Clarksville Chronicle

[From the Frankfort Commonwealth.]

The Contemplated Surrender.
Read, Men of the South, Read!

We received the subjoined letter by Friday's mail, accompanied by note signed by three of the most respectable citizens of Mt. Sterling—whose names are at the service of the curious—stating that it had been found upon the streets of that town. Unfortunately the letter is so mutilated that it is impossible to tell to whom it is addressed or by whom it was written, but both of the parties will doubtless recognize it. Two things are patent from the letter itself, viz: That it was written by a lawyer or one engaged in law suits; and that the author is interested in land speculations—most probably one of Magoffin's partners in his Northwestern investments. The writer lives in or near Harrodsburg, and appears to be intimately acquainted with the plans of the Democratic leaders in this district. One thing is certain, he is a confidential friend of Magoffin, understands his views, and seems to be deeply interested not only in the canvass in this district, but also in the Presidential race of 1860. But here is the letter:

HARRODSBURG, Ky., June 13, 1859.

My Dear Friend: Your letter of the 3d instant has just come to hand. Absence from home for the last ten days will account for my not having received it at an earlier day.

In regard to the depositions, I think it will be advisable to retake them at an early day, I am glad that you will be able to prove a verbal contract. It will add much to the strength of our cause.

Let me urge upon you the importance of giving your immediate attention to the matter about which we spoke when at Lexington. I am credibly informed that the proposed railroad will pass very near the last tract of land we purchased. If this should be true we may confidently expect it to double its value in a few years.

I have attended Messrs. Bell and Magoffin to several of their appointments. He stands his ground admirably, even against the boasted orator of the Opposition. Mr. Bell has an apparent advantage on the slavery question, but I think he will fail to convince the honest Democrats of old Kentucky that they should give him their support. By the by, how is it that the Democracy of the "Old Ninth," at the Owingsville Con., took ground so decidedly antagonistic to the position of our candidates on the State ticket? I had hoped that the Democracy of the entire State would be a unit on the slavery question.

Whatever policy or doctrine may be most popular in particular localities, it is evident that if we expect to succeed in 1860 we must make concessions to our brethren of the North. Any other position than that of absolute non-intervention will insure our defeat in the coming election for President. It therefore behooves us to make preparation in time to meet our enemies! Never since 1840 have our opponents manifested such bold determination to accomplish our defeat.—Encouraged by the unfortunate divisions in our ranks, they will endeavor by a united effort to gain a victory. The result of the Virginia election teaches us what to expect in the future. These divisions must be healed: concessions must be made. and therefore it is that I regret that the Congressional Convention in your District had taken ground in favor of Congressional intervention.

In reply to your question, I am happy to be able to say that the prospect in this part of the State is quite cheering. We may have some trouble in the Ashland District. If our PLANS succeed, however, Capt. Simms will carry the District by a small vote.

Mr. Magoffin, as I learn from a private conversation with him, believes he will carry the State by from four to six thousand. Of this I am confident. But enough of this.