The Order of Law? A Reflection on Governance and Justice in Early California

The article discusses the lack of effective laws and enforcement in California, particularly in San Francisco. It highlights issues with the judicial system, including arbitrary decisions by the Alcalde, inadequate prisons leading to frequent escapes, and lenient fines for serious crimes like housebreaking. The lack of proper laws and enforcement mechanisms allows for criminals to operate with impunity, leading to a sense of lawlessness and injustice in the region. The article calls for a reevaluation of the current system and for more accountability from public officials.

The article titled "THE ORDER OF LAW?" presents a critical examination of the legal and judicial system in California during a tumultuous period, likely the mid-19th century when the gold rush was underway, and a rapid influx of population led to the establishment of a makeshift legal system. This analysis reveals the frustrations and inefficiencies of a justice system that lacked coherence and reliability, reflecting wider socio-political issues of the time.

The author expresses deep skepticism regarding the efficacy of the judicial process, particularly emphasizing the precariousness of the law as applied by local authorities, specifically the Alcaldes, or mayors, who acted as judges. The phrase, "the will of the Alcalde alone becomes the law," succinctly captures the arbitrary nature of justice in this new frontier settlement. The consolidation of judicial power in the hands of a single individual, without a standardized legal framework, left room for biases and personal judgments to dominate legal outcomes. As the author notes, "just as often are complaints of the absence of justice uttered and vengeance declared at the first proper opportunity," indicating a cycle of discontent that undermined respect for authority.

Moreover, the author discusses the prison system, highlighting its inadequacies. He states, "yes reader to prison! we have a prison! one of the most mean and insecure of all prisons!" which illustrates a stark contrast to modern expectations of incarceration and the rule of law. The narrative depicts prisons as mere holding areas rather than institutions intended for rehabilitation or justice. The sense of futility is palpable when he argues, "Where’s the use in imprisonment, such imprisonment, it's merely a back gate to loose the criminal through," suggesting that the very institutions meant to uphold law and order instead facilitated criminality through their ineffectiveness.

The corrupting nature of monetary fines for criminal acts is also critiqued. "He considers this paying up at a cheap rate," reflects the author's disdain for how minor financial penalties could be seen as a way to license criminal behavior rather than punish it. The implications here are profound; the establishment of fines not only trivializes the seriousness of crimes but also emboldens potential offenders. "They can calculate on the existence, by precedents, of a license for committing any kind of robbery," indicates a normalization of crime in a society where laws are inconsistent and poorly enforced.

Furthermore, this article serves as a microcosm of broader challenges faced in California during the early days of its statehood. It speaks to the tension between a rapidly growing population craving law and order and the inadequate structures in place to provide it. Institutions, such as the Alcalde's court, were inherently flawed and did little to actually legitimize the rule of law, which is articulated when the author laments, "if you do not find him equally bad, equally ignorant, equally unjust in the same particulars, you at all events find him equally deficient in the required qualities for such a station."

In conclusion, "THE ORDER OF LAW?" is a critical commentary on the shortcomings of legal processes in early California, emphasizing the unpredictability and ineffectiveness of justice in the frontier society. Through potent imagery and passionate argumentation, it captures the discontent of a population struggling against an arbitrary system, foreshadowing the need for reforms that would eventually come with the establishment of more structured and equitable legal systems in America. The article serves as a historical artifact reflecting the complexities of governance, law enforcement, and societal expectation during a critical period in California's development.

The Order of Law? A Reflection on Governance and Justice in Early California

Introduction

Whispers of the past can often illuminate the paths we tread today. A striking example emerges from the pages of "The Californian" newspaper in 1846, where an article titled "The Order of Law?" grapples with the unsettling atmosphere of law and order in early California. The author paints a vivid picture of governance during a tumultuous period in American history. As we delve into this thought-provoking piece, we uncover not only the flaws of a nascent legal system but also a commentary that resonates deeply with contemporary debates surrounding justice, governance, and societal structure.

Through sharp critiques, the article reveals the chaotic nature of local governance as established by the Alcaldes (a type of magistrate) and questions the efficacy of imprisonment as a means of justice. It explores the tension between individual moral codes and the authority of a disconnected legal system. Join us as we further examine these themes and reflect on their relevance to our current systems of justice and governance.

The Context: California in 1846

To fully appreciate the article's implications, we must first step back to the historical landscape of California in the mid-19th century. The United States was on the brink of westward expansion, driven by the belief in Manifest Destiny. Following the Mexican-American War, California transitioned from Mexican to American governance—a shift that created a legal quagmire filled with cultural clashes and misunderstandings about rights and responsibilities.

Adding to this complexity, the Gold Rush of 1849 drew a sudden influx of settlers, overwhelming local authorities who were ill-prepared to face the challenges of rapid social change. Here, the Alcalde system, intended to provide localized governance, instead became a symbol of law enforcement's inadequacies. Justice mechanisms often depended on personal judgments rather than established law, a notion vividly articulated in the article.

A Chaotic Legal Landscape

At the heart of "The Order of Law?" lies a poignant examination of governance. The author raises profound questions about the effectiveness of law in San Francisco, expressing disillusionment with an unjust system. The phrase, "Where is the use in law? or where is the use in such law as we have?" encapsulates a sentiment of frustration directed towards a system perceived as disjointed and arbitrary.

Describing the Alcalde’s role, the article highlights a transformation into a farcical rendition of governance. It asserts, "We have as many different laws and sub-laws in California as we have Alcaldes and sub-Alcaldes!" This statement captures the essence of a localized governance structure that devolved into a chaotic patchwork of interpretations and self-serving judgments. When the law becomes malleable, shaped by personal whim, the very idea of justice becomes elusive.

The Prison System: An Absurdity

One of the article's most enlightening discussions revolves around the prison system's absurdity. The author notes, "We say he is sent to prison for trial at another day, and ere the day arrives he has made good his escape." This critique illustrates a system rife with fragility. Rather than functioning as places of reform or retribution, local jails often served merely as holding areas, with many escaping before justice could even take root.

This observation reflects a broader commentary on how systems can devolve into dysfunction when local authorities lack essential structure and resources. Such environments pose risks not only to individuals but also to entire communities. The inability of the Alcalde to contain offenders—or even adjudicate fairly—leads to a vicious cycle, evident in the article's stark portrayal of how a lack of accountability erodes public trust in governance.

The Social Implications: Ethics vs. Law

As we delve deeper into early California's legal system, we must consider the implications for the social contract—the unspoken agreement between the governed and their governors. The friction between individual morality and the legal framework emerges as a recurring theme. A striking example lies in a scenario described where a fine for housebreaking was perceived as a “license to steal.” The author explains, "Suppose you fine a man twenty dollars today for housebreaking the night before; he considers this paying up at a cheap rate." Here, we see critical flaws in how justice is interpreted and executed.

This manipulation of laws highlights a broader human tendency to rationalize behavior when systems fail to establish clear ethical boundaries. The absence of well-defined and consistently applied laws leads to a chaotic moral landscape where right and wrong become subjective. Today, these themes echo in discussions about plea bargaining, sentencing discrepancies, and the impact of socioeconomic status on justice.

Governance: An Ineffective Council

Furthermore, the article introduces the troubling notion of governmental inefficiency, painting local councils as self-serving entities rather than bastions of public service. The text declares, “This body is laboring for its own aggrandizement; now and then a show to the contrary is made,” effectively portraying local governance as a façade.

This sentiment resonates across time, as it mirrors frustrations that many citizens feel today regarding elected officials who seem more invested in self-preservation than serving their constituents. It's not merely individual failings we confront; rather, we see a systemic issue—one where disconnects between those who govern and the communities they serve become all too apparent. Modern political discourse often reflects these dynamics, as citizens express their dissatisfaction with representatives who fail to cater to their needs or who prioritize self-interest over effective governance.

Justice and Dissatisfaction

Moving forward, the article reveals the growing dissatisfaction among the people: “As often as cases are brought before him, just as often are complaints of the absence of justice uttered and vengeance declared.” This cycle encapsulates a broader societal challenge, where the legitimacy of authorities becomes increasingly questioned, ultimately giving way to unrest and potential upheaval.

Today, the echoes of such discontent are palpable. Issues like police brutality, wrongful convictions, and systemic discrimination prompt vigorous responses from communities clamoring for justice. Just as residents in 1846 grappled with a system that failed to represent their interests, we too find ourselves contending with similar grievances, constantly questioning the efficacy and fairness of our law enforcement and judicial processes.

A Call for Reflection and Reform

As the article encourages readers to "ponder on what we have here exhibited," it calls upon both historical and contemporary audiences to reflect on the state of justice and governance. More than just identifying flaws, it points toward an innate need for reform—a clarion call for clarity of laws that ensures fairness and equity.

In examining the discussions from 1846 surrounding law and order, we can see how these early murmurings of dissatisfaction laid the groundwork for later reforms in social justice and governance. Establishing clearer legal frameworks and structures that provide checks and balances is crucial in fostering an environment where justice prevails.

Moreover, the voices of the masses—encouraged by discussions such as those in "The Order of Law?"—highlight the necessity for public engagement in governance. Empowering communities to hold their leaders accountable is vital, transforming blind allegiance into informed scrutiny.

Conclusion

"The Order of Law?" stands not only as a historical artifact but also as a timeless commentary on justice, governance, and societal norms. The struggles it encapsulates—the confusion surrounding law, the arbitrary nature of justice, and the disillusionment with authority—continue to resonate today.

By examining how these historical perspectives inform modern dilemmas, we gain valuable insights into the necessity for reform, the significance of equitable legal systems, and the unending quest for a society where justice is accessible and fair for all. As we recall the past, we garner perspective on our present, providing an enduring call for thoughtful action and essential reevaluation of governance—so that together, we can march toward a more just and ordered society.

Key Phrases:

1. **"The Order of Law?" - Governance and Justice in Early California**: This relates to historical perceptions of law enforcement and societal governance in early American history. For further reading, see "Law and Justice in Early California" from the [California Historical Society](https://calhist.org).

2. **Alcaldes and Local Governance**: The function and effectiveness of Alcaldes as local magistrates in California provide insight into early governance challenges. For more information, refer to the article on [Local Government in 19th Century California](https://www.c-span.org/video/?224894-1/local-government-19th-century-california) from C-SPAN.

3. **"Manifest Destiny" and Westward Expansion**: The ideology of Manifest Destiny significantly influenced American policies and attitudes during the 19th century. For further reading, check out "Manifest Destiny: A Reference Guide" from the [ABC-CLIO](https://abc-clio.com).

4. **The Gold Rush of 1849**: The Gold Rush shaped social dynamics and governance in California, creating a boom in population and lawlessness. For more details, see "The Gold Rush" from the [National Park Service](https://www.nps.gov/gold/index.htm).

5. **Local Jail System and Its Inefficacies**: The critique of local jails and their role in the justice system is crucial for understanding historical shifts in penal reform. For further exploration, see "Prison Reform in the 19th Century" from the [American Bar Association](https://www.americanbar.org).

6. **Ethics vs. Law in Early California**: The conflict between personal morality and legal systems raises questions still relevant today. Read more in "Ethics and the Justice System" from [The Ethics and Compliance Initiative](https://www.ethics.org).

7. **Systemic Issues in Governance**: Discussing inefficiencies and self-serving governance structures offers a lens to analyze contemporary political dissatisfaction. For additional context, see "The Challenges of Effective Governance" from the [World Bank](https://www.worldbank.org).

8. **Public Dissatisfaction and Calls for Justice**: The historical discontent with authority highlights ongoing issues of social justice and accountability. For more on this topic, check out "The State of Social Justice in America" from the [American Progress](https://www.americanprogress.org).

9. **Reform in Legal Frameworks**: The necessity for clearer legal frameworks echoes throughout history and into modern discussions. For further information, refer to "Legal Frameworks and Reform" from the [United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime](https://www.unodc.org).

10. **Historical Perspectives on Modern Dilemmas**: How historical narratives inform current justice debates is crucial for contextual understanding. For a comprehensive analysis, read "Understanding History: Relevance to Today" from the [Smithsonian](https://www.smithsonianmag.com).

**Citation**: The Californian,

- THE ORDER OF LAW?., 1848-02-02
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive

Original Article:

An order has been issued by the governor of California for the re-organization of Fremont's Battalion of Volunteers to aid in the opperation of Mazatlan. Any further particulars we have not yet learned. Where is the use in law? or where is the use in such law as we have? "the former usuages of the country." Where is the use of imprisonment for any offence whatever? Where is the use in any person considering self and property protected by any thing beyond the pale of selfdefence? Where is the use in many other things pretended to be useful in San Francisco ! Let other places in California put these questions and answer for themselves, we know only of the state of things in our section. If a man has a complaint against another, he must act as constable and bring him before the Alcalde, (if he is willing to come,) who in conformity with previous instructions "administer's the laws according to the former usuages of the country" which "usuages" he and the scape grace under trial know as much about as we do of the interior of benighted Japan, and the will of the Alcalde alone becomes the law, and consequently we have as many different laws and sub-laws in California as we have Alcaldes and sub-Alcaldes ! The Alcalde decides according to his judgement of right and wrong in the case, and as often as cases are brought before him, just as often are complaints of the absence of justice uttered and vengence declared at the first proper opportunity. In some cases both parties express themselves dissatisfied — each believing the other to have had undue influence with the supreme will of the Alcalde. A man is brought before the Alcalde for stealing money, examined, proof sufficient elicited, the man sent to prison ! yes reader to prison ! we have a prison ! one of the most mean and insecure of all prisons ! We say he is sent to prison for trial at another day, and ere the day arrives he has made good his escape. He by accident is found in another place, brought back, sent to prison again and in the morning of the following day he is not to be found; twice has he escaped, and yet things remain in the same condition ! Where's the use in imprisonment, such imprisonment, it's merely a back gate to loose the criminal through, it's nothing more. Nearly every man imprisoned for henious offences has forced his escape or been set at liberty to save expense of board and attendance. A man is brought up for house breaking or attempting to force his entry in the night time. It is sufficiently proven on him, to render in the judgement of the Alcalde, the necessity of a fine, which amounts in reality to one of the most improper and unjust of all licences. Suppose you fine a man twenty dollars to-day for house breaking the night before, he considers this paying up at a cheap rate, altho' his attempt at burglary so far has realized him nothing. He tells his accomplices of his success, they glory in absence of fixed, proper, well defined and generally understood laws. They can calculate on the existance, by precedents, of a license for committing any kind of robbery that circumstances most favorably present for consumation. Says one, to the other, you got caught and you got find only twenty or thirty dollars for breaking into — — , now I have one hundred and fifty dollars all picked up in this way, THAT will amount to five or six licenses, provided I am caught, and if I remain free and unsuspected there is nothing at all to pay; fine times! licences to steal, and payment required when caught ! Now, do the public blame the Alcalde? He is a judge in equity, his own notions of right and wrong is the law, the law supreme. .Do the people condem his acts? he has done what in his judgement seemed to be right, he has secured a proper offset for the offense, in the plenitude of his own wisdom. If he has done grossly wrong, in the view of the public eye, you will exclaim, hurl him headlong from office ! he is not fit to remain an hour longer ! You, perchance, effect his removal; another occupies his stead, and if you do not find him equally bad, equally ignorant, equally unjust in the same particulars, you at all events find him equally deficient in the required qualities for such a station, differing in appearance but in reality the same. And as far as necessity exists for reference to the Council of the town, we consider exhibition of inefficiency for the proper conduction of its affairs, has protruded to an extent sufficient for ordinary scrutiny to fully penetrate and resolve a just conclusion. This body is laboring for its own agrandisement; now and then a show to the contrary is made, but the good of the people is not only a secondary matter with them, but it does not occupy a moment of their thoughts, at least this is true with a majority; if they prove it to be otherwise we will retract all we have here expressed relating to their honor as public men, and we will as publicly bestow praise when we are convinced that it is merited. Readers ! ponder on what we have here exhibited; it is not complete, but will answer the form of at least an introduction of what may hereafter follow.

The article reports on a violent incident where a mob attempted to rescue a prisoner from jail in response to his sentencing for contempt of court. The prisoner had violated an injunction by digging a ditch. A clash between the mob and the authorities resulted in two deaths and several injuries among the mob members, while only two members of the Sheriff's posse were wounded. The Sheriff prepared to arrest the mob leaders. In a separate report, General Allen, editor of the Marysville Herald, won the mayoral election in Marysville with a significant majority, with his party, the Independents, winning the entire ticket.

From Mob Rule to Law and Order: A Historical Narrative of Social Transformation

The article represents a moment of legal conflict in what appears to be a gold rush town, reflecting the often lawless nature of these rapidly growing, 'Wild West' settlements. It reports a deadly clash between civil authorities and a mob trying to liberate a prisoner, who had been sentenced for a contempt of court violation, which was breaching a water channel (ditch) and defying a county court injunction.

The source states, "a mob attempted to rescue a prisoner from jail, he having been sentenced to five days’ imprisonment for contempt of court, in bracking a ditch in violation of an injunction issued from the County Court." This action demonstrates the disregard for the authority judiciary system of the period, a common trend in the rough, frontier communities of the time where 'mob justice' was frequently employed.

An exchange of violence resulted in "two of the mob were killed, and several others severely wounded" but only two civil authorities, Sheriff Colton and Mr. Slicer, were injured, suggesting the civil authority had the upper hand or were better equipped or trained. The intent to maintain order is further highlighted as the article states, "On Thursday the Sheriff had a large posse armed and ready to arrest the leaders of the mob, or any that were aiders or abettors."

The second part of the article hints to the political landscape of the era. The report indicates Gen. Allen, editor of the Marysville Herald, won the mayoral election "by a large majority." His group, referred to as the "Independents," is implied to be synonymous with the "Know Nothings," a mid-nineteenth-century American political party known for its nativist (anti-immigration) policies. This shows that these issues weren't limited to cosmopolitan areas like New York City and successfully permeated even these remote rough-and-tumble towns.

In conclusion, the article serves as an illustrative slice of life in a gold rush era town, capturing the volatile mix of tense mob dynamics and emergent political engagements. The lawlessness that dominated these frontier settlements is evident, as is the struggle by authorities to enforce order.

Narrative Exposition:

Deeply ingrained within the bedrock of our social and legal structure, are the captivating narratives originating from the turbulent past. Their influences still resonate, contributing to the ongoing evolution of our understanding of law, governance, and individual liberties. One such intriguing tale, painting a vivid tableau of the standoff between legality and mob mentality, unfurled in Yreka, California, at the heart of the 19th century.

Yreka, now a relic of history, was once a bustling gold rush boomtown. Its streets teeming with fortune seekers; it was a vibrant, yet chaotic, image of the American frontier. However, an incident one Wednesday would disrupt its unruly rhythm, leaving profound imprints that still echo today. As reported by the Herald, "On Wednesday evening a mob attempted to rescue a prisoner from jail... A serious collision occurred between the civil authorities and the mob, in which two of the mob were killed...". This poignant incident not only shed light on justice but also unveiled the simmering tensions threatening the prevailing order.

The wildlands of Yreka served as a compelling microcosm, capturing the tumultuous transformation of a country grappling with the need for civil order amid relentless frontier chaos. The incident underscored law's significance, propelling governing authorities to adopt a sterner stance against burgeoning unruliness.

Fanning this unforgettable conflict was a prisoner, condemned for disregarding an injunction issued by the County Court. This became the epicenter of a fierce clash between law enforcement and a mob hell-bent on dispensing justice their way, leaving deep scars on both opposing factions. A stark reminder emerged from this chaos - a society anchored by a universally respected judicial system is the linchpin to civilizations' survival.

On the surface, this event presented a graphic spectacle of a beleaguered Sheriff and his deputies doing battle with an incensed mob. However, a more nuanced narrative lies beneath. It's a story of people inadvertently testing the limits of authority deemed unjust—a compelling mirror of many populist outbursts. Still, it culminated in the mob's defeat, emphasizing that even audacious mob-rule crumbles against the unwavering resolve of civil order.

Such standoffs, steeped in conflict, shaped the early administrations of emerging Wild West communities. Pillars of these communities, champions of law and order, waged a battle of survival amidst crises. This narrative produced heroes like Sheriff Colton who, although wounded, remained resolute, becoming a beacon of civil power.

After the incident, a strengthened Sheriff’s posse rallied to apprehend the mob’s ringleaders, a firm demonstration of authority that sent a resounding message to law challengers. Parallels can be drawn from situations where mob rule attempted to supplant established law to the progression towards rule of law supremacy.

This transformation didn't merely reshape governance structures. It highlighted a shift in public sentiment, a deliberate pivot towards reliance on formal civic institutions, and a step away from anarchy. A notable example of this evolution was General Allen's election as Marysville's Mayor, signaling public acceptance of organized governance. The Herald's reporting even casually paints him as an "Independent", likely a member of the contemporary "Know Nothings" political party, illustrating the transition to modern democratic governance.

The echoes of these pivotal events reverberate within our present socio-political fabric, shaping our collective identity. The ripples launched from Yreka transformed the region's perception of civil order and governance. It marked a significant milestone, sowing the seeds of a civil society bound by rule of law from the ashes of anarchy.

Yreka continues to serve as a historical landmark, a testament to the evolution of law and order engendered from frontier anarchy's throes. The necessity to continually revisit and reflect upon such foundational narratives cannot be overstated. As philosopher George Santayana cautioned, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." Yreka's incident and the ensuing transformation, coupled with General Allen's election, offer invaluable insights about our bygone tensions. These reflections will illuminate the path as we shape our future.

Our transition from raw anarchy to structured governance was a tumultuous journey of small yet pivotal milestones, each contributing to the fundamental grounding of law, justice, and democracy we value today. Stories like Yreka's shine in their profound ability to encapsulate societal transformation's complexity and the ongoing struggle between old and newer orders.

Our evolution as a society hinges on the critical examination of our past, interlacing historical wisdom into our collective psyche, and building on the precedents set by law and order vanguards. Exploring these powerful tensions ensures that our past’s echo reverberates into a future where order remains paramount.

Key Phrases:

1. 'Law and Order: A Historical Narrative of Social Transformation' - This phrase refers to the societal shift from mob justice to structured governance. For further reading and research, see this article on 'The Governance of Western Public Lands' from [Cambridge University Press](https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/governance-of-western-public-lands/9E7896D3F55F855EBF4D538C8A81FC7A).
2. 'Standoff between legality and mob mentality in Yreka, California' - This implies a specific historical event which could be researched for more context. For more information, see this article on 'Violence and Lawlessness on the Western Frontier' from [The Montana: The Magazine of Western History](https://www.jstor.org/stable/4519494).
3. 'Gold rush boomtown' - This refers to towns rapidly expanded during the Gold Rush era, primarily on the west coast of the United States. For more information, read the article 'The Gold Rush of California: A Bibliography of Periodical Articles' from [California Historical Quarterly](https://www.jstor.org/stable/25155829).
4. 'The County Court' - Investigating the role, jurisdiction, and historical evolution of county court could provide more insights into the rules and structures of early American society. Further reading is available at 'The County Court 1784-1904' from [The American Historical Review](https://www.jstor.org/stable/1832579).
5. 'Sheriff Colton' - This individual could be pivotal to understanding the development of law enforcement in the 19th century. However, considering the nature of historical entries, more research would be needed to verify the accounts and his role as a sheriff. No immediate source available.
6. 'General Allen's election as Marysville's Mayor' - This event has historical significance in evolving American democratic governance. For further reading and research, examine this document on 'The history of Marysville: politics in a frontier city' from [California Historical Society Quarterly](https://www.jstor.org/stable/25160849).
7. 'The "Know Nothings" political party' - This party's ideologies were prevalent in the mid 19th century, especially concerning immigration policies. For more understanding, refer to the 'The Know Nothing Party' article from the [Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/topic/Know-Nothing-party).
8. 'Evolution from anarchy to structured governance' - The transition from a state of anarchy to structured governance is a critical aspect of societal development. For more information, see 'From Anarchy to Monopoly: The Social Construction of Legal and Illegal Markets' from [Law & Society Review](https://www-jstor-org.wikipedialibrary.idm.oclc.org/stable/3053871).

**Citation**: Trinity Journal
- From Yreka., 1855-03-10
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive

Original Article:

MORE MOB LAW.— Two men killed. — From the Herald of the 3d inst., we learn that on Wednesday evening a mob attempted to rescue a prisoner from jail, he having been sentenced to five days’ imprisonment for contempt of court, in bracking a ditch in violation of an injunction issued from the County Court. A serious collision occurred between the civil authorities and the mob, in which two of the mob were killed, and several others severely wounded. Of the Sheriff and his posse, but two were wounded, Mr. Slicer and Sheriff Colton—the former severely, but not dangerously, wounded in the thigh ; the latter received two slight wounds in the hand. On Thursday the Sheriff had a large posse armed and ready to arrest the leaders of the mob, or any that were aiders or abettors MARYSVILLE ELECTION.— Gen. Allen, editor of the Marysville Herald, was elected mayor of that city, on Monday last by a large majority, over his opponent, C. B. Fowler. His Independents—which we suppose means Know Nothings, carried their entire ticket.