December 31, 1870.

     New Year's eve.

     Mild everywhere.

     Pope's benefit at the Opera House tonight.

     Midnight watch tonight at several churches.

          The skater's occupation is gone.  The thaw of night before last and yesterday has rendered the ice on the river dangerous, and we chronicle two involuntary duckings on account of it.  One came to a boy, skating near Harlem, who rushed into an air hole, and was rescued with difficulty by some ice men, who happened to be providentially near.  The other case was that of an ice-cutter near this shore, who went down in a hurry and came up more leisurely -- the latter on account of hte precarious condition of the ice.  Both of the parties were uninjured, a cold bath being the only hurt.

     Start in straight to-morrow.

     Our thanks are due to the members and lady friends of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and of the Union Mission School in McGee's Addition, for the handsomely frosted cake sent to this office yesterday.  The richness of the cake was only equaled by the flavor of the sentiments expressed in the highly complimentary note that accompanied it.

     To-morrow's papers will be unusually important.

     Our Xmas presents can be sent in yet.

     A couple of specimens of young America got into a muss yesterday at the corner of Main and 9th streets.  In the melee, one of them received a bloody nose, but succeeded in getting a finger of the other into his mouth.  The bloody-nosed boy seemed to relish the disgusting fun and chewed lustily.  The boy who owned the imprisoned finger did not like the processs very much, as was attested to in the howls that rent the air as our reporter left the scene.

     Sociables, festivals and fairs are prevalent.

     The dog-fight, reported to come off to-day, is a nother 'un; the last deposit having failed to be put up.

     While our citizens have been stirred up to constructing new pavements all over the town, would it not be well to occasionally repair the old ones; we are not exactly certain whose duty it is to attend to these matters, but we imagine some few of the approaches to the business portion of the city might be improved considerably.  For instance, the brick pavement on the east side of Main street, between the Levee and Commercial, is in a horrible condition, and that on the Levee, where thousands of travelers pass daily, is absolutely dangerous to locomotion.  The good opinion of strangers which ought to be cultivated, is easily lost by these little inattentions to comfort and convenience.

     Advertisers are informed that no better medium than to-morrow's paper can be found in which to spread their fame abroad.

     A No. 1 pony will be sold at auction on the Square, at 10 o'clock, to-day.

     Masquerade suits, Main street between Seventh and Eighth, over the German Savings Association.

December 30, 1870.

     Raw, chilly, and dampish.

     The Criminal Court resumes its session-day.

     A slight thaw yesterday made the city streets slightly oozy.

     A mysterious excavation is in progress on the Square.

     A legless boy traveled around the streets yesterday, on his haunches.

     Major A. C. Jones requests us to say, for the benefit of a large circle of admiring female friends, that the announcement of his marriage published in the Times and other papers yesterday was premature.  The gallant gentleman is still unfettered by the silken cord of matrimony, but will take the earliest convenient opportunity of "Shuffling on a mortal coil."

     "Old Hundred" was given in brass at the Fair last night.

     A horrible story of the sale of his dead wife to doctors, is current.

     A Swede, name unknown, working on the river yesterday, gathering ice, had the misfortune to break off a square upon which he was standing, and was plunged into the icy current.  Bob Rickets, who was near by, grasped the man by the hair, and after great difficulty brought him out safe and sound, but awfully chilled.  His bath will teach him to exercise more care henceforward.

     The Sociable Club gave its second party last night at Galloway's Hall.  A good time was had, and gay.

     A bet of $2,500 is up that the railroad bridge at St. Charles will be completed by the first of next May.

     All day yesterday skates convoluted and culicued on the rapidly melting ice of the river.  In the afternoon a pair of beautiful skaters, in blue costumes, created quite a sensation by their graceful movements.  The champion of Wisconsin attracted great attention, and executed some very difficult feats on the glittering irons.  In the middle of the stream a peanuttery is located, which seems to do a good business, and all in all, our grand skating rink is the most popular feature of the week.  The skating will be good for some time, notwithstanding the thaw of yesterday, as the nights are freezing still.  The ice-men still cut and saw, and we may look for cheap ice and plenty of it next summer, as several new ice houses have started up,  and all are working with a will to save the evanescent product.

     Masquerade suits, Main street between Seventh and Eighth, over the German Savings Association.

     Correspondents must remember the unchangeable roule of newspaper offices, to print communications written only on one side of the sheet.

December 29, 1870.

     Much thaw yesterday.

     Hay and wood plentiful.

     The river is preparing to get on a small "high."

     Last night, about 10 o'clock, some drunken men in the calaboose, in their drunken gyrations and flounders, tipped over the calaboosal stove, and for a brief spell, there was a horrible excitement.  Cries of "Fire!" proceeded from their hot throats, and it was not until smoke began to ascend to the court room that Ed Dowd and policeman Green, who were on duty, realized that the poor devils below wanted something else besides fire.  A few bucketfuls of water extinguished the flames, and all was again serene.  Fortunately, the fire department was not called out; otherwise there might have been a serious conflagration.

     Preparations are being made for January 1st, 1871.

     A lively set-to was indulged in yesterday afternoon, in front of Snell's saloon on Main street,, between John Williams, a railroad man, and C. E. Derby, an ex-bartender.  Fists were used quite extensively, and for a short mill, it was signalized by a great flow of blood.  Both men were considerably punished and cut up about the face.  Officer Gillooly and Halpin promptly arrested the combatants, who gave bonds for their appearance this morning.  The origin of the fight is not known.

     Carriers are getting their addresses ready for your spare change.

     The skaters and ice men were busy again yesterday on the river.

     Ranson's Addition is very lively just now.  The census-gatherer should have waited a month or two.  Holiday Week has been quite numerously celebrated in this way up there.

     For some days, sinister rumors have  been flying about, stating that the First National Bank of this city had suspended.  Of course such a story was well calculated to excite the profoundest astonishment; for the bank has been and now is, one of the strongest moneyed institutions in the State.  Its stockholders are wealthy men, of sagacity and sterling integrity.  Its capital is ample and firmly secured.  The result of the slander as might have been expected, was a crowded bank for a day or two, filled with anxious depositors checking out their money.  All demands were promptly met, and drafts were cashed with the most quiet non-chalance by the officers of the Bank.

     Prof. Martin, "The Wizard," held forth last night to a fair audience in Frank's Hall.  The various tricks performed, elicited much laughter and merriment.  Among the most noticeable of the exhibition was the Floating Head, (which will be presented again this evening, by request), the magic clock, the old-time egg in the hat business; the card tricks, and the little Marionette troupe.  The magic clock was hung suspended in mid-air, but the hands would move at the command of the Professor.  A variety of presents were given to those holding prize tickets, No. 79 being the lucky number for the $25.00 bureau put up.  As the holder of that ticket had left the hall, another drawing was held, resulting in giving the bureau to Mrs. J. B. Brothers.  Considerable fun was created when some of the other presents were handed out -- a pair of long hose, a b ar of soap, a plug of tobacco, a small sack of salt, an "Irish Turkey" (salted codfish), and rolling pin, &c.  A Saturday matinee will be given in addition to the other evening entertainments.

     Turn Halle last night was converted into a glad scene of revelry and dancing by the Scandinavian Society, which gave its first ball of the season.  These constituents of our city's prosperity number some on e thousand, and the society is presided over by Mr. Biornlunde, Mr. Lundin secretary.  Volrath's string band furnished most excellent music, and valse, quadrille and polka followed each other in rapid succession the whole night through.  The Hall was decorated with flags, and appropriate mottoes, conspicuous among which were the Danish, Swedish, and Norwegian -- all beautifully made and strange-looking to American eyes.  Refreshments were in abundance, and a thoroughly good time was had.

December 28, 1870.

     Town dull.

     Ice-dealers busy.

     Travel decreasing.

     Skating on the river.

     Square very lively for Tuesday.

     Christmas folks wait for New Year.

     A fire Sunday, and the fire department a minute too late.

     Railroad trains delayed on account of ice and low water.

     Street cars more and more a success.  They "roll on."

     The year 1871 is to be blessed with fifty-three Sabbaths and will thus "go one better," on sundry of its predecessors.

     Services were held in all the churches on Christmas day, the pastors in nearly every case choosing texts appropriate to the season.

     Mr. Kelley, living near Independence on the Blue, last Friday found Patrick Cox, a daft son of William Cox, frozen to death, in the woods near Independence.  The youth had been crazy for some time, and wandered away, poorly clad, last Wednesday.

     The first train for a week from Denver, over the Kansas pacific railroad, arrived in this city Sunday evening.  The delay was caused by heavy snow drifts on the route, most of them having been ten feet deep.  There was not much poetry in that volume of "Snow Bound."  Can anything be W(h)ittier than this?

     Three large tin-types for 50 cents, six sunbeams for 50 cents, or one dozen plain Carte de Visites for $2.00 -- best ever seen in this city -- at Salisbury's Photographic Studio, 921 Main street.  See his specimens.

     They have a one-legged shoemaker in the Bottom, which his name is Joseph Deshlute.  Joseph got drunk yesterday, and raised some disturbance in Charles Mayer's restaurant.  His anger was such that he used his crutch on Mayer, and Mayer may or may not have struck him (this does not appear) but Callahan and McKnight brought the two up.  Mayer gave security for his appearance, this morning, and Deshlute was gently escorted with his one leg to the keep below.

     Four prisoners in the west cell of the calaboose, attempted an escape night before last, and had succeeded in removing nearly a ton of masonry, when officer Murphy fortuitously happened to pas in the neighborhood, and effectually suspended their operations, which were very near resulting favorably for them.  The breach was immediately repaired, and the prisoners are still in quod.

     Mr. J. H. Denslow, publisher of the Woman's Advocate, which has heretofore issued from Carrolton, Mo., is in town.  His intention is to make arrangements for publishing his journal in this city.

     The Criminal Court held no session yesterday, and will not resume its labors until Friday, in the meanwhile the august body keeping its December toes warm at home, instead of in the open, chilly court room.

December 25, 1870.

     Still cold.

     Merry Christmas to you all.

     The principle dry goods houses will be closed to-morrow.

     A Mr. Goodman was arrested yesterday for hitching his horse to a lamp-post.

     The Y. M. C. A. mission meeting will be held to-day at their hall on 6th street.  All are cordially invited.

     There will be a concert to-night at the First Presbyterian church, given by the Sabbath school.

     At the Market House yesterday, an award was given to the finest display of meat, quantity, quality, taste in display and variety being taken in consideration.  Brooks & Raub stood 95; Ford & Co., 90; C. Herold, 78; J. Burnett, 75; and Wm. Coleman, 58.  The committee-men were, Judge Sheffield, Col. F. R. Long, Wm. McGee, Judge Bates, Dr. Jewett and in. N. Hicks.

     Kansas City may well be proud of her butchers and her market.  In every season fruits, vegetables, and meats are exhibited in astonishing abundance, and there is no city in the country which lives better than this one of ours.  Yesterday morning the display of meats was positively astonishing, and the wonderful ingenuity and taste of the butchers was tested to its utmost to arrange the bulky beeves, monstrous muttons, plethoric pigs, and other defunct animals in something approaching order.  But they did it and well.  Garlands of roses, miniature flags, banners and mottoes gave the interior of the market house a brighter appearance than it has for so me time.  Each butcher strove to eclipse his fellow in the attractiveness of his stall.  Many of our leading citizens and hotel men were made illustrations in colors on the sides of pigs, sheep, and antelopes, and they good humouredly secured their namesakes at a Christmas price.  On the outside a good assortment of vegetables, fowls, and such like was to be had, and today, we presume, there will not be a family in town which does not have a good feast.  We trust so, at all events.

     The pair of horses and the wagon, reported as having been stolen before Frank's grocery, night before last, was found a few hours afterward in a stable where the unintentional thief had left them.  It seems he was intoxicated and mistook his team for his, and consequently drove it off.

     A happy affair was consummated yesterday at one o'clock at Long's Hall under the auspices of the Mission Sunday School.  Promptly, and on time, the newsboys and bootblacks of the city came in by ones, twos and in half dozens, and bashfully (for them) dropped into the first chairs that offered.  By half after one at least forty were in the room, and their various attitudes, variegated garments, and in some cases, tattered shoes, were the objects of lively sympathy to the bystanders and good people who hurried around making preparations for their dinner.  The boys themselves, after a little time, resumed their usual boldness, and sauntered around the hall, and indulging in quaint remarks about different matters.  The approaching feast made some of them quite hungry, or in the words of one, "the smell of hash struck him like a cannon ball," "hash" in newsboys' parlance signifying anything edible.  Boys with names like Yankee Jack, Rotten Toes, Snaughty Ike, Limpy, Stinky and Dutchy enjoyed  a pretty song sung by Mr. Benson, accompanied by Miss Emma Patterson, which received uproarious applause from the boys.  After this Oyster soup was first presented, and then followed meats, pickles, coffee, cakes, etc., and the boys crammed and crammed, and filled their pockets and asked for more.  What they couldn't eat went into their pockets, many a bulging pocket betrayed the presence of drumsticks and hunks of cake.  Their jokes at the table were softened considerable by the presence of the ladies, but one or more showed levity while the Rev. Irwin asked a blessing.  Immediately succeeding dinner, the boys wanted to rush out, but hey were detained and another song given by the good little children on the platform, very much to the amusement of the waifs who passed tobacco around among themselves, and played tricks not a few.  The boys finally got out, bought cheap cigars and felt full -- bully, as one fellow expressed it.  All in all, the good folks at the Mission have initiated an enterprise, which will, in future, do great things towards making our bootblacks and ragged urchins think better of themselves and their elders.

     The thermometer at Harlem on Friday morning at 6 o'clock, indicated 4 degrees below zero.  Yesterday morning at the same hour, 9 degrees below.

     Christmas eve is always celebrated in a joyous manner, and last night was no exception to the general rule. At the Widow's and Orphan's Fair quite a crowd was present.  The array of last night was astonishing in its variety, and the beautiful young ladies who graced the scene were quite successful in their endeavors to accumulate lucre for their beneficiaries, the widows and orphans.  The fair continues all week.

     All the churches made the usual arrangements for the proper celebration of Christmas, and will all have special discourses from their pastors to-day, suitable  to the day which we celebrate.  At the Christian Church on 12th and Main, last night, a Christmas t ree was the principal feature, accompanied by songs and speeches and a distribution of presents to children.  Santa Claus was got up in quaint style, and elicited much laughter from the scholars of the Sunday School.  At the Methodist Church on Grand Avenue, Santa Claus was in full feather.  An arch was constructed on which hung presents innumerable for the children and teachers.

December 24, 1870.

     Travel is dull.  Still Slippery.  Game is abundant.  Turkeys are prevalent.  Christmas comes to-night.

     The Kaw has been frozen over for some days.

     The churches will all have services to-morrow.

     Thermometer 2 degrees below zero yesterday.

     Devout Catholics are molding their Christmas candles.

     The management of the Mission Sunday School festival at the Mechanics' Institute, in the goodness of their heart, have made arrangements to give the newsboys and bootblacks and other youngsters of that ilk, a sumptuous feast to-day at one o'clock, sharp.  The little fellows are asked to provide themselves with certificates of some simple sort from the different newspaper offices, in order that no vagrant gamin can gammon the worthy ladies and gentlemen who will dispense the good things.  Turkey, oysters, cranberry sauce, and toothsome edibles will be waiting for the hungry urchins exactly at one o'clock, and we anticipate an animated sight, when the tables are attacked.  As it costs nothing, no bootblack or newsboy will fail to be on time. Speeches and addresses and appetizing music will attend the meal.

     Harry Everett, the comedian, is getting better with his sprained ankle.

     The market-house is well worth a visit this morning.

     The children of the Public Schools will be glad to know that school does not take in again until the 3d day of January -- thus giving them nine full days of fun and frolic.

     Looking for holiday presents?  Call at Brennert & Woicher's drug store, corner Fifth and Main streets, under Frank's Hall, where you will find a choice selection of Fancy Goods, such as Perfumeries, Pomades, Brushes, Combs, &c.  Congress Water kept on draught.

     In accordance with the Governor's proclamation, constituting Monday, December 26, and Monday, January 2, legal holidays, the banks will be closed on said days.  All paper maturing on those days will be due and payable on the Saturdays preceding.

     Rabbits from Kansas made their appearance in wagon-loads in this city yesterday.  We saw one pile of them lying on the sidewalk in front of a commission grocery that would have made the heart of a hunting dog sink within him from despair of ever seeing  another of the brief tailed quadrupeds in his native state of liveliness.  there were over a hundred of them in the bunch, and they had all been caught by one man.

     Col. Sidney Jeffords of St. Louis has arrived with 13,000 head of Brazilian sheep which will remain on exhibition at the Harlem Corral until shod.  These sheep are the first of the kind ever brought to the United States, and the Col. can be interviewed for the next week at the Sheridan or Lindell Hotels in this city.

     Our thanks are returned to the well-known tobacconists, Kamsler & Leon, for which a box of splendid Havana cigars, which were placed on our desk as a Christmas gift.  We can assure them that the fragrant smoke from the really fine cigars ascended in grateful curls of recognition of their distinguished abilities as first-class manufacturers of tobacco and cigars.  We wish they would "do it again."

     The good ladies belonging to the Christian Church, on Twelfth and Main, will have a resplendent Christmas Tree this evening at 7 o'clock.  The church will be decorated in handsome style.  All are cordially invited to the church to-night.

December 23, 1870.

     More snow.  Money scares.  Fresh-- the wind.  The Kaw is frozen over.

     Gas very flickering o'nights.

     Egg-nog has a downward tendency.

     Stores crowded with parents buying presents.

     The "Big Muddy" is nearly ice-locked.

     Has it been noticed that the weather is cold?  Thermometer yesterday stood at 6 degrees above zero; not quite as low as the St. Louis ones telegraphed.

     An unknown son of the Emerald Isle, well filled with whiskey, was bucked off the track by the engine of the Fort Scott train yesterday morning, and escaped unhurt.

     We are glad to note the fact that our young friend, Ira. B. Sherry, who used to conduct a grocery store on Fourth street, has gone into business again, this time as book-keeper for a wholesale house on Delaware street, and we expect that he will eventually turn out to be one of our leading merchants.  He has many warm friends, who wish him success and prosperity, more so because he has been unfortunate of late.

     The regular semi-monthly sociable and dance of the Spiritualists and Friends of Progress comes off this Friday evening, at Good Templars' Hall, corner of Main and Eighth streets.  These dances are extremely sociable, and should be kept up through the winter months.

     John Duffy was flourishing a navy revolver on the levee last night, while drunk, and drew it on one man, who seized it and dealt Duffy a stunning blow over the eye with it.  He was arrested for carrying concealed weapons.

     For sale at the English Kitchen, the most delicious mince meat, put up with great care, especially for family use.  No. 210 Main street, Kansas City.

     About ten o'clock last nig ht, we came across a man on Fifth and Delaware streets, whose lamentations over his day's folly were loud and long.  He had come to town from somewhere in Clay county, amply provided with funds to by Xmas gifts for his family.  Meeting some of his city acquaintances, and the day being chilly, they imbibed.  After a little while, they went into a saloon and took a drink.  Hot drinks followed in rapid succession, until about dusk, when the acquaintances left him and he made preparations to go home.  Staggering out of the saloon he bethought him of the presents for his children, and immediately proceeded to purchase them, but he discovered he had spent nearly all his money.  The fact was so overpowering that he was stunned.  When we saw him he was still under the influence of liquor standing in the middle of the street berating himself in no measured terms for his excessive asinine peculiarities.  Upon questioning him as to his name and so forth, he would give no satisfaction, and we left him alone with his sorrow, with a fierce wind blowing all around him.  One can easily picture the disappointment of the little darlings at home, whose anxious, hopeful faces are pressed against the cold window pane, watching for father to co me home, when Christmas morning dawns upon them eager for the sight of Santa Claus to find that the jolly old fellow has left them nothing.

     The festival at Frank's Hall last night was generously patronized by the friends of charitable purposes, and the arrangements were so perfect that a more enjoyable time has hardly ever been had in all of Kansas City's experience in festivals.  Added to the attraction was a dance in which young  engaged, and were festive all.

December 22, 1870.

     Thawed a might yesterday.  Large cakes of ice fill the river.  First-rate skating on the ponds.

     Is there no law to have icy pavements scraped?

     Auctioneers can't stand cold weather.  They avoided the Square yesterday.

     Justices Cravens, Rose and Sutton were idle yesterday, and occupied their legal talent and ability in keeping the cold out.

     "Ixion" will be produced for the matinee Saturday, on which occasion Santa Claus will make presents to every member of the audience.

     Gen. Thos. J. Bartholow, of the well known banking house of Bartholow, Lewis & Co., of St. Louis, was in town yesterday, and expressed himself astonished at the rapid growth of our city in the past two years.

     Congealed grease and liquefied butter on the same table are said to be one of the mysteries and miseries of boarding house life.

     Remember the mush and milk festival at Mechanic's Hall to-night.  The dames and lassies, dressed in the olden time, will preside at the tables.  Let all who would enjoy an old-fashioned festival be there.

     Early yesterday morning the large flouring mill in West Kansas City, owned and run by Dewar, Smith & Co, and known far and near as the Diamond Mills, was in imminent danger of being destroyed by fire had not the people in the vicinity lent their assistance and saved the property.  The fire originated from the carelessness of a miller in handling a lamp.  As soon as the flames were observed, help was at hand, and save a small amount of "middlings" which were burned, no damage was done.  The firm tender a card of thanks to the Bottomites who assisted in saving the building and machinery.

     Col. Foster, our enterprising postmaster, urged by the immense increase of business at the office in the matter of money orders, has completed a new arrangement  by which that branch of the department is transferred to the left-hand side of the of the room, thus doing away with the crowd at the stamp window, which has hitherto been so annoying.  Persons in want of money orders will govern themselves accordingly and apply at the left-hand desk.

     Chinese and Japanese work boxes, writing desks, cabinets, toys &c., by H. T. Wright & Co., Post Office Bookstore.  Most beautiful and novel goods for presents ever brought to Kansas City.

     A man named McCoy, who robbed a cobbler, was discharged yesterday from custody, the shoemaker, Geiger, not appearing to prosecute him.

      Seedless raisins, French prunes, figs, oranges, lemons, and all kinds of nuts and candies, at J. M. Newham's, No. 616 and 618 Main street.

     We are pleased to learn that the Mechanics' Institute has secured the services of Hon. J. H. Warwick for a lecture on Tuesday night next.  Mr. Warwick is an eminent tragedian and an eloquent orator, and we congratulate the Institute that it is to have such a popular lecturer in the initiatory.

December 21, 1870.

     Clear and cold.  Good nights for astronomers.

     This is the shortest day of the year.

     Poor people suffer about this time.  Charitable folks need no reminder.  In your preparations for Christmas activities, remember the poor.

      The thermometer stood at about 12 degrees above zero all day yesterday.

     A large number of railroaders for Texas were a feature of the Union depot yesterday.

     Our streets are like funnels for the wind to blow through fiercely.

     Ice is forming  at either bank of the Missouri, and the channel runs full.

     The charming Zavistowski Sisters made their second appearance last evening to a fine house, and one which seemed fully alive to the fun which was fairly bubbling over on the stage.  The advent of this trio of sparkling artistes marks the first series of burlesques which have been given upon the Opera House boards.  These intervals of mirth and jollity serve as pleasant effects to the new heavy style of legitimate drama to which our theater is more specially devoted.  We appreciate them as a novelty, and enjoy them to their full extent.

     These nights are rather chilly for serenaders.

     Thermometers were in demand yesterday.  Everybody wanted to see how cold he was.

     Christmas trees are being brought into the city.

     Grading on Sixth street, near the Bottom, is progressing despite the cold.

     There was an incipient attempt at skating on the ponds of this city yesterday morning.  The ponds present a rather rough face, and it can't be smoothed over.

     The kind-hearted custodians of the city's welfare o' nights have erected a stove in one end of the Recorder's Court for the comfort of the many waifs and homeless ones who gravitate there nightly for shelter.

     There is a wax figure in front of a millinery store near the corner of Sixth and Main streets, which the public have stood about long enough  Last summer the warm atmosphere warmed the cheeks so that they dropped below the position they should hold, the eyes pulled much wider open than they should be, and altogether the thing is a base slander on the female face divine.  People generally complain of the horrid ugliness of the "fearful shape," and toppers complain that it induces uncalled for symptoms of "delicious tremendus."

     Jack Goulding, the pedestrian, started on his task of walking 101 hours without rest, being allowed only twenty-four minutes in each twenty-four hours for diet, etc.  The trial is taking place at the Delmonico, on Main street, and a large number of citizens witnessed him start last evening, at 7 o'clock.  He must walk until Saturday midnight to be successful.  The stakes are $300.

December 20, 1870.

     The wind of yesterday was a very searching breeze.  The river is full of floating ice.

     Accidental slip-ups were plenteous  yesterday.

     Nuts and mulled cider are joys townfolks know not of.

     Kansas City, with all its advantages at the present time, possesses a splendid "coast" also.

     Quite a neat piece of villany was perpetrated yesterday afternoon upon a gentleman named Owens, who resides near the old Independence road, about five miles out.  Astride of a fine sorrel mare he cantered down Main street, and was hailed by a passing man with an inquiry respecting the sale of the brute.  Mr. Owens would sell, and made the engagement to meet the stranger at the Delmonico half an hour thereafter.  They met.  Stranger remarked that he wished to purchase the mare for an Olathe doctor who had a perfect match for her, and asked permission to try her.  He got it, and traveled her down the street, out Independence avenue and, for aught anybody knows, is still going.  It is thought he is the rogue who purloined a pair of blankets a week ago, and languished therefor in our prison cell.  A reward for his apprehension is out, and no doubt, he will be brought back.

     P. J. Miserez has been appointed local  mail agent in the place of R. V. Armstrong.

     The regular meeting of the Y. M. C. A. takes place t o-night at 7:30 at their rooms on Sixth street.  Matters of vital importance will be brought up, and all are requested to be prompt in attendance.  Those desiring to join are cordially invited.

     One  hundred and fifty excursionists traveled to Thayer Sunday morning at half past eight o'clock, under the efficient management of Capt. J. S. Ransom.  This party was increased at the junction in Lawrence.  When the train arrived at Ottawa the excursionists paid their respects at the Ludington House, where two long tables groaning beneath the weight of the good things of this life were awaiting them.  At the next station, those who were inclined had a good chance of snow balling, which a few took advantage of in good earnest, until warned by the engine bell that if they wanted to see Thayer they had better "get aboard."   Arriving in Thayer at 4 p. m., ample time was given for supper and other refreshments.  Thayer is a small town of recent growth, comprising about fifty frame houses, a good many however in the course of erection.  The party returned to Kansas City about 1 o'clock Monday morning, expressing themselves generally as having been very much pleased with the journey.

     The Good Templars in West Kansas City are making arrangements for a place of meeting.

     Union services are changed to the Congregational Church.  Preaching to-night by Rev. Mr. Madeira.  Prayerr meeting in the Congregational Church at 3:30 p. m.

     The ladies of the Widows' and Orphans' Home Society desire to say to the friends of the Institution that they find it will be impossible for them to make a personal appeal to all for contributions to the Fair to be held on the 23d inst., for the benefit of the Home, so they take this method of doing so, and of expressing the hope that all will feel personally called on to contribute satiables or fancy articles, which will be accepted with the warmest feelings of gratitude.  All donations to be sent on the morning of the 23rd to the Orphans'' Home Pavilion on Main street.

December 18, 1870.

     The river was full of floating ice yesterday.

     The boys throughout the city enjoyed their Saturday holiday coasting.

     The "beautiful snow" which covered the city yesterday morning was a dirty slush before night.  Under the influence of a melting mood it grew "beautifully less and smaller by degrees."

     A lady advertises that she wants a gentleman for breakfast and tea.  What a cannibal!

     The Square was crowded all day yesterday with wagon loads of wood, hay, etc.

     A free fight occurred last night at a boarding house in West Kansas.  High pressure liquor was the cause.

     A smash-up occurred on Walnut street yesterday afternoon.  The pieces were saved.

     Madam Methua Scheller plays "Fanchon" at Turners' Hall to-night, for Mrs. Volrath's benefit.

     Among the applicants for admission to the city hospital yesterday was a sadly afflicted bummer, who has footed it half over the United States.

     The heavy fall of snow thawing made pedestrianism anything but a desirable occupation yesterday.

     O'Brien O'Day (decidedly Irish) made night hideous with his fearful howlings.  He found a resting place at the lock-up, through the kind offices of Officer Brennan.

     A lonesome sleigh, of the "pung" pattern, was dragged through the mud and slush of Main street yesterday.  It was a novelty, and elicited from the gamins generally their peculiar whistle of surprise.

     A severe encounter took place between two boys yesterday on Independence avenue.  The cause of the trouble was the disputed ownership of a pair of skates, which one said the other had borrowed from him and refused to return.

     We were shown yesterday a front view of a plan for the proposed Episcopal church which is to be erected on Walnut street, corner of Eighth.  The style is Gothic with a tower on the north side, seventy-five feet high, the south side being  topped with a spire pointing heavenward one hundred and seventy-five feet.  The body of the building will be seventy five feet to the comb of the roof. An immense Gothic window will grace the front..  The window will be forty feet height.  The cost of the church by this plan will reach $60,000.  A. B. Cross is the architect.

     Our pleasant and very genial friend, W. E. Thorne, has removed his "Art Union" to 700 Main street, and has greatly increased his stock of rare goods for holiday gifts.  Take a look at his fine pictures, frames, albums, ladies' companions, &c.

December 17, 1870.

     An establishment for the manufacture of soap, for cleaning cars, has been started in West Kansas City.  The soap is a success.

     Complaints are made that the demi-monde do too much infest certain saloons in West Kansas City, and the police are invited to see them.

     The scholars of the First Ward School had a pleasant  reunion at the school building, corner of Independence avenue and Hackberry street, last night.

     The cold weather has made the wood market rather lively.  Yesterday morning cord wood was worth $6 per cord; stove wood was held at $2 and $2.25 per load of about one-quarter cord.

     One of our confectionary establishments still has a sign hanging in front of their establishment, which reads:  "Ice cream and ice cold soda water."  A little late in the season for that.

     Between 5,000 and 6,000 yards of plastering have been done in Bullene & Emery's new building, corner Eighth and Main streets.

     The biggest item that could be raked up from the Bottom yesterday, was that of a dog fight for $200 a side is to come off at Bill Dago's to-night.  Delectable sport.

     The revival meetings yesterday afternoon were largely attended.  The evening services were held at the Methodist church on Grand avenue.  An instructive sermon was delivered.  Prayer meeting will be held at the 3d Baptist church, corner of Grand avenue and Eleventh street.  Services as usual at the M. E. Church on Grand avenue.

     Officers Parks and Rivard found a chap in West Kansas City trying to explain the Sixteenth Amendment to a lamp-post.  He was conveyed to the calaboose.  The officers say he was drunk.

     John Smith, the party arrested night before last for helping himself to a number of blankets from a store on Main stret, was allowed to go at large yesterday, the owner of the goods not being willing to prosecute.

     Yesterday morning ice was found on some of the ponds with which our city is beautifully supplied, to the thickness of nearly two inches.  The boys improved the opportunity, and had a very pleasant time.

     Maun & Paterson, who have opened a stone-cutting yard on Delaware street, in the rear of Myers' marble shop, have the contract for the stair work of Dogget & Orrison's new building on Main street, and as it is the intention of the builders to put up something extra in the architectural line, we congratulate them that they have secured the services of this firm.  Mr. James Paterson of this firm, who is President of the Caledonian Society of this city, came from a family of architects, and is a cousin to the late Geo. Mickle Kemp, of Scotland, who designed the Scott monument in Edinburgh, which is one of the finest specimens of monumental architecture in all Europe.  Indeed, Kansas City may expect some fine houses from the plans of this gentleman, who is not only a stone-cutter, but a first-class architect.

December 16, 1870.

     A stranger lost a large amount of money at Faro night before last.

     A runaway in East Kansas City resulted in the demolition of a wagon.

     We are glad to see that many of our citizens are at work laying sidewalk.

     The lamp on the corner of Walnut and Twelfth streets was not lighted at half-past 7 last night.  Pedestrians who are compelled to pass that way, on such dark nights as last night, miss it.

     A dog-fight is on the tapis for Saturday.

     Another spiritualistic seance on Main street last night.  A lively time.

     Leavenworth congratulates herself on the fact that Lawrence will bridge the Kaw.

     Justice Sutton removed to his new office, in Forcade's building, on Fourth street, yesterday.  He has h is office fitted up in style, a handsome bench being fitted up for spectators and jurors.

     A lady was thrown from a carriage on Main street yesterday.  She was slightly injured.

     A West Kansas man has been  manifesting a too fatherly interest in his family again.  He was calaboosed for beating his wife and children.

     Yesterday afternoon a fight took place between a couple of school boys near Vaughan's Diamond.  One of the rising geniuses drew a knife on the other, and would probably have wounded him had not some gentleman near by interfered and separated them.

     Day before yesterday, one of the most remarkable instances of the sagacity and knowledge of a dog came to our notice that we ever remember of having heard.  One of the policemen on the night force sometime since obtained a diminutive Scotch terrier for his little four year old boy.  Between the boy and the dog there grew up a most intimate friendship.  The little dog learned to love his juvenile master and followed him everywhere he went.  Day before yesterday the boy's father took him down town w ith him, the dog of course following after.  Having some business to look after, the boy was taking into the sitting room of Reilly's saloon, on Main street, and seated in a chair beside the store, while the dog was allowed to find a place under it, until the father returned.  In a short time the dog manifested symptoms of uneasiness and leaving his place under the stove, jumped up on his little master's knee and began to lick his face and whine, as if he wished to convey to him some thing that seemed to weigh on his mind.  Parties in the room remarked the strange action of the dog, but as he soon returned to his place under the stove nothing was thought of it, until the boy's father returned, when the dog was found to be dead.  Taking the strange action of the dog in leaving his place and attempting to bid farewell to his master, and then returning to it to die, into consideration, we cannot but remark taht we think it one of the most striking instances of intelligence in the brute creation that we have ever heard of.  The dog must undoubtedly knew he was going to die and wished to bid farewell to his master.

     Alice Gray and Charles Pope in "The Love Chase" and "Madaleine," at the Opera House to-morrow night.

December 15, 1870.

     The lamp on the corner of Twelfth and Main streets was not lighted last night.  Who receives the benefit of this economy?  Certainly not our citizens, who are compelled to be out after dark.

     Benefit for the Mechanics' Institute at the Opera House to-night.

     A free fight in a Walnut street saloon yesterday was summarily squelched.

     The pavilion for the grand fair which is to be given during Christmas week, is rapidly approaching completion.

     The famous Zavistowski sisters make their first appearance at Coates' Opera House Monday night.

     Persons who prefer oysters cooked in their own liquor may be interested in knowing what the fluid contains.  the Journal of Microscopy said:  "Open an oyster, retain the liquor in the lower or deep shell, and, if viewed through a microscope, it will be found to contain multitudes of small oysters, covered with shells and swimming nimbly about.  Besides these young oysters, the liquor contains myriads of three distinct species of worms.

     Yesterday afternoon, as we were perambulating down Main street, we noticed a poor forlorn wreck stupid with drink, laying at full length in the gutter, while around him were gathered a rabble of all colors and sexes, hooting and laughing, and throwing dirt at the poor fellow as he lay utterly helpless.  Here, say we, was a chance for your "Christian Commissions," &c. &c., which do so much in talk, but so little in work.  Another wreck of humanity lay in that gutter for weeks has gone to and fro in our city, crazed with drink, and yet, no man stretched forth a helping hand, if they did pity, and those who once every seven days "thank God that they are not as other men are," have passed him by with  a sneer at his condition, and a frown for his weakness.  "One little word of kindness, one little word of love" may yet save, but more such treatment as he received yesterday will only increase his deplorable condition.

     The newspapers of Kansas are circulating a report that the authorities at Washington have ordered a new census taken at Kansas City.  It is entirely probable that Kansas City somewhat understands her business, and if she is goaded on by such slanders, and is forced to take a new census, she will get her "angry" up, and beat St. Louis or "bust."  Kansas City is too large a place for dailies of suburban villages to tamper with.  It's none of our business.  St. Louis is the only one who has any reason to dread another census in Kansas City.

     There was a great lack of interested manifested at the Recorder's Court yesterday morning.  Larry King was the only attendant.  Larry was charged with chronic vagrancy.  He was allowed sufficient time to leave the city.

December 14, 1870.

     Mr. Laurence Barrett makes his last appearance at the Opera House to-night.

     The sidewalks on Delaware street are in a very bad condition, and should be immediately attended to.

     A party of the "rising bloods" of the city amused themselves firing off their pistols on Twelfth street last night.  It might be well to look after them.

     The dirt deposited on Twelfth street, near Gay, some time since, by a man who was having a cellar dug, was removed yesterday by a city contractor and deposited in the deep gully, worn by the water, at the side of the street near by.  This dirt has been a great trouble to persons who were compelled to pass that way, and we are glad to see it removed, but we think the man who put it there should pay for it.

      George street, near Independence avenue, was the scene of another attempted highway robbery on Tuesday evening last, in which the assailants go the worst of the bargain.  Judge Ranson was detained at his office on the evening in question until about 8 o'clock.  His route home lies along Independence avenue to George street, on which he lives. While passing the notorious "Happy Hollow," he became aware that he was followed by two men.  When the Judge came to where George street intersects the avenue, they turned up that street and followed him.  A short distance up, he found they were rapidly approaching him, and he determined to rid himself of his suspense in reference to their object, and also protect himself from any attack by a "slingshot" or "billy."  He turned suddenly and, drawing his revolver, demanded to know who they were and why they followed him.  One of them immediately replied that they wanted him to halt.  This answer, connected with the fact that they had followed him so persistently until they could get him away from any habitation, satisfied him that robbery and probably murder was intended.  He immediately fired at the nearest one striking him, as he thinks, and wounding him.  At this stage of the proceedings both turned and fled, and the Judge as a kind of parting farewell fired another shot after them.  The judge wishes to state for the benefit of other parties who may wish to follow him for the purpose of robbery after this, that he carries a good revolver and knows how to use it.

     Mr. W. L. Visscher started for Nebraska on Monday night, to lecture last evening at Plattsmouth, and this evening at Lincoln, the capital of that State.  He returns to-morrow.  Meanwhile Major A. C. Jones has kindly filled his place in the local department of the JOURNAL.

     A large number of new crosswalks have been laid at many of the various street crossings within the past few days.

     The Cigar Makers' Union held its ball at Frank's Hall Monday night.  The attendance was large and the evening passed off quite pleasantly.

     Our Irish citizens turned out in force last night to hear the learned Dr. O'Brennan deliver his famous lecture on "Ireland as it Is."  The Doctor displayed an aptitude in the method of handling his subject, that took his audience by storm.  The unfavorable aspect of the weather kept many from attending who would otherwise have been present.

     We had the pleasure of an introduction to Mr. Daniel L. Hall, yesterday.  Mr. H. has come to our city for the purpose of establishing a branch office here for the Western Rural, a farmer's journal of extensive circulation, published in Chicago.  The circulation of the paper has increased to such an extent that the publishers have found it necessary to establish two branch offices, one at Columbus, Ohio, and the other at this point.  The edition published here will contain all matter of general interest that appears in either of the other editions, the only difference being that matters of local interest will vary with locality.  Mr. Hall has established the branch office in Vaughan's Diamond.

December 13, 1870.

     Sidewalks, not unlike Jonah's gourd, spring up in a day.

     The "Mocking Bird" was played at the German Theatre, Sunday night.

     A lady was kicked by a vicious horse near the Postoffice yesterday.  She was not seriously hurt.

     Quite a number of books were presented to the First Presbyterian Sabbath school, Rev. R. Irwin, pastor, on Sabbath morning.  The books were a present from the children to the school library.

     The Council yesterday granted permission, on the east side of Main street, between Sixth and Seventh streets, of a temporary frame building, in which a festival for the benefit of the Orphans' Home is to be held on the 22d and 23d instant.  The building has already commenced and is under fair headway.  It will be removed as soon as the fair is over.

     The work of grading Tenth street between Laurel and Locust, was begun yesterday.

     From the Independence Democrat we learn that three genteel-dressed men made their appearance at Sibley, a few days since, and made extensive orders of the merchants of the town.  They also made arrangements for the ferrying of three hundred cattle over the river, and were invited to dine with the ferrymen.  Two gallons of liquor were purchased from a liquor merchant, to be delivered -- the liquor, or course was fully tested before purchased.

     A lively fight took place in a saloon on Fifth street last night.

     On Saturday morning last, a report was made at Police headquarters that some boys, hunting rabbits in the southern part of the city, had found the body of a dead woman, partially buried in a ravine.  Wild stories were circulated in reference to it.  A knife and a bloody veil were said to have been found in the immediate vicinity, and put itn connection with the facts of finding the body itself, gave foundation for heavy sensation.  All Saturday was spent in a fruitless search for the body.  On Sunday morning the faithful officer, accompanied by the boy who made the report, repaired to the ground and found the locality.  The body proved to be that of a defunct porker, and the bristles had been worn off by the action of the water.  Take into consideration these facts and the excited imagination of the boy, and the story is told.

     Dr. O'Brennan's promised lecture comes off this evening at Long's Hall.  "Ireland of To-day" is a grand subject, and in the hands of such a man as Dr. O'Brennan, the Irish Refugee and distinguished author, we are certain it will be eloquently dealt with.  As an immense crowd is sure to attend, we would recommend parties to secure tickets in due time.

December 11, 1870.

     Business of all kinds was remarkably brisk in the city yesterday.

     An express wagon drove against a horse hitched to a post on Main street opposite the square to-day, causing him to jump on the sidewalk.  The passers-by made room for him in a hurry.

     Yesterday was a dull day among the justices of the city.  No criminal cases came before them, and but few civil cases were began.

     Several days ago, one of our city contemporaries published a long account of the arrest of a horse thief in Atchison for stealing a horse from John Lawrence of Kearney, Clay Co., Mo.  N. V. Brock was the name of the supposed thief.  It now transpires that Mr. Brock is a young man of about 18 years of age, and his family reside in this city and occupy a high social position.  Mr. Lawrence, the man from whom the horse was said to have been stolen, is his guardian, and has already taken the trouble to employ G. C. Clemons, Esq., of Topeka, to defend him before the authorities of Atchison.  The boy has had charge of one of Mr. Lawrence's horses in this city and it is scarcely probable that he would have taken the trouble to go to Kearney to steal one when he could have sold the one he had with greater ease.  The probabilities are that the matter will be satisfactorily arranged, and until that time public opinion should be suspended.

     The prize needle-man, the prize candy-man, the blacking-man, the galvanic battery-man, and a dozen other chaps of like ilk, drove a thriving trade on the square yesterday.

     Night before last Mr. J. A. Wisely had a dance at his house, near the corner of Fifteenth and McGee streets.  Matters passed off pleasantly until near midnight, when Tom Quiad, Chas. Radden, W. A. Hutchinson, C. H. Quiad, W. A. Quaid, Mr. Cecil and Mr. Esham, young bloods who were in attendance, becoming disgusted with the monotony of the dance, undertook to furnish a diversion in the way of a little fight.  Much gas and a few blows succeeded in frightening the ladies to a limited extent, but Mr. Wisely put a stop to their fun by calling in the assistance of the police.  They appeared before Judge Carpenter yesterday morning,, who, upon hearing the case, fined three of them $8 apiece, three $7.75, and discharged Cecil.

     Rabbits sell at 10 cents apiece on the square; prairie chickens, $3.50 to $4.25 per dozen, retail for 35 cents; venison at from 10 to 12 1/2 cents per pound; squirrels, $1 per dozen, or 10 cents apiece; buffalo at 5 to 6 cents per pound, by the quarter, and wild geese at 50 cents apiece.  We are indebted to J. O'Hara, on Fifth street, for so me of the above information.

     From the Liberty papers we learn that on Sunday evening a man named Wm. Justus went to the house of another man named James Burns for the purpose of pummeling him for some alleged offence.  Justus was very abusive and threatened to kill Burns.  Burns attempted to explain, but Justus would listen to nothing, and finally drew his revolver for the purpose of shooting him, when Burns drew a knife and cut him so badly that he died from the effects of the wounds.  Burns immediately gave himself up.  The coroner's jury, on haring the evidence, found a verdict that Burns had killed Justus in self-defense, and discharged him from custody.  The parties live near the Cameron and North Missouri crossing. 

     Mr. A. L. GLENN has succeeded Mr. S. K. C. LANGWORTHY as carrier of the JOURNAL OF COMMERCE and hereafter will have charge of the city delivery.  He is authorized to collect all subscriptions.  We commend Mr. Glenn to the same courtesies hitherto extended to his predecessors and have reason to believe that the regular and prompt distribution of the paper will be fully secured under his management.

December 10, 1870,

     The city is still swimming in juvenile thieves.

     The calaboose gang was at work on the wood pile at the side of the court house yesterday.

     The blind fiddler and his partner of ossiferous instruments and gong-like voice, held another "swarry" on the square last night.

     Mr. Parks, proprietor of the St. James Hotel, fell down yesterday, on an unstable crossing and dislocated his shoulder.  The dislocation was reduced by Dr. Woods.

     An animated discussion between a man and a woman, on the corner of Main and Fifth streets, last night, was the cause of collecting a crowd.  The parties finding themselves becoming the center of attention, adjourned to a store near by to settle their difficulty.  The man is said to have called the woman a liar.  He wasn't knocked down, and he probably knew he would not be, under the circumstances.

     "I, Samuel Day, do solemnly swear that I will abstain from all intoxicating liquors as a beverage, and I take this oath with the full intent to abide by it, this 9th day of December, 1870.  SAMUEL DAY."  Sworn to and subscribed before J. C. Ranson, Justice of the Peace."

     Yesterday evening the spacious Good Templar's Hall, corner of Eighth and Main street, was filled with Spiritualists and Freethinkers of this city, on the occasion of their sociable.  Dancing and music were the order of the evening, and all present participated in the "light fantastic" with zest.  Prof. Entorf's band furnished the music.  Refreshments were provided during the evening.  These sociables will be continued at least once every two weeks, and sometimes weekly during the winter.

     By the politeness of Conductor Chas. Carr, we were yesterday shown over the Pullman Palace Car "Russia," now running to St. Louis on the North Missouri Railroad.  Entering a vestibule handsomely lighted by a gas burner at night, we find ourselves lost in admiration of the gorgeousness of the finish of the outfit, carvings, lamps, cushions, curtains, and brackets; in a word, every appointment in this palace on wheels.  Near the rear end, we find a snug apartment accommodating four persons, which can be closed and curtained, and made into a charming little drawing room by day, and bed room by night, the very snuggest, coziest place imaginable for a party of choice spirits to have a good time, or for a couple of ladies or a family travelling alone.  The dressing and retiring room for ladies only occupies a corner of the car near this drawing room.  The beds in this car are the best we have ever examined in a sleeping car, having a regular spring mattress to every upper berth, making these which were formerly quite objectionable, now decidedly desirable.  For a nice nap en route we recommend the "Russia."

     We are pleased to notice that our old friend, W. J. Huckett, has returned to the city after many months' absence.  People who have lived in this city any length of time are rarely satisfied to live in any other town.  Huckett has always been a success as a caterer for epicures, and now that he has found his way back to his old stand, the Pacific Restaurant and Oyster Depot, on Third street, he would be glad to have a call from his numerous friends and all who can appreciate a square meal.

     Young men, Attention!  If you want your clothes cared for as at home, patronize the Home Laundry.  Office at Cannon House.

December 9, 1870.

     December.  Moonlight.  You know it, do you?

     Farmers sold hogs on the square yesterday at eight cents per pound.

     Police items are rather dull, so far as newspaper men are concerned.  Only three cases before the police court yesterday.

     Dance on the Levee last night.  Matters quite lively there.

     Brigham Young has sent Hoover & Vaughn a sample of salt made at Salt Lake, which is really beautiful.  It resembles very much the Turk's Island salt, formed as it is in large crystals, but has the appearance of being better.  Mr. Hoover informs us that it can be furnished here cheaper than either the Turk's Island or Ohio river qualities, and another commendable thing that may be said about it, is that it is entirely free from lime or other foreign substance.

     New rails were laid yesterday on the railroad from the bridge to the Union Depot.

     A wedding party from Barry arrived at the Pacific House  yesterday, on their tour of observation.  C.  H. Parrish is the name of the unlucky chap.

     Mark Twain's great sensational map of the "war in Europe" was duplicated on the jaw of an Irish laborer, on Grand avenue last night.  He insulted a comrade, and in the melee that ensued, had his mouth-piece badly battered.

     Last night about 11 o'clock Capt. Phelan, the lately elected Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, had occasion to come down town.  While passing down Walnut street, near the St. James Hotel, he noticed four men approaching him on the sidewalk.  From the appearance of the men, the thought they were drunk and stepped aside to permit them to pass, but instead of passing they moved over to where he was standing, and one of them struck at him.  The stroke was noticed and dodged in time.  The Captain then drew his revolver and prepared to defend himself.  The sight of the revolver worked such a change on the men that they quickly withdrew and left the Captain master of the situation.

     A new hotel and restaurant will be opened to-morrow, at 606 Main street above Sixth, bu Mr. J. Opitz, under the name "The Louisville House."  The house has been thoroughly refitted, renovated, painted, and replenished in excellent style, and will be kept in a first class manner.  The hotel will be ready on Saturday to accommodate borders by the day or week, and with or without lodgings.  Saturday night there will be a grand free lunch, to which everybody is invited.

     The beautiful and highly intelligent Miss Phoebe Couzins appeared last night, at Frank's Hall, before a fair audience in size, and one that could not be excelled for appreciativeness.  Her lecture is decidedly a logical one, and ins filled with pretty sayings and sharp and witty hits.  Miss Couzins rounds off her sentences so nicely and smoothly that it is a most refreshing relief to listen to her.  Aside from the fascinating fact that Miss Couzins is a young lady of rare intellectual ability and wonderful attainments, not only of law but in other branches of useful knowledge, she has other great advantages in knowing how to dress tastefully; in being naturally petite and pretty, having a piquant, and at the same time charmingly, easy manner and a clear and musical voice.  With these rare weapons present full in the face of the audience at first glance, she secures them prisoner at once.  The lady very much pleased those who heard her last night, and the public should feel under obligations to Mr. Sackett, not only for his energy and enterprise in obtaining lecturers, but also for good taste in his selections.

December 8, 1870.

          A gray pony was picked up in front of the St. Louis House, West Kansas, last night.  The owner can have his property by calling at the police station and proving property.

     A well-dressed chap amused himself on Fourth street, around 9 o'clock last night, by trying what filthy language he could use.  Officer Harrigan cut short his speech.  He rested in the lock-up.

     Two new Pullman Palace sleeping cars have just been put on the North Missouri railroad.  They are called the "Russia" and "Cuba," and the construction of them cost $18,000 each.  They are exceedingly beautiful and comfortable.  The "Russia" came up to this city for the first time, yesterday.

     The rain Tuesday night laid the dust so  beautifully that the pulverized hills are not assembling to such an extent in people's eyes.

     A bar-keeper of the Evergreen saloon, on Sixth street, between Main and Walnut, left a boy in charge of the saloon yesterday morning, while he went to his breakfast.  On returning he found the gallant youth had fled, as had $40 in money that had been left in the till.  The boy is said to hail from Lockport, N. Y.  He has a brilliant future before him.

     The usually quiet and staid mule attached to street car No. 2 concluded to distinguish himself by a runaway yesterday afternoon.  While standing at the turn-table on Fourth street the driver found it necessary to absent himself a moment from the car, when his muleship started, dragging the car after him, throwing it off the track and switching it beautifully on the platform north of the market house.  Neither the mule or car sustained any injury.

     Eagan, a party arrested for stealing an ax and a saw from Col. Branch's wood pile on Tuesday evening last, was discharged yesterday morning, Col. Branch refusing to appear against him.  It seems that poverty and cold drove him to commit the act, and the Col. listening to his pleadings for mercy concluded that it was better to permit him to go at large.

     Dr. H. proposed to the blind fiddler, who was discoursing "sweet music" yesterday on the square, that if he would play "Dixie'" and "Hail Columbia" that he would perform an operation on his eyes.  The proposition was accepted.

     At Frank's Hall, Miss Phoebe Couzins to-night will demonstrate what a self-reliant, noble lady can accomplish.  Let everyone hear her.  A section is reserved for sale at the door, for such as were late in securing seats.

December 7, 1870.

     Four new boarders at the calaboose last night.

     It rained quite heavy for a few moments last night.

     Marshal Speer's rogues gallery is increasing.

     McGee street, between 9th and 10th, is being graded.  Tenth street, east of Laurel, is under the shovel.

     There was quite a lively time on Delaware street to-day, caused by a boy making a raid on an apple stand.

     Another huge advertisement board is being erected on the high embankment on Bluff street.

     The parties who were fined $300 a few days since, for erecting a frame building on Main street, are building a brick in the place.

     The School Board have taken measures to have a stone wall placed on the Twelfth street front of the Second Ward school house yard.  The masons have the wall almost completed.  A handsome railway will be run the entire length of the wall to serve as a protection against any accidents to the children.  Steps lead from the yard to the street.

     Mr. Lawrence Barrett will make his first appearance the Coates Opera House this evening as Hamlet.

     The Franco-Prussian war has given some of the youth of our city an idea.  Several of them put this idea into effect yesterday to the sad discomfort of one of their number.  It seems that several of the rising youth of our city had bought three or four toy cannons and a half pound of powder and adjourned to a vacant lot where they built mimic fortifications and placed their cannons in position of bombarding the same.  Of course there were two sides and these were Prussian and French.  The French had two cannons in the fort and the Prussians two on the outside.  The battle began, and for the space of a few seconds raged fiercely, to the no small glee of the boys.  During the heat of the conflict the French magazine, which was in the pocket of one of the boys, blew up, burning a hole in the magazine, and scaring him to such an extent that he fled, leaving the field to the Prussians.  Fortunately he was more frightened than injured.  Boys, if you will play with powder remember that it don't mix with fire.

     Gen. Webb Wilder, editor of the Leavenworth Times, called to see us yesterday, and we were exceedingly glad to see him.  He cannot possibly doubt our more than 32,286 if he comes often, which we hope he will.

     Gen. E. M. Lee, of the Wyoming Tribune, published at Cheyenne, passed through this city yesterday and paid us a visit.  He is enthusiastic concerning his far western home and doubtless pardonably so.

     A gentleman at the Lindell Hotel yesterday at dinner, came out of the dining room, and by accident put on the wrong hat, which was "a world too wide," and it came down to  his neck in a most astonishing manner to him..  Making a frantic snatch at it he soon relieved himself, and after looking hurriedly around to see if any one had witnessed his dilemma, he adjusted his own sleek plug and departed, but a party of gentlemen saw the whole affair, and it was so ludicrous that they will laugh over it many a time hereafter.

December 6, 1870.

     The square was not as lively as usual yesterday.  The streets were well swept, before the besom of the wind.

     On Independence Avenue, Sunday night, a small and untenanted house was blown down.

     Twenty-one carcasses of antelopes were shipped over the B. C. & Q. R. R., yesterday, to one restaurant in Chicago.

     The steamer Mountaineer, on account of the openness of the weather, ventured out from St. Louis for this port several days ago, and was due last night.

     The rumor that George Francis Train is in the city, stopping at the Nelson House, lacks confirmation.

     Hogs are selling at 5 1/2 cents per pound and will be lower yet.  Packing is going on at our local establishments, quite briskly.

     Indian Commissioner Parker, in company with a number of other gentlemen, passed through this city  yesterday, from Washington, en route for the Indian Nation, to attend the council which is to discuss the sectionizing of Indian lands, with a view to individualizing their property therein.

     The night of Sunday was a fearful one.  The wind was "on a high," and all night long shutters banged to and fro, signs creaked as they swung violently about, every loose board clattered, and tunes were whistled through key holes and the corners of the houses.  Grown folks were kept awake all night by the noises that prevailed, and in some instances, by their fears, and the little ones cuddled up and trembled under the bed clothes, for at times the wind blew so strong that in many instances sidewalks were lifted and thrown into the middle of streets, signs, awnings and shutters were thrown down, and glass was blown out of windows.  On Grand avenue several large glass windows were blown out of the fronts of buildings.  Much damage was also done to show windows at the Garden City House and other establishments in the Addition.

     Earlier Sunday night, at the residence of Mr. Waldauer, quite a number of our  young Jewish friends enjoyed a pleasant party, the occasion being the betrothal ceremonies of Mr. David Loeb and Miss Henrietta Waldauer.  During the evening, Mr. L. H. Leon, on the part of the G. & H. Club, presented Mr. Loeb a set of resolutions of congratulation from the club, of which the latter is a member.

     Thomas J. Bigger, West Kansas, received another car load of buffalo meat yesterday afternoon, and is selling it at the low price of five cents per pound.

     $10 reward.  Martin Keck, proprietor of the Gem Billiard Hall, on Grand Avenue, offers the aforementioned reward for the return of his gray pony.

December 4, 1870.

     The cattle handling business for the season is about played out.

     Although this is fair weather it doesn't suit the fair; there is too much dust.

     Yesterday the city was livelier than usual, even for Saturday, which is always a lively day.

     A Chicago thief was arrested in this city yesterday, and be forwarded to his proper venue to-morrow.

      No one would have known by the external appearance of affairs that there was an election in town yesterday, yet such was the case.

     To-day, doubtless, many people in this city will remember that yesterday was the day for the water works election, when they learn that the water works were defeated.  It would have taken a two-third vote to carry it, and it stands at 197 for, and 134 against.

     Young Men, Attention!  If you want your clothes cared for as at home, patronize the Home Laundry.  Office at Cannon House.

     During the present week, the saloon and restaurant under Watkins' bank at the corner of Second and Main streets, has changed hands, and is now under the charge of Messrs. Harry St. Clair and T. B. Duffy.  It will hereafter be conducted in the most gentlemanly manner, and will in al probability become the resort of all those who want a glass of superior wine or other liquor, or a nice lunch at night, which is always set there.
     Any one could see a pretty brunette, and a very pretty one, too, in the City Court yesterday morning.  Miss C. A. Brunette, besides Mattie Nilson and Ella Cahn were there, and they each paid $29.60 for the privilege of being there, as representatives of the demi monde.  Nearly the other half of the world was drunk that  night but the officers only succeeded in grappling J. Divine and James Meredith, who paid up each $5.60.  Annie Grebbling and Martha Nilson were each requested to pay $6.60 for indulging in language not classic.  The former paid up but the latter couldn't and accordingly went to jail.  John Sanford was fined $4.60 for carrying a concealed weapon.

     Monday and Tuesday evenings, Mr. Pope and Miss Gray will make their re-appearance as Snorkey and Laura Courtland in Augustin Daly's great sensation, "Under the Gaslight."  The play will be produced with the new scenery by J. G. Metha.  The thrilling mechanical effects, including the lightning express train, which never fails to rouse an audience to the highest pitch of excitement, and a completeness of cast never excelled in the country.

December 3, 1870.

     Mr. Wm. Long has contracted with W. Meyer for a family monument, to cost $1,250.  It is a marble obelisk.

     Kansas City and Westport have been more closely linked to each other by another connection in the shape of a fine large new omnibus, which will run regularly between the two cities.

     Squire Ranson is improving his office to a great extent.  He is having a walnut railing extended across the room so as to divide the law off from contamination with the public; has a long new table covered with the prettiest green oil-cloth, and is adding a large lot of pigeon-holes to his collection in order to accommodate his growing business.

     Early yesterday morning, just as those who get out the daily papers were going home from the night's work, a fire broke out in the block of frame buildings on Fifth street, between Main and Delaware, south side, which resulted in their total destruction.  The buildings belonged to James Orr, and were occupied by Pat. Mahan for a saloon, which was called the "Arbor," and up stairs by a physician, who had his office there.  A man named Burke also occupied a part of the building with his family as a residence, and they barely escaped with their lives, losing every thing they had in the way of household furniture, clothing, etc.  The fire completely cleared out the wooden buildings on that part of the face of Fifth street, and so endeth frame tenements there.  When filled up, according to the city ordinances, the structures will not be other than stone or brick.  The loss in this fire will amount to about three or four thou sand dollars, the most of which is secured by insurance in the Kansa City Fire and Marine Insurance Company -- the saloon-keeper having $1,300 and the proprietor of the building $2,000.

     The funeral of Lizzie Barton, the "unfortunate" who died Thursday at the Grant House, took place yesterday.  There were twenty-two well filled carriages in the procession, and the burial casket was of the finest pattern made.

     Delaware street between Fourth and Fifth, turned out yesterday morning on a grand rat hunt.  The result was a member of the cheese-eating family which would have weighed three pounds, enough to make a "Chinee" happy for a week.

     The police are on the war-path.  Under the direction of Officer Dowd, they made a sort of a sortie on the houses of ill-fame last nig ht, and up to the hour of writing they had brought in Mag. White's "ranche," consisting of the madame herself, Maud Malcolm, alias "the Beautiful Blonde," and Jessie True.  The party gave security for their appearance to answer and went home.  It seems that our guardians of the peace have taken it into their heads of late to remove from the city, as far as possible, all manner of vice, and it is a commendable undertaking, for which they will receive the warm gratitude of all good citizens.  The whole truth is that our efficient police by their energetic work have made this one of the most orderly cities in the country, and they should be given all the credit they deserve for their work, which has heretofore been too sparingly given.

     $10 reward is offered by the JOURNAL office for sufficient evidence to commit any one of the numerous newspaper thieves who are daily pilfering the morning papers from people's doors.