31 OCTOBER 1840, Page 8

By the Great Western, which arrived at Bristol on Saturday,

papers have been received from New York to the 10th instant. They are re- markably barren of news.

The contest for the Preridency continued, and parties were growing fiercer than ever. General Harrison's euecess appears to become more and more probable. The States of Delaware and Maryland are said to have declared fun. the Whigs or Opposition. There had been very Buie variation in the commercial world. The autumn trade was ready over, anl it had turned out better than had been expected. I'Aellange on England was 8;1 to 0 per cent. premium ; on France, S frumes 171 centimes to 5 francs 161 centimes. United States Beak Shares were selling in Philadelphia at 64 The endeavour of the I. hoc! States Bank to resume specie payments was proceeding favourably. That hunk had made arrangements for the payment of its debts to the Eastern banks, by an issue of postemtes in exchange for those payable on demand. The only establishments op- posed to the transaction were the North American and Farmers Me- chanic • hut they Lre comparatively weak, and the plan could be carried through even if they should continue opposed to it.

Numerous free Negroes were emigrating from Baltimore to Jamaica. An Eaglkh ship had just sailed, full of 'shouting Coloured passengers ; and severtil American ships were preparing for the same trade. A very mysterious affair had occurred near New Providence. A. large French ship, bound to Havanna, has been boarded, and not a soul was found on board. She was named the Rosalie. She had a valuable cargo of silks, wines, Sec. on board, and three feet water in her hold.

Another frightful steam-boat accident had occurred on the Mississippi.. The large steamers Pike and La Fayette came into collision with great violence. The scene for several minutes was dreadful—men, women, and children struggling in the deep and rapid river, as the Pike was- sinking. An immense amount of property was lost, and eight persons were drowned.

A shocking accident had also occurred in the Hudson river, between. New York and Albany. The steam tow-boat Swiftsure blew up on the night of the 4th. Eight persons were horribly scalded, and seven died of the injuries they received.

Dr. Lardner and Mrs. Heaviside were in New York a few days before. the Great Western left. They passed by the names of Mr. and Mrs.. Bennett. They went to the Park Theatre one evening, and were con- sequently denounced by one of the New York papers, and recommended not to outrage decency by appearing again in public. They were after- wards in Philadelphia, entirely quiet and incog.

From Canada the Great 'Western brings a few papers, the latest October 7th, but scarcely any news.

The most important intelligence is adverse : Lord Sydenham was- sail much indisposed, and some accounts even speak of apprehensions as to his ultimate recovery.