Rhode Island American And Gazette

The National Republican Convention convened in this town, by adjournment, last evening. The almost impassable condition of the roads, prevented the attendance of Delegates from a distance. Several towns were represented, and a number of Delegates and Representatives took their seats. Mr. James F. Simmons acted as Chairman, and C. E. Robbins, Esq. Secretary. The Convention having been informed that John Brown Francis, Esq. had declined being a candidate for Governor, LEMUEL H. ARNOLD of Providence, was nominated by Mr. Shippee, of East Greenwich, and unanimously approved.

A Committee was appointed to wait on Mr. Arnold, at his residence.

A letter was read from Dexter Thurber, Esq. declining the nomination of 8th Senator. Due to Arnold, of Warwick, was nominated to fill the vacancy.

The Committee appointed to wait on Mr. Arnold, reported that they had addressed a note to him, and received the following reply, which was read and accepted:

Providence, Thursday Evening Feb. 17.

Gentlemen;—I have this moment received your flattering communication in behalf of the National Republican Convention, now in session in this town, inviting me to be a candidate for the office of Governor, for the ensuing year.

This unsolicited expression of friendship merits and receives my warmest gratitude.

Many considerations of a personal nature have admonished me to decline the proffered honor; but as it has been urged by the members of the Convention, that my acceptance will be calculated to aid the cause in which we feel a common interest, and promote a sound policy, so essential to the prosperity of this State, I have been induced to waive my objections, and acquiesce in the nomination.

Please accept for yourselves and the members of the Convention you represent, my sincere thanks for this distinguished mark of their confidence and respect,

I am very respectfully, your obt. servt.

LEMUEL H. ARNOLD.

To the Committee.

Messrs. Tillinghast and Simmons addressed the Convention, and a resolution unanimously passed to use all proper means to promote the election of the candidates agreed upon.