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X1IE . Is ORTII .CAROLINA STANDARD SATURDAY-JAN'Y. '17,- 1857. To amend the t0(A Chapter of the BetiteA Code, en UtUd " Seven" , : : REPORT. ' l!he cbttrmktee of Finance Lave bad under consid eration the various subjects in relation to the public Jrevenue, and likewise the internal improvement pol icy of the State, so far as the same relates to, and is Connected with, the public treasury. To a full understanding of the financial condition of the State, the committee have thought it most ad visable to present in one view the true state of the public debt, with the amount necessary to meet the accruing interest thereon for the next two years. To that end we lay before you that portion of the treasurer's report bearing upon the subject, with such remarks and suggestions as seem appropriate to the importance of the questions under consider ation : The State debt, as shown. v '. by the report referred to, is $3,204,215.40 Estimated disbursements for the year 1857, $450,912.92 Estimated disbursements for 1858, 477,092.92 $923,0115.84 Estimated receipts for '57, $387,075 45 Estimated receipts for 5S, 402,4 1 3 34 $790,088.79 Showing a deficit for 185? of " " " " lS5Sof 03,237.47 74.G79.58 Total deficit for the next two years, $ 137,917.05 The committee cannot well anticipate the happen ing of any event that will materially affect the above estimates; but in order to provide ihe deficit which will happen in 1857 and 1858, as shown by the es timates aforesaid ; and likewise t provide for such other demands as may be made upon the treasury, and save harmless the faith and credit of the Stale, do not hesitate to recommend an increase of the public taxes. The question necessarily presents itself, as to the best mode of equalizing the burdens of government, so as to bear fairly and justly .upon all iis citizens. The committee are fully apprised that there is a great diversity of opinion upon this subject, and have endeavored, as far as practicable, to reconcile those diverse opinions in the bill proposed. In the estimates proposed, it is believed that an increase of revenue will be realized of one hundred thousand dollars, which additional sum would place the treasury in easy circumstances, and meet prompt ly any obligation likely to fall upon the treasury within the next two years. With Ihis purpose in view we propose to increase the land and poll tax twenty-five per cent., and all the other suhj'-cts of taxation now embraced in the revenue law a like increase of twenty-five per cent, and upward. We are not unmindful of the fact that there is some uncertainty in any basis of calculation that can be made, when resting upon contingencies that cannot be foreseen, but the estimates of that character are small in amount. The land and polls are the only certain and reli able source for raising revenue; nevertheless, it would be manifestly unjust to rely entirely upon that source. Wrcalth, in every variety of form, should be made to bear its ratio in the general charge and expenditure of government. The bill which accompanies this report proposes to raise the tax on land from twelve to fifteen cents on the hundred dollars value; likewise io increase the poll tax from forty to fifty cents; these two sub jects alone will raise an additional sum of fifty-one thousand two hundred and seventy-eight dollars. A further increase on money at interest, dividends and profits of four cents, instead of three, as now provided, would raise some seventeen thousand dol lars, and it is believed that if a proper enlistment could be obtained of dividends and profits a very considerable additional amount would be obtained in that way. And a further increase on capital in merchandise to one-third of one per cent instead of one-fourth of one per cent would raise some fifteen thousand dol lars, and a like ratio of increase on all other sub jects of taxation would increase the revenue equal to, if not considerably over, one hundred thousand dollars. It will, be perceived that in the above estimates no mention is niade of dividends arising from, works of internal improvements, while it is believed our pub lic works are in a healthy and sound condition, and must, in a short time, be in a situation to declare considerable dividends. Still, from their very na ture, they are subject to so many casualties, and their dividends so fluctuating it would be much safer to transfer their income to a sinking fund, to meet the principal of the public debt as it falls due. The treasury would then rely upon the land and poll tax, money at interest, dividend sind profit, mer chant's tax, &c, as a sure, steady and reliable fund to meet the State's liabilities. The books and vouchers in the comptroller's of fice are in course of examination, and will be repor ted on as soon as finished. The committee take pleasure in saying, that the duties in the office of the public treasury, which of late have becune very laborious and responsible, have been discharged" by Mr. Courts in a manner that entitles him to much cred t for the commend able zeal displayed in preserving the faith and credit of the Stale. If the bill rcporied by the committee be adopted there can scarcely Ue a reasonable doubt of realizing therefrom at least half a million of dollars as a per manent source of revenue; a sum amply sufficient", to meet all demands likely to fail upon the treasury, and leave a large amount by way of dividends Irom our public works, to be applied as the wisdom of the Legislature may determine. All which is mp tfully submitted. GEO. D. BOYD, ChairnCn. AMENDMENTS. Sec. 2d, to read : Theic shall be apnually levied upon all real prop erty, with the improvements thereon, including en tries of land, fifteen cents on every hundred dollars value thereof. Sec. 3d, to read : . . If any person shall sell his real property, and shall have no estate within reach of the sherilf to satisfy the taxes imposed thereon, at the time when they become demandable, the land shall be bound for the same; and the land shall be bound in like manner for all the taxes, both real and personal, due from the original owner. Sec. 4th, to read : Upon every free male, between twenty-one and forty-fie years of age, a tax of fifty cents; ami up on every slave of either sex, between twlve and fif ty years of age, a tux f Jiliy cents shall be paid by the owner; unless when ihe imn.r may be a non resident, then tl.e hirer shall list and pay the tax : Provided, lunretcr. Thai the loui.ty court may ex empt from a poll lax curb po. r and infirm persons, and disabled and insane slaves, as they miydicJare and record lo be fit . bpcts for ex mpiion : Provi ded, further. Thai liir tax i-upoxed by law for the Insane Aslnm l Noitli-Caio 'ma, ol one and three fourth cents on cv.-vv hundred dollars v.i th of laud, and five and one-fourth cents on every taxable poll, is herebv discontinued. Sec". 5th, to read : ' Upon endi toil-gate of a turnnjuke road, a tax of fifteen dollars shall he paid by every owner, and a tax of five dollars per gate by every person who mav be permitted to erect gates across a highway : and a tax equal to .seven times the urgest toll by the owner demanded upon every public- ferry ; and a tax of fifteen dollars on every toll bridge. Sec. 6th, to read : Upon every stud-horse or jack-ass, let to mares for a price, a tax of six dollars, unless the value of the highest season for one "e shall exceed that sum, in which case a tax of the highest p ice shall be paid, and they shall be listed by lcnt wn. Owners residing out oPthe;Sutc, of such . a.e kept within the same to be let to mares, "hall pay the tax forthwith to the sher.ff of any county in which the animal may stand ; and in case of failure to do so, the shcrelf shall forthwith d.strain and sell it for the tax. Sec. 19th, to read: . Upon every dollar more than six dollars of net in terest not previously listed, either received during the year next preceding the first of April, or during ihaKe accrued, or converted into principal so as to become aa interest bearing subject, (whether de mandable or not,) on money owed by solvent debt- v.er mey may reside, a tax of four cents. Sec. 20th, to read , v.- ... Upon every dollar more than six dollars of net di- vidend or profit, not previously listed, actually due or received during the year lending on the said first day of April, upon money invested in steam vessels or twenty tons burden and upward, or in ttocl of any kind, or in thnret of any incorporated or trad ing company, - whether in "or out of the State ; and herein shall be included all bank dividends, bond and eertificalet of debt of any other State or coun try, or of any public corporation created by this or any other Statea tax of four cents. Sec. 22d, to read : . Upon every hundred dollars employed in buying and selling -slaves, a tax of thirty-three and one-third cents; upon all sums of one hundred dollars and upward, employed in ony other species of trade, a tax of twenty cent ; whether these trades be carried on with cash or upon credit Sec. 23d, to read : Upon each sulky, gig, bnggy, barouche, carriage and other pleasure vehicles, in use by the owner, or by his consent, of the value of fifty dollars and up wards, there shall be paid a lax of one per cent up on the value thereof. (2.J Upon all gold and silver plate and ornamen tal jewelry in use, axcept ornamental jewelry worn by females, of as great value as twenty-five dollars, one and one-fourth per cent, on the value ; on each go'd watch in use, one dollar and twenty-five cents; on each silver or other watch in use, thirty cents: (3.) On each harp in use, two dollars and fifty cems; on each piano-forte in use, one dollar and fifty rents: (4 ) On every pistol, except such as are used ex clusively for mustering, and on every bowie-knife, one dollar and- twenty-five cents; on dirks and sword canes, sixty-five cents : Provided however, That of said arms only such shall be taxable as at sometime within the year have been used, worn, or carried about the person of the owner, or of some other, by his consent : (5.) On all licensed retailers of wines, cordials, or spirituous liquors, thirty dollars ; on all gold headed walking canes in use by the owner, one dollar ; on all silver headed walking canes in use by the owner, fifty cents: (G.) All keepers of houses of public entertain ment, whose receipts amount to one thousand dol lars or less, shall pay a tax of ten dollars, and one half of one per cent, additional tax on all sums over that amount ; Provided, - That nothing herein con- tamcdshaU authorize the keepers of such houses to retail spirituous liquor, without taking a license to sell the same from the county courts, amjl paying lax for the same : (7.) On each public billiard table, one hundred and twenty-five dolhirs, except when there are more than one kept by the same individual, in the same room ; in that case, a tax of one hundred and twenty-live dollars shall bo paid on the fir$, and sixty five dollars on each additional table ; on each private billiard table, twenty-five dollars : (8.) On each public bowling alley, commonly called nine pin or ten pin, or by what other name called, thirty dollars ; and for each additional bowl ing alley, fifteen dollars : (0.) each livery stable, twenty-live dollars : (10.) On each pack playing cante thirty-five cents, to be paid by the seller; and every merchant, shop keeper, retailer, inn or ordinary or tavern keeper, or public dealer in goods, wares, "ntld merchandise, or other thing, sha'l list the number of packs he may have sold during the year" (11.) On all ped!ers of patent soap, medicines for killing crows, .chinches, and other vermin, for the curing of head-ache, tooth-ache, or corns, and ali patent medicines, razors, razor-strops, a tay of ten dollars in cvckv county" in which they may so ped dle : (12.) On each mortgage deed, marriage contract, and deed iivtrust, made to secure debts and liabili ties, which shall be registered, one dollar, which the register sutH pay ; the register shall not be obliged to record any such HccA, !;nless the tax thereon is paid to him and he shall endorse thereon "die pay" tnent of the tax. and shall render on oath to the sher tT at the same tinTe other taxablcsare listed, the number of such deeds by him registered in the pre ceding year, and pay over to the sheriff at the time of listing other property, all such moneys by him received, under the penalty of one hundred dollars;, and the sheriff shall account for the same, as other public taxes : (13.) On each marriage license, the sum of one dollar, which shall be paid by the clerk ; and no clerk 'shall issue such license, unless the tax there on shall be paid to him ; and he shall render on oath to the sherilf at the Fame time other taxable are listed, the number of such licenses by him grant ed in the preceding year, and pay over to the sheriff at the time of listing other property, all such mo neys by him received, nndcr the penalty of two hun dred dollars ; and the sherilf shall account for the same, as other public taxes : (14.) The taxes herein imposed on retailers, or dinaries and inn, and tavern keepers, pedlars, bil-" hard tables, bowling alljs, and livery tables, shall annually be paid in advance to the sheriff of the county, who shall giant a license for the same. The applicant for license to retail spirituous liquors, or to keep an ordinary or inn, having first obtained an order therefor, as provideil in the chapter entitled, oidinaries and inns;" and any pcrjoii offending against this provisions, shall pay a double tax, to be collected by distress. ,' Sec. 24th, to read : . On eveiy merchant, merchant tailor' or jeweler who shall sell goods, wares and merchandise, (other than ready made clothing,) one-third of one per cent, and upon the amount of purchase of ready made clothing of every kind, (whether for male or female,) one per cent upon his capital. On every merchant, apothecary, druggist, or other dealer, con signee, or agent, selling a., wholesale or retail, spiri tuous liquors, wines, or cordials not of the manu facture of this State, seven percent, and upon those made in this State, six per cent, upon the capital so employed, to be paid by the seller. On every mer chant or apothecary selling drugs, medicines, or nostrums, as agent of the owner, it a not: -resident, thiity-thrcc and one third per cent of the value to be paid by ihe Feller. On every commission mer chant, two per cent, on the commissions received by him. On every auctioneer, five per cent, upon the value of all goods sold by him : Provided, That no tax shall be levied upon sales made under an execu tion, or order issuing from any court, or from a jus tice of the peace, nor by an executor, administrator, or trustee. The capital aforesaid shall oe the ag gregate sum of the purchases of goods, wares and merchandise, made within the year preceding the first day of April, and herein shall be included the amount of the purchases of goods, wares and mer chandise, and spirituous liquors, or other thing, not herein particularly enumerated, whether of this or any other State. Thccommi-sions received by each comm'ssion merchant shall be computed by the same time, and also the amount of such articles not of the manufacture of this State, as arc sent here to be sold by the consignee or agents of the owners. All distillers of spirits of turpentine shall pay an an nual tax of three dollars on every distillery of a ca pacity of ten barrels and under. On every distillery of a capacity between ten and fifteen barrels, an an nual tax of four dollars and fifty cents. On every distillery of a capacity between fifteen and twenty barrels, an annual tax of six dollars and fifty cents., and on every one of a larger capacity than twenty barrels, an annual tax of twelve dollars and fifty cents. All the tax contained in this section shall be listed on oath with the sherilf and paid as mer chant's tax. Sec. 26th, to read: Every such merchant, merchant tailor, jeweler, or dealer in spirituous liquors, engaged in business in. any county on the first day of April, shall apply to the sheriff of such county, and on paying the tax on bis capital estimated as aforesaid, (the amount of which he shall swear to in an affidavit subscribed and made before the sheriff.) shall take a receipt therefor, and be allowed ta carry on his business. Every person opening such store afte.r the first day of April shall pay the tax, or shall execute and deposit with the sheriff a bond with good security, payable to the Stato of North-Carolina, to pay the tax on the amount -of all his purchases, including his present stock, also, including amount of purchase of spirituous liquors, to the first day of April next succeeding, and therefor shall take from the sheriff. a receipt for such tax or bond, and bo allowed to carry on bis business. " Sec. 28th, to read : " - - . - Every wholesale, commission, or retail merchant,, merchant tailor, jeweler, or dealer in spirituous li quors, who shall sell any goods, wares, merchandise, or spirtti'ous liquors, without first taking the receipt . of the sheriff, as in any of the foregoing sections of this chapter is provided, shall pay an additional tax or one hundred dollar?, which the sheriff shall col lect forthwith by distress, with the other tax im posed on such merchant ' ". Sec. 29th, to read : ; ' There shall be paid in advance to the sheriff of each county a tax of forty dollars by every person who shall offer for sale or peddle in that county, any riding vehie'e not of the manufacture of this 'State, and on all horses and mules brought into the State for sale, whether by citizens of the State or others, there shall be paid to the sheriff a tax of twelve dol lars and fifty cents for each county in which any sale of such horses or mules may- be made : Pro tided, That when any person shall offer for sale any vehicle purchased for his own use, he shall not bo subject to the above tax. Sec. SOlh, to read : Every person, (whether by agency or otherwise,) engaged in buying and selling riding vehicles, not of the manufacture of this State, shall pay an an nual tax of one per cent, on the sums of their pur chases of such riding vehicles for the year preceding the first day of April, in like manner as merchants and merchant tailors. And every manufacterer of such riding vehicles shall pay In like manner as mer chants and merchant tailors,, a tax of one-half of one per cent, on the sums of their purchases of any pieces or parts of such riding vehicles bought out of the State. And all other manufacturers, of whatso ever calling, shall pay a tax of one-half of one per cent upon the sums of their purchases made but of the State. Sec. 35th, to read : . Every person who shall prove to the court that he is of good moral character, and that he is a na tive or naturalized citizen of the United States, shall be entitled to such order from the county court, and on paying to the sherilf of the county for which the order was granted, a tax or Torty dollars, and tak ing a receipt therefor, specifying the purpose and county, may peddle in that county for one year, either on land or water, artiae-, parts of machinery or other thing of the kind mentioned in the preced ing section : Prodded, That when such licensed peddler shall peddle altogether on the waters on the south side of Albemarle sound, ami tributaries en tering that side of the sound, (Roanoke and Cashic excepted,) he shall pa' a tax of six dollars only : (2.) That any person may freely peddle live stock, (except horses and mules) vegetables, fruits, oysters or fresh fish, ihe growth or produce of the United Stites. (3.) That any person a citizen, and for twelve months a resident of the State, miy freely peddle books, charts, maps, philosophical appartus and music prints. (4.) That two persons shall not ppddle under one license under any pretense of being partners (5.) That no licensed peddier shall sell any goods or other thing at auction without incurring the duty on acution sa cs. (0.) That any person who shall procure houses for carrying on a tempo arv sale of goods, at one or more public places in the State, shall bo deemed a peddler. Sec. S'Jth, to read, On surgeo.i dentists, practicing physicians, prac ticing lawyers, State and county officers, persons in the employment of incorporated or private com - panics, or of other individuals, ami all other persons (except ministers of the gospel,) whose practice, salaries, or fees, or all of them together, shall yield an annual gross income of five hundred dollars, there shall be levied a tax of five dollars, and for all sums over five hundred dollars, there shall be levied one per cent Sec. 40th, to read : Upon each license to attorneys to practice law in the county or superior court, fifteen dol.ars, to be paid at the time of obtaining license, to the clerk of to the clerk at Raleigh, shall be pai-1 by him into the public treasury ; and so much as shall be re ceived by the clerk at Morganton, shall be expended by him under the direction of the court, in the pur chase of books for the library at that place; and the clerk shall be entitled to six per cent, for receiving and accounting for said money. Sei-. 4 1 si, to lead: Upon all insurance companies in this State, an an nual tax of one hundred dollars; and upon all in surance companies in oi porated out of the State, an annual tax ol one hundred dollars for each county in which an agency may be established ; the tax shall be paid in advance to the sheriff of the county where the company may transact its business; and if the lax be not paid in advance, the same shall be two hundred dollars, which the sheriff shall forthwith collect: each express company shall pay a tax of ten dollars for every county in which an office or agency shall be established, and in case cf failure to pay the sherilf in advance, a forfeiture of a double tax shall be imposed by the sheriff: and on all agen cies ol banks incorporated out of the State, a tax of five hundred dollars; the tax shall be paid in advance to the she -ill, and in case of failure, shall pay a adou'ilclax. Six. 42il, to read : Upon every company of circus riders or equestrian performers, and upon every company or person, who for reward hall exhibit any collection of animals commonly known as a mauagciie, an annual tax for each county, wherein they may exhibit, of seventy live dollars. Sec. 43d, to read ; Upon every company of stage or theatrical players, slight of han.-i performers, rope-dancers, tumblers, wii edancers, or company exhibiting for reward, ar ti'icial cuiiosties of any kind, (models of useful in vcn:io:is excepted,) and on eaeh one of such persons, when they perform or exhibit alone, an annual tax for each county wherein they may exhibit, of lorty dollars; and where two or more companies joiu -together, fifty dollars for each company thus connect ed; aud upon every person or company -exhibiting any other natural curiosity, not already mentioned, an annual tax for each county wherein it may be ex hibited, of twenty dollars. Sec. 44th, to read : Upon every person, or company of singers, dan cers, etheopian sercnaders, or performers on musical instruments, who, for ihe public amusement, shall sing, dance,sercnade, or play on musical instruments, for reward; and upon every other public exhibition for amusement, exhibited for reward ; and upon every one who lectures for reward, an annua, tax of ten dollars; unless the reward be devoted'fo some lite rary or charitable use in the State. : ' Sec. C5th, to read: The comptroller, at the public cost shall have pre pared and printed forms of tax lists, with all the ar icles and subjects of taxation to be listed under this chapter, or any future law, mentioned separately over the heads of parallel columns, in which the amount or quantity or description of each article or subject to be listed is to be set down ; and he shall annually furnish to each county court clerk, two or more copies thereof, for eaeh collection district, as in the opinion of said comptroller may bo deemed necessary. Sec. 69th, to read: The clerk, on or before the first day of June next, after the lists are returned, shall return to the comp troller an abstract of the same, showing the number of acres of land and their value, the valuation of town lots, and the number of white and black polls, and specify every other subject of taxation, and the aggregate tax on the whole. At the same time, the clerk shall return to the comptroller an abstract of the lists of the county and poor taxes paid in his county, setting forth, separately, the number of 'taxable white and black polls, the amount paid on each hun dred dollars value of land, and also the gross amount of taxes of every kind levied for county purposes: and the comptroller, at the public cost, shall furnish the e'erks with blank forms, and also make out a general statement of each subject of taxation paid in the State. ; Sec. 73d, to read: In estimating the value, the board may call and swear witnesses to testify thereto; and they shall take into the estimate any fishery appurtenant there to, or used with the land ; also, all' mines or metal, stone or coal, -or other matter, discovered or suppos ed to exist, whereby the price of the land is enhan ced ; also, in ascertaining the value of improvements on real property, all machinery and fixtures for man ufacturing purposes, shall be taken into the. estimate. And when the same tract or body or land shall be in one or more districts, the board, where the owner -resides, shall ascertain the Value of the whole tract ; . and if the owner resides in neither of the districts, the board where ihe grcoter part may lie, shall value the whole. And the board shall annex to their re turn of their valuation the following -affidavit, sub scribed by them, and sworn before and certified by some justice of the peace : We ..solemnly swear that the foregoing valuation of land, with the im provements thereon,' and privileges thereto attiched, made by us, is, in our judgments and belief the ac tual value thereof in cash; and that in making the same, we have endeavored to do equal justice to. the public and to the individuals concerned : so help us, God." Sec. 77th, to read : In like manner if any one shall be charged with more poll or other suhj ct of taxation than he is lia ble for. the court shall direct the clerk to render a true account thereof: a statement of all which ceitificates so given shall be returned to the comp troller, who shall credit the shet hf with the amount of the same. Sec. lC7th, to read : The sherilf, and all receivers of public moneys, shall yearly settle their accounts with the cnmptrnl ler, between the last day of June and the first day of October, (unless where the settlements of such persons may be especially directed to be made in another manner, or at another time,) so that it may be known what sum each one ought to pay into the treasury; and the comptroller shall forthwith teport to the. public treasurer the amount due from each ac countant, setting forth therein (if a sherilf account) the amount due from the sheriff to each fund : and therefor the treasurer 'shall raise an account against such person and debit him accordingly. Sec 110th, to read: The sherilf shall return, upon oath, to the court of pleas and quarter ressions of his count', at the term next preceding the time at which he may settle with the comptroller, a list of all moneys which he may have received from the clerks of court, or as double taxes, from taxes imposed on unlisted pro perty, or on merchants, merchant tailors, jewelers, licensed retailers by small measure, houses of public entertainment, ordinary or inn keepers, billard ta bles, bowling alleys, stage p'ayers, slight of hand performers, rope dancers, tumbler.-:, wire dancers, circi.s riders, cqucsir'au pes formers, exhibitors of na tural or ai tilical curiosities, apothecaries, druggists, non-resident, owneis of s'udiiorses ami jackasses, horses and mules brought into the State for sale, sel lers of carriages, bujrgks, and other riding vehicles manufacturers of riding vehicles.on the sums of the purchases bought out of the State of any pieces or parts of such riding vehicles, and on all other manufactures, upon thj sums or amount of their purchases made out of the State p.illais, bro kers, insurance companies, agencies cf hunks in corporated out of the State, exh bitors of menageries, s'.ngers, dancers, elhiopian serenadeis, pertormers for reward on nms c'-.-d instruments, and other ex hibitions for pubi c aim s -n e t, dealers jnspir ituous liquors, livery stables, turpen'in: distil lers, county registers, auctioneers, commission mer chants, and on any and all other subjects for which he ought to account Sec, 113th,' to read : The Clerk, on application of the sheriff, shall de liver 'to him a true abstract of such return, which the sheriff shall deliver to the comptroller when he settles his accounts. And if any sheriff shah fail to deliver such abstract to the comptroller, the comp troller shall add to the taxes for which such slier iii is liable one thousand dollars, and so repoit his ac count to the treasurer. That persons who shall sell one gallon or less of spirituous liquors, w ine, or conlials.at any one time, j shall be deemed retailers, except manufactuiers and ! druggists, and other persons who may seil for inedi- ; cinal purposes, and merchants whose investments on ; the same shall exceed live hundred dollars, who ! shall pay six per cent ou the amount of their in- j vestments. LEGISLATURE OF NORTH CAROLINA, j senate: Monoat, Jan. 12, 1857. Mr. W. II. Thomas, from the committee on inter- ; nal improvement, reported favorably to the bill providing for the western extension of the N. O. railroad. On motion of Mr. Clark, this bill was made the i order of the diy for Thursday next, 12 o'clock, at which time the Senate will resolve itself into a com mittee of the whole on the consideration of said bill. Mr. White of Gaston, asked that the report on the western extension be printed. Concurred in. Mr. Thomas also reported on s several turnpike roads. " " Message received from the House of Commons, transmit! in;r appointments of directors for the lu natic asylum, and asking the concurrence ortheSe- i nate. Concurred in. The bill to establish the county or Alleghany was ,: taken up on its second rcadit g. Mr. Iol moved to postpone the same indefinitely, j which was not agreed to whereupon, a lengthy de- j bate ensued. i The bill was finally rejected 27, ot 19. Message from his Excellency, transmitting from jj the House, accompanied by a report from Maj. i Gwynn, on the Deep river improvement, with prop- j osition to print. Concurred in. Mr. Holt offered a resolution calling on the pre- j sident of the CapcFcar and Deep River Navigation ; Company, for a report on ihe financial condition of j said company. Adopted. 1 Mr. Gorrell introduced a memorial from the Club- ; foot anil Harlow creek canal company. Referred. Mr. Mills introduced a bill to establish a normal ! school in the county of Polk. The bill introduced by Mr. Houston of Duplin, to j remodel the courts of pleas, was taken up and read the second time. The bill provides for establishing courts of pleas, to be presided over by county ' judges, to be elected by the people. Authorizes ap- ' peals only to the supreme court, &c. Mr. Eaton opposed the bill. It would be hiking away the powers now enjoyed by the county courts and contrary to the constitution; woud provide for the election of an additional judicial officer by the the people. Mr. E. c'.id not be'.ieve the system of electing judges by the people worked well; and re ferred to Virginia and other States as proof of this assertion. Mr. E. did not like the principles con tained in the bill, and objected to it in detail. Mr. Houston had introduced the . bill because a change in these courts was demanded. He had con versed with numerous gentlemen of intelligence, and not one had offered an objection to his bill. Mr. II. could not speak for the whole State; but the section with which . he was acquainted, complained of the inellicitiency of the present system of the county courts. Magistrates, as a general thing, were not competent to preside, though he was well aware they intended to dispense justice, and acted honestly, and in accordance with their cons'ruction of the law. Mr. H. referred to the tedious process of obtaining a final decision in important cases, un der the present law. His bill took an appeal to the highest tribunal, at whose hands a speedy decision was expected. Mr. H. was ready t t so Tor any change to get rid of the abuse now suffered by the people. Mr. II. denied the charge of its provision for electing a judge by the people to be unconstitu tional. The constitution distinctly referred tojndges of the superior courts, and not to county courts. Mr. II. referred to the fact of Judges Hadger, Ruffin, Settle and others, presiding over county courts, be cause they did it from a love of justice, and this alone prompted them to prtsido over these disor ganized bodies. He did not bthevethat any of these disinterested gentlemen could be induced to accept a judgship in any of our couits. He was willi' g, and preferred, that tho bill should be so amended as to refer it to the magistrates of each coujIv for their adoption or rejection. . : The bill was rejected yeas 1 1, nays 81. Mr. Gorrell introduced a bill to repeal the 82nd section of the 60ih chapter of the revised code. '. The bill to incorporate the Shepherd's Poiut land " company, was read the first time. Mr. Boyd introduced a bill to repeal the law fix ing the time for the meeting of the .General Assem bly. Referred. Mr. J. B. Jones introduced, a bill to incorporate the Currituck Steamboat Company. . Referred. Mr. Coleman introduced several memorials, which were referred. Senate then adjourned till to-morrow 10 o'clock. HOUSE OF COMMONS. On motion of Mr. Lewis, of Wake, a message was sent to the Senate transmitting appointments for commissioners for the Lunatic Asylum. On motion of Mr. Humphreys, the committe on public buildings was requested to inquire into the expediency of adopting means to warm the rooms of the capitol. Mr. Hill, of Halifax, offered a resolution that the House take a recess each evening from half past five until seven, and set until 10 o'clock. Mr. Outlaw opposed the resolution. Mr. Hill, of Stokes, moved to amend, by inserting five o'clock, which being accepted by the mover, the resolution was adopted yeas 77, nays 29. The following bills were introduced, read, and ap propriately referred. Air. Hargrove, a bill to incorporate the town of Townville, in Granville county. Mr. Meares, a bill to incorporate the N. C. Gas Coal Mining and transportation company. Mr. Leach, of Davidson, a bill to incorporate the Bank of Lexington. Mr. Meares, a bill to incorporate the Vulcan min ing and manufacturing company. Mr. Meares, a bill to incorporate the Tuscarora mining and manufacturing company. Mi. Meares, a bill to incorpoiatc the Excelsior mining and manufacturing company. Mr. Pearson, a bill to lay off rind establish a road from Childsville to Piedmont springs, in Yancey, Watauga and Ilu-ke couutics. Mr. Johnson, a hill to amend 85th section, 34th chapter of the Revised Code, concerning slaves. Mr. Bynmn, a bill to regulate the fees or cleiks and masters in equity, on the sal of real estate. Mr. Rumley, a bill to incorporate the Carolina City steam navigation company. Mr. Davidson, a bill to require sheriffs and other officers to advertise sales in the newspapers. Mr. Bynum, a bill to incorporate the Gulf and Morrison Railroad company. Mr. Sharpc moved to reconsider the vote indefi nitely postponing the bill relative to the coupon bonds of the North Caiolina Railroad Company. Mr. Baxter opposed the reconsideration. He con sidered the House ought not to be troubled any more with this company's affairs ; they ought to re ly on their own resources. Mr. Bridgers supported the motion in order to have an opportunity lo amend the bill. A fler some remai ks from Mr. Sharpe, in support of his inot'on, Mr. Lewis, of Wake, spoke in favor of reconsideration., as the interests of the State were so deeply involved. Mr. Erwin supported the motion, on the ground of this road being a great State work. Mr. Leach, -of Davidson, supported the motion, but did not consider it a party question. The motion to reconsider was adopted, yeas Gl, nays 49. On motion of Mr. Leach, the bill was referred to the joint select committee. The House rejected several motions to make spe cial orders of the day in favor of certain bills. On motion of Mr. Hill, of Stokes, the bill to in corporate the N. C. ami Piedmont Railroad com pany, was ordered to be printed. The adjourned debate upon the Mechanic's lien bill was resumed. Mr. Ilenbury withdrew his amendment offered on Saturday, and offered a substitute, giving contract ors a prior claim. Rejected. Mr. Hester moved as an amendment, that Law yers be held ace&rtnlablc for bad advice to clients. Adopted. . " ..' Mr. Scott offered an amendment, which was ac cepted by Mr. Lew is. Mr. Benbury very strongly opposed the bill. Messrs. Erwin and Jones advocated the passage of the bill. Mr. Waddell offered an amendment confining the operation of the bill to corporate towns, which he afterwards withdrew, but it was renewed by Mr. Long. Mr. Hill, of Halifax, moved to lay the bill on the table, which was adopted yeas 02. nays 49. The special order of the day being the bill to amend the charter of the Wilmington, Charlotte and Rutherford Rulroad company, Mr. Mcar4& addressed the House in support of the banking interests of the State, and argued in favor of internal improvements. Mr. Meares occupied the attention of the House, until the hour of recess. AFTEKXOOX SESSIONS The rules were suspended, and the following bills passed their second and third readings: A bill to establish Superior courts in Harnett county. A bill to authorize the public treasurer to issue coupon bonds of the value of five hundred dollars. A bill concerning the militia of Union county. Mr. Humphrey moved the bill concerning the navigation of Trent river, be made the order of the day on Thursday next Adopted. On motion of Mr. Rand, the bill to revise and con solidate the charter ottlio City of Ralciirh, was tak en up, and read the second lime. Mr. Routh moved to amend the bill, by extending the corporate limits. Mr. Lew is, of Wake, opposed the amendment and thought it unjust that those outside of the City should be called upon to pay the debt already con tracted by those within the City. Mr. Jenkins supported the amendment, and stated that the greatest part of the City debt was contract ed purchasing the fair grounds, and argued upon the justice of taxing all those who received the ben efits of the City improvements. Mr. Lewis replied, and denied the City had been taxed for the fair grounds. It had been purchased by subscription. Mr. L., at great length, opposed the extension, and urged a great variety of objec tions against it . . Mr. Jenkins replied to Mr. Lewi, and insisted that the City subscribed 2,500, and commented on tho remarks made by Mr. Lewis, and very earnestly advocated the passage of the bill, as an act of jus tice to the tax paying citizens. -Mr. Routh made a short, but effective speech, in support of the bill. Mr. Blcdso.- opposed the amendment, and in con clusion, offered one, to except the citizens outside from paying any part of the present city debt. Re jected. Mr. Ronth's amendment was adopted. The bill passed its second reading yeas 73, nays 27. The rules were suspended, and the bill read the third time. Mr. Bledsoe offered an amendment, leaving the question to the citizens of the city and subuibs, which he afterwards withdrew. Mr. Hiil, of Halifax, moved an amendment, relat ing to the number of commissioners, which was adopted. " Several amendments were rejected, and the bill passed its third reading. , The House then took a recess until 7 o'clock. Evexinr Session. . . Mr. Reeves moved to take up his hill relating to the passage of fish up the Yadkin liver. It passed its second reading. The rules were suspended and it was put upon its third reading. An amendment wa presented and accepted pro viding that the bill .shall not interfere with the rights of the Yadkin Navigation Company. Mr. Hall wished to insert "and the rights of millers." Mr. Reeves opposed this. He said that the mil lers who had wholly dammed up the river were just the persons he wished to displace. Considerable discussion and confusion occurred, during which several amendments were offered and rejected. Mr. Houck moved that it lay on the table for the prevent - Lost. Mr. Mabry spoke against the bill. He brought forward several arguments of force why it should not pass. Mr. Reeves replied with force and ability, and made an eloquent appeal in favor of the bill and against Mr. Hall's amendment The amendment ws lost yeas 36, nays 37. Another amendment of similar Import was imme diately introduced. ' Upon it and the merits of the bill considerable discussion was engaged in by Messrs, Pickcttltach, Baxter, Jenkins, Scales, and Martin. The amend ment was ndopted. The bill then passed yeas 50, nays 30, A mot 'on to suspend the rules and take up the bill to amend the charter of the Carolina Female College was lost. Biu.s cpon THE Calendar. A bill to establish the county of Avery was put on its second reading. Messrs. Erwin and Folk spoke in its favor and Mr- Bridgers against it The bill passed ycas C5, A bill to extend the power of the Roanoke Vallcv railroad company. Mr. Bullock explained the oh ject of the bill. It passed its second reading, i he rules were suspended aud it passed its third read ing. A bill to establish the county of Swain was pass ed over after having been read. A bid to incorporate a military company in dl8 town of Wilmington passed its second and third readings. A bill to prohibit the sale of spirituous liquors within three miles of Western Carolina Male Col lege was put on its second reading. A motion to lay on the table was lost. Some discussion occurred, in which Mr. AVhite of Cabarrus, advocated ihe passage of the bill, and Mr. Settle opposed it. The bill passed. The rules were suspended, and the hi 1 passed its third reading. Mr. Hill of .Stokes, introduced a resolution con cerning the order ol business. The rules were sus pended and Ihe resolution passed. A resolution in favor of Sam. Williams & Son was put on iis third r ading. Mr. Mann explained it, and moved to add $20. Amendment lost. The bill was then passed ycas 57, nays 35. Tne rules were suspended and the bill put upon its third reading. On motion of Mr. Outlaw it was referred to a se lect committee. The House then adjourned. SENATE. Tubsoav, Jan. 13, 1857. A message received from the House proposing to raise a joint committee for the sale of the coupon bonds of the N. C. Railroad. A number of engrossed bills and resolutions re ceived from the House, and read their first time. Mr. McDianuid presented a memorial relative to the dividing line between Cumberland and Harnett counties. Mr. W. II. Thomas presented a memorial from certain Cherokee Indians. llepoits from ihe various committees were read. Mr. Cherry ofl'ered resolutors in favor of William Ilarland, and authorizing an appropriation from the literary board to build a road. Mr. McDiarmid offered a resolution in favor of Alexander Johnson. Mr. Mil's offered a resolution, providing for after noon sessions of the Senate. Mr Cameron introduced a bill to incorporate the Hil:sboro' Savings Institute. Mr. Grist introduced a bill concerning fish in Tar river. Mr. Mm tin intn.d'iced a bill to incorporate the town of Germnntnwn. Mr. Ranwiy introduc d a bill authorizing the late Sheriff of Davie to collect ai rears of taxes. The liill to incorpoiate the American gold mining company, read the first time. Mr. Christian introduced a bill requiring adminis trators to pay oil the debts of deceased persons, pro rata. The 1 ill :o extei d the lime to perfect titl s to land heretofore elites cd, read second and third times, and passed. On motion of Mr. Mills, the bill making an ap propriation of $35,000 for the completion of the Lunatic Asylum, was taken up, and passed its-third reading. The bill to establish a new county Irom parts of Henderson, Haywood and Jackson, to he called Rnffii', was taken up and read the second time. Mr. Coleman read a memorial from citizens of that country, ptaying the erection of said county ; and Mr. C. advocated, and ably portrayed the necessity for the new county ; and was teplicd to by Mr. Pool. Mr, Bryant also spoke in favor of the bill. The bill was rejected yeas 15, nays 28. The bill to re-charter the Bank of the State, was tak?n up on its third reading. j MrAJIjersjofftrejlismc amendment jo thg bill, that he oliered thereto on 'its second reading. Mr. Hill moved lo amend the amendment in suh s'ance, to make the demands of the bank on other banks, payable in the notes of the bank, or its branches, without reference to their place of issue. Adopted yens 25, nays 18. Mr. W. it. Myers voted yea on Mr. Hill's amend ment, in order that he might be in the majority, and thereby be enabled to move a reconsideration. Ho was, in fact, opposed lo the amendment. Mr. A. Myers moved a reconsideration of the above vote, and then moved to lay that motion on the table , which latter motion was negatived. The motion to reconsider then recurring, Mr. Lane ad dressed the Senate in defence of a liberal charter for the bank. The motion to reconsider did not prevail. Mr. Wilder then offered an amendment to the 15th section, taxing iach share 30 cents, to be increased as exigencies may require. Adopted. Mr. W. R. Myers moved to amen j tlic bill by striking i.ut the whole bill, and authorizing an ex tension of the present charter lo I860. The Senate then took a recess. Afternoon Session. The amendment proposed by Mr. W. R. Myers was discussed at le tgth, and finally rejected yeas 22, nays 23. Mr. Holt moved to amend the bill, by making the stockholders liable, in cac of tire insolvency of the bank. This amendment was adopted 42 to 3. Mr. Dockeiy moved to amend the bill by giving the State OOOo shares of stock instead of one third. Adopted The bill then passed its third reading ycas 37, nays 8. On motion of Mr. Speight, the bill to protect tho citizens of the town of Wilson, was read the second and third times and passed. The bill concerning cattle and other stock, the killing thereof by railroads, passed its third reading. The Senate then adjourned. HOUSE OF COMMONS. The Home met at 10 o'clock. Several reports were presented from the standing committees. Mr. 11 umphrey offered a resolution authorizing tho removal of the public arms from Plymouth and Eliz abeth City, to tliii arsenal at Raleigh. Mr. Hill, of Stokes, moved to add Ncwbern. Mr. Humphrey refused to accept the amendment, and it was withdrawn ; the resolution was adopted, the rules suspended, and it passed its second and third leadings. Mr. Lewis, of Wake, introduced a bill, authoriz ing the Neuse inanuf icturing company to increase its capital s ock. The rules were suspended, and . the bill passed its second and third readings. The following bills were introduced, read and ap propriately referred. Mr. Baxter, a bill to amend the charter of the town of Hendcrsonville. Mr. Pearson, a bill to lay off a public road in Yancey and Bui ke counties. Mr. Ferrebee, a bill amending an act in favor of W. A. Abbott Mr. Mcintosh a bill to increase the fees of sur veyors. Mr. Clark, a bill to incorporate the Patterson man ufacturing company. Mr. Green, a bill concerning collateral descents. Mr. Southeilaud, a bill to incorporate Magnolia male institute. Mr. Eller, a bill concerning a public road in Wilkes and Caldwell. -. On motion of Mr. Erwin, a resolution suspending--night sessions until Friday next, to give the commit tees time to report upon the bills before them, was adopted yeas 82, nays 25. Mr. Reeves, a bill to incorporate the Bank of Rocklord, Surry county. Mr. Gentry, a bill to ascertain the federal popula tion of Ashe cOunty and the proposed county of Al leghany. On motion of Mr. Scales, the Rockingham Coal fields railroad charter, was made the order of the day for Monday next Mr. Reeves introduced a bill amending the act in corporating the Yadkin navigation company. The unfinished business of yes'erday was taken up, being the bill to amend tho charter of the Wil mington, Charlotte and Rutherford railroad com pany. Mr. Meares resum.nd his remarks in favor of the bill, lie took a view of the great advantages to be derived from this improvement, not only lo Wil- 1 mington, but to the State at large, and complained