continuation of the series upon the general subject of Inspiration  These lectures are of deep interest to all reflecting minds, and will well repay listening to.

     Mrs. Campbell's Celebrated Skirt-lifter, which raised so much furore in the eastern States, and are acknowledged to be just what is wanted in muddy weather, have just been received by Hammerslough Bros. at the dry Goods House, who are sole agents for them in Kansas City.  For ingenuity and simplicity they are unsurpassed and no lady would be without Mrs. Campbell's Celebrated Skirt-lifter or Lady's Page.

Saturday, January 30, 1864.

     Capt. Hinton is writing a history of the Kansas Regiments.

     A large distillery is to be erected in this city, or vicinity, in the Spring.

     The mail failed to arrive at Dresden in time for the stage, consequently no eastern mail was received by that route yesterday.

     A gold hunter's meeting has been called at Topeka for the purpose of forming an organization of those who intend going to the mines in the Spring.

     A few of the cases mentioned in the Court Martial proceedings this morning have appeared in our paper before.  In publishing the proceedings in full they are repeated.

     Owing to the state of the roads a portion of the Dramatic Company who were expected last night, were detained.  The performance will therefore be postponed until Monday night.

     We took a look through the Ordnance store room the other day and found there quite a number of objects of interest.  Besides the serviceable arms to be furnished to the troops as they may be needed, Major Ransom has in his keeping a great lot of worn out and worthless pieces.  Some of them were put in the hands of the soldiers when the war first broke out because the Government could obtain no others.  Some of them were patent rifles, which on trial were not found valuable.  We noticed a lot of the Austrian rifles, bought by Fremont.  The purchase of these rifles was harped upon by his enemies as a fraudulent speculation.  They are carbines having a very large bore and requiring, of course, a very large cartridge.  They were doubtless better than no guns, but our soldiers would not be satisfied with such guns at present.  Hall's carbines are breach loaders.  The soldier who was politely showing them to us remarked that they were more dangerous to the man who fired them than to the enemy.  The joints are so open that when fired the escaping gas is almost sure to burn the soldier's hands.  A thousand of the Enfield rifles captured from the rebels at Vicksburg were sent to Maj. Ransom.  As is well known, they are English rifles, furnished to the rebs by blockade runners.  They are very much like our Springfield rifles and are perhaps as good an arm of the kind as there is in the service.  Many of the rifles bear the names of the rebels who carried them and the companies and regiments to which the y belonged.  Some of the names are branded on in a neat, tasty manner, while others are cut in with a jack knife in broad sprawling letters.  Other guns of various description are among the stores.  Everything about the Ordnance office and store rooms has been kept in a manner creditable to the officer and his assistance, who have them in charge.

Friday, January 29, 1864.

     We are pleased to announce the "opening of navigation" between this place and our lively neighbor, Wyandot.

     We heard the distant roll of "heaven's artillery" last night, and the lightning doubtless confused the electric fluid, and prevented us getting our night dispatches.

     All Hail!  The hailstorm last night was heavy, and dropped off into a deluging rain . The streets are very impressible, and a little pedestrianism makes "free-soilers" of us all.

     We notice that excavation has been commenced on the corner of Main and Fourth streets, preparatory to the building which is to be erected there in the Spring.

     Harry Collins has leased Long's Hall, and will open tomorrow night for a short theatrical season.

     We regret to learn that Walter Hoagland, who met with an accident last week while skating, is lying seriously ill.  Mr. H. is one of our most promising young men, and we trust his many friends will soon see him in good health again.

     Notice to Baptists -- All members of Baptist churches residing in this city and vicinity -- in Wyandot, Westport and Independence, are cordially invited to attend special religious services to be held in the Baptist Meeting House in this city, on Sunday, January 31, 1864.  Worship will commence at 10 1/2 o'clock.  Several ministers are expected to be present.

     The Leavenworth Times announced yesterday, that Westpoint in this State, was burned by rebels last Tuesday.  We think this must be an error.  There is a military express line running between this place and the Trading Post every day.  The Messenger comes through Westpoint and if it had been burned, it would have been known here the same day.  Besides, the Military have not yet been removed from there.  Capt. Goss, of the Kansas 9th, commands this post.

Thursday, January 28, 1864.

     The weather yesterday was delightful.  Soft airs of sunny Italy were "no where" in comparison with the gentle breeze that floated the livelong day through Main street.

     Col. Chas. Carpenter, of this city, formerly of the "Jessie Scouts," is now with Gen. A. Lee's command, Banks' Department.

   Eby & Son have just opened their Photograph rooms, over Hamerslough Bros.' dry goods store.  Those desiring to secure the shadow ere the substance fade, we recommend them to Eby & Son.

     Lieut. Harper's sale of condemned Government horses at Independence on Tuesday, went off very successfully.  The prices realized were better than such stock usually brings.  The horses sold at the average price of $48.71 each.

     Our colored friends are having a goodly gathering at the Baptist Church every night this week, where they have been preaching, praying and singing.  From the largeness of the attendance, and deep interest shown by the participants, we judge the good work in progressing among our  emancipated brothers.

     A portion of the 2d Colorado regiment, with its gallant Colonel, arrived yesterday.  Our old friend, Capt. J. C. W. Hall, called upon us, and the pressure of his soldier band brought back many happy pleasant scenes, many happy "smiles," when we used to shoot "paper bullets" in the "City of the Arkansas."  Captain Hall is no carpet knight, but has seen service, and richly deserves the "bars" he wears so gracefully.

     Captain Lucas, of the Kansas 6th, who has command of the recruiting of black soldiers, with headquarters at Wyandot, was over yesterday and drew arms for a full Co. of the 18th U. S. Infantry of African descent.  They received Enfield rifles captured from the rebels at Vicksburg.  We are told that enlistments for this regiment are very rapid.

     A fine job was done on Main street yesterday.  A large force was engaged carting off the dirt and rubbish which has accumulated during the winter. The improvement in the appearance and comfort of the street is so apparent, that every   one will favor the completion of the job.  We suggest that the street may be kept in better order, if it is not to be used for a wood yard and a general depository for waste trash.

Wednesday, January 27, 1864.

     We understand Col. Ford, of the 2d Colorado, is expected here to-day.

     Col. Lyne, of the Kansas 9th, was in town yesterday.

     We understand that Gov. Gamble is in a very critical condition, and that it is doubtful whether he recovers.

     A reported mad dog was killed in the city Monday night.  Whether the cur was rabid or not is uncertain, but "death to dogs is a sentiment which is growing in popularity every day.  The crack of a revolver, followed by a significant yelping, may be heard most any hour of the night.  Fire away, we don't own a pup, but bury the victims from sight.  A live dog may be dangerous, but a dead one is certainly a nuisance if left lying on the streets or vacant lots of the city.

     Our neighbors in Wyandot were roused from their beds at midnight the other night by an alarming report that a guerrilla force was about to enter the town . The fright was occasioned by rapid and continuous firing  heard from across the river in Clay county . It seems that a lot of slaves had conspired together to abscond from the loving protection of their masters, cross over the river into Kansas and enter the service of Uncle Samuel.  They organized their company and started for Missouri.  All went harmoniously until they neared the river, when they found a patrol in their front.
     It seems the slave owners of Clay county have been apprehensive that their "property" might take to the ice some of these moonlit nights, and accordingly this patrol was stationed to check the movement.  They fired on the negroes to drive them back, but they stood their ground and returned fire.  We have not heard whether anybody was hurt or not.  When the firing was heard in Wyandot, the people naturally supposed there might be danger threatening them.  The bell was run and the militia called out, and preparations made to resist the foe if he came  We do not know how many slaves escape, but we are told that they showed their fitness to become soldiers by whipping out the guard that attempted to stop them.

     Regular meeting of the Chamber of Commerce this evening at seven o'clock in the school room over Ganghoffer's Drug Store.

Tuesday, January 26, 1864.

     The First Missouri (colored) Volunteers, have left St. Louis for service in Louisiana.

     A bill has passed the Legislature giving our State Militia the right to choose their own officers.

     The ice in the river is getting soft, but is still crossed by teams.  A few more mild days will ruin the free bridge.

     There is a great accumulation of dirt and rubbish in the gutters and on the pavement of Main street which ought to be removed.  We noticed that Col. Foster had made a commencement in this direction yesterday in front of the Post Office.  We hope the example will be followed.  The dirt should be carted away and not left in piles to poison the atmosphere, and to be washed back into the gutters again by the first rain.

     A rich treat was given us last evening about 11 o'clock, in the form of a serenade by the band of the Kansas 11th.  They played several beautiful pieces in front of the Journal office to the great delight of all who had the privilege of listening. 

     In Court Martial proceedings Private John Moonshine, Co. L, 5th Kansas, was convicted of the charge of quitting his guard, conduct to the prejudice of good order and military discipline.  His sentence was confinement on bread and water diet fourteen days; at the expiration of that time he will be marched six hours each day for sixteen days, in front of the Court House in Kansas City, with a ball and chain attached to his leg, with forfeiture of pay.

     Private John N. Taylor was Court Martialed for sleeping on post.  Sentence -- to have his head shaved and to be dishonorably discharged from the service, with forfeiture of pay.  The sentence was mitigated so far as to dispese with the shaving of the prisoner's head.

Sunday, January 24, 1864.

     Chaplain Hamilton, of the Colorado 2nd, will preach at the Methodist church this morning at the usual hour.

     The Seventh Kansas is expected at Leavenworth this week.  The regiment has re-enlisted and comes home to recruit.

     There will be preaching in the Baptist church this morning at 11 o'clock by the Rev. C. Davison.

     A telegrahic dispatch from Jefferson City states that the Legislature has passed a bill relieving Jackson county from the taxes of 1862 and 1863.

     Eleven Privates, two Corporals, and a Sergeant were tried in Court Martial proceedings for charges ranging from drunkenness to desertion. 

     Mrs. Webber, of Marion, Kansas, fell head forward into a well twenty-two feet deep.  No one saw the accident, but her husband was attracted to the well by the dog which ran back and forth between the well and the house  Mr. Webber procured the assistance of a neighbor and raised her from the well.  Strange to say, she had sustained no serious injury by the fall.

Saturday, January 23, 1864.

     A man lying on the track of the Platte County Railroad, was run over Wednesday night, and instantly killed.  He was terribly mangled.

     Captain Case will sell Contraband Stock at the Government Corral on O. K. Creek to-cay, sale commences at ten o'clock.

     An enthusiastic reception was given to Major General Curtis, at Leavenworth, on Thursday evening  The General made a speech to the people.

     The Ladies of this City who feel interested in forming a Soldiers aid society are requested to meet at the residence of Captain Toler this afternoon at two o'clock.

     The ice and bright nights have furnished fine sport for the young men and boys of the city  Skating parties have been gliding up and down the river for miles.  A few young ladies have taken first lessons on the skates.  The "Big muddy" will never be a very popular skating pond, as it is rarely safe, and less frequently smooth; but there has been a good chance for fun here for a week past.

     Messrs. Bachman & Welland are establishing a tobacco manufactory on Main street, in this city.  They have their press already up and will soon be at work.  This establishment will be a good thing for the farming community, as it will furnish a convenient market for their tobacco crop, without the necessity of sending the staple east.  These gentlemen have already bought very largely of the last season's crop raised in this vicinity.  They are purchasing extensively in the countries north of the river.  Tobacco rules high and at present prices there is money in it for both farmers and dealers.

Friday, January 22, 1864.

     Strayed from a subscriber, a bay mare pony, small white star on the forehead, main has been cropped and has grown out half length, and she had on a rope when she left.  A suitable reward will be given for her return to the store of Coates & Bullene.

     Gov. Gamble is in a very feeble condition.  He is confined to his bed, suffering from the effects of the fall which he received a few weeks since and a painful disease of the bladder.  Committees visit him with bills to receive his signature.

Prof. Searl had a fine audience last night to witness his wonderful "illusions."  He entertained, deceived and bewildered to the complete satisfaction of all.  The rope trick tangled the shrewdest,  and the problem of the "rings" was beyond solution.  He raises his magic umbrella in Liberty tonight by the special request of citizens there to repeat his exhibition in that city.

     A stray red and white spotted cow and her calf  were taken up on the 15th of December when they came to the premises of John Stranssler on Grand avenue, who will return them to the owner in exchange for paying the charges.

     We regret to see from the correspondence of the Leavenworth Bulletin, that Capt. O. P. Willets, of Prairie City, Kansas, was one of the two persons killed on our side in the late fight between Standwaite and Col. Phillips in the Indian country.  Capt. Willets was an old citizen of Kansas, and a most worthy young man.

Thursday, January 21, 1864.

       LOST. -- A Gold Vest Chain with Seal and Key Attached.  The finder will be suitably rewarded on leaving it at the office of the U. S. Express Company.

     Samuel H Holmes has been appointed Assistant Provost Marshal for Clay county, to superintend the enlistment of negro recruits -- headquarters at Liberty.

     Col. Wm. Weer, of the Tenth Kansas, has been assigned to the command of the Post at Alton, Ill.  We understand that the Tenth suffered quite severely from the cold weather on their recent march from this city to St. Louis.  Many of the men were frostbitten.

     At a sale on Wednesday last, Mr. J. C. Eagle, Deputy Sheriff, bought twelve miles from the city, sold sheep at five dollars per head, and ricked hemp at $68.25 per ton.  So says the Lexington Union.

     We would call attention to the hotel card of Messrs. Torrey & Dunbar.  These gentlemen intend to make the Union a first-class house.  Col. Torrey has long been in the business, and Mr. Dunbar is an energetic business man who will demonstrate that he "can keep a good hotel."  The traveling public will do well to give the Union a trial.

     We are requested to call attention to the temperance meeting to be held to-morrow evening in the Methodist Church.  Captain Hawley of the Colorado second is expected to address the meeting  We are told that the Captain is an eloquent speaker and doubtless he will present the temperance cause in a manner to interest his audience.  We are glad to know that the temperance movement is accomplishing a good word in our city.  Large numbers sign the pledge at every meeting  Citizens and soldiers are invited to attend the meeting tomorrow night.

Wednesday, January 20, 1864.

     Several persons in Leavenworth have been bitten by mad dogs.

     The Independence Stage goes out from here every day, filled with passengers for the east going by the Pacific Railroad.

     A Brigadier's salute was fired at Fort Leavenworth, in honor of Gen. Ewing, upon his arrival there.

     LOST.-- A large brass key near Headquarters yesterday.  Whoever will return the same to this office, or to the Commercial House will be suitably rewarded.

     A rumor reached this city yesterday that a gang of guerrillas attacked a foraging train in Lafayette county, killed six of the soldiers, burned the wagons and drove off the mules.  Companies went in pursuit of them, but what success they had we have not heard.  There is no doubt that small bands of bushwhackers driven from Gen. Ewing's District, have been lurking in the adjoining counties all winter.

     The regular meeting of the Chamber of Commerce will be held this evening in the school room over Goughoffer's drug store.  We trust our business men and property holders will appreciate the importance of attending these meetings.  Their objet is to advance the common interests of our city by the united efforts of her citizens.  Matters of more than ordinary interest are now on hand.  Do not fail to attend.

Tuesday, January 19, 1864.

     The Santa Fe Stage arrived Sunday.

     Wood sells for three dollars a cord and hay for six dollars a ton, in Lawrence.

     Gen Ewing was at Leavenworth on business yesterday.

     Gen. Curtis is at Fort Leavenworth and has assumed command of his department.

     Two boats are building on the levee at Wyandot this winter.  There are good facilities for an extensive boat yard.

     Gov. Gamble was prosecuted and fined in the police court in St. Louis for not removing the ice from the sidewalk in front of his house.

     The Colorado troops ordered here from St. Louis are beginning to arrive.  They were ordered to leave that city one company each day until all were off.

     David V. Whiting has associated with Miguel A. Otero, Esq., formerly of New Mexico, to form a Forwarding and Commission business, to be known as Whiting and Ortero.  The senior partner will reside in New York City and the junior in Kansas City.

     It was suspected that Dr. Deming, Surgeon of the 15th Kansas, died from poison  A thorough post-mortem examination failed to discern any evidence to sustain the suspicion.

Sunday, January 17, 1864.

SPECIAL ORDERS NO. 4.
HEADQUARTERS, STATION
Kansas City, Mo.

I.  Hereafter all business houses and saloons within the corporate limits of Kansas City, Mo., will close their doors and extinguish their lights at or before 10 o'clock, P. M.

II.  All soldiers must be in their quarters or camps at 9 P. M. unless on duty or having a pass from their company commander.

III. It is further ordered that there shall be no furious riding through the streets, and no person shall ride faster than a trot on Main street, to its junction with Delaware street to the levee.

IV.  It shall be the duty of the Patrols to see that the above order is enforced, and arrest any person or persons violating it.

     By orders of H. Williams, Major 10th Regiment, Kansas Vols. Commanding Post.
     J. Thornton, 1st Lieut. and Post Adjt.

      The Commissioner of Pensions has decided that the Missouri State Militia are entitled to the same pensions as other United States soldiers.

     Quantrell, with about three hundred men, is said to be located back of Lake Providence,, La., on Bayou Bartholomew.  We hope he will stay down in that country until he is caught and meets the merited doom for his crimes.

     A fine Brick residence for sale at a reasonable cash figure, on Main street,  near the junction of Delaware.  For information, inquire of S. D. Vaughan, Post Office Building.

     Gen. Curtis was expected at Fort Leavenworth yesterday.  He was at Quincy Wednesday waiting the resumption on the Hannibal and St. Joseph Railroad.

     Paola wants blacksmiths, carpenters, bricklayers, masons, wheelrights, brickmakers, wood-choppers, farming hand and laborers of all kinds to settle in and about Paola.  No better location can be found in the West.

     Among the military nominations sent into the Senate by the President for confirmation, are the following, whom he proposes to create Brigadier-Generals for the command of negro troops:  Col. Isaac. F. Shephard, 3d Missouri Volunteer infantry, to date from October 27, 1863; Col. William A. Pile, 33d Missouri Volunteer Infantry, to date from December 26, 1863, and Col A. L. Chetlain, 12th Illinois Volunteer Infantry to date from December 18, 1863.

     A wretched affair occurred at Shawnee town on Friday.  A Mr. McConnell, living near Shawnee, had some horses stolen.  He tracked them to town and there met a soldier whom he accused of stealing his horses.  The soldier denied it, and some angry words passed between them, when Mr. MConnell drew a revolver and shot the soldier twice, killing him.  He then fled.  McConnell's wife, fearing that the soldiers would do some violence, gathered the stock and property belonging to her husband, and started for this city.  On the road a lot of soldiers overtook her, shot part of the horses and other stock and drove off with the rest.  The woman came to town and reported the matter to military authorities.  Capt. Hill went to Shawnee and arrested nine soldiers, suspected of being concerned in the killing and stealing the stock.  A searching investigation it is hoped with bring all to merited punishment.  The woman presented a woeful appearance when she reached town.   She was covered with blood from the horses shot by her side, and her garments were torn and disordered by the encounter with the soldiers and the walk to town afterwards.

Saturday, January 16, 1864.

     Mud began to make its appearance yesterday evening.  It is not a welcome visitor.

     Lieut. Thompson, formerly of the Kansas First, was mustered in at Leavenworth, on Thursday, as captain of  Co. C., 16th Kansas Volunteers.

     Our city readers will doubtless confer a favor upon Col. Foster by calling early at the Postoffice for their mail matter.  Many of the "boxes" were filled to overflowing by the arrivals yesterday.

     We saw more dressed hogs brought into town in wagons yesterday than any previous day this winter.  Some of them were remarkably large and fat.

     We will publish, by order of Maj. Williams, Order No. 4, relating to matters about town.  It is timely and should be read and remembered by all concerned.

     Matt Foster has received a cargo of reading matter in the shape of Dailies, Weeklies, Monthlies, and Quarterlies.  His counter is piled full with "Pictorials," "Illustrated," "Comic" and all other sorts which make up the stock of a first class news room.  Call and get something to read.

     We are pleased to see that Captain Patrick Shannon of this city has been appointed Major of the 77th Regiment E. M. M. by His Excellency the governor.  Major Shannon is one of our oldest citizens, a prominent businessman and well qualified for the position.  He had military experience in the old country, and his appointment will give great satisfaction to his very numerous friends.  We congratulate the Major on the honor conferred upon him.

     We received yesterday the first installment of mail from the snow banks of the Hannibal and St. Joseph railroad.  Our exchanges, which have been two weeks "frozen in," have a chilly look, and the news which they contain is decidedly frostbitten.  It is a fortunate circumstance that the telegraphs are independent of snow storms and the ordinary incidents of cold weather.  We have been isolated from the world for twenty days, but are yet informed of all the important events which have transpired in that time, thanks to regular reports which friend McDill has not failed to give us.

     The following, among other cases,  have been lately tried by Court Martial in this city:  Sergeant Perry Fenlason, 11th Missouri Volunteers, was charged with murder (killing Dennis Cummins last October), was found guilty of manslaughter, and sentenced to one year's imprisonment at hard labor and forfeiture of pay .  Private Edward Booth, 5th Kansas, charged absent without leave.  Sentence, forfeiture of $13 monthly pay.  Edward Monroe, 9th Kansas, charged with robbery, assault with intent to commit robber, and "Conduct to the prejudice of good order and Military Discipline."  Sentence -- Confinement at hard labor for one year and forfeiture of pay.

Friday, January 15, 1864.

     Statistics show that only fifty-eight members of Kansas regiments have been received on parole from the rebel authorities.

     Our Friend, D. H. Bailey, arrived in good condition, after some fourteen days travel on the H. & S. J. R. R.  He will have to tell his own story -- how he was snowed in and snowed out.  Enough to say that his railroad experience was of a trying character.

     The cars for the Kansas City and Lawrence Railroad, which were expected to convey passengers from the former place to the latter, New Year's day, were snow bound in St. Joe, and are now being used temporarily on the Hannibal & St. Joseph Railroad.

     We learn from an officer just from Sedalia, who has been stationed in that neighborhood for the last three months, that about three thousand negroes have been forward east from that place since Schofield's order for the enlistment of that class of soldiers.  By the first of March two thirds of Missouri's quota will be made up of negro soldiers, if enlistments go on as rapidly as for the last month.  Every portion of the State is doing its duty in that respect, as far a we have learned.  Let them come.

     New York's Governor Seymour is out with his annual message.  It is noticeable only for having a great deal more fault to find with the government, than with the armed rebels who are trying to overthrow it.

     Speaker Colfax has issued an order forbidding the sale of liquor in the House wing of the Capitol, and his order is being strictly enforced.

     The Express train which left this city yesterday morning at daylight, met with a terrible accident when within a quarter of a mile of Stewartsville.  A broken rail threw two passenger coaches and the mail and baggage cars clear off the track, causing one of the most complete wrecks ever witnessed on the road.  There were near three hundred passengers on board, including a dozen members of the General Assembly, who have been in this city for the past few weeks.  The members were in the mail car, and were buried beneath a mountain of mail sacks.  Nearly all of them were more or less injured, as indeed, were four fifths of the passengers on the train. 
     The people of Stewartsville were soon at the scene of the disaster, and did all in their power to alleviate the suffering of the wounded.  Major McDonald, Major Josephs, and others whose names we did not learn, were especially active in  their attentions.  The services of two or three physicians, and a couple of people who were on the train, were secured as speedily as possible, and the wounded were attended to with care.  At the time of the accident, the train was running at a speed of only eight miles an hour, and no blame can be attached to the engineer or conductor, there being a slight curve in the road, and the rails full of frost, were almost as brittle as glass, and the great weight coming upon the iron snapped it in twain.

Thursday, January 14, 1864.

     Prof. Searl, the Prestidigitator, has been bewildering the good people of Westport.  Full houses witnessed his astonishing performance.

     It is rumored about town that our Kansas troops are all to be sent to General Curtis' Department and their places supplied by others.  We shall be sorry if this is so.  The brave Kansas boys have given a good account of themselves in Missouri, and have won the praises of our loyal citizens.
 

     A large portion of the eastern travel is now coming via Sedalia,  making good time from St. Louis for this place.  This is "in the nature of things," and we trust the round-about St. Joe route may be entirely repudiated.
 

     Letter to the Editor:  DEAR SIR, -- I perceive that several of the towns of Missouri are flattering themselves on account of the number of letters sent through their several post offices during the last quarter.  We, too have a post office at Westport, and the people write "some."  The whole number of letters mailed at the Westport post office during the quarter ending the 31st of December, 1863, was 10,227 -- not bad for a town considered defunct.  -- SELA HUDSON, P. M.
 

     A great ball comes off in St. Joseph this evening for the benefit of the poor of that city.
 

     Mrs.Hicks, having removed from her old stand at the Temperance House to the Virginia Hotel, is prepared to entertain her old friends and the public generally.  A good wagon yard and stabling are connected with the house.  Near J. S. Chick & Co, East Levee, Kansas City, MO.

Wednesday, January 13, 1864.

     Over 30,000 letters were mailed at the postoffice in this city for the quarter ending December 31.

     The receipts of the Patent office for the past year have been $45,000 above the expenses.

     It is affirmed that Gen. Meade's last campaign failed because of the drunkenness of Gen. French.

     Horses and cattle have frozen in Osage county.  Poultry of all kinds have frozen to death on the roosts.  Fuel is scarce there and there has been much suffering among the people in that county .

     By orders from the war department the Twenty-fifth Missouri Volunteer Infantry ha been consolidated with the Engineer Regiment of the West.  Missouri volunteers and the new organization is called the First Regiment Engineers Missouri Volunteers.

     We are indebted to the persistent efforts of Col. Foster for the eastern mail received yesterday.  He has finally succeeded in having the mail sent by the P. R. R. and it came through in good time.  We received yesterday St. Louis papers of the 9th, and New York papers of the 5th.  No mail has yet reached us by the H. & St. Joe route.

     The mild weather is a summons to everyone to come out onto the streets.  All day yesterday our sidewalks were crowded with pedestrians.  Ladies were out shopping in full force.  A large delegation from the country was disposing of apples, poultry, loads of corn, wood, hay, &c.

     A very pleasant "raid" occurred in our city Monday evening. The friends of Rev. Mr. Harlow came over in force from Wyandot and took unceremonious possession of his residence.  An hour was spent in the most joyous and satisfactory manner, when the guests left, leaving behind them evidence of their esteem in a tangible shape.  Such a "raid" upon Kansas will merit a similar return, and we trust we shall in the future have the privilege of recording like evidences of social intercourse between the people of the two cities frequently.

     All kinds of Clocks, Watches and Jewelry, skillfully crafted by  R. HOLMAN, Post Office Building.

Tuesday, January 12, 1864.

     15,333 letters were mailed at the Lexington P. O. in the last quarter.

     Teams to haul ice commanded $7.00 per day last week.

     A load of splendid apples were sold on the streets yesterday for $1.25 per bushel.

     One hundred and forty negroes have been recruited at Lexington, sixty in the last two weeks.

     Co. H. 1st Cav. MSM is stationed at Lexington.  The health of the Company is good.  Captain Meridith in command of post, Lieut. William Provost Marshal, and Lieut. Teel in command of company.

     Please be careful Messrs. Postmasters.  The package of our paper directed to Eudora, and put into the office here Friday night, did not reach its destination.  The same failure occurred the week before.

     The Second Colorado regiment is ordered to this place for service on the Border.  A part of the regiment has been engaged during a portion of the past season, giving a good account of themselves.  The entire regiment is to be mounted, we believe.

     Lost!  Lost!  -- Sunday, at Independence avenue, or on the road between that place and this city, a musical note book, called the Baritone.  The finder will please leave it at the Postoffice at Headquarters in this city.  The book belongs to the 11th Kansas Band, and its loss is quite an inconvenience just now.

     Capt. Ross of the 11th Kansas Volunteers called on us briefly yesterday.  The captain still "holds forth" at Lawrence, and reports favorable from that part of Kansas.

     Xenephon Ryalnad and William H. Grigsby, Esq., were admitted to practice at the bar, during the special term of the Circuit Court now in session in Lafayette county.

     We are requested by G. F. Smith, U. S. Deputy Collector for this Division, to give notice to all persons in Jackson County who have not paid the Internal Revenue Tax assessed against them, that all due notices have been given, as required by law, and the time limited has expired.  It now becomes his duty to proceed to collect the same by distraint, and all those who wish to save their property from being sold forthwith, and avoid additional expense, will read this notice and go immediately to his office in the Court House, Kansas City, and settle up.  All Licenses, Income and ad valorem tax is included in this assessment.

Sunday, January 10, 1864.

     Live geese were selling in the streets yesterday at forty cents each.  Cheap enough.

     Coal was discovered at several points in grading the railroad from Wyandot to Lawrence.  Coal beds three feet in thickness exists in several places in Bourbon county, Kansas.  A company should be formed to open them up.

     A youngster yesterday accomplished the feat of running his sled, upon which  he was riding, under a mule tea in motion near the levee at the foot of Main street.

     We are told by those who were residents of this region in 1832, that the mercury during that winter sunk 32 degrees below zero.  That is ten degrees colder than we have experienced as yet this winter.

     The streets were filled yesterday with wagons and sleighs in about equal numbers.  The roads are smooth and the wheeling is fine.  There is sufficient snow and ice to make a sleigh slip very well and the novelty of the thing makes those prefer that conveyance who can procure the runners.

     We understand that preparations already in progress for putting up a mammoth drug establishment in this city.  A new building is to be erected especially for the business on the corner of Main and Fourth streets, a first rate location.

     A colored boy was kidnapped from the city yesterday under the following circumstances, as we have heard them:  A man from north of the river, who claims to have owned the boy boy at some former time, went to town and meeting the boy persuaded him to get in his cutter, promising to take him to the levee and buy him a pair of boots.  When they reached the river he whipped his horse onto the ice and across the river as fast as he could go.  The thing was done quickly and without  exciting suspicion so that pursuit at the time was impossible.

Saturday, January 9, 1864.

     Company L of the 15th Kansas starts for Fort Scott to-day.

     A big load of dressed poultry was brought in from the country last evening.  One of our dealers paid fifty dollars for the lot.

     The ice which is being stored is in splendid condition, clear as crystal and solid as rock.  It is over a foot in thickness.

     Capt. Aseph Allen, of the Kansas Ninth, is in town attending the Court Martial now in session.  A part of his company at present is in the city.

     The boys have fine fun coasting near the foot of Main street.  They have got the bill so slippery that it is a daring venture for a footman to attempt to go to the Levee and back again.

     The slight taste of Eastern mail which we received Thursday did not prove to be the first course to a full feast, but merely a lunch to stay the appetite for a more prolonged famine.

     We regret to learn of the death of Major Deming, Surgeon of the Fifteenth Kansas, which occurred at Fort Leavenworth on Wednesday night.  The Doctor had been sick for some time, but was reported better.  He was a man of fine attainments and generous character.

     The severity of the winter thus far is verifying the instinct of the beaver and other animals, which  made provision last fall for extremely cold weather, and also confirms the reliability of "signs" relied upon by weather prophets.  We record now, predictions which old settlers are making of high water next spring.  It is said that there is more snow in the mountains than there has been any winter before, since the great flood of 1844, when the water in the Kansas river raised 37 feet, and flooded the whole Kaw valley.  Probably the vast amount of snow in the mountains will insure a fine boating season on the Missouri river.

Friday, January 8, 1864.

     The weather was comparatively moderate yesterday and yet the mercury had raised but two degrees above zero at 11 a.m.

     A large shipment of lard from New York, upon examination, was found to contain 10,000 navy revolvers, intended to run the blockade.

     The Missouri soldiers of Co. A of the 18th United States Infantry of "African descent," as the War Department calls them, were about town yesterday, after marching through the streets yesterday morning singing the John Brown song.  Each man had his hat adorned with a miniature American flag.  Men who are willing to fight for the flag have an undoubted right to carry it and to wear it if they choose.

     English "sympathizers" have made various contributions to the secession cause.  The last shape their "aid and comfort" has taken is a supply of prayer books adapted to use in the confederacy.  A large lot of them were thrown overboard from a blockade runner that found herself  unable to escape our watchful tats.  We don't believe in giving the rebs many favors, but in their present circumstances they need to pray a good deal.

     A social and select hop will be given to-morrow evening at Turner's Hall, by the Radicals of our city, to Cols. R. T. Van Horn and E. M. McGee.  Cards of invitation will be issued to-day, and he who receives one may count himself lucky, for it is intended to make this party the ne plus ultra of all parties.

     Lieut. J. R. Hudson, Tenth Kansas, has been appointed Major in the First Regiment of Missouri Volunteers of African descent.  Harrison Dubois, private in Co. I, Eleventh Kansas, as been appointed Captain in the same regiment.  George Simmonds, Sergeant, Twenty-fifth Missouri, second Lieutenant in the same regiment.  Captain Theodore H. Barrett, Ninth Minnesota, has received the appointment of Colonel.  Alexander Cummings, of Philadelphia, has been appointed Colonel of the Second Regiment of Missouri Volunteers of African descent.  Francis Moon of the First Colorado, receives a Captain's commission.

Thursday, January 7, 1864.

     All the soldiers of the 7th  Kansas have agreed to re-enlist as veterans.

     Dr. Deming, Surgeon of the Fifteenth, is lying dangerously ill at Fort Leavenworth.

     The meanest man in the world has been found.  He runs the Weston Ferry.  So say the Times and Bulletin.

     We have again to report "no eastern mail yesterday."  We have been disposed to find fault with this long delay of the mail, but perhaps it is unavoidable.  The difficulty is on the railroad lines.  The stage is making regular trips from here to Sedalia, but here has been no train through on the Pacific road for five days.

     We learn that Mr. Gillmore, of Clay county, freed his last slave yesterday.  The "Boy" came to this city.  He is a bright, intelligent appearing fellow and seems to feel capable of taking care of himself.  Mr. Gillmore offered him a fine mule when he left, but he declined it, saying his freedom was all he wanted.

     This is good weather for laying in a supply of ice for the sweltering days of July and August.  We are glad to see our ice men improving it.

     The headquarters of the 18th United States infantry, colored, have been removed from Wyandot to this city.  Company "A" of this regiment is nearly full.  They are comfortably quartered in a brick building on Main street.

     Major Phillips with two companies of the Missouri 11th arrived here Tuesday night.  It will be remembered that they left in September to escort the Arizona territorial officers through to Santa Fe.  On the return they have been exposed to all the severe weather we have had during the past few weeks.  They have had a hard time of it.  We are sorry to learn that a soldier belonging to one of the companies of the11th Missouri, which arrived from the plains on Tuesday, was frozen to death between here and Lawrence.   Others were more or less frost bitten.

     The National Theatre will be open tonight for the Complimentary Benefit of Chas. F. Walters, on which occasion an excellent bill is offered.  The dramatic troupe of the 2nd Colorado will appear, together with the famous Acrobats, making the entertainment both rare and varied.

Wednesday, January 6, 1864.

     The thermometer marked 15 degrees below zero at sunrise yesterday morning.

     An officer had his ears, nose and face slightly frozen riding from Westport to this city yesterday morning.

     Mr. Ch. H. Vincent found a sabre on Main street, which he will be pleased to return to the owner if he will call for it.

     No Eastern mail yesterday.  If we could have a regular weekly mail it would be quite an advantage over the facilities we have enjoyed lately.

     The river and ponds adjacent to our city have been thronged daily with men and boys skating, since the ice has been strong enough to bear . It is certainly a very pleasant as well as healthful exercise.  But as far as we know, there has not been a lady seen on ice skating this winter.  In the East in every city and village the ladies and girls take part in this innocent and pleasant pastime.  We do not know that the ladies in this part of the country are any less apt to acquire the art, or that eastern ladies have superior tact, only as they have acquired it by practice.  Why should not the ladies of this vicinity learn to skate?  There are as pretty, smart, young, wide-awake, fun-loving women here as ever there were in any country, and we don't know why they can't learn as much as "any other man."  It might not be amiss to have the matter tested.  There is certainly a fair opportunity now for those who may wish to make a venture.

     A young lad thirteen years of age, came to this city a few days since in destitute circumstances looking for work.  He was too young and inexperienced to know how to find a place for himself, and too timid to make his condition known.  He might have suffered if he had not fallen under the observation of Captain Killen, who took him to his boarding house with him, supplied his wants and learned his history.  He was made an orphan by Quantrell's murders at Lawrence.  His father was a laboring man, and not a dime in money or property was left for support of the boy.  He is now suffering severely from a bad wound upon the back of his head, occasioned by a fall upon the ice.  He is certainly an object of charity, and something must be done for his relief immediately.  He would be a valuable errand boy or could make himself useful in doing light jobs about a store or shop.  If any one is willing to give him a home he can call at this office or upon Capt.. Killen.

     At the corner of Main and Fifth streets they keep a fine assortment of queensware, glassware, table and pocket cutlery, wood and willow ware, dried green and preserved fruits, groceries and provisions of all kinds, tobacco, cigars, liquors, and ten thousand other articles that everybody buys.  To those who wish to buy cheap goods, and just what they want, let them go to Isaiah Walker & Co.'s Lockridge building, and they cannot help being suited.

     This paper is happy to announce to the patrons of the Journal of Commerce that we have just added to our establishment a first class Book Bindery, and are prepared to execute all kinds of binding, blank book making, ruling, &c., in the best style.  This department is under the charge of one of the best binders in the whole Western county, and we guarantee entire satisfaction.

Tuesday, January 5, 1864.

     No Eastern mail yesterday.

     Mr. R. R. Dunbar has become one of the proprietors of the Union Hotel.

    A portion of the chairs and spikes for the railroad, arrived at Wyandot by team on Saturday.

     A dog convention was held on Third street last night.  Harmony did not prevail, but howlin did.  Of what possible use are the hundreds of worthless curs that fill our streets?

     Two prisoners, bushwhackers, escaped from the Post Guard House, at Leavenworth, on Thursday night.  The harsh cold had caused a partial withdrawal of the guard.

     The employees of the Pacific Railroad Eastern Division, on New Year's day, got up an agreement by which all who signed, agreed for every profane word uttered during the year 1864, they should pay one dollar for the benefit of the soldier's aid fund.  We wish they pledge could be generally signed through the community and that the terrible profanity which grates upon the ear from every quarter might be silenced.  A member of the 15th Kansas who was reading a copy of the pledge mentioned, remarked taht if the officers of his regiment could be induced to sign such a pledge, a fund would be raised large enough to support every soldier's family in the regiment as long as the war lasts.

     A sentinel was found partially frozen, and bound in the fatal sleep, caused by exposure, at Leavenworth on Thursday night.  He was quickly attended to, and will recover.

     Long's Hall was filled last night with an appreciative audience to listen to the concert given for the benefit of the Presbyterian church.  The band of the Kansas 11th was present and played splendidly, as they always do.

     The "cold spell" prevails all over the country.  At the East railroad trains are delayed, passengers suffer and the exposed soldiers are frozen, to an extent unknown in former winters.  In this latitude such extreme weather is not expected, and doubtless it is causing much suffering  We fear there are many families in the city who cannot keep the icy breath from their cheerless ho mes. Let the hand of charity seek out and succor the deserving poor.

     The Military Postoffice, at Headquarters, does an extensive mail business; frequently as many letters pass through it as through our city postoffice.  Two messengers are sent out in different directions every morning.  Most if not all the Military Posts in the districts get by these messengers their daily mail.  Mr. Fairfield, Postmaster at Headquarters, keeps himself informed of the location of the various regiments and companies, and forwards al matter for officers and soldiers without delay.  the arrangement of mail matters for the convenience of these in the service, seems to be about perfect.

Sunday, January 3, 1864.

     Teams were allowed to cross the new bridge at Lawrence, yesterday.

     Captain Ross, commanding at Lawrence, closed by a Special Order all the places in the city where Liquor was sold.

     The milder weather yesterday made business on the streets much more lively than for several days past.

     The meeting on Friday evening to celebrate the anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, was one of the biggest and most enthusiastic ever held in Kansas City.  At an early hour, the Methodist Church was filled to overflowing.  A large number of ladies were present and manifested the deepest interest in the proceedings.  The band of the 11th Kansas enlivened the exercises with most magnificent music.  The meeting was organized by appointing M. T. Graham, Esq., of Westport, President, and Judge Boreman and Capt. Van Dorn, of this city, Secretaries. Chaplain Cline made an opening prayer.  Speeches were made by Gen. Ewing, T. D. Thacher,  Judge Carpenter, Lieut. Col. Hoyt, Mr. Holden and Capt. Case.  Our limited space prevents even an abstract of the various speeches.  It is sufficient to say, that for n early three hours the enthusiasm of the meeting never flagged, and that the most earnest enunciations of loyalty and devotion to the cause of freedom were hailed, with most hearty applause.

     Our telegraphic dispatches this morning are very meagre owing to some difficulty with the lines east of St. Louis.

     The Tenth Kansas Volunteers left for Alton, Ill.,  yesterday.  The regiment halted in front of Headquarters and was addressed by General Ewing.  It is a splendid regiment, always ready for duty, and will give a good account of itself wherever it is sent.  We were sorry to see them start out in the long march to Sedalia in this inclement weather, but the boys started off with a brave, cheerful step that would defy wind and weather.  There was a rumor in the regiment that they were to be sent, to Grant's army, a prospect which seemed to give the highest satisfaction.  They want to go where fighting is to be done and glory won.

     Prof. Roof will give a grand vocal and instrumental concert at Long's Hall to-morrow night, assisted by the best amateur talent in this city.  The programme is good, and we trust will draw a large house.  Tickets can be bought at the Post Office.

     Mr. S. M. Thatcher will in the future act as assistant Editor of this paper, having control mainly of the local and news department.

Friday, January 1, 1864.

     The citizens of Kansas City and vicinity will celebrate the first Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation of Liberty -- issued January 1st, 1863, by Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, by a public meeting at the Methodist Church today at 7 o'clock p. m.  Brigadier General Ewing, Lt.-Col. Van Horn, Judge Carpenter, Col. Coates, Captain Case, T. D. Thatcher, Esq. and others have been invited to make speeches on the occasion.  One of the military bands will be in attendance and discourse excellent music.  Ladies are invited to attend.

     New Years is a holiday among the disciples of Faust; ergo, there will be no paper published tomorrow morning.

      The Citizens' Ball in honor of our military was one of which they may well be proud.   Long's Hall was crowded to excess.  The exhibition of rich and elegant costumes have never been surpassed in this city, and the beauties they adorned were never out in greater force.  Among the distinguished guests we noticed General Ewing, Lt. Col. Van Horn, Maj. Carpenter, Hon. M. J. Pay ne, Col. McGee, Captain Case and numerous other prominent officers.  The attendance of citizens was very large, about one hundred couple being present, and the harmony and good feeling that prevailed will long characterize the citizens' ball as one of hte most successful parties ever held in Kansas City.

     LOST -- At Long's Hall, Wednesday night, a Lady's Cloth Cloak.  The Cloak was probably taken by mistake.  Information can be left at the Office, or at Post Office, or with H. R. Kelso.

     FOUND -- Near Westport, a sack containing some articles of value.  Call on Robert Hunter in McGee's Addition, Kansas City.

     LOOK OUT FOR COUNTERFEITS!  Not only of bank bills, but of every thing truly valuable.  We understand that even the indispensable articles known as "Family Dye Colors" are no exception to this rule.  The imitations, like all counterfeits, are utterly worthless.  Remember that Howe and Stevens' Family Dye Colors are the original, the only valuable and useful thing of the kind.

     We are under obligations to Samuel Hallett, Esq., for a railroad map of the United States, showing the location of the Union Pacific Railroad and its connecting lines. It represents to the eye most forcibly the transcendent importance of this great work.  The map is also valuable for having upon it the latest civil divisions of our country -- the State of West Virginia, and the Territories of Colorado.  Arizona, Dakotah, Idaho, &c., together with the population and  number of acres of each State and Territory in the Union.