Saline

ïou have not heard from me for a considerable time tor the simple reason that there has been little in the shape of newa to communicate. The merchants complain of dullness in business and the people complain of hard times because of the scarcity of money and work. All are are grateful that this state of affairs is not aggravated by a fearfully cold winter, for had it been the sufferings of the poor would have been greatly enhanced. The most marked feature of the times here is the series of rehgious meetings conducted fsince the 2d of January, by the pastors of the Baptist, Methodist, and Presbyterian Churches For a season a meeting was held every night ; latterly, however, an additional one every afternoon at 2 o'clock, and a Women's Prayer Meeting every evening at six o'clock. On Tuesday erening the Presbyterian church was crowded, and, after a sermón from the pastor, between fifty and sixty carne forward for prayera. A committee has been appointed to visit all the business houses of the place and request the propnetors to close at 7 P. M. on Tuesday and Friday evenings, and themselves and employés attend the meetings. The interest secms to be deepening and extending. M. I. Chioannb. Saline, February 9, 1876.