Births

March 28, at Buncrana, County Donegal, the wife of Mr. Andrew Boldrick, of a son.

March 29, at 55 Eglinton Street, the wife of Thomas Cooper, of a daughter.

March 24, at Mount Charles, County Donegal, the wife of the Rev. A. Delap, of a son.

March 26, at Fivemiletown, the wife of Dr. M'Niece, of a son.

March 24, at 4 Castle Terrace, Edinburgh, the wife of the Rev. Dr. Hanna, of a daughter.

Marriages

April 2, in the Second Presbyterian Church, Rosemary Street, by the Rev. John Porter, Robert Gray, Esq., Belfast, to Miss Anne Charters, daughter of the late John Johnstone, Boghead, Antrim.

In the Sandy's Street Presbyterian Church, Newry, by the Rev. J. Moran, Mr. John Colvin, Lurgan, to Jane, daughter of Mr. St. John Brown, Lisduff.

March 20, by the Rev. A. Robinson, of Broughshane, Mr. John Black, formerly of Australia, to Jane, fourth daughter of Mr. William Russell, of Lisnamurrican Cottage.

March 19, at Killeevan Church, by the Rev. John Flanagan, Samuel Campbell, Esq., Gortgranagh, County Monaghan, to Mary, eldest daughter of the late William M. Thompson, Esq., M.D., Clones.

Deaths

March 30, Martha, wife of Mr. Robert Barry, Belfast.

March, 28, at Galgorm, Mr. George Raphael, aged 88.

March 26, Thomas Taylor, second son of the late David M'Clure Service, Belfast, aged 18 years.

March 29, James, infant child of Mr. A. Redmond.

March 26, Mary, daughter of Mr. John Fetherston, High Street, aged [3½] years.

March 19, at Bedlaw, Glenavy, John Grey, at the advanced age of 107 years.

March 27, at his residence, Great Patrick Street, Mr. Hugh M'Guigan.

March 26, at Irishtown, near Antrim, Mr. James Flemming, aged 85 years.

March 27, at Stratford Cottages, near Stroud, Fanny, fourth daughter of Edmond G. Hallewell, Esq.

March 28, at 122, Stephen's Green, Dublin, Hugh, the infant son of William Nevin Wallace, Esq., of Downpatrick.

March 23, at his residence, English Street, Downpatrick, after a protracted illness, Nicholas Coates, Esq., aged 67 years.

March 26, at Glasgow, Thomas George, second son of Godfrey Hill, Esq.

March 27, Margaret, widow of the late George Tinsdale, cabinet-maker, of Belfast, aged 56 years.

March 26, at 25 Torren's Row, Elizabeth Molloy, aged 60 years.

March 22, at his residence, Craig, Derry, Thomas Handcock, Esq., aged 78 years.

Clippings

Local Intelligence.

THE AMOUNT OF DUTY PAID AT THE BELFAST CUSTOM HOUSE, for the week ending March 28, was £3,290 13s 1d, against £5,247 1s 1d the previous week, and £6,534 11s 2d the corresponding period of last year.

TEA. -- The number of pounds of tea entered for consumption at Belfast, for the week ending March 28, was 52,559lbs., against 13,721lbs., the previous week, making a total of 316,091lbs. since 1st January last, against 480,091lbs. same period last year.

A PROLIFIC PIG. -- A man named John Berry, residing in the townland of Moyraverty, near Lurgan, has a pig which had nineteen young ones at one birth, a few days since; eighteen of them are alive, and likely to do well. This, we believe, is as numerous a progeny as we ever heard of at a time.

SHORT SEA PASSAGE. -- We understand a move is now making in favour of Larne and Lough Ryan, being the favourite line with nautical men. Indeed, we have good reason to know, that surveys are in progress for a line connecting the Belfast and Ballymena line with Larne, having this object in view.

CASUALTY AT SEA. -- A telegraphic despatch was received by Messrs. Clotworthy & Pinkerton, Belfast, on Saturday, stating that the steamer Trebizonde, bound from Glasgow to Trieste, had run down the Dutch brig Thetis, loaded with flaxseed and flax, bound from Dordt to Belfast. Captain Meppelder was drowned. The crew landed at Dublin.

CORONER'S INQUEST. -- An inquest was held on Saturday, at half-past three o'clock, before J. K. Jackson, Esq., in the General Hospital, on the body of the unfortunate girl, named Anne Fox, who was burned, a few days ago, as already mentioned in the Weekly News, and who died on Friday, notwithstanding that all that care and medical skill could do was employed to save her. The jury returned a verdict of "accidental death."

ESCAPE FROM DROWNING. -- On Saturday night, a farmer named Wm. Scott, residing in the neighbourhood of Dundonald, was enjoying himself in a public-house in Marlborough Street, off Prince's Street, and leading to Queen's Quay. On beginning to think of home, he thought he would take a near cut over the river to save time, instead of going round by the Queen's Bridge, and accordingly he coolly walked into the water. Happily for the poor fellow, a boat was convenient at the time, manned by a person named Fisher, who managed to keep the man above water until further assistance arrived, in the person of Harbour Constable Lyons, buy whom the countryman (by this time pretty well sobered) was conveyed to the General Hospital, where he was carefully attended to, and he was sufficiently recovered to leave on Sunday morning.

BELFAST TOWN COUNCIL. -- The ordinary monthly meeting of the Council was held on Wednesday -- the Mayor presiding. The Town Clerk announced the election of Mr David Black as a member of the Council. The usual reports from Committees was read, but contained nothing of interest. A report was read from the Indemnity Bill Committee, which contained a history of the progress of the Bill through Parliament, and informed the Council as to the clauses which had been withdrawn, and as to the opposition given to it by the ratepayers. Its adoption was moved by Mr Boag, seconded by Mr Glenfield, and carried. Mr Murphy moved for the appointment of a Committee to take upi the subject of abating the Blackstaff nuisance. The Committee was, accordingly, appointed, and the Council adjourned.

BELFAST ELECTION. -- ATTEMPTED PERSONATION. -- A case of this description was discovered on Thursday, but we believe the voter conscientiously considered he was an elector. The late Mr William Armstrong, formerly chief-constable of the police force, had a house in this town, but having got into difficulties the rent was paid by his son, William, who, we believe, has been more than once decreed for rent and taxes on the house. The father is dead, and as the son has been for a long time paying the rent, and is doing so at present, he considered that he had the right to vote. We believe that, though the vote was improperly given, yet, that there was no moral guilt in the matter, as the young man believed himself entitled to vote. As the vote was given to Messrs Davison and Cairns the Radical papers will, of course, come out with thundering articles on "gross personation" by the Conservatives. This was, however, the only case that could be construed into such, and the Conservatives can well afford to make the Liberals a present of it.

FEARFUL ACCIDENT. -- As J. Harnett, Esq., Sub-Inspector of the Glenarm district, was driving from Ballymena to Glenarm, on the 26th March, the night being very dark, the horse took fright at a waterfall near the road-side. The above-named gentleman had no control over the animal, which went off at a most furious pace. The officer was thrown on his head and received a severe concussion of the brain, with a lacerated wound of the head. The frontal and temporal arteries were wounded, and the loss of blood was considerable. He was in extreme danger during Friday and Saturday, but on Sunday more favourable symptoms manifested themselves. He is under the care of Dr Stone, of Cushendall, and we trust he will soon be in a convalescent state. The car was smashed in pieces, and the furious animal continued to drag it over a fence four and a-half feet in height, into a neighbouring field.

ASSEMBLY ROOMS, LISBURN. -- On Thursday evening last, a large and highly respectable meeting took place, in the above rooms, for the purpose of forming classes for the cultivation of vocal music. The Rev. Hartley Hodson and the Rev. William Breakey addressed the meeting on the advantages of musical instruction in relation to congregational singing. Mr Stevenson, the popular piano-forte teacher and organist of the Cathedral (under whose able tuition the classes are to be formed), delivered a lecture on "Music as an element of education," directing the attention of the audience to the fact, that there is no country in which the natural voice is better than in Ireland; but very little has yet been done towards realising the beautiful effects desirable from large bodies of voices under a perfect state of discipline. Among the general company were -- J. J. Richardson, Esq; Dr Campbell, Dr Musgrave, Rev. H. Hodson, Rev. W. Breakey, Rev. J. Powell, Rev. J. Hall, Jonathan Richardson, Esq., Lambeg; Hugh M'Call, Esq., &c., &c., and a large assemblage of ladies.

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Legal News.

COURT OF BANKRUPTCY -- FRIDAY, MARCH 27.

(Before Mr Commissioner PLUNKETT.)

In re Clarke and Sons.

The bankrupts were wholesale grocers in Belfast, and the meeting was for proof of debts, choice of assignee, and surrender. The bankrupts surrendered, and having been questioned, stated that they were never bankrupts before -- that they were never insolvents, and had never compounded with their creditors.

Some debts were proved, and Mr Johnston, merchant, Belfast, was appointed trade assignee.

The Court directed that the bankrupts books should be forwarded to Belfast, so that Mr M'Kenny, their solicitor, should have access to them in the preparation of their schedule. The question of an allowance was reserved until funds came in.

Agent to the Commission -- Mr Mathews.

Agent for the bankrupts -- Mr Tully M'Kenny.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

COUNTY OF ANTRIM ASSIZES.

The following record eases were tried during the week, before the Lord Chief Baron --

In the case of Lyle v. King, of which we published the commencement in our last impression, the jury, after an address from Mr. O'HAGAN, found for the defendant on all the issues, on the ground that the disaster arose from the perils of the sea; and that the chain, upon which such weight was cast by the plaintiff, was sufficient to hold the vessel in ordinary storms.

His LORDSHIP asked if the jury considered that the cable was sufficient to stand in an extraordinary storm.

The jury retired for the consideration of the question, and shortly afterwards returned with the answer that they considered the chain sufficient to hold the vessel under any storm that might be expected in Lough Neagh, but they were not prepared to say whether it would be sufficient in an extraordinary storm.

Thos. O'Neill v. Stewart Lecky.

This was an action for trespass, and the plaintiff sought to recover damages to the amount of £40 in compensation for the defendant having broken into the premises of the plaintiff at Coalisland, in the County of Tyrone, and seized the defendant's goods.

The jury found for the plaintiff £12 damages and 6d costs.

Robert Brown and John L. Marshall v. James M'Mullan.

This was an action for goods sold and delivered, to the amount of £152 16s 10d. The defendant pleaded that he had tendered £10 to the plaintiffs, and also that the were indebted to him on a cross account. The jury returned a verdict for the plaintiffs for £142 16s 7d over and above the amount lodged in court by the defendant.

James Roden v. Hugh Hyndman.

The action was brought for the sum of £104, the amount of a bill of exchange and interest, passed to the plaintiff, by Robert Dix M'Kibben, and payment of which the plaintiff consented not to enforce on the defendant giving security for the amount. A consent for judgment was given, and the jury accordingly found a verdict for the plaintiff for £104, and 6d costs.

William M'Kelvey v. Robert Jardin.

This action was brought for the recovery of the £200, the damage alleged to have been sustained by the plaintiff by the forcible entrance of his house, on the 28th of October last, and the seizure of his goods, under false representations. The defendant had pleaded that he had not forcibly entered the premises, and that he had received from the plaintiff liberty to take the goods in satisfaction of a claim for £19.

The case for the defence was a somewhat peculiar one. It was admitted that the writ which had been shown to the plaintiff, but which he had not been allowed to read, was not a genuine document. It had been obtained by Mr Jardin against another person, but had never been used, and Mr Jardin, believing that the plaintiff was not able to pay his debts in full, and not wishing to go to the trouble and expense of a trial at the Assizes, had erased the name of the original defendant from the writ, and inserted that of M'Kelvey. It was also admitted that the defendant, when visited in his own house on the day in question, was led to believe that the paper was a valid instrument, but Mr Jardin denied that he ever intended to execute it as a valid instrument, but only to use it as a means of obtaining a settlement of his claim.

The jury returned a verdict for the plaintif -- £35 damages, and 6d costs.

This concluded the business of the Assizes.

THE LIBEL ACTION.

John Lindsay v. John Rea.

It has been arranged that a remanet be entered on this case, that the jury be discharged, and that it be tried by a new special jury at the next Armagh Assizes. It consequently stands over till then.

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PROMOTION IN THE CONSTABULARY. -- Mr John Keatley, for some time acting-constable at Portglenone, has been promoted to the rank of constable, on the recommendation of William Williams, Esq., County Inspector. In consequence of his promotion, Constable Keatley has been removed to Portrush, to take charge of the party stationed at that place.

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SUICIDE. -- A young man named Charles Johnston, of Ballyclough,, near Bushmills, committed suicide on Friday, the 20th instant, by throwing himself into the River Bush, in a state of mental aberration. The young man, who was about twenty years old, had for many years been subject to convulsive fits, which had greatly impaired his mental faculties, and rendered him comparatively useless. Latterly, it seems, when thus affected, he had become violent and rather ungovernable.

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FATAL ACCIDENT. -- An inquest was held in this city on Tuesday last by Arthur R. Kay, Coroner, on the body of Francis Rocks, whose father is an extensive farmer residing near this city. It appeared in evidence that on Monday evening last deceased left this town in charge of a horse and cart, and that when he was walking on the footpath of the Caledon road the horse, which was spirited and young, became frightened and ran away; in trying to stop him, deceased was knocked down by the shaft of the cart and run over. A person of the name of Lynch, who happened to be near at the time, had deceased remved to Charter School Lane, where he was attended till he died the next morning, by Surgeon Savage, who was examined at the inquest, and deposed that two or three of deceased's ribs were broken in and pierced the lungs, which was the result of the accident and cause of death. Verdict accordingly. -- Armagh Guardian.

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Shipping.

BELFAST, FRIDAY, APRIL 3, 1857.

ARRIVED.

At this port, on the 30th instant, the Prophete, Gillegot, fron Ostend, with bark -- the Helene, from Hamburg, with barley -- the Oscar (ss). Carter, from London -- the Alliance, Blompied, from Dublin, with barley -- the Johannes, from Donaghadee, in ballast -- the French brig Hortense Sidonia, from Dublin, in ballast.

At Cardiff, on the 25th instant, the Colonist, from Alexandria.

At Shields, on the 25th instant, the Ariel, Johnston, from Grimstadt.

At Paraibo, the Grecian, from Pernambuco.

At Deal, on the 27th instant, the Jane Pirrie, Troup, from Caliao.

SAILED.

From Queenstown, on the 25th instant, the Boanerges, for Sydney.

From Swansea, on the 26th inst., the Gilbert Wheaton, Baddeley, from Belfast for Naples.

From Newry, on the 23rd instant, the Elgin, Sullivan, for St. JOhn, N.B.

From Holyhead, on the 26th instant, the Telegraph, Williams, for Malaga.

CLEARED.

From Constantinople, on the 11th instant, the Orion, Valder, for the Danube.

From Elsinore, on the 20th instant, the John Thompson, Leak, from Memel for Southampton.

ENTERED

Outwards, at London, ou the 26th instant, the Lyra, M'Carty, for Dominica.

-- -- -- -- --

DAYS OF SAILING OF PACKET BOATS. -- Southampton station:-- Mails are despatched from London every 7th, 17th, and 27th of every month, for Lisbon, Spain, and Gibraltar. On the 4th and 20th of every month, for Gibraltar, Malta, Egypt, Ceylon, and India. 4th of every month for Penang, Singapore, and China. 2nd and 17th of every month for British Colonies in the West Indies (except Honduras and Bahamas), foreign colonies, &c., in West Indies (except Havana), California, Venezuela, New Granada, Chili, Peru, and Grey Town (St. Juan de Nicaragua). 2nd of every month only, for Mexico and Havana. 17th of every month for Honduras and Bahamas. 9th of every month for Lisbon, Madeira, Brazil, Buenos Ayres, and Falkland Islands. Morning of the 12th of April, for Australia. Evenings of every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, for Jersey and Guernsey. Dartmouth Station:-- Evening of the 5th of every month, for Cape of Good Hope, Mauritius, Ceylon, India, &c. Plymouth Station:-- 23rd of every month, for Madeira, Teneriffe, and West Coast of Africa, Liverpool Station:-- Evening of every Friday, for British America and the United States.

 

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Births

April 6, at No. 8, North Queen Street, Belfast, the wife of Wm. Killen, Esq., of a daughter.

April 3, at Ormeau Terrace, the wife of Mr. Thomas Devlin, of a son.

March 31, at 31, Harmony Place, the wife of Mr. Samuel Mateer, of a son.

March 26, at the Rectory, Armoy, the wife of the Rev. J. W. D'Evelyn, of a son.

March 26, at North Street, the wife of Mr. Isles, of a son.

March 28, at Buncrana, County Donegal, the wife of Mr. Andrew Boldrick, of a son.

Marriages

April 2, at St. John's Church, Paddington, London, by the Rev. M. D. French, M.A., Adam Wilson, youngest son of the late Robert McKibbin, Esq., of Belfast, to Charlotte, eldest daughter of Charles Gibson, Esq., late of South Street, Grosvenor Square, London.

April 3, in Soldierstown Church, by the Rev. R. Hill, Mr. Stephen Gilbert, Aghagallon, to Sarah Anne, only daughter of the late Mr. Edward Bell, Trumra, Moira.

March 26, in Seagoe Church, by the Rev. C. Wolsley, Mr. Samuel Graham, of Ballymoney, Banbridge, to Rebecca, fourth daughter of Mr. Matthew Cooke, Spring Green, Portadown.

April 2, in the Cathedral, Dromore, by the Rev. H. St. George, the Rev. William St. George, of Termonfechan, County Louth, to Annie Catherine, eldest daughter of C. R. Brush, Esq., Gillhall.

January 29, at the residence of Mr. Andrew Beresford, Claysville, Ohio, by the Rev. J. Comin, Mr. Thomas Araut, to Miss Catherine Jean Beresford.

Deaths

April 7, Caroline Elizabeth, youngest daughter of Mr. Robert Fletcher, Scotch Street, Armagh.

April 7, at No. 1, Tomb Street, Mr. Samuel Swallow.

April 3, John, youngest son of Mr. John Kerr, Victoria Place.

March 30, at No. 14, Stanhope Street, Elizabeth, wife of Mr. Alexander Stewart, late of Kilrea.

April 2, John, eldest son of Mr. Daniel Brown, 41, Great Edward Street, aged 17 years.

April 2, at 29, Harmony Place, Mr. Edward Thomas, aged 59 years.

April 1, at Ormeau Place, Belfast, Mr. John Farrell, formerly of Doagh, aged 77 years.

April 4, at her residence, Frogmore, Whitehouse, near Belfast, Mrs. Jane Greer, in her 84th year.

April 3, at her residence, Pump Street, Londonderry, Mrs. Wallen, proprietress of the Londonderry Sentinel.

April 1, at Ballymoney, Mary, youngest daughter of the late Matthew Latham, Esq., J.P., Killenaule, County Tipperary.

April 2, Mr. Edward Thomas, aged 59 years.

April 1, at Ormeau Place, Mr. John Farrel, formerly of Doagh, aged 77 years.

March 28, at Drumsill House, Mary Anne M'Geough, eldest daughter of the late Joshua M'Geough, Esq., of Drumshill, aged 71 years.

March 28, at Ashfield Glebe, Cavan, of scarletina, John Charles, son of the Rev. J. Godley, aged 3 years.

March 26, at Newtownbutler, County Fermanagh, Mr. James Gifford Brown, Primitive Methodist preacher, aged 62 years.

March 27, at Ravarra, Mr. William Woods, aged 96 years.

March 27, in Armagh, Mrs. Sloan, widow of the late Mr. John Sloan, and daughter of the late Surgeon J. Sloan, of Armagh.

Clippings

Local Intelligence.

EASTER CHEER. -- As usual on "big Friday" there was great business doing yesterday in the markets devoted to articles of domestic consumption. Fowl, eggs, and butter were in great demand, and prices were reasonable. Fowls sold at 2s 6d to 3s; chickens, 2s to 2s 6d per pair; butter, prints, 13d to 15d per lb.; eggs, 6d to 8d per dozen. The grocers' shops were thronged with country folks, who, in their turn, were making preparations for the coming holidays, and we trust all our readers may spend a happy Easter.

DUTIES PAID. -- On Monday £25,450 were paid on tea, sugar, and coffee, in Belfast. One establishment in Victoria Street paid £5,000 on tea alone.

THE AMOUNT OF DUTY PAID AT THE BELFAST CUSTOM HOUSE, for the week ending April 4, was £2,816 14s 4d against £3,290 13s 1d the previous week, and £6,617 13s 11d the corresponding period of last year.

TEA. -- The number of pounds of tea entered for consumption at Belfast, for the week ending April 4, was 4,038lbs., against 52,559lbs., the previous week, making a total of 320,129lbs. since 1st Jan. last, against 506,065lbs. same period last year.

VALUABLE STOCK IN LECALE. -- Mr J. Sharrock, of Donard View, Downpatrick, sold a two-year-old bullock (rising three), in the last Crossgar fair, to Mr Dinnen, butcher, of Belfast, for the handsome sum of thirty pounds.

HIGH PRICE FOR HEIFERS. -- On Wednesday last Mr A. Robb, of Dundonald, sold to Mr Thomas Parker two fine heifers -- one eleven months old, and the other one year and eleven months old, at the high price of £30 for the two.

BELFAST SABBATH SCHOOL TEACHERS' UNION. -- Tuesday evening, at eight o'clock, in the Wellington Hall, the Rev. Wm. P. Walsh, A.M., of Sandford, Dublin, delivered a lecture, in connexion with this important Society, on "The Temptations of the Sabbath School Teacher." There was a large attendance.

THE BELFAST ELECTION -- VOTES OF ELECTORS. -- A pamphlet has been issued from the Mercury office, purporting to give a correct return of the votes of the several electors, at the late election. We feel it our duty to state, and we regret to have to do so, that several complaints of inaccuracies have been made to us, and from what we learn, the correctness of the document is not at all to be relied on.

ATTEMPTED SUICIDE. -- On Saturday, a poor man, named M'Gurk, residing in Ballymacarrett, made an attempt at suicide by cutting his throat. He was conveyed to the General Hospital where he lay for some time in imminent danger; but, owing to the careful and skilful treatment of the attendants in the Hospital, he is now nearly recovered. No cause can be assigned for the rash attempt.

FOUND DEAD. -- An inquest was held on Monday last, at Umgall, in the Parish of Templepatrick, before Alexander Markham, Esq., coroner, on the body of a man named James Barber, who, on the Saturday evening previous, went into a field near his own house, and lay down in a ditch in a state of intoxication, where he was found dead on the following day. The jury returned a verdict of "Found dead."

SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS. -- A trough for cattle is to be erected near one of the quays in Belfast, in commemoration of the late Captain Calder, who exerted himself so much in behalf of the society. There have been sixty-two convictions for acts of cruelty during the past year. Seventeen of these were for dog-fighting and five for cock-fighting. The subscriptions are falling off.

DEATH BY POISON. -- Mrs Kerr, the head of a respectable family, residing in the vicinity of Antrim Road, was taken to the General Hospital, on Saturday night, in consequence of having swallowed an over-dose of laudanum, but whether accidentally, or otherwise, is not yet known. She died yesterday morning. An inquest was held on the body on Monday. It appeared that the lady drank the poisonous liquid by accident, and a verdict was returned accordingly.

THE HARBOUR, &c. -- The arrivals of foreign vessels here have been very limited of late, and our quays present a somewhat deserted appearance. With the exception of that of our Dutch friends, the foreign trade of our port has fallen off greatly. The splendid ship Fingalton, which stranded in Dundrum some time ago, has been undergoing extensive repairs, and we observe she is being fitted up to take passengers to Quebec.

POCKET PICKING ON A LIBERAL SCALE. -- On last Wednesday, two respectable farmers' wives, while travelling to Belfast on the County Down Railway, met with a loss which will doubtless be felt very sincerely by their families. One of them had a sum of £50 extracted from her pocket, and the other £20, in a manner as yet unexplained. They did not discover their misfortune until their arrival at the Belfast Terminus, and they have not yet learned who was the thief.

FIRE. -- Wednesday morning, about half-past 12 o'clock, a fire broke out in the premises occupied by Mr Wm. Fox, wollendraper, High Street. Two engines, with Me Cockburn and the fire-brigade, -- were on the spot immediately after the alarm was given, and all was over in about half-an-hour, not much damage having been done. Mr Green, and a number of the local force were, as usual, in prompt attendance, rendering all assistance in their power.

FIRE ON BOARD SHIP. -- Wednesday night, shortly before twelve o'clock, an alarm was given by the watchman on Queen's Quay, that a fire had broken out on board the schooner Alert, lying opposite Clarendon Dock. Mr Magee and several watchmen were on board the vessel in a short time, and it was found that the flames were making great progress in the bulkhead behind the stove. The fire was, however, quickly extinguished, and we believe £10 will cover the entire damages.

QUEEN'S COLLEGE, BELFAST -- SPECIAL PRIZE EXAMINATION. -- The Special College Prize of £30 has been recently awarded to Mr John Watt Smyth, son of Mr John Smyth, Larne, after a severe and lengthened examination. A second prize of £20 was awarded to Mr D. G. Barkley, A.M., at the same examination. These prizes were open for competition to all students who had attended for three or more years any of the Queen's Colleges in Ireland, and the course of examination embraced all the subjects of study in the Arts' curriculum.

BELFAST QUARTER SESSIONS. -- These Sessions commenced on Tuesday -- Mr Pigott (son of the Lord Chief Baron) acting as Assistant-Barrister, in place of John Gibson, Esq., who is at present in a delicate state of health. As is usual upon the first day of the Sessions, the petitions of insolent debtors were heard immediately after the civil bills had been called over. There were nineteen cases for hearing on the list, the majority of which were opposed by various creditors. Two of these were dismissed, one of the insolvents being dead; three were remanded for short periods, varying from one to six months; and the remainder were discharged.

FAREWELL SUPPER TO MR S. G. CRYMBLE. -- It having become known that this gentleman, who has for several years creditably filled a responsible situation in the establishment of Messrs R. Lindsay & Co., of this town, was about to leave Belfast, his private friends, to the number of about forty, met at Mr Thompson's, Donegall Place, on Friday evening last, to mark their estimation of his charter, by entertaining him at a farewell supper. The chair was occupied on the occasion by Mr J. Hewitt, who was supported by Mr A. Welsh, as croupier. The preliminary toasts having been disposed of, the chairman gave the health of the guest of the evening, accompanied by a handsome and well-merited compliment to the excellent qualities of heart and head which, distinguished the friend about to be removed from the happy circle. Mr Crymble, in acknowledging the honour conferred upon him, lamented the loss he was on the eve of meeting with, in the severance of that social intercourse with those around him, which he had so long been privileged to enjoy. Several other toasts were afterwards given, and called forth suitable responses; and the pleasure of the meeting was much enhanced by a few vocal interludes, introduced in the best taste. The supper itself, it is hardy necessary to add, elicited a general commendation of Mr Thompson's excellent cuisine and arrangements.

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BELFAST POLICE COURT. -- MONDAY.

[Before the MAYOR, and W. T. B. LYONS, Esq.]

THE business was resumed in the old Court-house, Howard Street, which has been thoroughly cleaned out and repaired, after having served the purposes of a hustings for the borough election. The cases on the books for yesterday were of an unimportant character, and not one of them can properly be said to have connexion with Sunday evening's rioting.

THEFT.

A man, named James M'Avoy, was charged by John Corr, of Ballymacarrett, with having stolen a sum of 6s. The prisoner was discharged on promising to pay the money.

DRUNK AND DISORDERLY -- ASSAULTING THE POLICE.

Two men, named John M'Ardle and Hugh Shields, were charged by Constable M'Mullan with having been drunk and disorderly and singing party songs on the previous night.

Mr Seeds prosecuted, and Mr Sheals defended the prisoners.

THE FIRST STEP.

A little boy, named Charles Connor, was brought up for the first time, on a charge of having stolen a sum of 6s 8½d in coppers from the shop of Mrs Catherine M'Gee, of Little York Street.

The MAYOR said, as it was the prisoner's first appearance, the Bench were not anxious to inflict a severe punishment, but they could not allow an offence of that nature to be unnoticed. The prisoner should be imprisoned for fourteen days; and he trusted that would be a warning to him against repeating the offence.

BRUTAL ASSAULT ON A CONSTABLE.

A fellow, named Thomas M'Aleavy, was charged by Thomas Crothers, of the local police force, with having committed an assault on him on the previous night.

The bench imposed a fine of 10s and costs.

SUSPECTED BURGLARY OF FINE GOODS.

A young woman, named Anne Quinn, was charged, on suspicion, by Harbour Constable Wm. Geary with having stolen a quantity of very expensive articles, found in her possession.

It was stated that an extensive burglary had been lately committed near Manchester, and that, probably, these goods might be a portion of the plunder.

The prisoner was remanded till inquiries should be made.

A FAITHFUL MESSENGER.

A lad, called Richard M'Nally, was brought up by Henry Moore, on a charge of having stolen a sum of £1 2s 6d from him.

Mr Seeds prosecuted, and Mr Sheals defended.

Mr SHEALS urged for the defence that the lad was non compos mentis.

The prisoner was discharged, on agreeing to pay the money within a month.

The other cases were of no public interest.

TUESDAY.

[Before the MAYOR and W. T. B. LYONS, Esq.]

A man named James Harvey was charged by Inspector M'Ilroy with having attempted to steal a box from the establishment of Messrs Anderson & Gray, muslin manufacturers. The legal evidence failed to convict the prisoner, and he was accordingly discharged. Hugh Henderson was charged with stealing a coat, the property of a man named James Green. Inspector M'Ilroy said, from information he had received, he arrested the prisoner, and, after he was cautioned, he confessed to having taken the coat. As he had been before the Bench on previous occasions, he was sentenced to one month's imprisonment.

The other cases were uninteresting.

WEDNESDAY.

[Before Dr M'GEE, Captain WILLIAM VERNER, and W. T. B. LYONS, Esq.]

A lad, named Harvey, who was brought up on the previous day on a charge of theft, and was discharged in consequence of deficiency in the evidence, was charged with having committed an assault upon a person named Denis Cronan, and stealing the sum of 8s from his person. It appeared the parties were drinking together, and the prosecutor fell asleep, when the money was extracted from his pocket by the prisoner, who, it appeared, had been transported some time ago, but had got discharged. After taking the money, he committed the assault. The prisoner was committed to jail to take his trial at the Quarter Serious.

A man, named John M'Kinstry, of Donaghadee, was charged by constable James Williamson, with having in his possession two pair of breechin, and a horse's belly-band, which were believed to be stolen. The prisoner, when asked had he honestly come by the property, replied he couldn't say. The case was remanded till Saturday, that inquiries should be made regarding the owner of the articles. The other cases did not possess any features of public interest.

THURSDAY.

[Before S. G. FENTON, Esq. and Captain THOMAS VERNER.]

STEALING BLANKETS.

A man, named Edward Henry, was charged with having stolen a pair of blankets from an old man named Henry Murray.

The prosecutor said a neighbour woman was witness to the man coming out of his house with the blankets, but she could not come to the court from her children.

The case was remanded till Saturday, to allow of the woman being summoned.

CRUELTY TO A HORSE.

A man, named Daniel M'Cullough, was charged by Constable M'Nicholl with driving a horse in a cart with his back covered with large sores. He was fined in 5s and costs.

William M'Dowall was next called up, and charged with the same offence and with the same horse.

It was stated that the person M'Cullough had taken the horse home, and that it was afterwards taken out by M'Dowall.

Mr FENTON said, if he had known that before the other prisoner was sentenced, he should have fined him in £2. It was a most disgraceful act. M'Dowall was to pay a fine of 5s and costs; and if the horse was again found to be driven by any person, he would be fined in £2.

A LITERARY THIEF.

A little boy, named Francis Hand, was charged by Inspector M'Kittrick with having stolen several numbers of "Little Dorrit," from the shop of Mr Henderson, Castle Place.

The Inspector stated that it was necessary, to the ends of justice, that the case should be postponed for a few days.

The case was accordingly postponed.

The other cases were not of the slightest importance.

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Summary of General News.

IRELAND.

THE CONSTABULARY POLICE IN IRELAND. -- The sum of £641,000 is the estimated expense for the current year of the constabulary force.

During the election of Lord Dunkellin, who is in India, and Mr O'Flaherty, for the town of Galway, great riots occurred, in which a man was killed.

BOARD OF CHARITABLE DONATIONS AND BEQUESTS. -- Thomas O'Hagan, Esq, Q.C., has been appointed a Commissioner of Charitable Donations and Bequests, in the room of the Right Hon. Lord Bellew, resigned.

CHAIRMANSHIP OF LONGFORD. -- Robert Johnston, Esq., of the North-West Circuit, has been appointed Assistant-Barrister for the County of Longford, in the room of Thomas O'Hagan, Esq., Q.C., who has been promoted to the Chairmanship of Kilmainham.

HON. COLONEL MAXWELL AND THE REPRESENTATION OF CAVAN. -- On Monday last, as the gallant Colonel was returning into Cavan, and after prosecuting his canvass, he was cheered all the way through the town, from the time he arrived until be left for Farnham.

SLIGO BOROUGH ELECTION. -- We understand from good authority that by the official announcement Mr Wynne has lost his election in the Borough of Sligo by a single vote only. As to the issue of a petition to unseat Mr Patrick Somers there cannot be the least doubt. -- Daily Express.

LOSS OF LIFE. -- On Friday night last the cabin of a poor man, named Malony, in the vicinity of Mountmellick, became accidentally on fire. His daughter Sally, aged six years, and wife's mother, Alice Golad, aged seventy-three years, were burned to death. -- Leinster Express.

DESTRUCTIVE FIRE IN COUNTY DERRY. -- Smyth's extensive grain mills Strabane, were accidentally burned during Friday night. Some thousands of pounds' worth of value destroyed. The premises are insured. The adjoining stores and brewry escaped. Saunders's News-Letter.

ANTRIM UNION. -- At the first meeting of the newly-elected Board of Guardians of this union, held on Thursday last, the 2nd instant, George J. Clarke, Esq., J.P., of Steeple, Thomas Montgomery, Esq., J.P., of Birchhill, and Charles William Armstrong, Esq., J.P., of Cherryvalley, were unanimously reappointed chairman, vice-chairman, and deputy vice-chairman, respectively, for the year ensuing.

A MAN STABBED. -- In Newtownhamilton, on Saturday evening, the 28th ult., a respectable man, named Daniel Warnock, was stabbed most brutally by a party of men. He received no less than fourteen stabs. He is attended by Drs M'Parland and Reid, of the above-named town, who consider that a part of the blade of the knife is sticking in the brain, and, owing to the man being so very weak, they are not willing to probe the orifice as yet. All the parties are natives of Armaghbrague, and are Protestants and neighbours. -- Armagh Guardian.

MYSTERIOUS DISCOVERY. -- On last Thursday (2nd of April), Constable M'Clelland found, in a small yard or garden attached to the constabulary barrack, Dungannon, three small boxes, containing (as was supposed) the remains of three infant children, buried in the ground, who had been concealed there for the space of two months. Immediately on the discovery being made (as is usual in such cases) information was sent to the coroner of the district, who attended promptly on the following day to hold the inquest, when, on the arrival of a medical man, to the great horror and amazement of all present, the supposed three infants turned out to be nothing more than three lapdogs, the property of an old maid, named Miss M'C-------, an inhabitant of the town, who was so fond of her dear little dogs that she coffined them, and, for the better securing of same, buried them in the garden in the occupation of the constabulary. The reader may guess the disappointment of the coroner, who drove his horse a distance of three miles to hold the inquest.

SALE OF LANDS. -- DOWNSIIRE ESTATE. -- The good-will of a farm of land, containing about 26A. 3R. 13P., statute measure, held under Lord Downshire, from year to year, was set up for sale on Friday, at the auction mart of Mr John H. Gowan, George's Lane. The advertisement for the sale attracted the attention of a great many farmers from the County of Down, who attended the auction. Mr M'Lean, solicitor, who attended on behalf of the vendors, stated that the farmers who were present knew Lord Downshire to be one of the best landlords in Ireland, and one who recognised, to the fullest extent, the privilege of the tenant to dispose of his good-will in his holding, provided a suitable person offered himself as an incoming tenant. The statement was received with applause by the farmers present, and the bidding were then proceded with. After considerable competition, the good-will was sold at £381, being about £15 per English acre, and affording a remarkable proof of the confidence reposed by the farmers in the Marquis of Downshire, as a landlord.

METANCHOLY OCCURRENCE. -- On the evening of the 19th of March, Mr J. M'Kelvy and Wm. Baker, the former office-clerk, the latter under-butler, to A. J. R. Stewart, of Ards, Esq., went over in a curragh to Downing's Bay, a distance of some three miles. After remaining there for a short time they were seen, by the coastguard officers who reside there, to put off and row away towards Ards. They were observed by other parties until they had accomplished about half the distance on their return, when it became so dark that they could not be seen any further. Since then they have never been seen or heard of, and there is but too much reason to believe that they were capsised out of the curragh. Baker's cap and oar were found on the morning succeeding the catastrophe floating out,to sea, at a distance of eight miles from the "Bar" of the Ards, where it is supposed the accident occurred. The sad occurrence has cast a deep gloom over the whole district. John M'Kelvy was the son of the esteemed and respected Mr M'Kelvy, who, for the past half century, has filled the important post of agent to three generations of Mr Stewart's family.

APRIL 1ST. -- Up to this date, not the slightest traces of the unfortunate young men have been found, though Mr Stewart has never ceased in his exertions to recover them. Much praise is due to Lieutenant Collins, R.N., inspecting officer of coastguards of the Sheephaven district, for the prompt manner in which he lent the assistance at his disposal to Mr Stewart in prosecuting his search for the bodies. -- Correspondent of Derry Sentinel.

=========================

Shipping.

BELFAST, FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 1857.

ARRIVED.

Off Liverpool, on the 4th instant, the Marco Polo, from Melbourne.
At Southampton, on the 3rd inst., the John Thompson Leak, from Memel.
At Hull, on the 2nd instant, the Wanderer, from Alexandria.
At Calcutta, on the 20th Feb., the Gyrn Castle, Widdycombe, from Liverpool.
At Rangoon, on the 11th Feb., the Volaute, Liggett, from Melbourne and Dalhousie.
Off Scilly, on the 1st instant, the ship Astrell, of Belfast, from Melbourne for London.

SAILED.

From Aux Cayes, on the 27th Feb., the Marmion, Sivell, for Belfast.
From Strangford, on the 31st ultimo, the Mathilde, Parfitt, for Seville.
From Yarmouth, on the 1st instant, the Rosa, Newman, for Harburg.

PUT INTO

Milford Haven, for coals, on the 2nd inst., the Allies (s), from Belfast, and sailed on the 3rd for Antwerp.

-- -- -- -- -- --

SHIPWRECK. -- By a letter from Mr. Servante, Inspecting Lieutenant of the Coast Guard, at Carlingford, we learn that, on the 2nd instant, a parcel, containing about one hundred and fifty delivery-notes of cotton, was picked up on the beach at Greenore. They are all dated "New Orleans," each note specifying, in writing, a certam number of bales, with the names of the exporters printed thereon -- such as "Bell and Boyd," "C. N. Pasteur and Bro.," "T. G. Szymanskis Press," &c. As the latest date on any of these notes is 9th December, 1856," it is apprehended that an American ship has been recently lost, on the homeward voyage, on this coast.

 

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Births

April 12, at 77, Inkermann Terrace, the wife of Henry M. Thompson, of a son.

April 9, Mrs. M. Atkinson, Glenavy, of a daughter.

April 8, at Belmont, Southampton, the wife of E. W. Jobling, Esq., of a daughter.

April 9, at Charlemont Fort, the wife of Lieutenant-Colonel De Rinzy, Royal Artillery, of a son, stillborn.

February 3, at Government House, Mauritius, Lady Macaulay Higginson, of a daughter.

December 7, at Richmond, Melbourne, Mrs. Gilbert Handasyde, of a daughter.

Marriages

April 14, in the First Killymurris Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. John Wilson, Mr. Mann Harbison, Newtownards, to Ellen, daughter of the late William Bradshaw, Ballywatermoy, near Ballymena.

April 9, at the First Presbyterian Church, Ballymena, by the Rev. James Morgan, D.D., John Clarke Graham Esq., of College, Carnlough, County Antrim, to Ann Jane, daughter of the late William Foster Esq., of Holywood, County Down.

April 7, in the Parish Church, Newry, by the Very Rev. Daniel Bagot, Dean of Dromore, George Cowan, Esq., Damolly Mills, to Abigail, youngest daughter of William Warren, Esq., Canal Quay, Newry.

April 15, at St Peter's Church, Dublin, by the Rev. R. Ritchie, George Devenish, Esq., C.E., eldest son of Robert Devenish, Esq., J.P., Rush Hill, County Roscommon, to Mary Percy, only surviving daughter of the late Major Jones, Drumard House, County Leitrim.

December 20, at Carlsbrook, Australia, D. B. Watson, Esq., to Rachael, sixth daughter of Thomas Greer, Esq., of Mullalelish, County Armagh.

Deaths

April 15, Stevenson, only child of Mr. W. M'Cullough, 38, Donegall Street, aged one year.

April 11, at Belfast, Alice M'Farrell, at the advanced age of 100 years.

April 11, at his residence, 6 Nelson Street, Mr. Francis Lee, teacher, aged 64 years.

April 10, at 44, North Street, Robert, infant son of Wm. Reilly, aged 7 months.

April 11, at Portadown, Mr. William Ewart, formerly of Belfast, aged 38 years.

April 11, at William Street, Derry, Mr. Bernard M'Feely, merchant.

April 9, at Leckpatrick, Strabane, the Rev. Michael Magill, R.C.C.

April 10, at Everton, Liverpool, Captain James Scott, formerly of Belfast.

April 11, at his residence, 14, Pottinger's Entry, James Carolan, aged 54 years.

April 9, at 3, Earl Street, Dundalk, Joseph Tipping, only son of Mr. James Parks.

April 11, at the Reformed Presbyterian Manse, Newry, Mary, wife of the Rev. Robert Wallace, and eldest daughter of the Rev. Andrew Wilson, Dungannon, aged 26 years.

April 12, Maria, daughter of the late Rev. William Bruce, D.D., of Belfast, and wife of Edward Hutton, M.D., of Gardiner's Place, Dublin.

April 7, suddenly at Lifford, County Donegal, Richd. Cowan Chambers, Esq.

March 17, Mr. Charles Stevenson, a native of Kilkeel, County Down, aged 69 years, and for the last thirty-eight years a resident of New Orleans.

March 13, at her residence 1, Chapel Street, Charleston, South Carolina, Anna, wife of Mr. William Steele, formerly of Ballymagreehan, County Down.

April 8, at Great Edward Street, Belfast, Mr. J. Rea.

April 5, at Airmount, Bawnboy, John Benison, son of the late William Benison, Esq., of Cairm, Co Cavan.

At his residence, 4, Bernbeck Terrace, Weston-super-Mare, Captain H. A. Ormsby, I.N., of Gilford, County Down, aged 46 years.

April 9, at 17, Claremont Street, New Road, Mount Pottinger, aged one year, one month and twenty-one days, Isabella Maria Warrington, only child of Mr. John Church, Belfast.

April 7, at 15, Dock Street, Mr. Hugh Scott.

April 8, Mr. Hamilton Patton, Ballydorn, Killinchy.

November 23, at Paris, Kentucky, U.S., after an illness of only four days, Mr. John Ranson, formerly of Belfast, in the 36th year of his age.

March 9, at Peterborough, Canada West, Thomas Hay, Esq., M.D., third son of Lieut.-Colonel Hay, of Seggieden, Perthshire, Scotland. He settled in Canada in 1840, and in 1843 married the eldest daughter of the late Hon. Thos. Alex. Stewart, of Auburn, Canada West, and formerly of Whitehouse, County Antrim, Ireland

Clippings

Legal News.

BELFAST QUARTER SESSIONS.

CROWN COURT.

D. R. PIGOT, Esq., took his seat on the bench on Tuesday morning at nine o'clock, and, at ten, proceeded with the Crown business of the Sessions.

The following gentlemen were sworn as a

GRAND JURY. -- Theobald Bushell (foreman); Chas. Duffin, John Charley, James Darbishire, James B. Ferguson, R. M. Carson, Daniel Curell, James Coleman, Foster Connor, Henry Campbell, Josias Cunningham, William Browne, Richard Baxter, John Anderson, Samuel Archer, and Elias H. Bell, Esqrs.

The ASSISTANT-BARRISTER addressed them as follows -- Gentlemen, there are no cases requiring any special instructions from me. I presume you are acquainted with the fact that no bills should be found by you on which the evidence, if given before a petty jury, and uncontradicted, would be insufficient to convict.

The Grand Jury then retired, and the following were sworn as a

MARKET JURY. -- Messrs Hugh Cosgrove (foreman); Henry M'Larnon, Patrick O'Neill, John Taylor, Arthur Purse, James Boyd, Thomas H. Reilly, Wm. Haddock, John Henderson, Thomas Scott, William Beatty, and Thomas Bell.

The ASSISTANT-BARRISTER then said -- You may retire, gentlemen. You know what your duties are without me telling you.

They then retired, and the following were sworn on the

PETTY JURY. -- Messrs William Beatty (foreman); John Moffet, William Millen, John Roberts, Alex Cumming, Thomas Scott, Alexander Moore, Hugh Cosgrove, James Thompson, John Dickey, John Canavan, and Patrick O'Neill.

STEALING FROM THE PERSON.

A young woman, named Isabella Hunter, was indicted for having, on the 2nd March last, stolen, from the person of Samuel Johnston, a sum of £2 7s 6d.

Samuel Johnston was examined, and stated that he lives in the County Down, and that, on the 22nd of March last, he came into Belfast and fell in with the prisoner, with whom he went into a house, and while there, a pocket-book, containing one sovereign, and £1 7s 6d in silver, was taken from his pocket. The prisoner ran out of the house before him, when he went after and gave her into custody.

Constable William Bingham, of the Belfast local police force, was then sworn, and stated that he arrested the prisoner, and found the pocket-book (produced and identified by Johnston), containing £2 7s 6d, upon her person in the Police-office.

The prisoner, who was undefended, said she was guilty of having the money in her possession, but not guilty of stealing.

His WORSHIP having briefly addressed the jury, they handed in a verdict of guilty.

She was sentenced to six months' imprisonment from the date of committal (23rd March).

STEALING FROM THE PERSON.

Mary Walsh, alias Donelly, was indicted for having, on the 27th March, at Belfast, stolen a purse, containing 3s, from the person of Margaret Johnston, the property of her husband, Cairns Johnston.

It appeared that the prisoner came into a provision shop, where Margaret Johnston was transacting some business, and after standing awhile, as those attending to the customers were busy, she, as alleged, put her hand into the pocket of prosecutrix and extracted the money. Not guilty.

Maria Jackson pleaded guilty to stealing clothes, the property of her master, and was sentenced to one year's imprisonment.

STEALING A COAT.

Robert Clarke was indicted for stealing a coat, the property of a farmer, on the 27th March last. It appeared that the coat was taken off the car of the prosecutor, who is a farmer, residing in the County Antrim; and the prisoner was arrested by Constable M'Ilroy, to whom be confessed the robbery. The coat was found in the possession of a pawnbroker, with whom it was pledged by the prisoner.

Guilty; and, as the prisoner had been previously convicted of a felony, he was sentenced to four years' imprisonment.

SPIRIT LICENSES.

The Court went into the applications for spirit licenses at twelve o'clock.

The following magistrates, besides his worship, were upon the bench:-- The Mayor (S. G. Getty, Esq.); J. F. Ferguson, Jonathan Richardson, M.P.; J. M. Higginson, James Macnamara, Walter T. Stannus, William Coates, James Whitla, William Stevenson, Thomas M'Clure, and John Clarke, Esqrs.

The following is a list of the applications for spirit licenses, with the decisions of the bench:--

1	Wm. Baird, 32 Pilot Street and 16 Short Street, Belfast; no appearance
2	Archibald Bell, Bridge Street, Lisburn.

Mr Wm. Seeds and Mr Alex. O'Rorke appeared for, and Mr Birney opposed the application.

Mr W. T. STANNUS (one of the magistrates on the Bench) said that the application had been refused before, on the ground that he was intemperate in his habits.

Mr JONATHAN RICHARDSON, M.P., said that he had known the applicant a good many years, and never saw him drunk.

Head-Constable Magan stated that for some time past Bell had been very much improved.

Mr BIRNEY urged that Bell was a habitual drunkard, and that those who were anxious to give him the house were his worst enemies, for they would be only enabling him to put put an end to his life in a few months.

Mr. A. O'RORKE said that the secret of this opposition was, that Mr Bell had voted on the occasion of the late Lisburn election, for Mr Richardson, notwithstanding that he had been told by the gentleman now opposing him (Mr Birney), that if he would vote for Colonel Hogg he would get his license with-out any trouble.

Mr BIRNEY -- That is not the fact. That is false, and whoever instructed you to say that instructed you to say a falsehood.

Mr O'RORKE -- Very well; I will prove it on oath.

The applicant then entered the witness-box to be examined as to the alleged conversation with Mr Birney, when Mr O'Rorke said that, after having conferred with Mr Seeds, who had a great deal of experience in such matters, he had thought it better not to go into it, lest it would have the effect of stirring up bitter feelings which are only subsiding after the excitement of a contested election.

Mr BIRNEY -- It is only beginning. (Laughter.) I must say now, that this man was brought away and kept by Mr Richardson in a house till the election, when he was to vote for him, after he had promised to vote for our party. (Laughter.)

Mr RICHARDSON -- Mr Birney, ask him has he voted against his wish.

Mr BIRNEY -- Do not address me, Mr Richardson. I do not wish to be addressed by you; address the Court.

Mr RICHARDSON -- I shall address you, Sir, I have perfect right to address you, if I please.

Mr BIRNEY -- You shan't address me, Sir; you must address yourself to the Court.

The ASSISTANT-BARRISTER -- Mr Birney, on the bench, at present, I am only one; Mr Richardson is himself part of the bench, and he has a perfect right to address whom he pleases in the court.

Mr BIRNEY -- With very great respect, Sir, he has no right to address me at all, and he shan't address me.

Mr RICHARDSON -- The Barrister has ruled that I have a right, and I will stand upon that right, if I think proper.

A vote was then taken, and there were three magistrates for, and three against. The Barrister gave his casting vote for the application, which was granted.

3	William Bell, Lisburn; refused
4	Wm. Bell, 54 Victoria Street, Belfast (transfer); granted
5	Joseph Campbell, 89 Victoria Street, Belfast (transfer); granted
6	Thomas Collins, 46 Eliza Street and 1 Walsh St. Belfast (transfer); granted
7	Patrick Close, Islandkelly, Derriaghy (transfer); granted
8	Joseph Croft, 18 Garmoyle Street, Belfast (transfer); granted
9	John Carlisle, 7 Marlborough Street, Belfast; no appearance
10	Moses Corken, Gortnacor, Lisburn; refused
11	Anne Clendinning, 65 Old Lodge Road, Belfast (transfer); granted
12	Wm. Cowan, 27 John Street, Belfast (transfer); granted
13	Edw. Donaghy, Bridge Street, Lisburn (transfer); refused
14	Denis Doyle, 1 & 1½ Peter's Hill and 5 & 7 Stewart's Court, Belfast; granted
15	David Ferguson, 90 North Queen Street, Belfast; refused
16	Robert Forsythe, Ballynure (received 21st March, 1857); referred to Antrim Quarter Sessions
17	James Grant, 3 Donegall Street, Belfast; no appearance
18	James Gentle, 86 North Street, Belfast (beer licence only); granted
19	John Gorrie, 13 Castle Street, Belfast (transfer); no appearance
20	Henry Gilmore, 15 Smithfield, Belfast; granted
21	John Hanley, 54 Little Donegall Street, Belfast; refused
22	James Hagan, 4 Legg's Lane, Belfast (beer License only); granted
23	Langford Hanna, Whitehouse, Carnmoney; no appearance
24	Oliver Hinde, 10 & 12 Brown's Square, Belfast; no appearance
25	Alexander Herald, 72 Donegall Street, Belfast (transfer); granted
26	John Kirker, 63 Nelson Street, Belfast (transfer from 74 Great George's Street); granted
27	Thomas Mercer, Wm. Kerr, and Alex. Hall, 29 & 31 Cromac Street (transfer); granted
28	John Lowry, 68 Ann Street and Church Lane, Belfast (transfer); granted
29	Ann Lundy, 70 Millfield, Belfast (transfer); deferred until October Sessions
30	Thomas Mackin, 3 & 5 Legg's Lane, Belfast (transfer); granted
31	Robert Meharry, 9 Queen's Square, Belfast (beer license only); granted
32	Robert M'Elwee, 62 Waring Street (transfer); refused
33	William M'Cloy, 13 Nile Street & 25 Little Henry Street, Belfast; refused
34	James M'Laughlin, 55 Antrim Road, Belfast; refused
35	Peter M'Donald, 152 & 154 Nelson Street and 45 North Thomas Street, Belfast (transfer from 6 Green Street); granted
36	James M'Alea, 134 North Street, Belfast (transfer); granted
37	Jonathan M'Murn, 126 & 128 Upper Earl Street, Belfast; no appearance
38	Hugh M'Gukin, Budore, Glenavy; no appearance
39	George and Hugh M'Ilroy, 86½ Durham Street, Belfast (transfer); granted
40	John M'Garry, 124 North Street, Belfast (transfer); no appearance
41	James O'Connor, 67 North Queen Street, Belfast; refused
42	Samuel Patterson, 225 & 227 York Street, Belfast; no appearance
43	Charles Herbert Rea and Daniel Rooney, 26 Church Street, Belfast (transfer); granted
44	George Reid, 2 & 4 Valentine Street, Belfast (transfer); granted
45	James Vint, 55, 57, & 59 Mustard Street, Belfast; granted
46	James Watson, 5 Great Victoria Street, Belfast (transfer); granted
47	Wm. Wilson, 92 Cromac Street, Belfast; deferred
48	John Walker, 107 Nelson Street, Belfast; refused
49	Sarah Warnock, 44½ Ann Street, Belfast (transfer from 52 Victoria Street); granted
50	Robert Wallace, 228 Old Lodge Road, Belfast (transfer); granted
51	James Walsh, 51 North Queen Street, Belfast (transfer from 75 North Queen Street); granted
52	Edward Waring, Mulliglass, Derriaghy; granted

The Court then resumed the Crown business.

ASSAULT AND ROBBERY FROM THE PERSON.

Margaret Boucher, an unfortunate young woman, was indicted for having, on the 6th instant, committed an assault on a person named Wm. Watson, and stolen a purse, a handkerchief, and a sum of £8 8s 9d.

Mr Seeds defended the prisoner.

William Watson, the prosecutor, was sworn, and stated that he had been in Belfast, selling two loads of potatoes for his master, and, on receiving payment for them, went through Hudson's Entry, in company with another person, and, at one of the doors, the prisoner was standing, together with four others, and one of them knocked off his hat, and they all dragged him into the house, threw him down in the foor, and the prisoner forcibly extracted the money from his pocket, and they then put him out.

Inspector Shields, of the local force, deposed to having arrested the prisoner, and, on having her searched, the purse, containing £7 4s 6d, and the handkerchief were found on her person.

Mr SEEDS addressed the jury for the prisoner.

His WORSHIP having charged the jury, they returned a verdict of guilty.

The ASSISTANT-BARRISTER, addressing the prisoner, said she had been convicted of a very frightful robbery, which, it appeared, was the last of a series of offences of various kinds. She had been convicted previously about twenty times, and it would be hopeless to attempt reformation by any small period of imprisonment. She was, therefore, to be transported for fourteen years.

ASSAULT AND ROBBERY.

A lad, named James Harvey, was indicted for having, on the 1st of April instant, committed an assault on Denis Curran, and stolen a sum of 8s from his person.

It appeared from the evidence that the two lads had been with the recruiting sergeant to enlist, and afterwards went away in company, and got drunk. They afterwards went to Hudson's Entry, where the offences were committed. A few days afterwards, the prisoner was given into custody. It also appeared that he had been only three weeks previously discharged from Spike Island, where he had been sentenced to be imprisoned for seven years. He had been convicted eleven times of theft, or receiving stolen goods, and been committed to jail for periods varying from one to six months.

The jury found him guilty, and he was sentenced to six years' penal servitude.

This concluded the business of the Sessions, and the Court rose at a quarter to four.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

CAVAN QUARTER SESSIONS.

NOVEL CASE. -- ROMANISM.

Thomas Brady v. James Reilly.

This was an action brought by the Roman Catholic Archdeacon of Kilmore, for recovery of dues and emoluments claimed to be due by the defendant, according to the custom of the Roman Catholic Church.

Mr SWANZY, who was retained by the Rev. Mr Brady, said the present case was a most peculiar one, and he would say that it was the first one of the kind that had ever been tried before in Ireland. It was a claim made by the plaintiff to recover from the defendant the just and legitimate dues, which the plaintiff considered he was entitled to by the usages and customs of the Roman Catholic Church. Although, as he first stated, the case was a peculiar one, still that would not operate against a person who held a large property in the parish of which the Rev. Thomas Brady was the Roman Catholic rector. From time immemorial, it was well known that the Roman Catholic people, with infinite credit to themselves, had supported their clergy by voluntary and other contributions -- yes, he would say for the last 300 years.

The COURT -- Ay, and far longer back.

Mr SWANZY -- I agree with your worship, but I merely define it for so long back to show that such was the usage and custom of that church; and that such bring the fact, he did consider that there could not be found a man so hard-hearted as would deny his clergy that which was their just and alienable right, those who ministered spiritual consolation to them in a dying hour, and when sickness befell them. But he regretted to say this was the case; and the present action would prove it to be so. About forty years ago, the Rev. Thos. Brady was inducted as the Roman Catholic Rector of Kilore, in which parish the defendant held an extensive farm, which went by the name of the "Lands of Slamore." This large and extensive farm was in the occupation of only oue person, whereas if it were divided into sixteen or eighteen farms, where previously it was in the possession of fourteen families, and possessed by those of the Roman Catholic persuasion, the rev. plaintiff would receive a considerable amount of dues. Then, again, when it was taken into consideration that the Very Rev. Father Brady had built a place of worship, at considerable expense, giving towards its erection nearly £300 out of his own pocket, for the express purpose of meeting the spiritual requirements of his flock, he (Mr S) did say that it behoved every one professing the Roman Catholic religion to come forward and support the rev. gentleman of that parish in every way in their power. Such, in itself, was calculated to awaken the latent energies of the Roman Catholic people holding property in the parish, and to excite their sympathies. The venerable archdeacon, and he (Mr S.) had been schoolboys together at the Royal School of Cavan, and a more worthy individual did not exist. He was so much respected by the Protestant parishioners of Kilmore that, when he first contemplated the building of the chapel he referred to, the Protestants came forward, with the Protestant bishop at their head, and handsomely contributed towards its erection; but up to the present hour the defendant had never contributed a single fraction towards the chapel, nor paid a fraction of dues to the rev. clergyman. It was upon the payment of such dues that the clergy had to exist; and no doubt crafts and quibbles would be had recourse to, to show that the law did not recognise, or make it incumbent upon the parishioners thus to contribute towards the temporal wants of the Roman Catholic clergy; but he felt bound to tell the Court, that "usage and custom" had created such a law without any legal enactment being required to have the payment of such enforced. When Mr. Brady saw no intention upon the part of the plaintiff to do his duty towards him (Mr Brady) he wrote a letter to the defendant, and also oge to his father, which were couched in the most respectful and Christian terms; and it anything were necessary to soften the heart of the defendant towards his spiritual teacher it was in fact that the letter breathed in every word of it that sympathetic feeling which had always characterised the conduct of the venerable archdeacon. Now, the venerable Roman Catholic Archdeacon of Kilmore did more; he was willing, and offered to refer the whole matter to the Right Rev. Dr Browne, the Roman Catholic Bishop of the diocese. Could any one, unless a most contumacious man in heart, object to such a proceeding? And, again, he (Mr Swanzy) would state that the Rev. Mr Brady was also willing to submit the case to the Protestant bishop of the diocese, or any gentlemen that the defendant wished; but despite all this the defendant would not consent to anything being done in the matter at all; no, he still held out, and would not pay what could be looked upon in no other way than that of being a fair and just debt. He would not give his clergy that support, who in the hour of distress and trial would give him that spiritual consolation necessary upon such occasions, and prepare him for that hour at which we must sooner or later arrive. The Rev. Mr Brady claimed such dues since the passing of the Roman Catholic Relief Bill, and he was sure the Court would justly award him that. The rev. gentleman's claims were not exorbitant but he wanted merely to assert his rights, and to show that, in the absence of an Act of Parliament on the subject, "usage and custom" created a law in themselves, by which the Roman Catholic clergy were entitled to and could claim such support.

R. C. Archdeacon Brady was then called, and having been sworn deposed that he was plaintiff in the present action; he was Roman Catholic Archdeacon and Rector of the parish of Kilmore; he had been in the position of Rector for nearly the last forty years; he derived his support from his Roman Catholic parishioners; all that held property to in the parish contributed to that support, with the exception of Mr Reilly; the usage and custom of such contributions were recognised more than three hundred years ago; Mr Reilly held about 160 nacres of land in the parish of Kilmore; he never contributed anything towards his (the archdeacon's) support; the holdings of the Roman Catholic farmers were generally small; and upon the land which Mr Reilly held there used to live sixteen families, who contributed to the support of their clergy; the emoluments of those sixteen families would average nearly £100 in the year; Mr Reilly never contributed a sixpence towards the building of the chapel referred to; he sent a letter to Mr Reilly's father by a special messenger, and to Mr Reilly himself by post; witness never received an answer to either one or the other.

Cross-examined by Mr KNIPE. -- Mr Reilly did not attend his chapel, but he was found every Sunday amongst his quadrupeds; by his Sunday conduct he gave offence to both Roman Catholics and Protestants; Mr Reilly was the ostensible owner of the lands of Slamore, although he did not reside in the parish; witness had received gratuities from many parties who did not reside in his parish, but upon the ground of them holding property in it; he had received £1 from a gentleman who was not there last Christmas, and who did not reside in the parish; he wrote to both Mr John and James Reilly, but they were not courteous enough to condescend a reply; those contributions were given voluntarily by the parishioners; Mr Reilly knew well that, by his having land in the parish, it was incumbent upon him to support the minister of that parish.

Mr SWANZY -- Your worship, I will not trouble you with any further witnesses.

After which Mr Thomas Reilly appeared for the defence, and said that in the absence of his brother, he was there to state that he did not hold these lands; it was his father who held them.

Cross-examined by Mr SWANZY -- His father held the lands, and he had heard that an offer was made to Father Thomas Brady, which he had refused; he could only say, for the manner in which he had acted, his father would not pay a fraction of the dues claimed by him; he and his family were not in the habit of treating the Roman Catholic clergy badly.

The COURT -- Mr Swanzy, I should wish to know the habit of treating the Roman Catholic clergy badly.

The COURT -- Mr Swanzy, I should wish to know how you can sustain your claim in point of law?

Mr SWANZY -- The recognition of it by usages and custom, in my opinion, legalises it. Usages and custom proved an implied contract.

The COURT -- Do you rest your case upon usage and custom? I should like you to show me what legal obligation there is to pay it, and what sanction you have by law?

Mr SWANZY -- I can give you no further proofs to be guided by than usage and custom.

The COURT -- Usage and custom are not recognised by law; and even the tendering of the money would not establish your right.

Mr SWANZY -- The claim is a just and righteous one.

The COURT -- That may be, but the law says that the Rev. Thomas Brady is there teaching doctrines which are "damnable an idolatrous;" then will you expect the law to pay him for that -- even the late Prime Minister called the Roman Catholic religion the "mummery of superstition."

Mr MAGAURAN -- And the Government sanctions the teachings of such doctrines, because they give us the Maynooth grant, and pay our clergy for teaching the Catholic religion in our workhouses and jails.

After some other cross firing, the Court decided that Archdeacon Brady had no law upon his side to support him in his claim, and dismissed the process. -- Anglo-Celt.

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Local Intelligence.

Mr and Mrs Dobbs have left Castle Dobbs, to spend some weeks in England.

NEW GOVERNMENT OFFICES. -- We understand that the new Government Offices in Belfast will be opened early in May next.

NAVAL INTELLIGENCE. -- We observe by the Gazette that Lieutenant Black, R.N., of Rose Lodge, Annahilt, County Down, has been promoted to the rank of Commander, R.N.

THE BELFAST ANACREONTIC SOCIETY. -- On Tuesday night last, the second dress concert of the above very excellent society was held in the Music Hall, and was attended by a large and fashionable audience.

THE AMOUNT OF DUTY PAID AT THE BELFAST CUSTOM-HOUSE, for the week ending April 11, was £41,999 2s, against £2,876 14s 4d the previous week, and £7,352 18s 6d the corresponding period of last year.

TEA. -- The number of pounds of tea entered for consumption at Belfast, for the week ending April 11, was 464,053lbs, against 4,038lbs. the previous week, making a total of 784,182lbs., since 1st Jan. last, against 534,858lbs. same period last year.

CHURCHWARDENS, KNOCKBREDA. -- At the vestry, held in Knockbreda Parish Church, on Monday last, Charles Knox, Esq., LL.D., Raven Hill, and Robert Calwell, Esq., Annadale, were appointed Church-wardens for the ensuing year.

CANADIAN PANORAMA. -- This truly beautiful and interesting series of paintings, of the most picturesque and celebrated places in the "Far West," continues to attract large numbers of visitors daily and nightly. There is a day entertainment at two, and an evening one at eight.

ALBERT STREET SABBATH-SCHOOL. -- On last Saturday afternoon, the Rev. J. Browne Wilson took the children attending the Albert Street Sabbath-school to the Museum. They were accompanied by the teachers, and it is needless to say that they were delighted with the interesting specimens collected in that valuable institution.

INQUEST. -- An inquest was held by J. K. Jackson, Esq., coroner, on Wednesday evening, at Lisburn, on the body of Geo. Stephenson, who had been killed at the Long Stone by a horse and gig passing over him on the previous evening. On a full investigation of the circumstances, the jury found a verdict of accidental death.

A NEW STEAMER FOR THE BELFAST AND LONDON TRADE. -- We observe that a new steamer, named the Ossian, intended to trade between this port and London, arrived at our quay on Monday. She is a screw, and is built in the same style as her predecessor, the Temora, and carries about the same tonnage.

ACCIDENT -- CHILD SCALDED. -- On Sunday, a child named Thomas Tuff, aged three years, whose parents reside in Lynas Lane, was taken to the General Hospital, in consequence of having been dangerously scalded by the falling upon it, by accident, of a kettle of boiling water. The child is recovering but it is still in a precarious condition.

ESCAPE FROM DROWNING. -- On Tuesday, a seaman, named Alexander M'Donnell, belonging to the brig Hope, upon the plank from the ship to the quay, while in a state of intoxication, when he accidentally missed his footing and fell into the water. Providentially, Harbour Constable Wm. Irwin was convenient at the time, and at once ran forward with a life-hook, and succeeded in keeping the man above water until he was safely taken on shore. He was not injured, more than what might be expected from a sound ducking.

FOUND DROWNED. -- A labouring man, named Patrick M'Kenty, of Larne, left his lodgings on the morning of the 16th of February last, supposed to be in a state of intoxication at the time, and not returning to his home, a minute search was made for him through all parts of the town and adjoining fields, but no trace of him could be found until Sunday last, when he was discovered drowned in the race of the Larne Flour Mills. There were no marks of violence on the body. An inquest was held on the body, before Alexander Markham, Esq, coroner, and a respectable jury, who returned a verdict of "Found drowned."

DEATH OF AN ELECTOR WHILE RECORDING HIS VOTE. -- One of the most remarkable instances of the uncertainty of life occurred at Hillsborough polling booth for the County Down election, on Thursday week. An old man, Thomas M'Bratney, from Barneymaghery, near Killinchy, proceeded to one of the booths to record his vote, and as the crowd was very dense, was knocked about greatly before he could get forward. He had handed in his card, and was asked for whom be intended to vote, when before he could answer, he fell suddenly forward, and expired. Drs. Boyd and Croker, who were convenient at the time, were called to see him, but they at once pronounced life to be extinct. Deceased was about seventy-five years of age, and appeared to be a farmer.

QUEEN'S ISLAND CONSERVATORY. -- The season for visiting the Island and its pleasure grounds has now commenced, and we recommend an early visit to the conservatory, where the plants are now assuming their spring attire. A very fine specimen of Acacia Verticillata is now -- we had almost said loaded -- they are too aerial for such a description, but covered with yellow bioom. This is the plant which we formerly mentioned as presented by Edward Walkington, Esq. It is planted in the soil, and reaches nearly to the glass roof of the building, being one of the finest plants of the species we have seen. The Acacia Armata, presented by the Marchioness of Downshire, is also in full flower, and adds greatly to the interest connected with this place of recreation. The collection of marine plants is also becoming very attractive. The curator seems to manage it with considerable skill.

APPOINTMENT OF CHURCHWARDENS FOR BELFAST. -- On Tuesday, a vestry meeting was heid in the schoolroom attached to the Parish Church, for the purpose of appointing two churchwardens for the district of Belfast. There were only a few gentlemen present, amongst whom were -- Rev. T. F. MILLER (Vicar) in the chair; Rev. William Anderson; Messrs Adam Duffin, W. J. Young, and A. H. Thornton. The Vicar said the business of that meeting was merely matter of form -- it was simply the appointment of churchwardens. He supposed they were aware of the duties of churchwardens -- to attend to the poor, sign the papers of pensioners, and give tickets of admission to the District Lunatic Asylum. Inasmuch as there was no parish cesspayer present, the appointment of the churchwardens was vested in himself; and, as it was merely a church matter, he thought that two members of the congregation would be the most proper persons to fill the office. He appointed Mr Thomas Greer, who was the treasurer of the congregation, and Dr Hamilton as churchwardens. Mr Miller went on to say that there was another matter, which was also merely one of form, to be brought forward. He had received a letter from Rev. Mr Seaver, requesting him to appoint two chapel wardens. With that appointment they had nothing to do; but, as Mr Seaver had requested him to appoint these chapel wardens, whose duty was to transact the pecuniary matters of the church, and thus save a good deal of unpleasantness to the ministers, he had no hesitation to comply. He appointed Messrs Frederick H. Lewis and Henry Seeds. There being no other business to transact, the meeting dispersed.

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A SPEEDY MARRIAGE. -- Captain William Knight, of the steamer Henry Jones, while going down the Ohio, from Wheeling, a few weeks since, fell so deeply in love with a lady passenger, Miss Miller, that a marriage was consummated at once -- a reverend passenger officiating.

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BELFAST POLICE COURT -- SATURDAY.

[Before the MAYOR.]

The business transacted to-day was of the lightest possible character. Owen Christie, the indefatigable delinquent, whose name so lately appeared placarded as one of the candidates for the Parliamentary representation of the town, and who is but a few days out of durance, to which he was confined for three months, was brought up to make his 130th appearance in court, on a charge of "drunk and disorderly." On being asked by the Mayor what he had to say for himself? he replied that that was his first appearance before his Worship, and if he would let him off he would not be seen in the dock for a twelvemonth. He was ordered to be discharged on payment of 1s and costs. The other cases were as trifling, though, perhaps, not so interesting.

TUESDAY.

(Before the Mayor, and WM. COATES, Esqrs.)

HOUSE-BREAKING AND ROBBERY.

John Ross and Matilda Cuddy were charged with having entered the house of Mr Samuel Coburn, pawnbroker, Smithfield, during the absence of the inmates, on Monday last, and stealing therefrom a pair of candlesticks and several other articles the property of Mr Coburn.

The offence was very clearly proven. The prisoners were seen both when entering and leaving the premises; but, as only a portion of the stolen property has been discovered, the prisoners were remanded.

LARCENY.

Margt. M'Clean was charged with having stolen knives and forks, cups and saucers, a looking-glass, and several other articles the property of Mr Alexander Adams, of the Queen's Hotel, where she had been engaged as a servant.

Mr Sheals ably conducted the defence, but the articles having been found in the prisoner's box, when she was leaving the hotel, she was sent to jail for a week, and to forfeit the wages due to her.

AN ACTOR IN THE DOCK.

An actor in the Smithfield theatre, named Cully, made his appearance before the bench, on a charge of having assaulted a person named M'Cann, on Monday evening.

As the complainant did not appear in person "Hamlet" or "Romeo," or whoever he was, escaped without paying a fine.

WEDNESDAY.

(Before Dr. M'GEE.)

ASSAULT UPON A FEMALE.

A journeyman tailor, named William Tully, was charged with having committed an unprovoked assault upon a woman of the name of Auguste Dyer. He was also charged with having assaulted Police Inspector Campbell, and Thomas Cardwell, of the local force.

Mr. William Seeds appeared to prosecute, and Messrs. Alexander O'Rorke and P. Sheals to defend the prisoner.

His Worship said the prisoner was to pay a fine 40s and costs, or two months' imprisonment, for the assault upon the prosecutrix, and for the assault upon Inspector Campbell, a fine of 10s and costs was to be imposed. The third charge was dismissed.

The other cases were not of the slightest importance or interest to the public.

THURSDAY.

(Before W. S. TRACY, Esq., R.M., and Dr M'GEE.)

An old man named John Kennedy was committed to jail for two months for having three ducks, three hens, and a cock in his possession, believed to be stolen. David Dempster, of Ballymacarrett, was committed to jail for fourteen days, on a charge of having stolen a coat the property of a person named Finlay. A number of persons were charged with allowing their dogs to go at large in the streets, and were discharged with a caution from the magistrates. The other cases were unimportant.

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Shipping.

BELFAST, FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 1857.

ARRIVED.

At this port, on the 14th instant, the Trusty, Campbell, from Maryport; the Margaret Ann, Johnston, from Glasgow.
At Londonderry, on the 11th instant, the Argentinus, Gillespie, from New Orleans.
At Deal, on the 13th instant, the Goldfinder, Stewart, from Calcutta.
At Gibraltar, on the 4th instant, the Alan Kerr, Winter, from Trieste.
At Boston, on the 27th ultimo, the Majestic, Durand, from Liverpool.
At Havana, on the 23rd ultimo, the Laura Russ, Russ, from Belfast.
At Sydney. on the 8th Jan., the Mary Grant, Bennett, from Valparaiso.

SAILED.

From Londonderry, on the 11th inst., the Mary Ann, M'Cay, for St. John's; on the 10th, the Zered, Corish, for Philadelphia.
From Queenstown, on the 10th instant, the Hillman Schartoff, Havernock, for Londonderry.
From Dublin, on the 9th instant, the Favourite, Bengale, for Belfast.
From Newport, Mon., on the 9th inst., the Countess of Morley, Jamieson, for Belfast.
From Hull, on the 11th instant, the Dexterous, Lay, for Kunigsberg.

CLEARED.

From Liverpool, on the 11th instant, the Miltiades, Johnson, for Ship Island.
From Philadelphia, on the 28th ultimo, the Joseph Jones, Flower, for Londonderry.
From Gibraltar, on the 1st instant, the Sarah Maria, Chellew, for Queenstown; the Princess Royal, Thomas, for Dublin.

LOADING.

At this port, on the 10th instant, the Broederschap, Brugts, with salt, for Riga; the Hortense Sidonie, Salliant, with whiskey, for Havre; the Helene, Lorenzen, for Dordt; and the Charlotte, Grenfield, for Rouen.

SPOKEN.

The St. Helena, of Belfast, 31 days from Liverpool, Feb. 28, in lat: 23 20 S., long 29.50 W.

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NEW POST-OFFICE. -- We understand that a Post-Office has been opened at Aughnagurgan, near Keady, which promises to be advantageous to parties residing midway between Keady and Newtownhamilton, as it will enable them to get their papers and letters in the morning, instead of (as at present) six or seven o'clock in the evening.

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THE EMIGRANT SHIP BOANERGES. -- This vessel put into our harbour on the 24th of February for repairs, having sprung her foremast, carried away two top-gallant masts, and received other damage while on voyage from Liverpool to Sydney with 480 emigrants, to convey which she had been chartered by the Emigration Commissioners. The necessary repairs having been effected the vessel proceeded on her passage on the 30th ultimo. She has, however, again been unfortunate. On the third day after putting to sea she encountered a heavy gale from the North-West, in which her mainmast was sprung and topmasts carried away. In consequence of this injury the master, Captain Sedgwick, was again compelled to put back. He accordingly bore up for Plymouth, where he arrived on Monday, for repairs. -- Cork Constitution.

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GALLANT AND PERSEVERING CONDUCT OF CONSTABLE WILLIAM ARMSTRONG, OF DERRYCORRY. -- Some weeks ago, a man, named Cullan, deserted from the 34th Regiment, stationed in Edinburgh Castle, and robbed his officer of his watch and £10, besides other articles of wearing apparel, which the officer identified. Sergeant Armstrong saw his description in the Hue and Cry, and with his usual vigilance, was on the "look out," and in a few days after arrested him in his bed, finding a portion of the money on his person, and a watch that he had bartered for the one taken from his officer. He lodged the prisoner in Armagh Jail, and made search for the stolen watch, which he also found. He then acquainted the officer, where he was stationed in Edinburgh Castle, by whom an escort was sent for Cullan. Sergeant Armstrong was summoned to prosecute. In the meantime, a man from the neighbourhood absconded, a weaver by trade, taking with him in money and manufacturer's yarns to the amount of £20, and was suspected to have gone to Scotland. When the gallant sergeant was going to prosecute Cullan, he thought he would turn his trip to some advantage, and got a warrant for Doyle, the person who absconded from Ireland. When he convicted Cullan, and when he was found guilty, and got six months' imprisonment, with a sound flogging, he then proceeded to Dundee, about 100 miles, when he arrested Doyle, in his bed, about three o'clock in the morning, and then started again for Ireland, where he arrived on Saturday morning, 4th inst., and had him comfortably lodged in our county jail. All this he performed inside one week. -- Armagh Guardian.

 

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Births

April 21, at Abbeylands, the wife of John M'Gildowny, of Clare Park, Esq., of a daughter.

April 21, at Wellington Park, the wife of the Rev. George Shaw, of a daughter.

April 19, at Jackson Hall, Ballymacarrett, the wife of R. B. Hall, solicitor, of a daughter.

April 20, at 46, Lonsdale Street, the wife of the Rev. G. A. F. Patton, of a daughter.

April 19, at Fox Lodge, Mrs. Wm. Young, of a son.

April 13, at Dantzic, the wife of Mr. Wm. G. Wilson, of a daughter.

Marriages

April 21, at the Donegall Street Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. George Bellis, assisted by the Rev. Isaac Nelson, J. B. M'Kean, of New York, to Dora, youngest daughter of Captain Whitehead, of Shields, England.

March 17, in the First Presbyterian Church, Dromara, County Down, by the Rev. William Craig, Mr. John Davison, Moydalgan, to Ellen, youngest daughter of Mr. Robert Jones.

April 16, at the Parish Church, Leamington, by the Rev. Lloyd S. Bruce, brother of the bride, the Rev. A. Boudier, assistant-minister of St Mary's, Warwick, to Ellen Letitia, second daughter of the late James Bruce, Bart., of Downhill Park, County Londonderry.

April 18, at St. Anne's Church, by the Rev. T. F. Miller, Vicar, Hugh M., eldest son of the late John Pentland, Esq., Belfast, to Emily, eldest daughter of the late Noah Dalway, Lieut. R.N., Carrickfergus.

April 20, at the Donegall Street Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. Isaac Nelson, Mr. David Moncrieff, compositor, to Mary, eldest daughter of Mr. John Coates, Upper Falls, Belfast.

April 18, at the First Presbyterian Church, Comber, by the Rev. J. M. Killen, Mr. George Thompson, Carroreagh, Dundonald, to Eliza, second daughter of the late Mr. James Hill, Crescent, Comber.

April 15, at Glenavy Church, by the Rev. J. Whiteside, W. H. Patrick, Esq., surgeon to Margaret, second daughter of the late George Forsyth, Esq., M.D., Carrickfergus.

April 20, at Drung Chapel, by the Rev. M. M'Kenna, C.C., Lieut. Neal Doherty, late of Osmanli Horse Artillery, to Annie, youngest daughter of Jane M'Conneloag, Esq., Quigley's Point, County Donegal.

Deaths

April 21, Mr. George Lunney, of Wolf-hill, aged 53 years.

At Wolf-hill, suddenly, James Boyde, aged 52 years.

April 21, after a short illness, Mary, the beloved wife of Mr. John Lytle.

April 20, Elizabeth, wife of Mr. Samuel Patton, High Street, Newtownards, aged 54 years.

April 21, Charles, son of Mr. William Stewart, Silver Stream, Belfast.

April 21, Catherine, relict of the late Mr. Thos. Stormont, of Ballygomartin, aged 80 years.

April 20, at her residence, 25 Russell Street, Belfast, the wife of Mr. John Campbell, aged 25 years.

April 19, Anne, third daughter of Mr. James Byrne, 92 High Street, Belfast.

April 17, at Inkermann Terrace, at the residence of her son-in-law, (W. W. Godfrey, Esq.) Letitia, daughter of the late Andrew Thompson, Esq., of Newry, and widow of the late Benjamin Thomson, Esq., Ravensdale, Co. Louth, in the 81st year of her age.

April 16, aged 18, of disease of the heart, William eldest son of Mr. Samuel Agnew, No. 19, John Street, Downpatrick.

At the residence of his mother, 5, Blackbourne Terrace, Birkenhead, in his sixteenth year, Wm. Frederick, third son of the late Titchbourne Greuber, Esq., of Liverpool.

April 19, at Cookstown, Mrs. Elizabeth Custer, relict of the late Bernard Custer, Esq., R.N., aged 72 years.

April 18, at Donaghadee, in the 92nd year of her age, Sarah M'Cracken, relict of the late John M'Cracken, of Portavo. For the last forty years of her life she was a zealous member of the Wesleyan Methodist Society.

April 21, at Derrylecka, near Newry, Mr. Daniel M'Caffery, aged 108 years.

March 19, at Terre-haute, in the State of Indiana, Saml. Crawford Esq., fourth son of the late Mrs. Forbes, of Antrim.

Clippings

Summary of General News.

IRELAND.

NEWRY EASTER VESTRY. -- Messrs Francis White and T. H. L. Leary were appointed churchwardens.

DOWNPATRICK EASTER VESTRY. -- John Hastings, and William N. Wallace, Esqrs., were appointed Churchwardens for the ensuing year.

DUNDALK EASTER VESTRY. -- Messes Edmondson and Barton have been appointed churchwardens for the ensuing year.

SUDDEN DEATH. -- On Friday last, Mr Arthur Crilly, bailiff and gamekeeper on the Dundalk estate, while in a house in Park Street, was seized with an apoplectic fit, and, after an hour's convulsive struggles, expired.

TRINITY COLLEGE. -- The Rev. William Lee, D.D., F.T.C.D., and author of "Lectures on the Inspiration of the Holy Scripture," has been elected to the Professorship of Ecclesiastical History, vacant by the promotion of Dr Fitzgerald to the see of Cork.

SLIGO BOROUGH PETITION. -- The friends and supporters of Mr Wynne declare it to be the intention of that gentleman to petition against the return of Mr Somers. Mr Edwin Jones, Q.C., has been retained on his behalf. The mayor has also been threatened with legal proceedings about the return. -- Sligo Champion.

BANBRIDGE UNION. -- At the first meeting of the newly-elected Board of Guardians of this Union, held on Monday the30th ult., John Lindsay, Esq., J.P., of Tullyhinan; William M'Clelland, Esq., of Clanmurray; and Thomas Ervin, Esq., of Banbridge, were unanimously re-appointed chairman, vice-chairman, and deputy vice-chairman, respectively, for the year ending the 25th day of March, 1858.

BANBRIDGE DISPENSARY DISTRICT. -- At the first meeting of the new Committee of Management of this district, held on Monday, the 13th inst., Thomas Ervin, Esq., of Banbridge, was re-elected chairman, and David Hale, Esq., of Drumnavaddy, was elected vice-chairman. Samuel Hill, Esq., and Hamilton Moore, Esq., both of Banbridge, continue to act as honorary secretary and honorary assistant-secretary, respectively, for the year ending the 25th day of March, 1858.

CORONER'S INQUEST. -- On Saturday, an inquest was held, before Dr Tyrrell, coroner, upon the body of a man named John Wilson, who was found dead on Friday morning, in a lane leading to Crownmount. Deceased, whose occupation was that of a land surveyor, and resided at Benagh, near Mayo Bridge, was seen in Newry late on Thursday evening, under the influence of drink; and the inference deduced from the evidence was that, being unable to prosecute his journey homewards, his death resulted from exposure to the weather. A verdict to that effect was returned. -- Newry Telegraph.

MURDEROUS ASSAULT. -- A ruffian, named Carter, who was sentenced to transportation some few years ago, but came back a short time since on ticket-of-leave, committed a murderous assault on an elderly gentleman named Mr Fennell, on Saturday last, at Rossmore, in the Queen's County. It appears that on the previous night the heartless wretch solicited a night's lodging from Mr Fennell, which was kindly granted to him; he was given his breakfast in the morning, after which (having seen Mr Fennell go out about his farm) he seized a spade, and having closed over the kitchen door, threatened to knock the brains out of the servant boy and girl if they did not tell him where Mr Fennell's money was; the girl screamed violently, but this only made the rascal redouble his threat.

REJOICINGS ON COLONEL CLOSE'S BROOTALLY ESTATE. -- "As soon as it was officially announced that Maxwell C. Close, Esq., was duly elected a Member of Parliament for this county, the tenants on his Brootally estate gave expression to their joy by lighting bonfires and tar-barrels, which illuminated the country for several miles; at the same time, they testified their respect for Colonel Close, the best of landlords, and for Mr Quinn, one of the best agents in the North of Ireland, by the most tumultuous cheering. All grades of society here are highly pleased with the choice the County has made, and entertain the most sanguine hopes of the young gentleman's Parliamentary career." -- Cor. of Newry Telegraph.

VESSEL RUN DOWN. -- DROGHEDA, SATURDAY, APRIL 18. -- On yesterday morning, shortly after three o'clock, the schooner Woodcock, of Swansea, Williams master, while on her passage from that place to Liverpool, and laden with coal, was run into off the Skerries, by the American ship Fidelia, which was after leaving Liverpool and bound for New York. The Woodcock sunk immediately, and the crew, comprising the captain, three men, and a boy, were placed in the most imminent peril. They state that they cried aloud for assistance to the crew of the Fidelia, and they were obliged to clamber up the sides of that vessel. All, however, were saved. The Mary, of Preston, Robert Webster master, being on her voyage to Drogheda, laden with coals, was hailed a few hours afterwards by the Captain of the Fidelia, and the crew of the Woodcock were transferred to the Mary.

ACCIDENTAL FIRE. -- An alarming fire, we regret to say, occurred, on Monday night last, in the extensive premises belonging to Thos. Walkington, Esq., Ballinderry, and occupied by him as a corn mill, the structure being completely destroyed. Mr Walkington, and any of his labourers who could be of service, were on the spot as soon as possible, to render any assistance that would be required in extinguishing the flames; but all was of no use, the fire having got such a hold in the dry wood, &c., that was in the building, that it was utterly impossible to quench it. The concern was a mass of ruins, not a vestige of its machinery apparent, save some of the large grinding stones, that had fallen on one another, and a small flame issuing out of the smouldering embers at intervals. Only a part of the corn and meal that were on the premises has been saved. There is a range of houses attached to the mill, part of them used as a drying kiln, and the remainder as store-houses, &c. Strange to say, they are not in any way damaged. We are happy to say the mill was insured.

PRESENTATION. -- A meeting was held on Thursday evening, 16th instant, in the school-room connected with the New Wesleyan Chapel, Newtownards, for the purpose of presenting Mr Caughey with a very beautiful tea and coffee service, of electro-silver plate, value about £20 sterling, and which bore the following inscription:-- "Presented to Mr Francis Caughey, by his friends, on his leaving Newtownards for America, in token of their esteem for his private and public character, and in appreciation of his worth as a friend and a Christian. April, 1857." After devotional exercises, the chair was taken by Silas Evins, Esq., who delivered a very suitable and telling address, in which he spoke in very high terms of the gentleman adverted to; and then, in the name of the donors, presented him with the beautiful gift; after which, Mr Caughey responded in very feeling terms, adverting to his long connexion with the Wesleyan Church, and his thankfulness to the Giver of all good who had enabled him to secure the esteem and love of so many Christian friends for so long a period, and his deep regret in parting with them, but he was cheered with the hope of meeting them in a better world. The Revs. Messrs Lough and Oliff took a prominent part in the meeting, and after concluding in the manner they began, the happy meeting terminated.

REJOICINGS FOR THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES AT THE LATE ELECTION FOR COUNTY LOUTH. -- On Saturday evening, a large bonfire was lit in a field early opposite Red House, the residence of C. S. Fortescue, Esq., M.P. An abundance of ale and whiskey was distributed to the crowd by Mr Harker, the steward, assisted by Mr Roe, the gardener. Some first-rate music was in requisition, and a platform erected for dancing, on which it was kept up for a considerable time, the scene being occasionally changed to vociferous cheering for Mr Fortescue. In the previous part of the day, Mrs Ruxton's annual guerdon of beef, bread, coffee, and sugar was distributed to her various labourers, Mr Harker, the steward, acting as almoner on the occasion. On last Monday evening, a large bonfire was lit at Harristown, by directions of Mr James Gray, to commemorate the return of Mr M'Clintock, the landlord. A large number of persons -- many of them from Ardee -- attended on the occasion. Plenty of ale and no small quantum of the "native" was provided for the occasion, and ample justice done to them. Three fiddlers, having their bows well rosined, enlivened the scene. The cheering, which was loud and lusty, making the welkin ring, must have, we think, aroused the inhabitants of the adjacent valleys, and even echoed through the woods of Drumcar. About twelve o'clock, the large concourse of peasantry broke up, cheering lustily for Mr M'Clintock and Mr Gray. Immediately after, a large party of Mr Gray's friends adjourned to that gentleman's residence at Hoathstown, when dancing commenced and was kept up with great spirit for a considerable time, the performers occasionally resting to hear a good song. -- Drogheda Argus.

LLOYD's AGENCY. -- Messrs John A. Smyth & Co., of Londonderry, have been appointed agents for Lloyd's, for the Coleraine district.

MEDICAL HONOUR. -- The eldest son of Alexander Neill, Esq., R.N., Coleraine, took his diploma with high honours, at the University of Edinburgh, on Wednesday last. -- Coleraine Chronicle.

BIRTH-DAY OF LORD LURGAN. -- Lady Lurgan, according to usual custom, gave, on the 10th April, a splendid soiree to the children of her school, as also a great many presents -- nearly fifty dresses -- to the boys and girls, and many excellent and good books. Her ladyship has evinced very great kindness ever since she came amongst the people of Lurgan. She frequently visits the sick and poor, and relieves their wants in various ways.

LANDLORD LIBERALITY. -- R. W. C. Cope, Esq., of Loughgall, in addition to the many other improvements on his estate for the benefit of his tenantry, has erected, near the Diamond, an elegant School-house and master's residence at his own expense. This undertaking cannot but prove of infinite service to the children in the neighbourhood. The cost will be about £400, and has been built from the plan of Mr. Boyd, architect, of Belfast, and carried out under his superintendence. -- Armagh Guardian.

MELANCHOLY OCCURRENCE. -- A farmer called Jas. M'Creary, belonging to Aughnamoyle, near Omagh, on Saturday night last, took as a draught a spoonful of liniment, containing aconite, which had been prescribed for a pain in the leg by Dr Maxwell, and did not survive more than an hour. It appeared the bottle had been labelled "to be applied externally," so that no blame rests on the doctor. Mr Orr held an inquest on the body -- verdict, death from taking an outward application in mistake. -- Tyrone Constitution.

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Local Intelligence.

FAT CATTLE ACTION. -- Thursday, on the farm of Mr Robert Potts, at Dundrod, Mr Rodgers obtained from 70s to 80s per cwt., sinking the offal.

THE AMOUNT OF DUTY PAID AT THE BELFAST CUSTOM HOUSE for the week ending April 18, was £5,961 10 7d, against £41,999 2s the previous week, and £6,229 2s 5d the corresponding period of last year.

TEA. -- The number of pounds of tea entered for consumption at Belfast, for the week ending April 18, was 35,016lbs, against 464,053lbs. the previous week, making a total of 819,198lbs. since 1st January last, against 558,992lbs. same period last year.

PROFESSOR GODWIN, C.E., LL.D. -- John Godwin, Esq., C.E., Professor of Engineering in the Belfast Queen's College, has had conferred upon him, by the Clinton College of the United States, the degree of Doctor of Laws.

DEATH FROM BURNING. -- The child, named Tuff, whose parents reside in Lynas Lane, and who, as stated in our paper of last week, was severely burnt, by the falling upon it of a kettle of boiling water, has died, after suffering great agony since the accident.

NATIONAL MODEL SCHOOL, FALLS ROAD. -- This building is now completed, and is to be opened early in the next month. On the 4th May the pupils are to be registered and classified according to the various departments of instruction, and on the 19th the work of education is to commence.

BELFAST LYING-IN HOSPITAL. -- After a severe and protracted examination, held in the above institution, before Professor Burden, and Drs. Dill and Pirrie, on Saturday, 18th instant, the following gentlemen obtained their midwifery diplomas:-- Messrs. Samuel Connor, A. H. Cooke, R. Kearney, E. Kearney, B. Matthews, J. M'Crea, D. Rutherford, D. Taggart, and J. Wallace.

THE EMIGRANT SHIP LACONIC. -- This fine vessel which has lately undergone thorough overhauling, now lies in Prince's Dock taking in her stock of provisions, and other necessaries for a voyage to Quebec with passengers, of whom, we understand, there are a large number. If all things go well, it is arranged that she proceeds on her voyage from Prince's Dock this morning, with the early tide.

ARRIVAL OF SWALLOWS. -- From several of our correspondents we learn the arrival, for the season of our warm weather visitors. A gentleman informs us that he saw one, on Sunday last, in the lower part of County Antrim, and another was observed, on the same day, at Holywood. Although we are convinced of the old adage, "One swallow does not make a Summer," yet we look upon the arrival of the swallow as the harbinger of bright and genial weather.

TEA DIRECT FROM CHINA. -- We are glad to learn that the cargo of tea Messrs. M'Clure & Co. have been expecting has now arrived. This splendid ship, Florence Nightingale, brings the most valuable cargo ever landed at this port, and we hope the importers, who thus do so much to serve the trade of Belfast, will meet with every encouragement from all interested in this important branch of commerce. Short import and reduced duty must give increased animation to this trade.

NOBLE RESCUE FROM DROWNING. -- Thursday morning, as a sailor was walking along the quay, in a state of inebriation, he got too close to the edge, and dropped over. One of the officers of Customs belonging to the port, named James Doherty, observed the poor fellow falling in, and instantly, in the most praiseworthy manner, doffed his coat and jumped in, to save him, in which he fortunately succeeded. No material injury was done to either; but the conduct of Mr Doherty merits a high eulogium.

RUMOURED DEATH OF MR CLARK, M.P. -- No little consternation was occasioned in the town and neighbourhood on Monday, by a report of the decease of Mr Clark, M.P. for County Derry. A telegraphic despatch assures us that the rumour was without foundation. This news will be received with intense satisfaction, by his numerous friends, who will join us in expressing a hope that this excellent gentleman has yet a long career of usefulness before him.

SALE OF PROPERTY IN BELFAST. -- On Friday sen., Mr G. C. Hyndman put up for sale by auction, ay his mart, Castle-place, the flax and tow spinning, flour and oatmeal mills, dwelling-house, lands, &c., known as Balnamore, in this county. There are twenty-three acres of land attached to the mills, held for ever, rent free. Mr Patrick Kinnear opened the biddings at £2,500; Mr T Bryan, £3,000; Mr Kinnear, £3,100; and the property was purchased carriage of the sale.

A CHILD DRINKING HOT WATER. -- On Wednesday forenoon, an occurrence took place, which shows that young children should be watched with the strictest vigilance by those in charge of them. A little child, aged thirteen months, whose parents reside in Edward Street, put its mouth to the pipe of a kettle, filled with almost boiling water, and drank a small portion, by which it was very severely scalded, not only in the mouth, but on the face. It was immediately conveyed to the General Hospital, where prompt attention was paid to the little sufferer, who is in a very dangerous state.

SINGULAR DISCOVERY OF A HUMAN LIMB. -- On Sunday, as some children were amusing themselves in a field situated between Shankhill Road and the Old Lodge Road, immediately behind Christopher Street, one of them happened to turn up a sod or pice of earth, and found buried beneath the leg (from a little above the knee, as if amputated) of a person about ten or twelve years of age. The children took the limb to the Police-office, where, after a short delay in considering what should be done, it was taken away and respectably interred. The leg was considerably putrified, and it remains a mystery how it had been placed in the field, or who was its original possessor.

ACCIDENT. -- Wednesday evening, a man, named Andrew M'Quaid, in the employment of the Ship-Building Company, was engaged in assisting, by means of the crane upon the quay, to discharge the Wonder, of Weymouth, which brought a cargo of timber to this port, and now lies at Princes Dock, when the weighty chain which held the log gave way, and the raft, weighing about two tons, fell with a great force to the ground, from a height of several feet. One of the ends of the chain unfortunately struck the man, and cut him very severely on the chin and lips, at the same time loosening several teeth. He went to Dr Moreland, of Corporation Street, by whom the wound was promptly dressed.

FATAL ACCIDENT. -- On Sunday, an occurrence took place of a very sad and melancholy nature, by which a gentleman of respectability in this town unfortunately lost his life. A party of three, consisting of a sea captain, a mate, and Mr Wm. Taylor, brother of Mr Thomas Taylor, of Bridge Street, Belfast -- late of Scotland -- engaged a car, for the purpose of a drive to Carrickfergus, and when near the turnpike gate, within a short distance of Whitehouse, Mr Taylor, who was sitting on the front of the car, accidentally fell off, and the wheel passed over his head, causing almost instantaneous death. He was taken on to Whitehouse, to obtain medical aid, which, however, was of no avail, as life was already extinct. On Monday, at three o'clock, an inquest was held by J. K. Jackson, Esq., coroner, and a respectable jury. After hearing the evidence, the jury returned a verdict of "Accidental death."

MEETING OF TRADESMEN IN THE BUILDING LINE. -- Friday evening sen. a meeting of tradesmen connected with the building trade was held in the Corn Exchange, and was largely attended, and the proceedings were conducted in a creditable and becoming manner. Mr Robert Campbell occupied the chair, and explained the objects of their meeting, which were to obtain, by fair and conciliatory means, higher remuneration for their work, and otherwise better their social condition. They did not seek to promote strikes, but would endeavour to manage any differences which might exist or arise between employers and employed in an amicable manner. The other speakers were -- Messrs William Sheals, Samuel Johnston, Francis M'Kay, ---- Robinson, &c.; and several resolutions were adopted in furtherance of the objects that had called them together. The meeting separated, as it had been conducted, in a very orderly manner. We understand that this meeting was the first of a series of similar ones.

NEW BUILDING IN BELFAST. -- Amongst the various architectural structures by which the town is being adorned, there will shortly be in the course of erection a splendid arcade, for which buildings are being taken down and ground cleared between Donegall Place and Calender Street. The Messrs. Lindsay, Brothers, are to be the proprietors of this establishment. It is Intended to give ample accommodation to their varied and extensive retail trade, which has outgrown the limits of their present concern. In the meantime, it may be stated that the ground on which the arcade will stand is 250 feet long by 54 feet wide. There will be a house at each end -- that is, one in Donegall Place and one in Calender Street -- both four stories high, the one in Donegall Place being fifty feet in height. They will each extend into the arcade about thirty-six feet. A passage about eighteen feet wide will run throughout, covered with glass, from the rear of the house in Donegall Piace to that in Calender Street. On each side of this passage there will be galleries constructed, fifteen feet wide, similar to those in houses of worship. These galleries will be supported upon Corinthian pillars and pilasters. The first story of the house in Donegall Place will be sixteen feet high, and the whole structure will be finished in the highest style of art.

ELOPEMENT EXTRAORDINARY. -- A very strange case of elopement has just come under our notice, of which the following are the facts, as far as we have been able to glean. A man named Robert Doherty, of comfortable circumstances, as a farmer, who resides in Ballinderry, some four months since took ill, and has been confined to bed ever since. His wife, Dorothea, who does not appear to possess those qualities of attachment and devotion which many of her sex would have displayed towards her husband, under his affliction, conceived a feeling, something stronger than regard, for a labourer formerly in the employment of her husband, named James Barnett, a married man, and father of six children. A plan of elopement was concocted between the happy couple; and, on Tuesday last, they started for Belfast, the heroine carrying with her a quantity of money, a gold watch, and other convenient articles which might be supposed to be easily converted into cash. All things went on satisfactorily until Tuesday evening, when the pair were about to step on board the boat, on their way to Liverpool, and police-constable Michael Canning claimed them as his captives, on a warrant issued by the magistrates in Lisburn, upon a charge -- of what? Not elopement, nor of abduction, but on the complaint of the unhappy and disconsolate husband of the runaway against both for having stolen his property. After spending the night in the Police Office, without the pleasure of each other's company, they were brought before the Bench, at the Police Court, on Wednesday, when, after hearing how the matter stood with regard to the warrant, Mr Tracy, R.M., the presiding justice, ordered the pair to be forwarded to Lisburn, where it is likely they will be kept in confinement till Tuesday next, which is the usual Petty Sessions Court-day. The unfaithful fair one appears to be upwards of forty years of age, and her gallant admirer rather more. She is the mother of three children, and is, we understand, a native of the East Indies; but her appearance does not indicate Indian extraction.

BAZAAR IN AID OF UPPER FALLS CHURCH. -- On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday last, a fancy bazaar was held in the Music Hall, for the purpose of raising funds for the erection of a house of worship in the district of Upper Falls, parish of Belfast. The Hall was beautifully laid out with the work contributed for sale. At the head of the room, upon the platform, stood a gigantic May-tree, decked out in the most gaudy and attractive manner. The Hall was also furnished with a refreshment-table, well supplied with delicacies of all kinds; and, on the left of the entrance, was erected an enclosure, where photographs were very successfully taken by Rev. Mr Rawllins, the projector of the truly benevolent and praiseworthy scheme; while on the right stood the post-office, which was kept constantly at work. The distinguished band of the Royal Antrim Rifles attended, and performed some excellent selections, under the direction of Mr Penny, band-master. Large crowds of fashionable visitors patronised the bazaar, which has been completely successful. We are not able to state the exact amount of the proceeds, but we believe the sum realised to have been about £180.

DINNER TO S. M. GREER. ESQ., M.P. -- It is stated to be the intention of the friends and supporters of Mr Greer, in County Derry, to entertain him at a public dinner on Monday next, the 27th instant, in the Town Hall, Strabane. Tickets are limited to 200. W. S. Crawford, Esq., H. H. H. O'Hara, Esq., and Willian Kirk, M.P., are expected to be present.

MR D. S. KER AND THE LIBERAL ELECTORS OF COUNTY DOWN. -- A preliminary meeting of gentlemen representing the opinions of a large body of the Liberal electors of County Down, was held on Wednesday, in the Plough Hotel, for the purpose of taking in to consideration the best means of acknowledging Mr D. S. Ker's political conduct in contesting the County at the late election. The object of the meeting met with the concurrence of those present; and it was arranged that another meeting should be called for the purpose of taking the further necessary steps in the matter.

Mr C. D. Gordon's pupils held their annual ball in the Royal Hotel, Bangor, on Monday last, which was attended by a most respectable company. Dancing commenced about nine o'clock, to the music of Mr Gordon's "Quadrille Band," of Belfast, and was kept up with great spirit until supper, after which it was again resumed and continued until five o'clock in the morning, when all separated highly delighted with their night's amusement. The entire arrangements reflected the greatest credit on Mr M'Fall. The programme, composed of all the most fashionable dances of the day, was entirely gone through, the ladies and gentlemen present acquitting themselves in much admired style.

CHANGES IN THE CONSTABULARY. -- We understand that Head Constable Williams, of Bridge Street station in Dundalk, is to be transferred to Tyrone, and Head-Constable Boyd, of Louth, to Donegal. Head-Constable Williams is an intelligent and active officer, and Head-Constable Boyd is very favourably reported by those cognisant of his services. It is rumoured that, when arrangements are completed, only one head-constable will be assigned to Dundalk. -- Louth Advertiser.

The extensive Donegal estates of Sir Edmund Hayes, one of the members for that county, are advertised for sale on the 12th of June next. The gross net rental is set down at £4,800 per annum. The hon. baronet is himself a petitioner for the sale.

ARRIVALS AT THE GRESHAM HOTEL, DUBLIN. -- Mr and Mrs Townley Filgate and family, from County Louth; Col. Pattle, 16th Lancers, from Newbridge; Col. Hill, 16th Regt., from Mullingar; Major Tomkinson, 8th Hussars, from the Curragh Encampment.

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A WEALTHY PAUPER. -- In the house of a pauper, in the village of Auchinblae, the inspector of poor found in the top of a press among a lot of lod clothes a parcel of "clouts" which he thought was too heavy for clouts, and on loosing it he came to the leg of an old stocking nearly full of silver. On seeing this the inspector called in some neighbours and renewed the search, and they found tied up in old clouts, bits of paper, &c., upwards of £29, all silver money, and, strange to say, there were £5 of it in crown pieces. The pauper in question went about in rags, and was considered by every-body to be ill off; he had plenty of good clothes in the house, but he would not put them on.

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A GRANDMOTHER AT TWENTY-NINE YEARS OF AGE! -- A woman who was last week brought before the magistrates of Wigan, for an assault committed upon a neighbour, affords a striking instance of recklessly early marriages. She is the wife of Patrick Casey, a tailor. They reside in Douglas Terrace, Wigan. He is forty years of age, and she is twenty-nine. They were married before she had attained the age of fourteen years, and she was a mother at the age of fourteen years and seven months. Since that time she has had eleven other children. Strange to say, the eldest girl, who was fifteen years old on Wednesday week, is the mother of two children, the elder of whom is nearly two years of age, she having married earlier in life than her mother. Mrs Casey is, therefore, at the age of twenty nine-years, the mother of twelve, and the grandmother of two children. -- Manchester Guardian.

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USEFUL MAXIMS. -- The greatest flood has the quickest ebb; the most violent tempest the most sudden calm; the hotest love the coldest end; and from the deepest affection oftentimes ensues the deadliest hate.

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Military News.

MILITARY MOVEMENTS. -- The 51st Regiment, which left town early on Wednesday morning for the Curragh, have been replaced by the depot of the 58th, which arrived on Wednesday evening from Templemore, County Tipperary. They muster four hundred men. We understand that Belfast is again made a depot station, and the other depots expected on Saturday (this day) are the 40th, 67th, and 88th Regiments.

Major-General Van Straubenzee, C.B., late commanding the first division of the Dublin garrison, left town during the past week for London, en route to assume the command of his brigade in the Chinese expedition. He is accompanied by Captain the Hon. Barrington Pellew, A.D.C.

The general court-martial for trial of Quarter-master J. Burke, of the Depot Battalion quartered at Mullingar, resumed its sittings on Monday, at eleven A.M., when the defence was proceeded with. The court closed at two P.M., to deliberate on its finding and sentence, and finally separated shortly after three o'clock. The proceedings of courts-martial being invariably secret until her Majesty's approbation of the finding and sentence shall be promulgated, we cannot furnish particulars to our readers as to anything connected therewith until that period arrives.

THE DEPOT BATTALION AT MULLINGAR. -- The commandant of this battalion, Lieutenant-Colonel Hill, has received orders to hold the men under his command in readiness to join, at the shortest notice, the depot now stationed at Templemore, whether to be amalgamated therewith or to remain as at present a distinct battalion is not known. Rumour says they are to be replaced in Mullingar by the 51st Regiment. The farther reduction of the army now about to be carried into effect will be done by means of the reduction of regimental depots to the strength of 200 each, which will give 180 rank and file, with the ordinary complement of officers, non-commissioned officers, and drummers.

THE MILITIA -- The following appointment has been made by the Marquis of Abercorn, Lieutenant of the County Donegal, in the Prince of Wales' Own Regiment of Militia. -- Alexander M'Causland Hamilton, Gentleman, to be Ensign, vice Gillespie, promoted.

The Militia regiments that are to be called out for training in September, will occupy the Curragh camp.

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Shipping.

BELFAST, FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 1857.

ARRIVED.

At this port, on the 20th instant, the barque Norval, of Windsor, N.S>, Trefry, from Baltimore, with Indian corn -- the Pern, Mills, from Alexandria, with wheat.
At Gibraltar, on the 13th instant, the Rolla, of Belfast, Reason, from Belfast, with potatoes, after a passage of 17 days.
At Liverpool, on the 20th instant, the Otterburn, from Amsterdam.
At Genoa, on the 14th instant, the Harold Haarfager, Foyn, from Civita Vecchia.
At Gibraltar, on the 9th instant, the Lima, Mann, from Marseilles, and cleared same day for Boston.
Off Liverpool, on the 17th inst., the Lincluden Castle, of Belfast, from Bombay -- the Alabama, of Belfast, from Mobile.

SAILED.

From Londonderry, on the 19th instant, the Elizabeth, Mason, for Philadelphia -- the Creole, for Quebec.
From Queenstown, on the 16th instant, the Blanche, Rotheroe, for Quebec.

PUT INTO

Lough Foyle, on the 18th instant, the Norwegian ship Catherina, Wiersen, from Hull for Quebec, ballast (sand) shifted, and got into the pumps.
Holyhead, on the 17th instant, the Eureka, Winter, from Liverpool for Rouen.
Rio Janeiro, on the 11th ultimo, the Janet Mitchell, Ritchie, from the Clyde to Melbourne, leaky.

 

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