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men proceeded in excavating the line of sewer from south to north, at the depth of about twenty-two feet, great quantities of bones of various animals were discovered embedded in the alluvial soil, consisting principally of extinct species of the genus Bos, among which were thigh and other bones of enormous size, jaw-bones with teeth in good preservation, ribs, scapula, and several crania, and also some large elks' horns. The whole were more or less advancing into a state of putrefaction, but, affter a few days' exposure to the air, the exterior coating fell off, and they became white and clear. A selection of them has been forwarded to the British Museum, where, of course, they will be open to public inspection. A quantity of bones of smaller animals, supposed to be those of the hyena, the wolf, and the wild-boar, with several tusks of the latter, were also found. And on the site of King James's College was dug up a coin of TETRICUS, and a brass ring about half an inch in diameter. In proceeding northward with the excavation, and outside the limits of the Royal Hospital, these relics became of less frequent occurrence, and of much darker hue, consisting of jaw-bones and skulls, with the teeth in fine preservation; and nearly at the extremity of the digging was turned up, at about twelve feet deep, firmly fixed in the alluvial silex, a large iron horse-shoe, of rough and clumsy shape, and much worn at the front, together with an iron bar, very thin, much corroded, and about three feet in length.

Various conjectures have been formed as to the appearance of these relics in this neighbourhood; but the inferences derived from modern geological disco veries seem clearly to account for these and similar phenomena. It is well known that the portion of England bounded by the chalk range of hills extending through Hertfordshire, Surrey, and Berks, is called by geologists the London Basin, and that this was one of the last retreats of the waters of the ocean, the Thames being now the diminutive representative of that portion which filled this basin. At the time when the waters occupied this district, the earth was tenanted by various extinct species of animals, the remains of which were washed down and embedded in the alluvial soil.

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small earthen vase was lately discovered under a stone, about five feet from the surface, embedded in earth or clay, surrounded by flints and lumps of chalk. Some charcoal or burnt wood was also noticed; and a few Roman coins had been previously found in the vicinity. The stone is of a soft kind, about eighteen inches long, nine inches wide, and six inches thick, on removing which the vase appeared, placed upright, and full of earth. It is four and a half inches in height, four inches at the largest part, and about two inches at the top and bottom, composed of a reddish brown pottery, tolerably fine and smooth. Several holes or pits were similar to those described in our Magazine for October last, found opposite the King's House, now the Barracks; and at about fifty feet towards the north, a foundation, more than three feet thick, of flints and hard mortar, ran east and west a considerable distance; some of the remains, probably, of the royal palace, which being burnt with a large portion of the city, during the civil wars of Stephen's reign, was rebuilt by Henry II., and in which it is recorded he made a bower upon the plan of that he contrived for his mistress Rosamond at Woodstock.

seen,

ROMAN RUINS IN AFRICA.

On the last expedition made by the French troops from Kostantina, they passed through Djemilah, on their road to Setif. A report of this expedition has appeared in the Journal des Débats, and the writer, M. Urbain, observes," No ruins have been found in in Algiers more interesting than those of Djemilah. The most remarkable amongst them is a magnificent triumphal arch in perfect preservation. The sculpture of the columns and friezes is of the Corinthian order, and calls to mind the finest works of Rome. The inscription, which remains quite perfect, informs us that this monument was dedicated to Caracalla, and his mother, Julia Damna, in the third century of the Christian æra. There is also the remains of a temple with four pedestals, each bearing a statue-one of Seve rus, another of Verus, the other two unknown. Here, again, the ornaments belong to the best period of architecture. Opposite to the arch are the remains of a circus, in a reasonable state of preservation; all the interior distributions are easily recognised. Monumental inscriptions abound here, as elsewhere; for it is remarkable that the tombs are the last to disappear in the wrecks of cities."

HISTORICAL CHRONICLE.

PROCEEDINGS IN PARLIAMENT.

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attention.

I continue to receive from foreign powers gratifying assurances of their desire to remain with me the most friendly relations. I have concluded with the Emperor of Austria a treaty of commerce, which, I trust, will extend and improve the intercourse between my subjects and those of the Emperor. I have also concluded a treaty of the same kind with the Sultan, calculated to place the commercial relations between my dominions and the Turkish empire upon a better and more secure footing. I have directed copies of these treaties to be laid before you.

I have engaged, in concert with Austria, France, Prussia, and Russia, in negociations with a view to a final settlement of the differences between Holland and Belgium. A definitive treaty of peace, founded upon anterior arrangements, which have been acceded to by both parties, has in consequence been proposed to the Dutch and Belgian governments. I have the satisfaction to inform you that the Dutch government has already signified to the Conference its acceptance of that treaty, and I trust that a similar announcement from the Belgian government will put an end to that disquietude which the present unsettled state of these affairs has necessarily produced. The unanimity of the five allied powers affords a satisfactory security for the preservation of peace.

I lament the continuance of the civil war in Spain, which engages my anxious and undiminished attention.

Differences which have arisen have occasioned the retirement of my minister from the Court of Teheran. I indulge, however, the hope of learning that a satisfactory adjustment of these differences will allow of the re-establishment of my relations with Persia upon their former footing of friendship. Events connected with the same difference have induced the

Governor-general of India to take measures for protecting British interests in that quarter of the world, and to enter into engagements, the fulfilment of which may render military operations necessary. For this purpose such preparations have been made as may be sufficient to resist aggression from any quarter, and to maintain the integrity of my Eastern dominions.

The reform and amendment of the Municipal Corporations of Ireland are essential to the interests of that part of my dominions.

It is also urgent that you should apply yourselves to the prosecution and completion of those measures which have been recommended by the Ecclesiastical Commissioners for the purpose of increasing the efficiency of the Established Church, and of confirming its hold upon the affections and respect of my people.

The better enforcement of the law, and the more speedy and certain administra. tion of justice, are of the first importance to the welfare of the community; and I feel assured that you will be anxious to devote yourselves to the examination of the measures which will be submitted to you for the purpose of attaining these beneficial results.

Ad

"Gentlemen of the House of Commons, I have directed the annual estimates to be prepared and laid before you. hering to the principles of economy, which it is my desire to enforce in every department of the state, I feel it my duty to recommend that adequate provision be made for the exigencies of the public service. I fully rely on your loyalty and patriotism to maintain the efficiency of those establishments which are essential to the strength and security of the country,

"My Lords and Gentlemen, It is with great satisfaction that I am enabled to inform you, that throughout the whole of my West Indian possessions the period fixed by law for the final and complete emancipation of the negroes has been anticipated by acts of the Colonial Legislatures; and that the transition from the temporary system of apprenticeship to entire freedom has taken place without any disturbance of public order and tranquillity; any measures which may be necessary, in order to give full effect to this great and beneficial change, will, I have no doubt, receive your careful attention.

I have to acquaint you, with deep concern, that the province of Lower Canada has again been disturbed by insurrection, and that hostile incursions have been made into Upper Canada by certain law less inhabitants of the United States of North America. These violations of the public peace have been promptly suppressed by the valour of my troops, and the loyalty of my Canadian subjects. The President of the United States has called upon the citizens of the Union to abstain from proceedings so incompatable with the friendly relations which subsist between Great Britain and the United States. I have directed full information upon all these matters to be laid before you, and I recommend the present state of these provinces to your serious consideration. I rely upon you to support my firm determination to maintain the authority of my Crown; and I trust that your wisdom will adopt such measures as will secure to those parts of my empire the benefit of eternal tranquillity, and the full advantages of their own great natural

resources.

I have observed with pain the presevering efforts which have been made in some parts of the country to excite my subjects to disobedience and resistance to the law, and to recommend dangerous and illegal practices. For the counteraction of all such designs I depend upon the efficacy of the law, which it will be my duty to enforce; upon the good sense and right disposition of my people; upon their attachment to the principles of justice, and their abhorrence of violence and disorder.

I confidently commit all these great interests to your wisdom; and I implore Almighty God to assist and prosper your counsels."

The Address was moved in the HOUSE OF LORDS by the Earl of Lovelace and seconded by Lord Vernon, and passed without a division.

In the HOUSE OF COMMONS, the Address was moved by Mr. Edw. Buller, and seconded by Mr. G. W. Wood.

Mr. T. Duncombe proposed an amendment, in the shape of an addition, acquainting her Majesty that the Reform Bill had totally disappointed the expectations of the people; that it could not possibly be a final measure; and that the House would take into its early consideration the means of amending the representation of the people. He said that at present the House represented not the working classes, nor the middle classes, but the aristocracy. The people felt this grievance, and had appointed delegates to manage their claims, who were now sit. ting in London, and who had passed

resolutions that the House were not worthy to be petitioned.-Sir Robert Peel delivered a very eloquent speech on general politics; and Lord John Russell, in reply, confined himself, for the most part, to explanations of apparent inconsistencies in his own opinions at different times. He declared that he thought an inquiry into the Corn Laws to be necessary; but that, as he could not sanction political change, he would therefore vote against the amendment. After prolonged de. bate, the House divided; for the Address, 426; for the amendment, 86; majority,

340.

Feb. 19. A great mass of petitions having been presented both for and against the Corn Laws,

Mr. Villiers moved that certain petitioners be allowed to prove the allegations of their petition at the Bar of the House. The petitioners alleged that once valuable friends have become alarming rivals, occasioned by the Corn Laws preventing their giving human food, of which they have an excess, in exchange for manufactures. The exports of France have increased 50 per cent.; and those of the United States 75 per cent.-Mr. Strutt seconded the motion, which was supported by Mr. Ward, Mr. Thornley, Mr. Horsman, Mr. Poulett Thomson, and others; and opposed by Lord Worsley, Lord Stanley, Lord John Russell, and Sir Robert Peel. -The House then divided, when there appeared: for the motion, 172; against, 361; majority, 189.

Feb. 22. Mr. Goulburn rose on the order of the day for going into committee on the AFFIRMATION Bill, "to provide a general form of Affirmation for all persons who believe the taking of any oath to be forbidden by their duty towards God," and declared his intention to arrest, if possible, its further progress. He knew it had been a fashionable doctrine with some, that oaths were unnecessary. He expressed his dissent upon that doctrine; the enactment then before the House left individuals the choice of being sworn or not, and was calculated to introduce hypocrisy and fraud into courts of justice. Last Session of Parliament they extended the privilege of Affirmation to Quakers, Moravians, and Separatists, and there they might have stopped. He concluded, by moving as an amendment, that the House go into committee that day six months. Mr. Hawes defended the Bill; Sir R. Inglis, the Hon. C. Law, and Sir R. Peel, supported the amendment. On a division, the bill was thrown out: the numbers being-for going into committee, 93; for the amendment, 125; majority, 32.

FRANCE.

FOREIGN NEWS.

On the 23d Jan. the whole of the French Ministry resigned, and for some days the public were looking to Marshal Soult for the formation of a new cabinet. On the 2nd Feb. it was announced that the former ministers would resume their functions, and as a necessary accompanid ment to this resolution, the King issuer an Ordonnance dissolving the Chambeof Deputies, thus preferring an appeal to the country to submission to the Coalition. This coup d'état is perfectly constitutional whether it be wise, is a question that time alone can decide. The elections are to take place on the 6th of March, and the Chambers are to meet on the 26th of the same month.

:

HANOVER.

In a very long proclamation dated Feb. 15, the King has been pleased to declare that the legal representative constitution of the Kingdom was settled by the royal letters patent of 7th Dec. 1819, and confirmed by the Congress of Vienna in 1820; and that the change made in Sept. 1833 was entirely destitute of constitutional form. A meesage to the assembly of the estates, likewise dated the 15th, declares "that the draft of the constitution presented last year is withdrawn, and that the constitution of 1819 alone is to be considered as in force."

INDIA.

The first great interview took place between Lord Auckland and Runjeet Singh, in the camp of the latter at Terozepore, on the 1st of Dec.; on the next day there was a review of British troops; and on the 3d Dec. Runjeet Singh returned the visit. The Maharajah was never so complaisant and ready to meet the wishes of the British Government. It is stated that a passage through the Punjaub would have been readily granted, if asked for, but that our government had really not thought it necessary under the circumstances. It appears that the Maharajah had inspected the British troops, and that crowds of Sikhs invariably attended him and his deputations whenever they crossed the river, and much amuse. ment was excited by their distrustful bearing towards the British officers.

MALTA.

The Queen Dowager remains at Malta, it is hoped with actual benefit to her health and is acquiring great popularity as well with the native as the English residents. Lamenting the injurious effects resulting from the great want of church accommodation for the Protestants residents in that island, her Majesty has

announced her intention of erecting, at her own expense, a church capable of containing 1,000 persons. An appropriate site has been granted by the local government; and the sacred edifice, which is to dedicated to St. Paul, is to be commenced immediately. The cost will be from 6,000l. to 8,0007.

CANADA.

Colonel Wetherall has marched with reinforcements to Terrebone, in which district the people continue to exhibit a spirit of disaffection. He has succeeded in capturing twenty of these frantic desperadoes. The demonstrations on the frontier have compelled Sir John Colborne to order reinforcements to be despatched to that locality. The executions are proceeding; many have already expiated their crimes on the gallows at Montreal, and some at Kingston.

WEST INDIES.

Advices have been received to the 26th of December, detailing the proceedings on the meeting of the new House of Assembly in Jamaica, the majority of which adhered to the resolutions of the late house against the government, in consequence of which the present Governor-General prorogued them to the 5th of February.

An earthquake has occurred in Martinique, and caused considerable damage. At a quarter to six on the morning of the 11th Jan. a violent shock was felt at St. Pierre, which lasted two minutes; all the buildings in the town rocked and tottered, and a quarter of their number were more or less damaged; twenty were thrown down, but no lives lost. At the same time Fort Royal was visited with a much more violent shock, and all the more solidly-constructed houses in that place were thrown to the ground. Among other public buildings, the hospital was reduced to a heap of ruins, and a number of the patients killed. The loss of life seems to have been very great, for, by the middle of the day, some hundreds of corpses had been found, and were laid out on the Savannahs. The village of Case-Pilote, between Fort Royal and St. Pierre, was entirely destroyed.

MEXICO.

The Mexicans have declared war against France, and have resolved to suspend their own private quarrels, in order to unite and exert their best energies against the common enemy. The French residents have been expelled, and have suffered great hardships before they arrived at New Orleans and Havannah.

DOMESTIC OCCURRENCES.

Jan.9. Cofton is a hamlet about a mile and a half from Starcross, to the left of the road to Dawlish. A Chapel existed here in the year 1376, and divine service was performed in it till about the year 1760, when, the roof having become insecure, it was deserted, and from some cause or other was allowed to fall into ruins. The Chapel stands on the property of the Earl of Devon, who, finding the walls nearly perfect and very substantial, determined to restore it at his own expense. This has been done in a chaste and judicious manner, after a design of great merit. The seats are all open, with ends of old carved oak; the pulpit and altar are of stone, and an eagle of carved oak (executed by Mr. Gendall, of Exeter) carries the Bible. The chancel windows are of ground glass, surrounded by a border of old stained glass; those in the nave are of plain, with a border of ground glass. beautiful situation in which the Chapel stands, the circumstance of its having lain in ruins nearly 80 years, and its complete restoration, make it an object of great interest in the neighbourhood. It was opened for divine service on Wednesday, Jan. 9, and was attended by the Earl of Devon, &c. A collection of 231. was made for a national school-house, the site for which is also the gift of the Earl of Devon.

The

Jan. 28. The ceremony took place of opening the Church of England Metropolitan Commercial Schools, in Rosestreet, Sobo-square, the first of a series originating with the "Metropolitan Institution for the Establishment and Im. provement of Commercial Schools in the Metropolis and its suburbs, in connection with the National Church." Amongst the committee we find the Marquesses of Salisbury, Exeter, Northampton, and Camden; the Earls of Cadogan and Radnor; Lords Southampton, Sandon, Calthorpe, and many influential Members of Parliament. The design is to provide for the children of tradesmen, mechanics, and others, a sound and comprehensive education, in conformity with the doctrines of the Church of England. The course of instruction will comprise the truths of Christianity, English-taught grammatically-Latin, French, writing, linear drawing, arithmetic, and the elements of mathematics, including mensuration, history, geography, elements of natural history and philosophy, and vocal music. The Bishop of London presided, and opened the business of the day with an impressive prayer, after which the Dean GENT. MAG. VOL. XI.

of Chichester delivered an eloquent address. He referred to the fact, that the Church of England had now under its fostering care, educated at its National and Sunday Schools, no less than a million children.

Feb. 8. The Arena, Hope-street, Glasgow, originally erected by Mr. Dufor nightly equestrian and calisthenic percrow, and latterly occupied by Mr. Batty formances, was destroyed by fire.

The

and stuffed cotton cloth, and it went up main ceiling was covered with canvass in a blaze before an effort could be made to lessen the destruction. The perform11 o'clock, and the company had all left, ances had been finished about half-past observed the building in flames. when two of them, accidentally passing, The of safety, but one of the ponies was lost. valuable horses were removed to a place of the lion Wallace, during which the A greater difficulty arose on the removing individuals have been thrown out of emvaluable wardrobe was forgotton. Fifty ployment in a strange place, and have lost their whole stock in trade.

Feb. 17. The splendid old Gothic mansion of Kilcooley, the residence of Mr. Ponsonby Barker, one of the Conservative candidates for the county of Tipperary, was burnt to the ground. The furniture, and every thing but the plate,

were consumed. sum of 13,0007.

It was insured for the

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