LOCAL NEWS. Fire at Mr. Augur's.?The alarm of fire at West End. about ten o'clock last night, was caused by what, but for the'exertious of some of the young men of that neighborhood, might have been a serious affair. A lamp at the house of Mr. C. Augur became disarranged, and the oil it coutained taking fire ignited the clothing of Miss Sophie Augur, who was preparing to retire, and burned her severely, though, fortunately, not dangerously. Miss Onie Augur was also burued, but slightly, on the hands, in assistiug her sister. The screams of the ladies were heajd by the vouug men who had been engaged in dressing St. John's Chapel, and they hurrying to the scene found the carpets and some dresses aud a door in a light blaze and the flames rapidly extending. They soon, however, extinguished the fire, aud that before much damage, save the injuries to the young ladie had been done. Hut fur their extraordinary eti'orts Mr. Augur's property would have been eutireiy destroyed. f- I Christmas Times.?The Winuvatmosnhere: the feathery flakes that now and then make 1 their flight from December skies; the ruddy V cheeks and beamy eyes on the street, t!ie early I and late bustle iu he stores, all suggest the near and welcome approach of the holiday sear son. with its cheerinc and social waruub, its era ot good teeling. its re-uuions aud cementing of friendships, and the genial and delightful influences that act like a fragrance of its very atmosphere. To gratify the exceptional holiday sentiments, ourstoresare spread out with a profu-ion that raises visions of palaces and prinervses before the kindly iuuiginatiou. Soou the real spirit of the holidays will break forth with irrepressible force, and then it is high carnival until the season is finally speut. Village Ciiapel.?The revival now in progress at this chapel, conducted by Messrs. Clifford, Brawner, Driscoll, Glover and others, is a t tended with marked success. The attendance is large, not only of residents of the neighborhood. but persons from all parts of the city are there nightly. Last uicht there were some ten or twelve mourners, and many of the audience, from the atteutive manner in which they listent'd to the remarks oi the speakers,gave evidence that they too were undergoing a change of heart. The services will be continued every night during the week. The Short Days.?On Friday next the Sun will have reached his southern declination. aud according to observations through J;e astronomer's teloscope will appear to have traversed the Tropic of Capricorn. Tor several days previous to the solstice there is a perceptible variation of the sun's declinatiou, and he is then said to stand still. It is from this circumstance that the teim solstice derives its significance. Puriug this period the days ,nc the shorrcat of the year. M wok's Office.?Edward Lupoy, a tfolored boy. committed to jail last week for stealing ?0 .'iviu Mr. K. S. Fleming, was re exaiuiued and ,y>ischarged after being cobbed. James Furnace, for disorderly couduet, was discharged with a reprimand. Nituit Report.?.Night clear till about ihyec cluck when became cloudy. There were j"t disturbances, nor any arrests ai'ter ten o'clock. Four lodgers and one prisoner were at. the station house. iV 0. Canal.?A telegram was received >?-teruay from J. C. Clarke, president of the v !io>apcake and Ohio Canal Company, in which ho states that he has given orders to the superintendents between Georgetown aud MertviM'ille. Md.. to keep the water on their di,Kon.-%ot the canal until Saturday the 2od inM.'.nt, so as to allow the grain boats that arrived >e?terday to return to thoir winter quarters. Yorxu Men's Christian Association.? The regular monthly meeting of this society will he held iu their room, on Kin? street., at half past seven o'clock. to-night. This meeting will uot interfere with the exercises of the Alexandria Musical Association, as tire Young Men's Christian Association will occupy but a half hour ol thu tipie, Miss Ellis's Feufoumance.?The performance of Miss L. V. Ellis, at Liberty Hall, last night, was of a decidedly darker and vainer character than any of the peculiar tricks ever achieved by the famous "Heathen Chinee. A large audience was present. Mi^ Ellis will give exhibitions again to-night and to morrow night. Snow.?It commenced to snow at a quarter before uiue o'clock this morning and continued uninterruptedly until half past twelve, when it stopped, the ground at that time being covered t?; the depth of three inches. Que or two -Icighs appeared on King street. It commenced snowing again about three o'clock this evening. I but soon turned into a drisidle. For the Penitentiary-.?Sheriff I. C. ^F.Neale, of the county left here this morning ?>r Richmond, having in his charge Otho Berry, colored, convicted of horse stealing, aud sentenced to a term of imprisonment in the penitentiary. Columbia Steam Engine.?The Columbia steam tire engine was taken by its spleudid and tvell kept pair of blacks to the water plug at the intersection of Prince and Alfred streets yesterday evening, and tested. The apparatus was found to he in perfect order and to work "beautifully." Suit.?In the Maryland Court of Appeals, on the 18th inst., the case of the A. M. Railroad company vs Placide Clark, use Mo Colgan, trustee, was argued by F. II. Hack and Charles Marshall for the appellaut. and J. 1'. Foe and Wm. Schley lor the appellees. Charity.?This weather is hard upon the poor and suffering. Clothing, food aud fuel are wanted by many. M'e know that our char, iiable citizens will think of these things?aud 3 "remember the poor." Contract Awarded.?The contract for tiuinishiug desks and recitation benches for the I Atlanta Public Schools, has been awarded to W. A. Slayuiaker formerly of this city. A.& W. K. R.--A meeting of the directors "f the Alexandria and Washington Railroad J IVmpatiy was held iu this city yesterday, but no *y>u>iuess of public interest was transacted. For Atlanta.?Two more car loads of I I'ited States troops passed through this city this morning, via the 0., A. 31. li. R. They **ere bound from New York to Atlanta, Ga. Behind Time.?The Lynchburg train did 'lot leave here this morning until a quarter betyre nine o'clock, in consequence of the late arj rival of the through train from the North. VQjmJBLMHCMJiMs. _ Alexandria Market, Dec. 19.?The market |:or Wheat continues active, particularly for prime and choice samples; offerings of 1190 buslif,;* red. with sales at 146, 155 and 165 for fair to |prime, and 170 and 172 for choice; a strictly VK'icC ^ot am^or brought 174. Corn is in fujr y and the market is fairly active; offerings 3-414 bushels mixed and 154 of yellow, with fjaiOS 01 'he lormer at 64, 65, 66 and 08, and of the H"per at f,6. Oats are dull and lower; offerings |j-* 426 bushels, with sales at 52. ALEX AN L TELEGRAPH NEWS. [DISPATCHES TO THE GAZETTE. FROM H'ASHIK?TO\. congress. Washington. Dec. 19, 1st1. The Semite passed the bill for erecting new public buildings at Chicago. The House of Representatives was occupied with uuiiuportant resolutions and reports. THE ALEXANDRIA DISTRICT ELECTION CASEARGUMENT BEFORE THE COMMLTEE. The committee on electious heard to-day the argument in the contested election case of Lewis McKeozie vs. Elliot M. Braxton for a seat in the House of Representatives from the Alexandria district. The committee was well attended. But few persons were present, Mr. McKonzie, E. Burke, aud Wtii. F. Came being the only Alexandrians in attendance. Messrs. Geo Tucker and L 11. Chandler an peared for Mr. 3IcKenzie. 31 r. 15 rax tori appeared for himself. The ca.-e was opened by 31 r. Tucker, who sot forth 31 r. McKeuzio's claims in a succinct argument. 31r. Braxton, in reply, dwelt at length on what he styled the absurdity of contending that E. 31. Braxton did not refer to himself. Re alluded to the many affidavits showing that there never had been any man in the district with the initials E. 31. Braxton, except himself. lie contended that the opinion of Attorney General Tucker in fact sustained his position. for the names of those electors refused were other sirnauies entirely than those for the regular caudidate. Even in that instance the six Breckeuridge electors thus elected by mistake declined to take advantage of the mistake. What man claiming to be a public representative would rest his claims on *uch a mistake as this. Toe chair asked what would bo the effect if all the votes cast for E. 31. Braxton were taken for Elliott M. Braxton, and the votes which were defectively returned left out. Mr. Braxton replied that if they would give him the votes cast for E. 31. Braxton, 31 r. 31cKenzie might have the rest. He (31 r. B.) would theu be elected by a large majority. As to the ballots for (J. 31. Braxton, that Mr. B. had been informed by the clerk at Culpepcr C. H., a gentleman elected to office by both parties, did look like L1C.'' but a further inspection showed it to be an "E." As to the informal return of the certificates. 3ir. B. contended that they were sufficiently formal. As to the numbering of ballots as violating the law of secrecy, 31 r. 15. contended that as a matter of fact no use had been made of the numbers for that purpose. He concluded as follows: 1 am the first man of my name that has sat iu a Congress ot the I nited State.since J77t>, when an honored ancestor pledged his life fortune and sacred houcn' iu the cause pf freedom, i claim to have that honor yet,and I only desire to hold the seat, >1" I may noi'l it. honorably. iMr. Chandler said Mr. Braxton had taken a view of the subject entirely tuo narrow. It was not a personal question, but quo of national importance. Ajr. C. then proceeded to road the propositions on which ho based the eiaiui ol' Mr. McKcnzic to the scat 1st. Votes for C. M. Braxton. E. M. Biuxtou and Braxton must be rejected. lid. That ballots which wore, numbered should be rejected. od. That returns not signed and certified by the judges and attested by the clerk should be rejected. The Chair asked if Mr. Chandler agreed with Mr. Braxton that the misnomer was the only practical vluc.siioG} and that giving him these votes he would be elected. Mr. Chandler?Certainly not sir. If Mr. McKetuie's case rests on that he has not the ghost of a chance. Mr. C. continued at length discussing the question in general terms. Me did not believe that the votes cast for Elliot Braxton or those for Braxton should be counted for Elliott M. Braxton. There was a peculiar reason for this in Virginia. A vast number ol voters were uneducated, uot of their own fault, becauso the .State law made it a crime to educate them. Marny of theui had. as slaves, but one name, many of them were named "Braxton,'' and the committee could see how easily this class of persons could be imposed upon. A member?Is there any proof that these *'Braxton" baljots were meant for any one but the sitting member. Mr.C.said no. The judges being of Mr. Braxton's political faith had counted alll such ballots. If the sirnauie alone was sufficient why not a christian name, and thus votes east for Elliott or for Elliott M. be counted for Mr. Braxton. The second proposition was sustained by reading the constitution and laws of the State in roiotrd to the secrecv of the ballot, alluding o especially to the fact that the Legislature ai first passed a law to number the ballots, but, becoming frightened, backed out, and repealed the law, but the spirit which enacted it was still rife among the politicians, as the numbering of the ballots in t his case shows. Mr. (J. contended that a true count of the vote would he as follows: Lewis McKenzie, L. McKenxic, L. Jl. McKenzie and McKenzie. 11,15)4. Leave out 17 for McKenzie, 93 for L. H. McKenzie, 4197 for McKenzie not certified by the judges and 150 ballots for McKenzie with numbers on them, aud there remains for .Mr. McKenzie 6,74S votes. Klliot M. Brxtoii, E. M. Braxton. C. M, Braxton and Braxton received i 2.719 votes. Leave out ,">51 votes for C. M. Braxton. Braxton, Elliot Braxton and 51 S3 votes for Braxton not certified by the judges and 553 Braxton ballots with numbers,there remains for Braxton 6432 votes. The committee then adjourned. From Kevf York. Nkw York, Dec. 19.?There were no additional arrests last night. Tweed is said to be nervous and anxious. Connolly is not so sick as reported. The story of his illness was started to gain sympathy for him. A Madrid letter states that Sickels received secret orders to return to W ashington immedi ately for consultation ou important state matters. It is generally believed at Madrid thai Sickels was called home to confer upon Cuban matters. The .suddeu call precipitated his marriage, the pair starting for Washington im mediately after the ceremony. It is stated that Secretary Boutwcll is preparing an explanatory account of the syndicate operations. The small pox is spreading in Jersey City. Uobukeu and Trenton and special hospitals foi the patients ure being assigned in those places. At a meeting of the Federal Council of In ternaiionalsjast night thcCrispins. Jewelers anc Typographical unionsaffiiatcd with aud becaim part of the luternatiouals. The immigration commissioners state thai ticket of leave men and other English criminal: I are again arriving here quite numerously. The mother of Flora Brown, supposed tc have perished iu the Chicago fire, is alive anc writes to the 2sewburg Chief of Police from St. Charles, III. The girl was found on the 9th instant wandering in the streets of New burg and seut to Co hoes, where she stated tha she had relatives. She has not beeu heart from since and cannot uow be found. There was but asmail audience at Coopc Institute last night to celebrate the Treaty ol Washington. Addresses by the l\cv. J. B Mills, lylihu Burritf and Dr. Prime. Besolu tions were adopted homing that the negotiation for the Washington treaty might be the pre cedeDt by which all future national difference may be adjusted, and a universal reign of peae secured, closing with the hope that the preseo >ria "gazette a: differences with Spain may be adjusted in the 1 same manner by arbitration. The last city swindle exposed is that of the Collector of Assessments, who, it is alleged, lias pocketed a halt million dollars in four years. The present incumbent, one Starkweather, was appointed by Tweed in J SOT. Beust, after rescuiug his wife and seven children from his burning house at Liberty, N. J. was burned to death with his eighth eHId, while endeavoring to save it. The bark Sydhuni, from Bremen, ashore at Jones' Inlet, is going to peices.and with a cargo valued at $GU,0Cli) will probably prove a total loss. It is confirmed that Ileenan, Cook and Dunpliy left for Europe?the two former some ten j days since, via. Halifax, and the latter within a couple of days. Warrants have been sent for their arrest. There was a large crowd at the Court ol General Sessions early this morning in expectation that Mayor Hail would be put at the bar, but up to norm he was not known to be under arrest. His counsel had frequent consultations i with the district Attorney yesterday afternoon j and this morning. The Grand Jury summoned for the Decemj her term was discharged, the body serving for j November holding over till the 1st of January. FOKI IOX KUS. London, I>ec. lt?.?A special to the Echo from Berlin says Minister Bancroft yesterday j delivered to the Emperor of Germany, who i had accepted the arbitratnrship between Great j Britain and the United States, the memnrnn! dum of the American government with regard to the Northwestern boundary question. London, Bee. 10?a a. m.?The Prince of Wales continues to make satisfactory piogress. j The Puke of Edinburgh, who left lust week I :is soon ms tlx- Piinci- was ilnehirorl onf of dan g or. will rot urn to Snndringharu Saturday. JjOxdon. Doc. 19.?The sublime Forte and the Khedive of Egypt have refused to purcluise the Suez Canal and M. do Lesseps is now applying to other governments to effect tlu* sale. From South America. Nkw Yoittc, Dec. 19.?The Brazilian Times of Nov. I'.'uh, has l.?en received. Emancipation was going on quietly. The police magistrate implicated in the assault on Herman ollieers at Kin, had been dismissed. Envoy Kirk who has been on a mission to the liiwr Flatle republics had returned to Washington. The village of 0ran has been ruined by nine successive earthquakes; but few lives were lost. The assembly of llio had passed a compulsory education law. Coffee was hivhei shipments during a forti night T'M.'nu sacks. The flagship hai;ei>ter was at Bin, and the gunboat> W asp i-nd T.omdcrogaat Montevideo. AH uell liinnvn Out. I'llib.\Di.i.i'iiiA, Dec. 19.?The Fourth Nutionai Bank located in Arch, below oth street, has been thrown cut bj the joint action of the bank examiners and clearing House. It has a capital r.f *:Jn, .Salisbury, Md., lumber to J II i D Smoot. .n.iititiED. In "Washington, on the loth instant, by Rev. Dr. Newman, .Mr. JULIAN BKKK^ of Alexandria, late of Charles county, Aid., to Miss CLARA 1). GAINES, of Gainesville, Prince William county, Va. On Wednesday, the l??th instant, at ino residence of the bride's father, bv Rev. Edgar Woods. GEORGE PERKINS" and LIZZIE N., daughter of Judge E. K. Wutson, all of Charlottesville, Ya. A'i'Tkn'tiox. Hook Axnl.ADpKR.?There will he a called Uieeting of the Company this avcninir. at 8 o'clock. Punctual attendance is greatly desired, as business of importance is to be transacted. i>y order of the President: dec I'.'-lt A. A. Warkiki.d, Sect'y. L. TOLSOX, AV11< ?LKSALE ClIOCER COMMISSION MERCHANT, :M King, corner Water street, Alexandria, Virginia. The attention of the trade is called to my complete slock of GROCERIES, which I oiler i as low a> can be bad in this market. T^T'Tcrms :-On and after January 1st, 1872, I shall require casli or security for all orders addressed to rue. This will enable me to sell lower than n 113* other bouse. Urders and consignments shall receive my personal attention. E. L. TOLSON, dec Id 34 King street. VTjf INTER GOODS. PL A N KETS, SIT A W LS. COMFORTS, HALM OR A1. SKIRTS, FLANNELS, I C A N T() N F L A N N E LS, &c., with h full and complete assortment of goods for the present season. _ dee I'd ROBT. L. WOOD. npOYS AT COST. In order to close out our entire stock of TOYS, we will sell at eost. Call early to secure bargains. The remaining stock will be offered AT AUCTION on Till* KSDAY, FRIDAY and SATURDAY NIGHTS?sale commencing at 7.3(. o'clock ]t, m. A. H. NOTT CO., dec 19 09 King street. "|""^RKSS GOBI'S. I A few more of those very CHEAP DRESS GOODS, t just received and for sale by 1 _decU? W1TMER& SLAYMAKER. LOVES! GLOVES! I K ii Glove?, i AN orsted Gloves. Lined &ilk Gloves. Fleeced Thread Gloves. f Received and for sale at j dec 19 ROBT. L. WOOD'S. SIMMONS7 LIVER REGULATOR. OP VEGETABLE LIVER MEDICINE?A certain cure lor all disease? caused by a de ranged-state of the liver, stomach or bowels. A harmless family medicine. P'or sale, wholesale and retail, by dec IS E. S. LEAD BEATER BRO. ,*rAA LBS OF CHOICE GUM DROPS s j O v/\J just received and for sale bv the e CHINESE TEA COM PAN Y, t dec 19 No. 11 north Royal street. ND VIRGINIA AI HOLIDAY GOODS. HOLIDAY~GCMH)S1 HOLIDAY GOODS! At GREEN'S NOTION HOUSE, 7(5 King street. 25 cent Department. 25 cent. 25 cent Dcpurtmcnt. 25 cent. This department presents an extraordinary variety of choice presents?all cheap. dec 19 pOlt CHRISTMAS. KEYSTONE FAMILYSEW'G. MACHINE. We would call attention to the above favorite machine, as being one of the very best machines, making the shuttle stitch. It is simple, hence not liable to get out of order, and runs fast, with but little noise. The machines now in use in this city have been very satisfactory. Price Sb5. Also, the GROVEK BAKER BOX MACHINE. Price $50?making the Grover A Baker Double Lock-Stitch and worked by hand For Indies ttiat cannot work a treadle, this machine is particularly suitable. For sale by _ dec J 8 E. S. LEADBEATER A 11 RO._ Beautiful PRESENTS A T J. P. CLARKE'S, NO. 158 KING STREET. The largest and best collection of FINE CU ROM AS ever offered in this city, selected with great care from the best publishers. These pictures are equal to the finest Oil Paintings. An elegant parlor ornament. The best Holiday Gift out?a beautiful assortment of SWISS and AMERICAN WALL ORNAMENT. A large collection of WALL ILLUMINAmt /x \T _ .1 i* f a i T Ti I ?ri! fT I i J JLU1XO JUKI AJjIj l iU L U 1%. I'.O. PICTURE FRAMES of tin; latest styles and finish. Ail of tint above ut greatly reduced prices. dec IS JfOR CHKISTM AS. Call and examine niv large and well selected stock of GOODS Foil CHRISTMAS, such as Raisin.*, Currants, Citron, Lemon Peel, Malaga Grapes, Oranges, Lemons, Figs, NUTS'OF ALL KINDS, FiRE-WORKS OF ALL KINDS, Candy and Sugar Toys of all kinds, of my own manufacture, and also a large assortment of fine FRENCH CANDY?wholesale and retail?at M. BOSSART S, dec 18-1 w* No. 21 south Fairfax street. jgVsURE TO READ THIS. The "HOOS1ER SCHOOL MASTER" is expected Wednesday, the 20th, and I should like to see the parents of the Alexandria boys and all interested in them at No. ?i south Fairfax street, dec 18-t'25th LEWIS IIOOFF, Jr. Holiday presents1. HOLIDAY PRESENTS! Just received at S L1N DHE IM E R S, No. 110 King street, A large assortment of_ TOY'S and FANCY* GOODS, Chinaware, YVoodeu Ware, Jewelry. Perfumery, Ac., Ac. A full stock of WHITE and WOOLEN GOODS, such as Hoods, Clouds, Towels, Handkerchiefs, Hosiery of all descriptions;, Ac. Wo call special attention to the inducements wo oiler in Albums. Towel Racks, Hut Racks, Ladies' Companions, Ac. These goods will be received daily until after the Holidays. Call and secure your bargains^ befoie purchasing elsewhere. Remember, 110 Kingst., Alexandria, Ya. dec lb ClHRISTMAS PRESENTS AT GREEN S NOTION HOUSE. Unrivalled inducements are otic red.-both in variety and prices, in thu 50 ct. Department. 50 ct. 50 ct. Department. 5-?) ct. Where will be found a great number of desirable articles. dec 10 M" USICAL INSTRUMENTS FOR THE holidays. Just received a large lot of FINE VIOLINS, ranerinsr from So to So. the cheane.H ever oilbrcd. The finest assortment of GE1LMAN AND FRENCH ACCOR DEANS in tuwn. BANJOS of my own make. very low. The largest variety of VIOLIN STRINGS, of my own importation, the best to be lbund South of New York, wholesale and retail. Violinccllos, Guitars, Flutes, a large lot of Mouth Organs, Jews Harps, Violin Bows, Ac. All kinds of Musical Instruments repaired. ON HAND, Several line lirst-class SECOND-IIANI) PIANOS, very low, a number of Smith's Celebrated Parlor Organs, including a large one suitable for a Church. Call at V. BECKER'S Piano and Music Store, 14'.i King street, Alexandria, Va. do to jg P E C 1 A L N 0 T I C E FINE FAMILY AND FANCY GROCERIES, FRUITS, NUTS. &cM FOR THE HOLIDAYS. Raisins, Currants, Citron, Lemon Peel. Figs in drums, Transparent do. in boxes, Dried Fruits. Almonds, Pecans, Palm Nuts, English Walnuts, Cocoa nuts, Filberts, Cranberries. English and French Sauces and Pickles, Catsups, Salad Dressing, Mustards, Sardines, Flavoring Extracts, Syrups, Jellies and Canned Goods of every description, the cheapest its the city. The original and genuine ALBERT BISCUIT. Peek, Frean Co.'s London Biscuits, in great variety. Frosh and Fine Teas a specialtv. ATMORES MINCE MEAT," Equal to home made. The best manufactured. Try it. Cox's Gelatine, Sea Mess Farine. Royal I)<*ssicatcd Cocoanut, Rice Flour arid Bermuda Arrow Root for Puddings, Ac.. Ac. FINE LIQUORS a specialty. We have on hand a stock (if line imported and domestic liquors, which cannot be surpassed in quality in any city. ''Ii/.inn Vii-.m/t-.?f ?siii.-tl.'inrr nrtrl Chewinrr To bucco nnd Cigars. GEO. McBURNEY son, dec 12-lm Kit'i and 170 King street. Q ALL AT ENTWISLE'S CHINA STOKE, and examine his beautiful assortment of CHRISTMAS PRESENTS. _ **L!2 1 OO BOXES LAYER RAISINS, whole, JL vU half and quarter boxes. 10 boxes Valencia Raisins. 5 mats Seedless Raisins. 2 casks Xante Currants. 5 boxes Citron. All of latest importations. For sale at lowest rates by A VE R Y I) A VI us on. dec 8 220 King st., cor. Alfred. T 1BERTYHALL. monday. tuesday "wednesday. Dec. 18th, 19th and 2Uth. l a u r a v e llis. tiie wonderful and mysterious young lady. Davenport Brothers and all other so-called mediums outdone by this remarkable girl of but 17 years of age. Valuable and costly presents given away nightly. Admission 35 cts. Front seat- reserved for ladies. See small bills. dec 15-0t AT E I N THE S K A S 0 N But we are still receiving CLOTHS A N D CA s sIMEREs W?i have just opened some splendid OverCoatings in Blue English Chinchilla, Blue Dahlia and Black Beaver Cloths, Blaek Austrian Doeskins, Fancy Suitings and Pants' Patterns, bought, on account of the lateness of the season, at very low prices. Our arrangements for making up Overcoats, Invernesses, Capes, Suits, etc., in addition to the above, enable us to furnish anything in Gentlemen's Wear at about the same prices as thev can bo bought readv-inade. dec 15 W1TMKR A SLA YM Alt ER. ^OTICE TO GAS CONSUMERS. Bills for the nuarter ending December loth. are now ready for delivery. On all bills paid l on or before the first day of January, 1872, and none others, a discount of 10 per cent will be allowed. If not paid by the 10th of January, the flow of gas will be stopped. dec 16-1 w J. BOXBURY, Supt. CANNED GOODS of all kinds, all selling very cheap, at 147 King street, dec 19 W.F.BROOKES. )VERTISER, HOLIDAY GOODS. Rich, Rare and Beautiful Goods NOW OPENING AT FRENCH'S, NO. 95 KING ST. BIBLES, From the smallest to the largest quarto*. in all styles of binding. PRAYER AND El J2.V BOOKS, in Antique and Velvet bindings?n great variety. THE STOCK Or H YEMLE BOOKS embraces the choicest English and American publications. They have been selected with groat care, and the assortment is the tine.-t in the rfouth. I ES FOR LITTLE FOLKS. in great variety?Building and Alphabet Blocks, Backgammon Boards, Chess -Men and Boards. IIAXSftKERCHIEF \\1> KLOVE SCO V verv rich in design and iinUh. In Satin, three colors, with Green, Royal, Purple and Lavender; in Red and Green Russia Leather and Turkey Morocco. Cloth, prices Irom SI to $15 a set. BRONZE I\3iSTt\l)S tXD GLASS. Unique designs, from S- to $10 each. FIXE GOLE> S'EXS AXD PEXCSLS, in Gold mounted, Rubber and Pearl cases?very desirable for Christmas presents. F2SOTOGH tPIl ALBI'.US. in every style. SAT< EHILS A TRAVELLIXG I5AGW. in Turkey, Morocco and Russia Leather. FIXE WRITING I)F,SRS. in Mahogany, Rosewood. Satin wood and Leather, beautifully inlaid, and very arti-tio in design and tinisli. IMPERTKUIES. in Morocco and Russia Leather. PORTFOLIES, in great variety. Real Tartan. Scotch Wood Goods?great variety. WORK ISOX.ES. in great variety, new and unique styles. J.WAJE.V (OMSMMOXS, in Russia Leather. Fine 3'orfmoimics, Card Cases, Ciltar Cases and 1'ockcf Knives. A beautiful collection of JAl'AXKS*: GOOS>S AXI> LAt (|lLK WAKK, consisting of richly inlaid C:tbinets, Curd Receivers, Trays, Handkerchief B >xes, Work Buxes, Magic Flowers. Fish and Boat-. BEAUTIFUL BOXES, in Straw Work. ClllN KSE TORS, .JEWEL CASES, TOILET CASES and CHINESE PLATES, besides manv otlmr novelties in line Lacquer Work. TIIE: IHHJ.AU STEAM IAGI.AE is the great toy of the season. .Mailed to any part of the country on receipt of Si.40. TIER TWO HOLLAR STEAM EXCiIXE has two cylinders, with much greater power. TIE E THREE DOLL A R-A XD-A-IIALF STEAM ENGINE hn- regular engine gearing, and is altogether the most iiueresting toy ever presented. It will run two hours and a half, and has power t.> drive a dozen attach men is. OUTLINE ILLUSTRATIONS TO SIIAKSPKARK, by Moritz Rctz-gh. 1 vol. Beautifully bound $0 LOVES AND HEROINES OK THE POETS. 1 vol. Large Svo $10 TIIE JOSEPHINE GALLERY. vol. 8vo.. Turkey antique. So. Cloth $4. TRANSFORMATION OF INSECTS, by Dr. Duncan. Fully illustrated $7.00 i* x* i f\: w i? i?r w a* v i> n a r. i. i.' i? v Uv Wash ington Irving. Now ed. 1 v SII A K S P E A K E' S SONGS AND SONN ETS SI. To POETKY OF CUM l'Ll M ENT AND COL'KT~??l?*ctecl mid urrunged by Pulmer, with illustrations $4 SONGS OF SEVEN, BY JEAN INGELO W $2 50 "WINTER 1'oEMS, by favorite American Poets. with illustration? $5 HYMNS FBOM FABKK $2 Beside? the above, we have a very large assortment of P1I0T0G RAPii A L B U MS, front Toe to $10 each. FINE POCKET-KNIVES, "Wostenholm's make. FINE GOLD PENS in a variety of beautiful holders. GOLD PENCILS in Russia Leather Ca-es, and a thousand and one beautiful article? selected expressly for the Holiday trade. The best and cheapest goods in the South. The above is only a partial list of rich and elegant goods, selected with special reference to tin* coming Holidays, all of which have been bought at the lowest cash prices, and will be sold at the very lowest rates. It will afford me pleasure to show these goods. To parties who are unable to visit the city to select Christmas presents, full information will be cheerfully givtli by letter. GEOI^GE fc. FRENCH, dee. U No. 9f?. King itroet. K HOLIDAY GOODS. TpuK THE HOLIDAYS. I have opened, at No. 5 south Fairfax street, next door to Leadbeater Bro., a fine assortment of GROCERIES; Also a tine stock of CHOICE TOBACCO AND CIGARS, and, during THE HOLIDAYS, shall keep a supply of *PURE CANDIES, CHOCOLATES, &o. I ran recommend them as being very superior, and free from anything injurious. In connection with the candies. I shall have some very pretty Boxes and Cornucopias. I should like to supply all in want early, as I have not a very large stock, but will order more for Christmas, if I find a demand. 9 I shall keep also Weatherstrips to exclude cold from windows and doors: also the Patent Mctalic White Wire Ciothes Line. Persons in the country sending money for goods can depend upon getting them as good, and at as lair prices as if personally present; and sent as they mav direct. 'LEWIS HOOFF, JR., doc 8?ly Alexandria, Va. QHRISTMAS. NEW LA VER RATS INS. S UL TA NA A NT) 101L EN CI A R A IS INS. NE IE CURRANTS AND CITRON. 0 R A NO ES A ND L EMONS. MALAGA GRAPES. DRUM AND LA VER FIGS. ALMONDS AND UTJJER NUTS. Cranberries. Fisher's Mince Meat. Cox's Gelatine. Albert and London Biscuits. English Pickles and Sauces. English Currant Jelly and Jam. Guava Jelly. Gallon Jars of Pickles. French and German Preserves, vers suitable fur presents. Anchovy and Bloater Paste. Spanish Pears. Dried Damsons. Preserved Ginger. Olives. Capers ai.d Oils. Canned Fruits and Vegetables. Canned Lobster and Salmon. Potted I lam and Lobster, &e. Being the largest stock of F1N E A N D F A N C Y G ROC E R1 ES ever otl'ercd in the city. W JI. iMns tY. S. E. corner King nnd St. Asaph sts. dec 14?t.) 1 W J. 1IOLL AND. .Market Square and King street, between Washington and Columbus. CHRISTMAS RHYMES. Who watch.es for the best of meat, Cures it nice and keeps it sweet, And it) that line can't be beat? Holland, the butcher. Who has the largest stock in trade, The wholesomest, best that can be made, To keep the town fat by its aid? Holland, the butcher. Who is the foe to the lean and thin, And tills them up from heel to chin. So that the spare grow fat "agin?'' Holland^he butcher. A man couldn't eat, a starved obj butler. Who saved his life in a way thai s rougher. And rammed in food with his sausagestutfer? Holland, the butcher. Who, when Christmas tide draws near, Kills stall and shop with best of cheer, And says to all "you're welcome here?" Holland, the butcher. Stall, Market Square; Shop. King street, between Washington and Columbus sts. del4-tf ?jilKISTMAS PRESENTS. Just received a large and well selected stock of CHRISTMAS GOODS. such as Bohemian (Mass Vases, Ac., Cologne sets, very rich and elegant. China Vases, all sizes and prices. Cups and Saucers, richly decorated. Mugs Tea Sets, Plain.Gilt, and decorated. jJinnor fceis Spittoons and Cuspadores Lava d<>. do. Smoking Sots. Tobacco Boxes. Rich Cut Glass Bowls. Goblets and Wines. Decanters. Pl'NCH BO WLS, largo and small,wid a great variety of other articles which we will be glad t<> show to our friends and customers. Call and examine, at Go King street, dec 1-1-1 m E. J. MILLER. 17* OR THE XMAS HOLIDAYS, 1871.?New Layer Raisins, boxes, half boxes and quarter boxes; also seedless, do.. Currants, Citron, Cranberries, Almonds, English Walnuts, Filbert and I'ecan Nuts, Preserved Ginger, Figs by the box and half do., Atmore's and Fisher's .Mince .Meat, Flavoring Extracts of all kinds, London Crackers, Cox's Gelatine, New York Buekwheat. Canned (roods of nil kinds, English Pie Fruits, Fruit Cake Liquid Rennet, Gantzs Sicily Lemon Sugar. Piiie Apple, Edam and Sap-ago Cheese, White Sug^r, Drips, Fresh Salad Oils and Salad Dressing, Crosse ti: BlackwelFs English Pickles, also American do., for sale at 147 King street, dec 14 W. F. BROOKES. JN SEASON. 7"> whole, half ar.d ouar. boxes Layer Raisins, o mats Seedless do. o boxes Sultana Seedless do. 10 boxes Valencia do. 3 casks New Currants, o boxes Citron, o boxes Lemon Peel. New crops for sale very low. nov 30 R. M. LAWSON. IpoRTilK HOLIDAYS?Layer Raisins, Valencia Raisins. Seedless Raisins, Zante Currants. Lemon Peel, Citron. Cape Cod CranberM \f Vi.rt l.orn Hntfpr Vip-. U?J5, jl lliru |/i II1M> VI Viivi ginut Roll do., Welch's and other brands of choice Flour, prime Buckwheat Flour, Bordeaux Almonds, Pecan Nuts, Filberts, Brazil Nuts, Sardines, Figs, Flavoring Extracts, Cox's Gelatine, Arc.. &c. J. C. MI LBU RN, dec 15 Cor. Market Alley and Royal st. nO LID AY GOODS! CHRISTMAS PRESENS! Beautiful Toilet Sets, Bohemian Vases, Card Baskets, Cups and Saucers, Match Boxes, Smoking Sets. (Several pretty patterns) Table and Mantle Pieces, Ornaments, Perfumery of all kinds, and every article pertaining to the toilet. All suitable for Ilolidav presents. _ f!' 15 _ C: A K R Y, 72 Kjng st. CI AN DIES! FRUITS! TOYS! Just received, a large and splendid asssortrnent; such as Raisins, Citron. Currents, Lemons Citron Almonds, English Walnuis, Cream Nuts Pecans. Filberts. Peanuts, Arc., Cocoanuts Oranges, Lemons, and a large variety of Candy and Cakes, of my own manufacture, which I will sell by wholesale and retail. C. SCHAFEPv, f]f.c 13?tJl >"o. 3, .North t Hiriax street T^AVID A P PICK .SON, Corner of King and St. Asaph st. Apples, Grapes and Southern Fruit, Pastry, every taste to suit; Plain Cake, Nuts, Sweetmeats, nice; Iced Cake uf various device; Candies, Jellies, everything sweet, Here, at 135 King street. [dec 8-t25th Q00KING BRANDY AND WINES. THE CHEAPEST AND BEST. _novjIO R. M. LAWSON. Q EVER A L NOVELTIES IN THE 3IKO CHANICAL TOY LINE received this day by C. C. BERRY, dec M 70 King street. 00 K AT \VARF I ELD A H ALL'S large and beautiful collection of FANCY GOODS and TO I LET A RTICLES. dec 6