Oxford Democrat

In the Senate, on Wednesday, after an executive session, the vice president stated that he was authorized to appoint a committee on the navigation of the Mississippi, and this morning the committee was announced as follows—Messrs. Corwin, Clay, Bright, Douglas, Davis and Downs.

Mr. Butler presented the credentials of Mr. Elmore, of S.C., successor of Mr. Calhoun.

Mr. King offered a resolution in favor of erecting a custom house at Mobile.

Mr. Downs offered a resolution calling for information respecting the fulfilment of the contract with the New Orleans and Chagres mail steamers, and whether any action by congress is required in the matter.

Mr. Dickinson objected to the resolution.

Mr. Foot's motion for a committee of thirteen was taken up at half past 12, being the assigned business for that hour. The question being upon Mr. Benton's instructions to the proposed committee, Mr. Clay again offered his amendment prohibiting instructions.

Hereupon followed a warm debate of four hours, during which Mr. Benton moved to lay the subject of the committee on the table.

This motion was lost—yeas 21, nays 58.

Mr. Clay's amendment was opposed by Messrs. Benton, Miller and Webster, as unparliamentary and out of order, and it was sustained by Mr. Clay and carried, 29 to 22.

Mr. Hamlin offered an amendment similar to Mr. Baldwin's.

Mr. Benton renewed his fourteen points, and asked for the yeas and nays on each, when a furious debate ensued.

Mr. Foote made some personal reflections on Mr. Benton. Mr. Benton approached Mr. Foote, who apparently alarmed, rushed into the arena, and drew a pistol. Mr. Benton exclaimed, 'I am unarmed—let the assassin fire!'

There was an immense excitement and confusion. The members interfered, and held Foote and Benton in their seats some minutes.

Mr. Benton called for an investigation into the affair. Mr. Hale suggested the appointment of a committee for the purpose. Mr. Foote desired such a course. Mr. Clay wanted the two senators sworn to keep the peace. Mr. Mangum moved that the doors of the senate chamber be closed, but withdrew the motion. Explanations followed, and a committee of seven was appointed to examine into the affair. Adjourned.