Topsfield Town (part 4 of 7)

Mr. Cleaveland, being thus called upon, replied, that after having occupied so large a share of the day, he supposed he might be excused if he should not say a word, - but in grateful acknowledgment of the fiattering manner in which he had been alluded to, he would offer one or two thoughts. Mr. Cleaveland, then addressing the President, in a playful and amusing strain of remark, observed, - we little thought, sir, of such a scene as this, when, in the little red school-house just referred to by the last speaker, we made our first assaults on the English language - nor when we used, at recess, to run up to the old Capen house for a drink of weter - nor when we robbed the meeting house of its gravel, and carried it in our aprons to build piers in the pond, in order to accomodate the navigation of that great inland lake - nor when we fished with pin-hooks in the brook - nor when, on Saturday afternoons, we started off with our birch baskets on our arms, to pick whortleberries in the old parsonage grounds ; indeed, little did we think of anything ahead.

After a few more remarks, Mr. C. repeated a couple of stanzas from the poems of Miss Gould, as happily expressive of the emotions naturally excited on such an occasion.

He then said it was not uncommon on such occasions, to call for either a song or a story. He had attempted to tell his story, and he would give them the song. He then read with much effect the song which follows, premising that it was written by one who if not a daughter of Topsfield, is yet a daughter-in-law, and who could not, in his opinion, better have appreciated the proprieties of the occasion, had she even been a lineal descendant from old Zach Gould himself.

Our brook flows on still, just to carry our mill, And our mill, like our swine, is corn-fed ; Our girls work with their mothers, and live with their brothers, And are to home industry bred.

Our boys too are shod - but their forefathers trod The green-sward with feet bare and free; They could go to a husking without a light buskin,

They'd a very good rule, Sir, which was taught them at school, Sir, Along with their A and their B; When they met with their betters, those small men of letters, How to bend both the head and the knee.

We have had a good meeting, and a right hearty greeting, With kinsfolk, acquaintance, and friends, So we part not in sadness, but look forward with gladness To a meeting that shall never end.

The following toast succeeded : - « We furnish you to-day, neither mint julips nor anise cordial : - charge us not with neglecting the weightier matters of the Law if we pay our tithe of cumin."

This brought up Judge Cummins, a native of Topsfield, who addressed the meeting at some length, in a strain of tender and touching remark. He said he had come hither to see the friends of his youth. But where had he found them? For the most part, among the dead. He described with much tenderness, his visit, that morning to the family burying-ground - dwelt upon, and commended the increased attention, now paid to rural cemeteries. He urged with much effect, the superior value of moral improvement, as compared with that, which is merely intellectual. He closed with a eulogistic description of his early minister and instructor, the Rev. Mr. Huntington, and advised all the people, who would like to know what sort of man he was, to read, in the ' Deserted Village' of Goldsmith, that inimitable description of the village parson.

The next toast was as follows: " Lieutenant Irancis Peabody - The patriarchal head of a mighty host. There have been few armies better officered."

The President, after waiting a few moments, remarked that as every descendant of the old Lieutenant, seemed disposed to dodge, he would call upon a gentleman whom he saw at the Table, who though his name might seem to justify dodging, was never known to Dodge any responsibility.

This called to his feet the Hon. Allen W. Dodge, of Hamilton, who stated, that since he had been here, he had almost made up his mind to become a native of Topsfield. After expressing his high satisfaction with all the performances of the occasion, he spoke of the Topsfield farmers, as ranking among the best and most intelligent in the County, and alluded with much felicity, to the ancient implements of husbandry, in Mr. Hood's old wagon, and remarked upon the difficulties under which the farmers of former days labored in the hard task of subduing the soil, and concluded with a sentiment complimentary to the Topsfield farmers.

~The next toast was this: "The descendants of Mr. William Perkins. They have reason to be proud of their ancestors - and he would not blush, could he now behold his sons.''

The President stated that it had been expected that Judge Perkins, of Salem, a lineal descendant of the old settler, named in the toast, would be present and address us in reply. But instead of being here - he had sent an interesting epistle, full of good thoughts aud wishes and concluding with this toast: " The early Puritan settlers of Topsfield. May their descendants this day assembled to venerate their memory, imbibe a fresh and copious draught of their spirit - and may the dawn never harbinger the day, when that spirit shall become extinct."

The gentleman, here referred to, who was present a short time before the toast was given, is supposed to have received Some sudden and imperative call on official business, for no answer came to the sentiment.

from elsewhere, who grace our festival to-day: They belong to that moiety of the human family, which was once toasted, somewhere hereabouts, as 'the Fair Sect.' If the adhesion to them sectarianism, then we are all sectarians."'

Major Ben. Perley Poore then favored the company with some easy and happy remarks. He began by intimating that the President must have forgotten some portion of his experience, when at Dummer Academy, or he would not now have called upon him to say anything. fis business he said, was that of a reporter, rather than of a maker of speeches. He alluded to the Indian relics which he had contributed, and spoke of those brave old hunters and warriors to whom those relics onee belonged. He spoke of the occasion and of the display which he had witnessed, and intimated that it compared favorably with anything which he had witnessed in other and older portions of the world. A sentiment, complimentary to the hills and the sons, the vales. and the daughters of Topsfield, concluded his remarks.

"Topsfield Farmers. Through all the past, they have been a valiant and sturdy race. May their sons, through all the future, maintain the habits, the principles, and the virtues which made their fathers so respectable."

Deacon Joel Peabody of Topsfield, responded. He said he would not contend that the present farmers of Topsfield, are as sturdy as their fathers - that they are not as valiant, remains to be proved. He showed how the sons might realize the wish expressed in the sentiment, namely: by cherishing habits of industry and virtue, by the cultivation and improvement of their minds, and by showing the same high regard for religion, which distinguished their ancestors.

were not co-incident." Jacob Batchelder, Esq., of Lynn, being summoned to reply, amused and interested the company, for a few moments, by an account of the perplexity which he had experienced that morning on his first arrival in town. He supposed himself to be on the right road and near the village, when a large flag stretched over the way seemed to intimate that he was in a place called New Meadows. While he was deliberating what to do, he saw another inscription, which re-assured bim and he went forward. The next thing that puzzled him, was the crowd of people, which he saw in the street. The Topsfield, which he knew, contained only eight or nine hundred inhabitants. The place he was now in, must have many thousands. Pretty soon he encountered a number of persons, who from the style of their hats, and wigs and dress, must certainly belong to some earlier period of the world. Had the generations, long departed, come again upon the stage? Fortunately, his doubts were at length resolved by meeting several old faces and familjar friends. He ended by a pleasing allusion to an incident in the life of the famous Mungo Park, who, when asked by an African woman, why he consulted his little pocket compass, replied, " Because it always points to where my mother lives." He thought that many long absent sons of Topsfield, whom he saw before him, and who had come from states far distant and widely remote must have been guided by some such little index to their mother-home.

The President held up a small brass box, which he said once belonged to Polin* Wildes, whose name occurs among the earliest settlers of the town. Mr. Wildes was a surveyor, and was often employed in this and the other provinces. The little box - like that to which the last speaker had alluded, contained a compass - and had undoubtedly been the companion and guide of the old surveyor in many a trackless forest. The following toast was then read." he compass, which guided through these wilds, the first of the Wildeses. Thanks to those hardy pioneers, their posterity requires no such aid.''? The Wildeses were here called on to speak - but the call did not seem to be heard. " Thomas Perkins, the first of Topsfield. Of his numerous, prosperous and widely-spread descendants, there must be some one here, who can speak for the family." Horatio N. Perkins, Esq., of Boston, came forward to this call. He told us that he claimed the honor of a descent from that good Deacon Thomas Perkins. That his grandfather removed from Topsfield, at a time when it had become comparatively old, into the woods of Maine, settling in a place which had then no name, but which afterwards became Kennebunk Port; he spoke of the pleasant visits, which he had heretofore made in Topsfield, to look up the homes of his remote ancestors, and to learn something of their history, and concluded with an appropriate sentiment.

"Our country ? its population, which in 1650 consisted of a few thousands, has swelled to many millions. 'The small dependent colonies of that day have grown into a great nation; scarcely inferior to any other in numbers and power, - second to none, in the better elements of prosperity, intelligence, good government, and true liberty. In view of a past and present so astounding, will any imagination venture to conceive what will be the grandeur and glory of North America, a century hence! May prosperity attend the old town of Topsfield! God save the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and long preserve the Union."

In the course of these exercises, a fine ode written by Mrs. S. D. Peabody, of Topsfield, and also a glee, were sung by a quartette, consisting of Messrs. W. R. Hubbard, B. Whitmore, G. H. Smith, M. Horn.

The last exercise was an original song by anative of Topsfield Sung to the air of auld lang syne, by Mr. B. Whitmore. An immense number joined in the chorus, and produced a highly inspiring influence.

On Bunker's hill of glorious name, And on the Hudson's side, And many a deathless field of fame, They poured their heart's warm tide. For auld lang syne, we shed, For auld land syne, Our tears above the mighty dead Of auld land syne.

The singing, both in the grove and in the Pavilion, was executed in admirable style. The Salem Band under the direction of Mr. Morse, performed their part, in the march, at the grove, and in the Pavilion, to the full satisfaction of all. The thanks of the Assembly were voted with great seeming cordiality to the CommMitTerE or ARRANGEMENTS, (Messrs. Merriam, Cleave- Jand, Munday, Batchelder, Hood and Towne), and well did they deserve the tribute. The unqualified satisfaction, expressed by all, whether citizens or strangers, in the entire proceedings of this delightful day, unmarred as they were by a single disturbance or failure, is the highest testimony, which could be paid to the arrangements of the committee, so well carried out by the chief marshall and his aids and assistants.

In the course of the proceedings, it was announced that answers had been received from several gentlemen to whom letters of invitation had been sent. We have room to give only the names of these gentlemen. The Rev. Josiah Peabody of Erzroom in Persia, Hon. Daniel Breck, member of the present Congress from Kentucky, Rev. George Hood, Southport, N. Y., Rev. Jonas Merriam, Barnerd, Me., N. Cleaveland Bradstreet, Rochester, N. Y. all of whom are natives of Topsfield. One also from Rodney Gove Dennis, of Grafton, Mo., formerly a minister in Topsfield, and one from Hon. Daniel A. White of Salem.

CELEBRATION IN Topsrigenp. Thursday next, the 29th of August, will be a day of much interest to the citizens of Topsfield, who will then celebrate the Second Centennial Anniversary of the Incorporation of the Town. Many of their kindred and friends, from Salem and elsewhere, will be present to enjoy the festivities of the occasion ; and as there is no regular mode of conveyance thence from this city, by which persons can go and return on the same day, the writer would suggest, to those who may be interested, that a coach, or perhaps anumber of coaches, to leave Salem at an early hour on the morning of the 29th, and to return after the celebration shall have closed, might be well freighted with passengers, if they should be provided for the occasion, and seasonable notice of the fact advertised in the city papers. Will not some of the owners of coaches attend to this matter ?. YA Salem Register, Aug. 22, 1850.

Mr. 8. Spaunpine, proprietor of the North Danvers Stage, states that he will take passengers to Topsfield, THIS MORNING, at a quarter before 8 o'clock, and at a quarter past 10 o'clock, and will return at the close of the exercises. Fare each way 00 cents. Passengers will be taken from the Salem Depot, the Essex House, and the Mansion House.

Bi-Centennial Celebration

In accordance with a custom which is yearly becoming more and more popular, a few days ago we embraced the opportunity of quitting our usual round of daily toil, for a short season of healthful rusticity among the woods and fields, and rural scenes of this pleasant town, which we are proud to claim as the plaee of our nativity. Eighteen years of absence have only served to strengthen the memory and enhance the attachment we have ever felt for this home of our childhood. The bustle and excitement, the pomp and pageantry of city life, have only rendered more vivid the sentiment so well and go briefly expressed by Goldsmith -

The stirring and extraordinary events of to-day, on which we celebrate the two hundredth anniversary of the Incorporation of the Town, evince to what an extent this feeling pervades the hearts of the native-born sons and daughters of this ancient town. At an early hour this morning, vehicles of every deseription began to pour in from all points of the compass, bringing hundreds, nay, thousands of men, women and children, eager to witness and participate in the festivities of the day. The village presented a spectacle of busy life and bustling activity, such aa has seldom rufiled the quiet of its peaceful borders. The joyful greetings of relatives long separated by time and distance, and the smiling recognition of friends whom no other event would ever have called together, and many of whom may to-day, for the last time, have exchanged mutual and heartfelt congratulations, have given a pleasing and exciting character to the occasion, which must ever remain fresh in the memory of every one present.

The Indian name of this town, as you are aware, was SHEWEE-NE-MEA-DY. The land belonged to the tribes of the Agawams, by whose chief it was sold to John Winthrop, eldest son of Governor Winthrop, in the year 1638 for £20. At the session of November 5, 1639, it was granted to the inhabitants of Salem and Ipswich, and was by the whites called " New Meadows." 'The place was settled about this time. On the 18th of October, 1650, it was incorporated as the Town of Topsfield - a name which was borne by a small village in the county of Essex, in England, and whose etymology has been traced back, into the dim ages of the past, no less than 800 years. The anticipatory celebration of the bi-centennial anniversary, which would properly occur on the 18th of October next, was rendered necessary for the accommodation of the orator, as well as desirable on account of the season. |

At 10 o'clock A. M., a procession was formed on the Common, under the direction of Major Nathaniel Conant, which, preceded by the music of Morse's Salem Brass Band, moved through the village to the grove where the Address was to be pronounced. The entrance to the grove, from the main road - aecross which was stretched the national ensign - was decorated with an arch, tastefully trimmed with evergreen, and bearing the inscription, " Centennial Hill," formed of oak-leaves. This hill, on land of Edward Hood, Esq., is a beautiful, semi-circular mound, tolerably shaded with a young growth of forest trees, and on its top, from an elevated staff, waved the American flag. On a portion of its eastern side, seats had been erected for the accommodation of about 1000 persons ; and at its base stood a canopied pavilion, some 10 feet wide by 12 or 14 high, for the orator and others. This was trimmed on the outside with the savin shrub, the inside being lined with white cloth, relieved in the rear by three arches of oak-leaves, in the centre of each of which was a winter-green Star, encircled in a wreath of evergreen, with bouquets of green and flowers beneath. 'Ihe upper front bore the inscription,

The whole was surmounted by an iron weather-vane, some 19 inches long by 5 wide, in which the date 1697 was cut. This ancient indicator of "the way the wind blows " was taken from the second meeting house in the town, erected in the old burial ground, in 1676, Among the ancient relics that adorned the interior of this pavilion, was the paneled pulpit from which the Rey. Messrs. Joseph Capen and John Emerson delivered their gospel messages to our fathers, in the first church erected on the Common (three, including the present neat structure, have been successively built on the same site), from 1703 'to 1759. At tha left hand side of the pulpit, supported by an iron rod about 21.2 feet long, was its former concomitant the "hour glass," which, in the absence of clocks and watches, was then used to indicate the passage of time - the sand requiring just one hour to run from one globe to the other. When the upper section of the glass was empty, it was reversed by the sexton ; and thus, by the dropping " sands of time," the good parson would regulate the religious services of the sanctuary. In the rear of the pulpit stood the same high-back, unstuffed chair that kept it companlonship, in the church mentioned above, for 56 years, and is now nearly 150 years old.

About 11 o'clock, the procession having arrived at Centennial Hill - the whole eastern side of which, from base to apex, was crowded with a dense mass of human beings, to the number of from two to three thousand - the services were conducted in tbe following order, viz, : -

4. Some slicht delay being occasioned by altering the loca. tion of the pulpit, so as to shield the speaker's face from the direct rays of a scorching sun, the choir performed another voluntary, entitled " Topstield." |

The address of Mr. Cleaveland was an effort of unsurpassed ability. Although he has had but one month to investigate the records of five or six generations, and prepare himself to meet the demands of the occasion, the result of his labors evinces a very extensive research, and a careful collation and judicious arrangement of materials, which he has presented in a most able, eloquent, and interesting manner. For two long hours he enchained the attention of that vast audience, in the Open air, who seemed to hang upon his words as if under the influence of a mighty spell. His address was eminently patriotic, manly and just ; his enunciation bold, powerful, and clear, though somewhat rapid. No mere sketch, however faithful, could convey an adequate idea of the whole performance, and we will not do the orator the injustice to attempt one - especially as the Address is to be issued in pamphletform. Its principal divisions embraced the civil and municipal affairs of the town ; its ecclesiastical history ; its schools and schoolmasters; its doctors and lawyers ; the genealogy of the first and most distinguished families of the town; its ancient houses; a consideration of the question whether we have made any actual advance upon the past ; and a comparison of the superior privileges and advantages enjoyed by the people of the present day over those possessed by their worthy ancestors. The speaker's occasional attempts at pleasantry were peculiarly happy, giving evidence of a rich vein of satirical humor, in the mental strata of his well cultivated mind, seldom to be met with. At the same time that these touches were spicy, and inoffensive, they were, in several instances, highly complimentary to their subject. The address was not only instructive, but intensely interesting throughout.

§. An original Hymn, by the orator of the day, sung by the whole assembly to the tune of Old Hundred, and a Benediction, closed the services at the grove, at half past 1 P. M.

In honor of native genius and talent, the music performed on this occasion, except the first and last tunes, was selected from the works of the late Jacob Kimball, a celebrated teacher and composer of music, who was born in Topsfield, in February, 1761. He was a graduate of Harvard University, of the class of 1780. After completing a course of law studies, he was admitted to the bar, and pleaded at least one ease; but he relinquished the pursuit of the law, and devoted himself almost exclusively to the study and composition of music. In 1793, he published a volume of sacred music, of 112 pages, entitled the «* Rural Harmony," another in 1800, the " Essex Harmony," of 112 pages, both composed by himself ;as also a manuscript volume of sacred musi¢ never published. He was likewise a disciple of the poetic muse, and wrote a volume which he intended for the press; but dying soon after, the work fell into stranger hands and was lost. He died on the 24th of July, 1826, aged 65 years and 5 months,

The procession was re-formed at the grove, whence it proceeded to a large pavilion on the eastern side of the Common, where a sumptuous dinner had been provided for some 825 persons, by Mr. John Wright of Boston. But before indulging in the luxuries of the table, we will take a brief survey of the procession, which contains some rare and noticeable features. Prominent among them were three young gentlemen and their ladies, dressed in the rich and peculiar costume of the wealthier classes in the early days of New England, and mounted upon pillions - a mode of equestrian travel on which the march of civilization has made no improvement. The general paraphenalia of the ladies consisted of figured and changeable open silk dresses, displaying richly wrought and brilliantly colored skirts, and plain muslin inside handkerchiefs - the sleeves were short, with double ruffles falling oyer the elbows, and long mits. Over the neck and shoulders were thrown small, colored shawls, trimmed with lace. We believe the bonnet, or hat was of the cottage style, but of its form we can give no intelligible description. The gentlemen wore long, light coats, breeches with kneebuckles, wrought shoes with buckles, light-colored, curled wigs, three-cornered hats, and spectacles. wo or three other gentlemen were arrayed in the more common dress of the laboring classes, mounted on horses, with their bags of corn and market baskets behind them - the mode of « going to mill" and market, before the invention or common use of wagons. In the assembly on the hill, we noticed a lady dressed in a costly habit, that was worn 150 years ago.

Following these was a light wagon, containing a variety of relics, from 100 to 200 years old. Among them was an oak, paneled side-board, formerly the property of Gov. Simon Bradstreet, who emigrated from England and was an early resident of Topsfield, and whose dust now reposes in the Charter street burial-ground, in your city. Also, a paneled oak chest, made in 1685 ; a wooden samp-mortar, in which corn was formerly prepared for samp ; a steel bear-trap ; wool card ; garter loom ; snow shoes ; piggin ; wooden rye-cradle ; saddle bags; wooden scales, with stone weights of 1 Ib. each ; wooden shovels, bound with Iron, &e. &c. Ona long board, conspicuously displayed, were the following:

Ote Meter Ite Ti Ono Se Co

A printed commission, from « Wm. Stoughton, Esq., Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief, in and over His Majesties Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England," Captain of the Foot Company of Militia in the Town of Topsfield, within the County of Essex, dated August, 1696.

A copy of the Declaration of Independence, printed in 1776, and bought at that time by the late Rev. Daniel Gould, of Topsfield, a soldier of the Revolution.

Also two poetical effusions, printed in 1776, and written by Mr. John Hovey, of Topstield. The first is entitled, in part, " Oppression: A Poem. Or, New-England's lamentation on the dreadful Extortion and other sins of the Times.' The other, "A Short Account of the Troubles and Dangers our Forefathers met with to obtain this land : Shewing the Right their Children have to it at this Day."

A large quarto volume of 778 pages, entitled " A six-fold Commentarie on the Booke of Leviticus," by " Andrew Willet, Dr. of Divinitie," printed in London in 1631,

The Dinner was equally successful with all the other arrangements of the day. Dr. Elisha Huntington* of Lowell, presided, and addresses were made by him, by Hon. Charles W. Upham ; by the Orator, Mr. Cleaveland; B. A. Gould, Esq., of Boston ; Judge Cummins,* formerly of Salem; Hon. Allen W. Dodge of Hamilton ; Maj. B. Perley Poore; Dea. Peabody, and others. Songs, Glees, Instrumental music and Sentiments were freely interspersed - an admirable quartette club from your city, and Morse's excellent band, led by the "silver bugle," furnishing nusic of a superior order.

Mr. Upham touched very happily upon some incidents which had been alluded to in Mr. Cleaveland's Address, connected with the witeheraft delusion, and with the history of old Gov. Brad- Street. In reference to the Governor, I quote a passage from Mr. U's Fourth of July Oration in 1842, where the same topic 'S Very graphically discussed as follows : duced to a subject Province. But the period of fifty-five years, during which the satisfactions and the privileges of self-government had been experienced, stamped the character of the people forever. Two successive generations had been thoreughly saturated with the spirit of liberty. It had become mingled with their very heart's-blood, and ever after naturally descended in their race as a constitutional and inherent element. No oppression could eradicate, and no lapse of time could exhaust it. Phe tree had taken root deep in the soil, fastening itself inextricably to the primitive granite of the globe iteelf ; its trunk was clothed with a rugged strength that no storms nor hurricanes could break or bend; and branches were put forth which will surely spread until the whole continent reclines beneath their peaceful shade.

The abrogation of the charter of Massachusetts was one of the first fruits of the restoration of the Stuarts to the English throne, on the ruins of the cause of civil and religious liberty. It was resolved by that despotic dynasty to trample out the last spark of freedom on both sides of the Atlantic. tegular troops were, for the first time, sent over to the colonies to overawe and enslave the people. 'Their several governments were abolished. Their Houses of Assembly were dissolved, and all power was concentrated in the unrestrained hands of a Governor General appointed by the crown. Few in number as the colonists then were, and unbounded as was the arbitrary power of the mother couniry, such a destruction of their most sacred rights was not unresistingly borne, and it is to the honor of the people of Essex county that no where was the resistance bolder and no where were such heavy penalties incurred in consequence. But open and general rebellion was vain. 'Tio attempt it then would bave been insanity, and a suffering and indignant people had no alternative but to bide its time. About three years after this tyrannical system of colonial administration had been established a rumor reached Boston that the Prince of Orange had landed in England to dethrone James the Second, and before waiting for the confirmation of the rumor, or the result of the expedition, the irrepressible spirit of the people burst forth, they rushed from all quarters into Boston, Seized the Royal Governor in his fort and imprisoned him there, and with acclamations of unbounded joy, reinstated their charter government, called back old Simon Bradstreet to the chair of state, and again for a brief period enjoyed the sweets of liberty and independence.

This daring movement proves the efficacy of the training the people of Massachusetts had experienced under the old charter. They had become already true sons of liberty, and feared to meet no danger in her cause. And what a venerable and sublime spectacle it was to see Bradstreet re-appear on the public stage He had come over to America, then a young man, in company with Winthrop ; he had lived, and been a conspicuous actor, through the whole period of the early liberties of New England; he was occupying, by the choice of the people, the chief magistracy of the colony when the charter was abrogated, and now, although eightysix years of age, the venerable patriot is again at his post. Brave old man! What a spirit must have been enshrined in that aged form! With what a venerable dignity must those white locks have been crowned! Happy the people who were able to command the services, and to appreciate the wisdom, of such a patriarch! It is an interesting circumstance to us that this Nestor of New England closed his life in Salem. He died in 1697, having reached the great age of 94 years. His ashes rest in our soil.

Dr. Huntington resigned the chair at an early hour, and was succeeded by Mr. Cleaveland who discharged the duties very felicitously and acceptably. Letters were read from distinguished natives of Topsfield, who were unable to be presen t, and a humorous poem, composed for the occasion by a lady. An original ode, also, was sung by the quartette club. Ladies graced the tables by their presence - a novel feature at our public dinners, but one which ought to be more generally adopted. The festivities were prolonged until 6 o'clock, P. M., when the company adjourned with reluctance, having enjoyed a day of uninterrupted pleasure. A ball in the evening closed this glorious Bi-Centen nial celebration.

On motion of Asahel Huntington,* lisq., it was unanimously voted that the Address and a detailed account of the proceedings be published, in a form suitable for permanent preservation.

The Topsfield Celebration Centennial Hymns

THE TOPSFIELD CELEBRATION. CENTENNIAL HYMNS. We meet to sing this morning, Of scenes long passed away, In happiness rejoicing, That we have met to-day. _ We've met to thank that lather Who guards us here below, As did our ancient Sires, Two Hundred years ago.

Newspaper Items Belating To Topsfield

We've met, a prayer to offer To Him, who rules the sphere, That we may never wander, But follow, love and fear Our blessed Lord and Master, Where bliss like rivers flow As did our Pilgrim fathers Lwo Hundred years ago.

We thank Thee, for this favour, Of meeting here to-day And may it be recorded, When we have passed away. We thank Thee for each blessing That we receive below, As did our Pilgrim Fathers, Two Hundred years ago.

By order of Probate Court, will be sold at Public Auction, on MONDAY, the 14th day of October next, at 3 Orclgekt se NT. on the premises, SO MUCH or true REAL ESTATE of Euiz, ABETH TowNnr, late of Topsfield, single woman, deceased, as will raise the sum of four hundred thirty dollars, for the payment of her just debts and incidental charges.

Said estate is situated in the southwesterly part of Topsfield, and consists of about ten acres of Pasture and Meadow - Land bounded by land of Daniel and Sewall Towne, and others.

Also - the right of redemption of about six acres of Pasture Land, with a small house thereon - bounded by the aforesaid lot and land of the estate of Lydia Towne, deceased.

Also - the right of redemption of one undivided third part of about 27 acres of Pasture and Meadow Land - bounded northwardly by the aforesaid lots, - and owned in common with Dayid Towne, and the estate of Lydia Towne, and knownas the " Ackley thirds ;" at which time the undivided right belonging to the estate of Lydia Towne will be sold.

At the exhibition of the Essex Agricultural Society held in Salem, Sept. 25 and 26, Messrs. Lake exhibited 102 kinds of fruit, from their nursery, in Topsfield, namely -

Grorerrown Rartroaps, In addition to the two chartered and surveyed Railroad routes, continuing the Newburyport Railroad from Georgetown by one route to the Boston and Maine vailroad at Bradford and by the other to the Essex Railroad at North Andover, we learn that the question of reviving the old Salem and Georgetown railroad route, so far at least as from Georgetown, by the way of Boxford and Topsfield, to the Essex Railroad at North Danvers is again agitated, and that measures are 1n progress to call an early meeting of the friends of the project with a view to promote its completion. - Reg.

Fire 1x Topsriznp. About 8 o'clock last evening (Friday), a barn belonging to Miss Mulliken, in Topsfield, near the meeting house, was struck by lightning, and totally destroyed, with all its contents, including ten tons of hay. Six persons were in the barn, when it was struck, but none of them were injured. The loss was about $500. Insured for $150 at the Holyoke Mutual Office. |

Newspaper Items Relating To Rorshieed

The barn belonged to Mrs. Mulliken of Salem, and was entirely consumed, together with eight or ten tons of hay, and a quantity of grain and beans belonging to Mr. Allen Gould, and several cords of wood belonging to an occupant of her house. In one end of the barn was a shoemakers' shop, having in it six or eight men at work, but no one experienced any other injury than a severe shock. <A considerable quantity of leather was in the shop, belonging to Mr. C. Herrick, which was destroyed, together with the seats and tools of the workmen. At the time of the fire the rain came down in torrents, nevertheless, the inhabitants turned out, to the number of five or six hundred, but could afford but little assistance, as the barn was completely on fire in a few moments.

Haverhill And Salem Stage Regular Line

Stage leaves Eagle House, House, Haverhill, every morning, at 6 1-4 o'clock, connecting with the morning train at Georgetown, for Newburyport, and connecting in Salem with the trains for Marblehead and Lynn.

(2=~ The subscriber having been many years on this route, Solicits the patronage of all who may wish any business transacted between Haverhill and Salem, assuring them that any business entrusted to his care, will be promptly and faithfully attended to.

Isaac Pinkham

DANVERS AND GrorGEtowNn Rar~roap. A meeting in favor of this project was held at North Danvers, on the 15th inst., and was well attended by gentlemen from Georgetown, Boxford, Topsfield, North and South Danvers, and Salem.

A good degree of interest was manifested, and there was a general expression of opinion that the road could be built and Sustained. The following gentlemen were appointed a committee to procure subscriptions for a survey and to cause the same to be made, and also to petition the Legislature for a charter -

Wah Buit Vaabl

A handsome sum was subscribed at the meeting, and measures will be immediately taken to have a survey made. The meeting adjourned to the 15th of November.

For The Gazette Danvers And Georgetown Railroad

This project, for which a charter was granted five years since and suffered to expire, is again revived, under encouraging circumstances. Recent surveys, by an experienced Engineer, demonstrate that a junction of the Essex and Georgetown Railroads can be made, by building less than twelve miles of new road. One route passes fromm Danvers Plains, easterly of the River Hill in Topsfield, near Topstield Meeting House, across Hood's Pond, to Georgetown Corner. The other passes westerly of the River Hill, crossing Ipswich River, near Rowley Bridge, thence through South Boxford to the same point. The estimated expense of either of these routes may be set down, on the principles assumed by the Engineers at : $150,000 to this sum to be added for contingencies . ; 50,000 the probable cost of proposed road will be . : $200,000

It is stated, by the Engineers, that no part of the grade on either route need exceed forty feet to the mile; and that there will be no necessity of more than one mile exceeding 30 feet to the mile. If this contemplated route of Railroad can be completed, the County of Essex would then have all Railroad facilities desirable. The energy and ability of those who move in this enterprise, gives assurance that it will be done.

In Topsfield, in the Methodist Church, by Rev. Mr. Atkinson, Mr. Joseph Horton, of Ipswich, to Miss Sarah Ann Robinson, of Topsfield. Also, by the same, Mr. Henry Hindes to Miss Sarah Bly, both of 'Topsfield.

Tse Topsrienp CELEBRraTion. The address of Nehemiah Cleaveland, Esq.,delivered at the second Centennial Anniversary Celebration at Topsfield, on the 28th of August last, has just been published, with notes appended, and embellishments, in a style of typographical elegance worthy of the very uncommon propriety and completeness which characterized all the details of that celebration. The natives of Topsfield may well be justified in looking back with pride upon the energy, good taste, and enlightened spirit, which animated and pervaded the celebration of their centennial anniversary, in the assurance that their pleasant village will hold a higher rank for at least a hundred years to come, in consequence of their success on this occasion.

The most important feature of the day was the Address by Nehemiah Cleaveland, Esq., which we think will be cited as a model for discourses of this class. We trust that some of the parties interested will take measures for the preservation of copies in all the public libraries of the Commonwealth.

The pamphlet is enriched by three fine engravings ; namely, a likeness of Gov. Bradstreet, now for the first time copied and published, through the kindness of Solomon Wildes, Esq., and others of the Governor's descendants ; of the late Mrs. Alethea Huntington, widow of Rev. Asahel Huntington, of Topsfield, and mother of Dr. Elisha Huntington, recently Mayor of Lowell, and of Asahel Huntington, Esq., of this city; of the Hon. Nehemiah Cleaveland ; and of Gov. John Endicott, the engraved steel portrait of which was loaned by C. M. Endicott, Esq., of this city.

The Address presents many tempting passages for extract. The grave humor and felicitous description of the old church in Topsfield, will be appreciated by many of our readers.

The date of the fourth meeting-house will never be forgotten by those who were wont in childhood to visit the venerable place. The figures 17 - 59 separated into two sections by a long hyphen of space, have, indeed, perished with the pillars, whose capitals they adorned. But their image was long ago impressed upon many a mental tablet, from which it will never be effaced, till the tablets themselves shall be no more. It was on the 4th of July, in the year just named, that the frame of this house was raised. The preparations made by the town, and recorded in its books, give some faint idea of what a great raising was in those days. It was, indeed, an event long to be remembered - for the entire population, men, women, and children, with multitudes from the towns adjacent, then came together to perform, or else to behold and rejoice over the mighty work. To lift those huge oak timbers high in air, and there to place and to secure them, was no child's play, but demanded every stalwart arm for miles around. JI find, in the town vote, no mention of derricks, or pulleys, or cordage. They depended, it seems, on their own strong sinews, with, perhaps, some slight assistance from hydraulic power. What amount of it was deemed necessary in the present instance, may be gathered from the instructions given to the Committee, who were ordered to provide one barrel of rum and twelve barrels of cider.

The large and respectable edifice to which I now allude, was in many respects, decidedly in advance of its predecessors. It contained, when first opened for use, a number of pews in the body of the house, and a row of them quite around the side. These were all sold to the wealthier members of the congregation. In the third house there were but three or four pews, - put up by special permission, for as many aristocratic families. The remaining room was occupied by long benches. Upon these the people took their seats - not as accident or fancy led, but exactly where their places had been assigned by a committee, and fixed by the town. This distribution was determined by a rule. With a becoming respect for age, they gave the first and best places to men who were more than sixty years old, without regard to prosperity. To all the rest seats were assigned according to the tax they paid. The men and women occupied opposite sides, and the young were disposed of in the rear. After the erection of the third structure, several attempts were made to seat those who had no pews, according to the old principle; but they were, I believe, all unsuccessful. A new order of things had it seems begun.

To many of us, the image of that old house, where, for eighty years, the Gospel was proclaimed, and its ordinances dispensed, must be ever dear. Venerable edifice ! we see thee still, as when in childhood, we gazed with awe at thy vast form, thy towering spire, thy glittering and ever-restless weather cock. What pictures of the past revive, as thy immense interior once more rises on our mental vision! There was thy pulpit - revered and awful rostrum, where, raised high in air, stood the holy man; there thy sounding-board, projecting, seemingly unsupported, like an impending avalanche, there, too, thy velvet cushion - soft as feathers could make it, and sending up, when pounded by a vigorous eloquence, clouds of sacred dust. Shall we ever forget thy lofty and spacious gallery - egrand receptacle of all aces and both sexes. How well do we remember its foremost seat, - venerable with wrinkled brows and snowy hair. How well recail the denser masses in the rear, where sober middle age, and sprightly youth, were seen, distinct in their ascending ranks, like the vegetable zones of Altna. There, too, in one of the an gles, marked by his staff of office, sat the terrific tything-man. In front of the pulpit, rose, like some well-manned battery, the singers' seats. What volleys of sound did we not receive, unshrinkingly, from that noisy spot! How anxious was the pause, - relieved only by a slight shuffing and by half-stified hems,which succeeded the reading of the psalm! How like a small thunder-clap, burst upon the ear that preluding note, which brought every voice to the right pitch! And then, who can recount the musical glories which hung clustering round Thanksgiving Day, - when the results of a month's preparation broke upon our heads in a perfect storm of sound? How fearful the strife when flute and clarionet, and viols, great and small, entered the lists with bass, and counter, and tenor, and treble! And oh ! how our hearts beat, - let me use another's words - - "« at the turning of a fugue, - when the bass moved forward first, like the opening fire of artillery, - and the tenor advanced next, like a corps of grenadiers, - and the treble followed with the brilliant execution of infantry, and the trumpet counter shot by the whole, with the speed of darting cavalry : - and then, when all mingled in that battle of barmony and melody, and mysteriously fought their way through, with a well-ordered perplexity, that made us wouder how they came out exactly together!"

Will the pictured Inemory ever fade of those square pews, with their little banisters, so convenient to twirl - so pleasant to peep through; their uncusbioned seats, which were hung on hinges, and raised. in prayer time, and which followed up the amen, with a loud rattling, running report, like an old-fashioned militia fire ; and the flag-seated chairs, that stood in the centre, for mother, or grand-ma'am, or spinster aunt? There were the long, free seats - there was the Elder's pew, with iron stand for hour-glass and christening basin - and there the Deacon's strait, Snug box, where those good men were wont to sit, with their faces to the people and their backs to the minister- - * the ob- Served of all observers," and examples of the highest edification, when they happened to be dozy.

with a companion, fed in his fingers instead of the straw, nor was aware of what he was doing till his companion hearing the bones crack, told him he had got sticks in the machines. There was no other way to disengage his hand, but by reversing the crank, when he found that three of his fingers had something the appearance of minced meat; the second finger had come in contact with five knives, three above and two below, the others with one less. By the surgical skill of Dr. Merriam, the fingers were all preserved entire.

A few weeks since, Mr. Samuel Todd, who was felling timber in the woods, when a limb struck him on the top of the head, and crushed him into the snow, depriving him of sense and laying the skull bare three or four inches over his forehead. This wound was likewise skillfully dressed by the same surgeon, and Mr. Todd was about his business in a week, having hardly a trace of the wound, by way of a scar.

Two or three weeks since, George Bennett and his companion were in the woods splitting wood for the market, both splitting the same log and facing each other. While Mr. Bennett's axe was fast, and he was trying to raise the handle, it came up suddenly, and the other striking at the some time, came in contract with Bennett's thumb, severing it entirely, with the exception of about one inch of the integrements on the inside, next the hand, somewhat like the thumb of a glove connected by a few stitches only on the inside. This was likewise successfully treated by the Doctor, and the thumb preserved in place and form, so that he has returned to his family in New Hampshire, with his person entire.

A. stranger, who gave his name as Edward Cullihan, last from Rochester, N. H., twenty-tive years old, inquiring for work, and Stopping temporarily with Mr. David Towne. About 5 o'clock on Thursday, while chopping wood in the yard, he was seen holding up his left arm with his hand chopped entirely off, and the blood streaming from the stump. 'This was a case requiring promptness as well as skill, and was successfully dressed and the patient is doing well. In this case, it appears the young man was in a state of Delirium Tremens, and supposed his hand was a black cat coming at him, and he made not less than six Strokes with the hatchet before he entirely severed bis hand at - the wrist, as was evident from the marks on the mangled hand, and on the log where it lay.

We think it fortunate that these several somewhat serious cases, should have fallen into the hands of so safe and experienced a surgeon. The Doctor's surgical abilities have been lying dominant for several years owing to the limited field of operations, and the proximity to the cities of his location. We are glad to know that we have so certain and safe a remedy at hand, for there are, not unfrequently, cases happening which do not admit of delay, - a life or limb is at stake, instance the preceeding cases.

Town Officers For 1851

FOR SALE. - A Farm, situated in Topsfield, on the main road to Ipswich, containing eighty acres of land suitably divided, - Tillage, Pasture, and Woodland, - with a good supply of fruit, together with the Stock, Tools, ete., etc. Apply to BENJ. R. ROBINSON

Danvers And Georgetown Railroad

The first meeting of those named in an Act, passed by the Legislature of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 7, 1851, entitled " An act to incorporate the Danvers and Georgetown Railroad Company and their associates, will be held at Berry's TAVERN, in the North parish of Danvers, on TUESDAY, the 3d day of June next, at 2 o'clock P. M., for the following purposes : -

John Wright

The first meeting of those interested in the construction of this road, was held at North Danvers, last Tuesday afternoon, for the purpose of organizing under their charter. 'About forty gentlemen were present from the different towns on the route of the proposed roads. The meeting was organized by the choice of Dr. Merriam of Topsfield, as Chairman, and W. L. Weston, Esq., of Danvers, as clerk. Tt was unanimously voted to accept the Act of Incorporation passed at the last session of the Legislature, and measures were taken which indicate that the road will be built, and that speedily. Committees were appointed to solicit subscriptions to the stock of the Corporation, to estimate the probable land damages along the line of the road, and settle with the owners, and also to employ an engineer to make the nec. essary surveys, plans, &e.

The meeting was a very spirited one, and a great deal of interest was manifested in the construction of this road. No doubt was expressed but that the stock could soon be taken up and the road put under contract and completed. We understand that there are no very bad grades on the route, and that the road can be built as cheaply and as easily as almost any road in the State. The distance from the terminus of the Newburyport Railroad in Georgetown, to the proposed point of connection with the Essex Railroad in North Danvers is estimated at 11 1-2 miles.

We learn that the subscription to the Danvers and Georgetown Railroad is progressing very well. This road when completed will form a middle route from Boston to the Merrimac river, between the Eastern and the Boston and Maine roads, and will no doubt fill that section which is now much less thinly settled than the towns below and above, witha busy and dense popints Gey Sao! RANG he.

ulation. We anticipate no injury by this road to any other interest, but rather that it will benefit the whole population on the seaboard as well as inland, by adding materially to the population and resources of that part of Essex County. - Newburyport Herald.

Danvers & Georgetown Rail Road : - George Tenney of Georgetown, Asa Pingree of Topsfield, Daniel Richards of North Danvers, Wm. D. Northend of Salem, George Osborne of South Danvers, J. Colman of Newburyport, Edward Crane of Boston, Thomas Perley of Boxford, IS. Black of Danvers.

The town of Georgetown has voted almost unanimously, to appropriate the surplus money owned by the town in the Manufacturers' Bank, in payment for fifteen shares in the Danvers and Georgetown Railroad. This town has now taken up all the stock allotted to it.

Caurion ro Ministers. Rey. Mr. Cary, of Topsfield, was yesterday examined before the Salem Police Court, upon a charge of having married two minors without the consent of their parents, and was recognized to appear at the October term of the C. C. P. We believe that the defendant is not charged with anything more than a culpable carelessness, but such an investigation will at all events have the effect of exhibiting the dangerous tendency of the recent law dispensing with the publication of intentions of marriage.

The board of Directors for this Company has been organized by the choice of William D. Northend of this city as President, and William L. Weston of Danvers, Treasurer and Clerk.

Tue Topsrienp Nuxrserixs are becoming famous. Last week My. E. Lake presented to us 2 Specimen of the plums which he raises on his place. They were the Imperial Violets, of magnificent size, and luscious quality. The tree from which they were taken is a great bearer, and has been so loaded with fruit that it has been necessary to prop it up.

Topsrietp Frurr. The Messrs. Lake are doing a great deal to make the good old town of Topsfield famous for fruit and fruit trees. We noticed last week, the reception of some fine fruit from E. Lake, and have now to make our acknowledgements to Mr. J. Lake, for some splendid Specimens from his Nursery, consisting of Royal George, Noblesse, and Manning's Red Peaches, Bartlett Pears, Prince's Imperial and Red Gage Plums, and two kinds of native grapes, raised from seed, and which ripen about the 20th of September.

We are also indebted to Capt. J. K. Cole, for some specimens of the Runnels or Iron Apples, from the Crowninshield farm, in Topsfield. They are of the growth of last year, but of perfectly firm flesh, and pleasant flavor.

The Messrs. Lake had a great variety of fruit, from their Topsfield N urseries, at the Horticultural and Agricultural Exhibitions. Mr. W. G. Lake attorded us an opportunity of tasting Some very nice specimens of peaches and plums; and from Messrs. J. & E. Lake we received a variety of apples.

List of Premiums and Gratuities. Awarded by the Hssex Agricultural Society. September 25th, 1851. Ploughing - Single Teams. Moses Pettingill, Topsfield, plough, Ruggles & Co., 4th premium, $2 00. Fruits. Moses Pettingill, Topsfield, gratuity, $3 00 Wilham Geo. Lake, de. do. 3 00 Flowers. frs. Pettingill, Topsfield $2 00

"Our farmers are reaping a rich harvest as the reward of their toils the past summer. Our crops are better than an average. Corn and potatoes are fine in quality, and abundant in quantity. Apples are good in quality, but not so abundant as in some years. Our farmers are giving their attention to raising quinces, which are producing finely. The drought which is so universal in its extent, affects us. Many of the wells are quite dried up, and the small streams have failed to flow for several weeks, so that the cattle will suffer soon, if no rain falls. It is said, by "the oldest inhabitants," that our river has not been lower for fifty years.

My address, on the occasion of our two hundredth Anniversary, contained, as you perhaps remember, a few suggestions in regard to the name of our town, and its probable source. That it was derived, in some way, from a parish in England, there could be no doubt; but still there was no positive evidence. It occurred to me that the parochial register of the English Toppsfield might furnish such evidence, - and, in a note to the printed Address, I expressed the wish that some one would find or make an opportunity to in vestigate the matter. - During the past summer, it so happened that I had, myself, such an opportunity.

In addressing to you this communication, I act, you see, on the presumption that the result of my inquiries will not be wholly uninteresting to you - Without exalting it into an affair of special importance, it may at least, be regarded as one of rational curiosity.

The parish of Toppesfield is situated in the northern section of Hssex. The nearest approach to it from London, by railroad, is Braintree, distant about twelve miles. I reached it, however, in a different way - stopping, on my return from Cambridge, at Saffron Walden, from which place I took a private conveyance. The distance is about sixteen miles. I found the ride exceedingly pleasant, along the narrow but excellent road, which winds its way through an unbroken succession of luxuriant corn fields and meadows. As I drew near to the place, I noticed guideboard directing the traveller to Toppesfheld- - and I hardly need tell you that the sight occasioned a rush of recoilections and of Strong home-feeling. Could it be that I was more than three thousand miles removed from the familiar guide-posts of Boxford, Ipswich and Danvers!

It was evening when T arrived, and the "Green Man Inn" received me. This is a small, but neat and comfortable tavern, and bears the marks of a respectable antiquity. It is, in fact, just such a place as the ale-house of Goldsmith's Poem, and has been, I presume the nightly resort of the Toppesfield politians, for at least two hundred years.

When I went out the next morning, I found myself in a small village, composed of stone cottages, mostly plastered, whitewashed and thatched. I saw nothing in them particularly pleasing, beyond that aspect of neatness, and those floral adornings, which rarely desert even the meanest rural home in that beautiful country. My first visit was to the Chureh of St. Margaret. The body of this edifice, which is of stone, 1s long, low and narrow. It has a square, massive, brick tower, erected at the beginning of the last century, and containing a clock and a chime of five bells. The building occupies the centre of a small burying ground, and has around it quite a number of simple head-stones, but none of very ancient date. 'The interior interested me much. A place of worship more rude in aspect, or less adapted to coinfort, it would, I am sure, be difficult to tind in all New England. But as I marked its quaint irregularity of shape - as my eye rested on the severe plainess of its architecture and it furnishings - as, with some help of fancy, Lread there 'tales of the bridal and the bier," - whole centuries, indeed, of history, that seemed to be written on the walls. I found the place exceedingly picturesque and pleasing. The pews are narrow, upright boxes, with high sides, and with the exception of the Rector's, are uncushioned and uncarpeted. A few of them, however, were supplied with straw-covered hassocks. Upon the southern side there are four gothic arches, which rest upon short, thick columns. On this side there is a low gallery, erected as an inscription shows in 1833. The pulpit and reading desk are on the opposite side. - These are of oak, and the former resembles, in shape and appearance, that interesting relic, the old Capen pulpit. Its soft cloth cushion, with two depending tassels, is precisely such a one as Parson Dutch - - the " Kettle drummle" of my early remembrance - used to pummel so unmercifully in our old meeting house.

I must confess that even the humble monuments inserted in the wall and floor of the edifice, had an interest for me, though I had just before seen, and certainly not with indifference, the sepulchral glories of St. Denis, and Santa Croce, end Westminster Abbey. One of them, a mural tablet, commemorates in Latin, the virtues of Dorcas Smyth, a native of Toppesfield, who died in 1633, aged 76. It is surmounted by a dove, under which are the words " Fida: Simplex." Beneath the dove is a bechive, with the motto, "Industria Dulcis." - Small pilasters at the Sides represent piles of books, the lettered backs of which proclaim the pious reading of the good dame. On one of the scrolls is a bleeding heart, with the word "Spes' above it - On the other is an open hand, over which is the word "Charitas." Below the whole there is a corbel, which supports a clasped Bible, on whose leaves is seen the word " Fides," while upon it sits a lanb - the words " Humilis:" " Mitis" being inscribed above. The meaning of the Latin words, and the application of the symbols, were elaborately and lucidly explained to me by the aged sexton.

Another small tablet, near the altar, bears an inscription in classical Latin, of which the following is a version: "I Richard King, a native of Hutfordshire - educated at Oxford - a theologian by profession - by appointment a Chaplain to his Majesty, King James, and the unworthy Vicar of this church, cheerfully

I noticed there the names of three other rectors. The oldest inscription is on a small brass plate in the pavement. It is an injunction to pray for the soul of Jokn Cracherode. This man died in 1534 - more than a hundred years before a tree had been felled upon the plains of our native town, and just about the time when Henry VIII severed the connexions of England with Rome. Two other monuments are evidently still older, having lost every trace of name and date. These may safely be referred to the fifteenth century. But of St. Margaret's, enough.

parish register. I went to the Parsonage, the Rector being away, I called on one of the Churchwardens. On hearing what I wanted, he kindly accompanied me to the Rector's study, and placed the books before me. The oldest manuscript into which I looked begins with the year 1559. I commenced my search at 1600. The record, being in the cramped and peculiar character of that period, was not easy to decipher - nor could I, wonder the circumstances, study it with proper composure and care, especially as the good Churchwarden showed some signs of impatience. It was not till I reached the year 1621, that I found anything encouraging. Here was the name of Samuel Symonds, gent., and that of Dorothy his wife. Between this date and 1633, 1 found and copied the baptisms of ten of their children. Ialso followed beyond. The question at once arose - was this Samuel Symonds the same man as the Deputy Governor of Massachusetts, and the early Ipswich citizen, mentioned in the Court order for 1645, for settling the village of New Meadows? If so, the problem of our name is solved. - Since my return, I have corresponded on this subject, with Abraham Hammatt, Esq., of Ipswiech. - Mr. Symonds, he informs me, is said to have sprung from a respectable family at Great Yeldham. This parish from the English register, corresponds entirely with what is known of the sons and daughters of the Ipswich settler. I need not go into the particulars. They are such as fully satisfy Myr. H. and myself, that the Mr. Symonds of Toppesfield in England, and the Mr. Symonds of Ipswich in America, were one and the same. When the question of a name for the new village came up in the Court of Assistants, it was very natural that this gentlemen, who was one of the proprietors, should suggest that of the old parish in distant but still dear England, where he had so long lived, and where his children had been born. Nor was it strange that the wish of a man so influential should prevail.

Ihave not quite done with Toppesfield. It is a parish of about 3000 acres. Its surface is varied by slight inequalities, but there are no hills. 'The soil is somewhat clayey, and when I saw it, revealed its fertility by the unquestionable token of rich corn-fields ripe for the sickle.

The Rector of this parish is the Rev. Henry John Gooch - a nephew, if I was not misinformed, of General Gooch, who, a few years since, commanded the British forces in India. The parsonage is a charming residence, surrounded by flowers and shrubbery, and smooth-shaven lawns. The present incumbent lives among his people, and seems to be regarded with respect and affection.

I have perhaps dwelt upon the subject in hand, with needless prolixity and minuteness. Have I erred in supposing that even small particulars may interest you, when they relate to one of those places which were familiar and dear to your ancestors, for centuries before our cis-atlantic antiquity began ? To me, this visit to Toppesfield was gratifying, not merely because I there saw the Fatherland namesake of my native town - nor only because it enabled me to settle a question of some historic interest. I saw theve a fair specimen of the English rural parish. From places just like this came, two hundred years ago, many of our Puritan forefathers. And it was, thought I, amid such scenery that they lived. In fields like this they used to toil. Such were the cottages in which they dwelt, and here is a model of the churches where they were wont to worship. Is it strange that the thoughts of a New Englander in such a spot should dwell with lively emotion on the results of that renowned migration, to which he owes his country? 1 had seen indeed, much to admire on that old world beyond the sea - and in England, especially, I had found but little to dislike. And yet, as 1 compared the condition of the great masses of European population, even in the most favored lands, with that of my countrymen at home, I could not doubt where the advantage lies.

And here in this ancient Toppesfield, how could I but think of its Western counterpart ? Two hundred years of historic parallel were drawn out before me, as I contrasted the fortune of those who staid with that of those who made their escape. Here I saw your collateral kindred - your far-away cousins - living as you would now be living, had your fathers, like theirs, lacked the spirit to resent oppression, or the courage which it then required to flee from it. Here Iwas in a community of several hundred people, not a man of whom owns one rood of the land which he cultivates ; not an individual of whom pos- Sesses the house that shelters him. These skilful farmers are mere tenants at will, and are perpetually struggling under an oppressive burden of rents, and tythes, and taxes, and rates. These hardy laborers think they do well if their toil yields them the average remuneration of a shilling per day. As to religious privileges they had indeed a sittin g, hired or free, in yonder rude church. Their rector, sent them by the Queen, may be a good man, or he may not. With the question of his appointment or dismission they have Just as much concern as you have. They are, however, permitted to pay him. From' that glebe, which is made so rich by their sweat, he draws an annual stipend three times as large as that which you raise for your two clergymen. And here, in a parish which pays its Rector more than thirty-five hundred dollars a year, - here, within four hours' ride of the grand metropolis of the world, here in the middle of the nineteenth century, a free school is a thing which yet remains to be invented. As to the other picture, you have it at hand, and it needs not my sketching. Can you look at the two, and find no reason for contentment - no incentive to gratitude ? Thanks, then, to those good men - -our fathers ! - thanks, above all, to Him whose favor they sought and found; that the were not content with the things around them, and that there was that which they dreaded more than ocean storms, or a wilderness life, or death itself ! With the best wishes, Tam yours, &c., &e. N. CLEAVELAND. Brookiyn, Noy. 8, 1851. Salem Register, Nov. 13, 1851.

For Sale

A large and valuable FARM, situated in Topsfield, on the Newburyport Turnpike, about x of a mile from the main road from Salem. It is 8 miles from Salem, 21 from Boston,

Newspaper Items Relating To Topsfield. 15S

There is upon the estate a large and convenient house, with wood house, coach house, and other buildings. There are also two very large barns, corn barn, tool house, sheds, &c. All the buildings are in good repair and were thoroughly built, without regard to expense. There are about 190 acres of land, the most of it in a high state of cultivation, enclosed by excellent stone walls. It is conveniently divided into mowing, tillage and pasture lots. 'There area large number of apple and other fruit trees of the finest description in full bearing.

This estate is on elevated ground, and for beauty of situation and prospect is unsurpassed. The land is of first rate quality and in the highest condition. It may be exainined upon application to J. K. COLE, upon the premises. For terms apply to

Francis B. Crowninshield

DraTH FROM INTEMPERANCE AND Exposurr. - Moody Balch, aman of intemperate habits, left his home, in Topsfield, on Monday of last week, and was missing until Sunday morning last, when he was found dead, near a stone wall, in a pasture in rear of the house of Asa Pingree, Esq. Constant search had been made for Baleh, by his friends, from Tuesday up to the time of finding the body, but mostly in a different direction from the place where it was found, as he was Jast seen in an opposite part of the town. A. jug of rnm was found by the side of the body. Mr. Balch was 57 years of age, and unmarried. A coroner was Called from Salem, on Sunday, but after a hearing of the circumstances it was adjudged unnecessary to hold an

In Topsfield, Jan. 7, Mrs. Susan Cummings, aged 66 years, 10 mos. Extensively known as the excellent landlady of the Topsfield Hotel. Funeral to-morrow from her late residence, at 1

January 24 Mrs. Abigail Perley 81 yrs: Febr'y 12 Miss Anna Perkins 65 March 13 Miss Abigail Perkins 63 16 My. George Hobbs 68 24 Wife of Solomon Averill 883 April 26 Josiah Gould 62 27 Alfred, son of J. Boardman, jus o May 2 Mrs. Eunice Putnam 72 June 2 Asa Bradstreet 34 July 9 Miss Phillis Emerson (ail 24 Mary Ellen, child of O. Porter 3 August 17 Emma Augusta Crowell 2 mos. 21 Charles Gould 4 yrs. 28 Emmaetta, child of A, Gould 1 29 Miss Ruth Gould 68 81 Mrs. Sarah Emerson 37 Sept. 8 Amos Perkins 65 9 Child of 8. N. Averill MH 10 John Riley 63° 12% Mies, Sally Horne 64. 15 Wn. Arthur, child of E, Peabody 2 17 Child of Moses Peabody al 24 David, child of B. Kimball 2 October 1 Mrs. Rebecca Hopbs 96° « Widow of Nathaniel Gould 80 14 Mary Jane, child of late J. Potter 4. 14 Harriet Josephine Holmes, child of Edwin Foster 2 13 Mrs. Abigail Wright 45 81 Elijah Perkins 85 Novem. 4 Mrs. Eunice Esty fi 10 Moody Balch 58 23 Mrs. Elizabeth Elliott 27

Instruction given in the various branches of an English Education, in Vocal and Instrumental Music, Drawing, and in the Latin, Greek, and French Languages.

Terms Of Tuition

This Institution, it is believed, presents the most favorable opportunities for the acquisition of aneducation. The situation is easily accessible, by good public conveyances, and in all natural advantages, well adapted for a school. The moral tone of the place is eminently healthy, and the teachers will spare no pains to advance the interests of any scholar that may be committed to their charge.

Premium

Topsfield Nurseries PREMIUM Trees and Scions! THE SUBSCRIBER respectfully invites his friends and customers to his LARGE CoLLECTION of FRUIT TREES! eg all the choicest varieties worth cultivation - consisting o

Cherry, Quince

SCIONS cut to order, from fifteen hundred standard Apple and Pear Trees,--many of which are in a full bearing state, and fruited one hundred and thirty varieties last year, - and delivered free of charge at any of the depots in Salem or Boston.

W. G. Lake

The Crowninshield Farm in Topsfield was sold last week, for $9,900, to Mr. Boyden, formerly keeper of the Tremont House, in Boston, who proposes, it is understood, to reside permanently in Topsfield.

A meeting of the Stockholders of the Danvers and Georgetown Railroad Company will be held at Berry's Hotel, in North Danvers, on Rel ey next, June dd, atl o'clock, Peek. for the following objects

To see if they will accept an act passed by the last Legislature, entitled "An Act concerning the Danvers and Georgetown Railroad Company," and to take any action thereon ;

The President of the Road, Mr. Northend, made some statements of the prospects of the road and of proposals for its construction, aud expressed his belief that by additional effort on the part of the Stockholders, the road could be put under contract within a few weeks.

Voted. That the Directors be authorized to lease the Danvers and Georgetown Railroad to the Boston and Maine or Eastern Railroad Cos. for such time and on such terms as they may deem most for the interest of the road and the stockholders, and that they be authorized to take such measures as they shall deem proper to put the road under contract for construction, and they are hereby authorized to put the road under contract in such manner and at such time as they shall deem most for the interest of the road.

Great confidence is expressed by the Directors that the road can be constructed this Summer and that thus a direct Railroad communication be opened with the interior of the county and with Haverhill. : Salem Gazette, June 4, 1852.

DANVERS AND GEORGETOWN RAILROAD. The meeting of the Danvers and Georgetown Railroad is adjourned to meet at Munpay's Horet, in Topsfield, on TUESDAY (This Day,) at 2 o'clock, P. M.

Will be sold, by order of Probate Court, on THURSDAY, the 29th day of July inst., at 5 o'clock, P. M., on the premises, at the residence of Mrs. Mercy Peabody.

to Ezra Peabody, - the same being subject to the widow's dower. NATHW'L PERKINS, Guardian. Topsfield, July 13, 1852. Salem Gazetic, July 16, 1852.

DANVERS anp GEORGETOWN RAILROAD. The Stockholders of the Danvers anp Grorcrtown RAILROAD CoMPANY are hereby notified that their Annual Meeting will be held at Mounpay's Haxt, in Topsfield, on WEDNESDAY, the 4th day of August next, at 2 o'clock, P. M., for the following purposes, Viz:

In Topsfield, on the 21st inst., Mr. Edward Hood, aged 53 years. He was Postmaster at Topsfield under the Administration of Mr: Van Buren. The deceased was one of those untiring, unflinching Democrats - early enlisting in the cause of Democracy under the Administration of Gen. Jackson, and to which he strictly adhered until after the swerving of many from their first love and uniting with the Abolition and Free Soil Democrats - he then entirely withdrew his action and feelings from the political sphere and since which has taken no lively interest in the political movements. - Communicated,

In North Beverly, Aug. 20, widow Abigail Homan, daughter of the late Daniel and Hannah Estey, of Topsfield, aged 71. Salem Gazette, Sept. 7, 1852.

_In Boxford, 9th inst., Mrs. Mary, widow of the late Mr. Benjamin Hobbs, of Topsfield, aged 80 years 11 days. Salem Gazette, Sept. 14, 1852.

Finé Fruits. "The Lakes" are as liberal in their distribution of their fruits, as they are successful in cultivation, and rich and abundant in varieties. We are indebted to the kind remembrance of Mr. W. G. Lake for assorted specimens of fifty varieties of the finest fruits, - apples, pears, peaches, and grapes,

The citizens of Topsfield are invited to meet at Academy Hall, THIS EVENING, Oct. 26th, at 7 o'clock, to listen to addresses from distinguished speakers. The Scott Glee Club, from Salem, will be there. Ladies are invited.

On Friday evening, the Whigs of Topsfield had a full meeting. An excellent address was delivered by Wm. C. Endicott, Hisq., after which Leverett Saltonstall, Esq., was called out, and

On Tuesday evening the Whigs of Topsfield had another fine meeting and were ably and eloquently addressed by Wm. D. Northend, Esq., of Salem, and A. A. Abbott, Esq., of Danvers. Lhe Salem Glee Club also attended and enlivened the meeting with some of their stirring songs.

THE first assessment of Ten Dollars on each and every share of the Capital Stock of the Danvers and Georgetown Railroad Company has been made by the President and Directors of said Company, and notice is hereby given, that the said assessment will be due and payable at the residence of the Treasurer, in Topsfield, on the 30th of November present.

Bridge with a heavy load of Apples, the forward axle-tree of his wagon broke in the centre, throwing Mr. Lake between the horses. The animals became frightened, and ran with great speed, and as Mr. Lake attempted to extricate himself by springing between the wheels and the horses, he was thrown down, and both wheels of the wagon passed over his legs, bruising them, if not breaking some bones. He was taken to Webb's Hotel in Elm street, where medical aid was called, and every attention paid by the landlord to his comfort. - Traveller. Salem Gazette, Dec. 31, 1852.

Annexed I hand you a list of Fruits, such as I |have in a bearing state and in open field cultivation, without high brick walls or board fences to protect them. I have fruited every variety upon the list, and they all do first rate with me, with the exception of two varieties, which I have not so fully tested as I have the others, - those are the Northern Spy and Spitzenburg ; yet I feel confident that the Spy will do well with us, in good cultivation, and if so, it is one of the best apples in the world, and should be extensively cultivated. The Spitzenburg is a very handsome, good, rich flavored, late keeping apple, but has the appearance of being a poor bearer, but it may do better as the tree grows older.

In Topsfield, Jan. 10th, Wilham G. Lake, Esq., aged 44 years, 8 months : - the wel! known horticulturist of Essex County. Salem Gazette, Jan. 14, 1853.

An able and interesting discourse delivered on Thanksgiving day, by Rev. Mr. McLoud, of Topsfield, has been published, by request of a number of the leading members of his society.

Mr. Lake was somewhat extensively known as a horticulturist and dealer in nursery trees. He had devoted his whole time and energies for the last fifteen years to the cultivation of fruit and fruit trees. He had spared no pain or expense to procure the best varieties for cultivation. He had made himself practically acquainted with the growing of trees, and of performing the various nursery operations.

He had, for several years, supplied the vicinity with fruit trees, and several parts of the commonwealth, the southern parts of New Hampshire, and even the inhabitants of California will

Matar 1

Mr. Lake has sold trees from 25 cents to 25 dollars apiece. He has left on his ground (ten acres) between twenty and thirty thousand worked fruit trees from one to four years old on the bud, for transplanting, besides leaving the grounds supplied with standard trees, just beginning to bear fruit ; various ornamental trees have had a full share of his attention.

The town of Topsfield is indebted to Mr. Lake for the building up of quite a village ornamented with a variety of forest trees and shrubbery, where fourteen years ago, but one single dwelling, and a tall pine tree, relieved the monotony of mossy stone walls that bordered the highway.

About a fortnight before his death, he met with an accident on Charlestown bridge, from which he had very neatly recovered, when he was attacked with inflammation of the chest three days before his death. He leaves a wife and three children, who, for

Guardians Sale

By virtue of a license from Probate Court, will be sold at Public Auetion, on MONDAY, the 7th day of March next, at two o'clock, P. M., on the premises, in Topsfield.

ALL THE RIGHT, title and interest that Luwis Henry Symmes and Wiirram ALBERT SYMMES, minor, have in and to about twenty acres of land, with a barn and carriage house thereon ; being the estate of which Edward Hood, late of 'opsfield, died seized.

By virtue of a license from Probate Court, will be sold at Public Auction, on MONDAY, the 7th day of March next, at three o'clock, P. M., on the premises in Vopsfield,

ALL THE RIGHT, title, and interest that Samurn Hoop, of Topsfield, mariner, has in and to one undivided fifth part of about twenty acres of land, with a barn and carriage house thereon ; being the estate of which Edward Hood, of Topsfield, died seized.

Torsrirtp. The Methodist Episcopal Society in this town have purchased a beautiful site for a meeting house, at the head of the common, on which a church of modern structure will be erected the coming season, at an expence of six thousand dollars, all of which has been subscribed.

Court or Common Puiras, Commonwealth vs. William Munday, of Topsfield, for keeping a public nuisance, in the form of a slaughter house. Verdict - guilty. Harmon forGov't. N. J. Lord and Northend, for deft.

Administrator S Sale

Will be sold at Public Auction, on SATURDAY, the 2d day of April next, at one o'clock .in the afternoon, the home lately oceupied by Wa. G. Lax, in Topsfield,

ALL THE RIGHT and title that Was G. Laks, deceased, owned in about eleven acres of LAND, situated on Lake's Hill (so called), in Topsfield ; with about twelve hundred bearing Apple Trees, and four hundred Pear Trees, all of the choicest fruit.

At the Nursery formerly occupied by G. LAKE, deceased, in Topsfield, a large lot of APP Di) PHAR PEACH, and PLUM TREES, of the choicest kinds.

THE subscribers to the stock of the Danvers and Georgetown Railroad Company are hereby notified, that the President and Directors of the Company have made the second assessment of ten dollars per share, on all the Shares in said Corporation; and directed the same to be paid to the Treasurer, at his residence, in Topsfield, on the second day of May next; and they are requested to pay the same accordingly,

We must be permitted to put in a claim for the good old town of Topsfield. In the first place, the centre of the county would Seen: to indicate the centre of accommodation for the purity and healthfulness of the air, the hills have nothing to be compared with them in any other part of the county. The scenery in and about the town excels ; the drives, for beauty of scenery, and romantic views, are unsurpassed.

The meadows bordering Ipswich river, together with the bridges which span this gentle and peaceful stream, one of them, now erecting, composed of stone, arched, will form a very beau- tiful feature in the landscape. A railroad is now being constructed, which will be finished by the autumn, which passes through the centre of the town, and all the public highways leading to Topsfield are very smooth and pleasant. The River Hill, which has been somewhat noted for its length and steepness will now be obviated by the new stone bridge on the Turnpike. There are two churches in process of erection and remodeling - a Congregational and Methodist. Fruit, of all kinds, is very abundant in Topsfield. Board will be as reasonable as in any part of the county ; indeed, I do not know of any place where so many things combine, as in Topstield, to form a very desirable locality for such an institution.

With no small degree of confidence, we invite the Commission, or whatever is empowered to select a site for the establishment, to examine our town before they decide upon a spot.

THE subscribers to the Stock of the Danvers and Georgetown Railroad Company are notified that the following assessments have been made by the President and Directors on ail the shares of the Capital Stock of said Company, viz : -

And the same are ordered to be paid at the residence of the Treasurer in Topsfield, at the times above named: and subscribers are requested to pay the same accordingly. Parties paying the same, or any part in advance, will be allowed interest to the time when they become due.

The work on this road, between North Danvers and Georgetown, is making very rapid progress. It is estimated that about one third of the entire work under contract is already completed. The most formidable ledge on the entire line is situated near Putnamville, or ' Blind Hole," in North Danvers, and is already taken down to a considerable extent. It is a somewhat remarkable fact that the cost of all the work thus far has been below

It is now expected, with reasonable confidence, that the road will be entirely evaded and made ready for the track before win. ter, and that the track will be laid early in the Spring. The company are making contracts for their iron, as we are informed at the present time. - Obs.

THE stockholders of the Danvers and Georgetown Railroad Company are hereby notified that their Annual Mectin g -will be held on WEDNESDAY, the thitd day of August mextat dhe Academy Hall, in Topsfield, at two o'clock in the afternoon, to choose a board of Directors; to make such alterations in the By-Laws as they shall deem proper ; and to do any other business that may legally come before them.

FOR SALE - A valuable estate in Topsfield, nine miles from Salem, on the County Road to Haverhill, consisting of a good Dwelling House, two Barns, a Shoe Manufactory, and about two and a half acres of land, with a good variety of fruit and ornamental trees.

Said estate has a front on said County road, of 17 rods and 16 feet, and is within 40 rods of the railroad now building between Georgetown and Danvers.

Directors of the Danvers and Georgetown Kaitroad. - W. 2), Northend, of Salem, G. J. Tenney, Georgetown, Saml. Little, do., Thomas Perley, of Boxford: JS, Black, of N. Danvers, G. Cogeswell, of Bradford, C. J. Brockway, of Newburyport, Chas. Herrick, of Topsfield, Gilbert Tapley, of N. Danvers.

Spunky. 'The people of the town of Essex are talking of building a railroad from that town to the new Road in Topsfield, intersecting the Eastern near the Hamilton mecting house, about six miles. Should that read be build, and those completed that are now already chartered, there will not be a town in

By the "underground telegraph " T learn that the K.N,. party met last Saturday evening, for the Purpose of nominating a list to be voted for, but the « Wilson element " entering into their deliberations broke them up, without making any nomination, So that our election passed off on the old fashioned principles, and the result was that we chose a board of officers from among our best citizens, who are capable of discharging their duties. Our friends, who were sO numerous last fall, have been in - "seen Sam" and find him the same old impostor that has been about for several years.

Tue Oster Wittow. Mr. J . Lake, of the Topsfield N ursery, brought to our office, yesterday, a rod of the Osier or Basket Willow, 84 feet in length, a specimen of thirty stocks, grown in the space of eighteen square inches of wel] cultivated land.

ACCIDENT 1N Boxrorp. - On Monday, as Mr. Moses P. Towne of Topsfield, was tending a circular saw at Kimball & Sawyer's mill, in Boxford, his hand came in contact with it In turning carelessly round, taking off all his fingers on one hand, at the Second joint. The saw was revolving at a speed of 1600 revolutions a minute.

This mill was formerly a peg factory, owned and conducted by Mr. Wm. Sawyer. A steam engine has been recently introduced into it, to aid in carrying on a new branch of business which hag been substituted - that of Sawing, and making boxes,

Lake & Co

300 Cherry Trees; 1,000 Dwarf Pear Trees ; 900 Standard Pear Trees, extra growth and beauty ; 200 Plum Trees ; 200 Sugar Maple. (All orders, by mail or otherwise, promptly attended to. Some of the above Trees are for sale at the store of A. Kaine, No. 35 Exchange street, Boston. Topsfield, March 27, 1855. LAKE & CO. Salem Gazette, Mar. 30, 1855.

In Dorchester on Friday evening, Hon. Davjd Cummins, formerly of Salem, for many years a Judge of the C. C. Pleas, aged 69. Mr. C. was a native of Topsfield, Mass. ; he graduated at Dartmouth College; studied law in Salem, where he established himself in the practice of law, and for many years was one of the leading members of the Essex bar, in connection with such men as Pickering and Saltonstall, and for many years probably did the most extensive law business in the county.

May Day In Topsfield

May day was celebrated by the scholars of the Topsfield Academy, by a social gathering in the evening, at the Academy Hall; and we have seldom seen a collection of handsomer ladies or more gallant gentlemen. Everything was conducted in the most orderly manner reflecting great credit upon the managers, Messrs. G. W. Atherton and J. P. Peabody, and they have for their reward the assurance, that it was a Source of unalloyed pleasure to all present. 'This school was never in &@ more prosperous condition. The number of scholars this veim, 1s) 102, he Principal, Rev. J. W. Healy is a model Teacher. We wish him success. 'The examination is to come off on Wednesday, the 16th inst. A general invitation is given.

ical year 1855. The Classical Department numbers 34, and the English 150. The aggregate for the past year was 293, viz: Summer Term, 50; Fall, 69; Winter, 72; Spring, 102. The principal is Joseph W. Healy, who has a strong and numerous

Topsfield Academy

Under the successful administration of the present Principal, Rev. J. W. Healey, this school has attained a character which deserves the most decided commendation.

The examination which came off on the 16th inst., was very pleasant and satisfactory. Music has been introduced this term as aregular exercise, under the instruction of J. P. Peabody. Some fine pieces were sung at the examination, which did them great credit. We were much pleased with the class in English Composition. This was a large class, and every question was answered correctly. This class has been under the charge of Mrs. Healey, and has evidently made much progress. The manner in which the parsing class acquitted themselves was with credit to themselves and teacher. The scholars were evidently much attached to their teacher. There was life and energy on the part of both teacher and scholars, which rendered the exercises highly interesting. The presence at the examination of a goodly number of the town was a pleasing evidence of the regard had for the principal and his labors. 'The summer term commences on the 23d inst. SH a

Ic~-The Salem Association of Ministers held a convention at Topsfield on Wednesday, at the Congregational Meeting House. teports were made on the condition of the churches and on the contributions of Missions, and remarks were offered by Rev. Dr. Worcester of Salem, R. P. Waters, Esq., of Beverly, and others. A sermon was preached in the afternoon, by Rev. Mr. Allen of Marblehead.

On Friday last, a lad named J oseph Dana Weed, while playing about a car standing at the depot, in Topstield, accidentally fell and broke his Jeg. The boy is now doing well.

THe WEATHER continued comfortably cool till yesterday, and on Sunday we had avery pleasant little rain, commencing at about twelve o'clock ; but although the surface of the earth was moistened the drought is unbroken. We hear complaints of it from all parts of the county. In Topsfield it is considered to be as great as was ever known. The inlet and outlet of Hood's pond are perfectly dry, - a circumstance not remembered by "the oldest inhabitant" to have occurred before. Pasturage is short, on account of the drought, but crops are not suffering. The appearances of rot have entirely gone from the potato fields.

Weare sorry to learn that the fire which was set in the swamp grounds in Topsfield, Hamilton, and Wenham, known as Bunker's Meadow, is still spreading in the dry peaty ground and among the woods in that region.

A few days ago Messrs. Francis Gould and Hiram Wells, while returning to Topsfield, in a hand car, from some repairs which they had been making on the Newburyport and Georgetown railroad, were seriously bruised by being thrown from the car. The disaster was caused by the accidental dropping of a crowbar from the front of the car, which falling in front of the wheels caused an instant stoppage of the car, causing them tobe thrown violently several feet in advance. Fortunately, they both escaped broken bones.

A correspondent in Topsfield complains that some evil disposed persons have poisoned the dogs of Messrs. Pettingill, Miltou, Wyatt, and others.

The subscriber, having recently purchased the Real Estate owned by Anranam Batcn, in Topsfield, and the Personal Estate upon said premises, will sell at Public Auction, on WEDNESDAY, the 7th day of November next, at 12 o'clock, M., at the aforesaid premises, -

About 8 tons English Hay; 15 do. Meadow Hay; 5 do. Salt Hay ; a lot of Oat Straw; a lot of Corn Stalks. Also, 2 yoke Oxen; 1 Bull; 6 cows; 5 superior Heifers; 1 Ox Wagon; 2 Carts; 2 Sleds; 1 Iron-Toothed Harrow; 1 Road Scraper or Shovel; and all the Ploughs, Yokes, Iron Bars, Chains, Forks, &¢.; upon the said premises.

Also, at the same time, 2 four-wheeled Chaise ; 100 to 200 bushels Potatoes+ 50 to 100 do. Corn; and a variety of other articles. Conditions made known at the time and place of sale. JOHN WRIGHT. Topsfield, Oct. 16, 1855. Salem Gazette, Oct. 16, 1855.

The several classes showed that they had been subject to a judicious and thorough discipline. here are several young men in this Academy, in a course of preparation for College.

The compositions and declamations were excellent. We were peculiarly interested in the Spirited and elocutionary declamations of Messrs. Clark, Pierce, Gleason, Putnam and Hardy.

Judging from the character of the exercises, and the vast number of citizens and other friends of the Institution, we should judge that this school had never a stronger hold upon, or better deserved the Sympathy and patronage of its friends, then at present.

And we believe, under the judicious management of its popular Principal, Mr. Healey, it will, as in the past, rank among the first Academies in our States.