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SS^Hj-. ButUwasaot9o:ifitwereitwOTl(Jina...
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THE REPRESENTATION OF FINSBURY. A clique...
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PARLIAMENTARY REVIEW. Under this head th...
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CHARTISTS, TO YOUR POSTS 1
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$oKf*.
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GUILDHALL.—Obtaining Property, bt Fraud....
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The Quben v. Kbkbalt.—On Thursday, at th...
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; . * NATIONAL? • ASSOCIATION- OF : j 7 ...
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'. •'- MINERS' CONFERENCE; (Continued fr...
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MINERS' PUBLIC MEETING. A public meeting...
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NOTICE. All communications for the '*Min...
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A Baruer's Shop on wk ATLMrnex-»On board...
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Note: This text has been automatically extracted via Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software. The text has not been manually corrected and should not be relied on to be an accurate representation of the item.
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The. Ten Hours Act. Lord Ashley's Propos...
^ SSy ^ Hj-. ButUwasaot 9 o : ifitwere , itwOTl ( Jinak » ^ iffataee at aflin his imnd , because he would not gire ^ ¦ f ^ fiaioortobuj anj fevoar at the hands of the go-2 Sent Butftwasnotso . Chdertheactof Sir George J ^ r ^ fietosj day woold stfflNnrbiue tobe fifteen hours rZL jndfterewonMatniberelays and shifts , with this tSJnce , that they would be conducted by persons under ^^ njearsofagBiniteadofabo re . ( Greatuproar . ) 2 fo wonder that there was " great disap' - jobation" at the idea of being thus infa-L josly robbed of . a right which the Legislate and the Sovereign , by their solemn act sail deed , had deBberately conferred upon ? jigjii . B at the Government and the millowners W better think twice before they attempt to V gypetrate tins breach of faith with the opera-Ires , and , for the vilest purposes of sordid ^^ jmess , trample on a statute substantiall y ^ jgjjjaining the mature and well-considered decision of the British Legislature upon a » - ' ^ ..-. p- »« .- ^ : ' —' . * . — , *—w
question which underwent more discussion Igfore it was thus settled than any other public measure within the last thirty years , jf bv the accidental or intentional blunder of $ a person who drew up the bill , the law is ? erbsBy defective ; and if , instead of remedyjig that defect in a straightforward , manly , and honourable way , the Government , to please a few wealthy millowners , will coerce p arliamentinto a breach of faith—let Government , Millowners , and Parliament look to the conse quences . They are fairly warned that
so far from settling the question as they pretend , by their shameful compromise , they will only have re-opened it again on a wider fcasis . There were not wanting speakers of influence at the Manchester meeting , who fold them that "it would re-open the whole question of Capital and Labour . '' "With the yearly increasing difficulty of working our present social machinery satisfactorily under the present system , perhaps it would be wise
jfor the owners of property not to excite , wantonly , discussions which may terminate unfortunately for them . One thing they may certainly make up their mind to , and that is this—if tiiey force a renewal ofthe struggle , at will be for an Eight Hours—not a Ten H ours BUT . Mr . Oastler , Mr . Stephens , . and other speakers , distinctly intimated that { hat would be the ground on which the contest yould be re-opened .
The proposal of an Eight Hours Bill was made m 1833-4 * by the National Regenera tion Society , under the presidency of the late JohnFeeldes . He had with , him as associates many able men , both as writers and speakers , and may be said to have founded . a new science of political economy in the very midst of what is now called the "Manchester School" If the agitation is to be renewed for an Eight Hours Bill , of course the whole of the grounds on which that proposition is based , will have to be re-stated and re-argued , and fo * ourselves , -we say , that we look fcnvard -with sincere pleasure to the proba
bility of this being done . It is only by a bold and high-principled opposition , based apon fundamentally different postulates , that the pernicious effects of the pestilential heresies in politico-economical science , which are bow fatally predominant can be counteracted . At the last it must come to a war of opposing principles , and we say , the sooner the better , especially where the contending parties will join issue on such a practical and tangible battle-field as that ofthe regulation of labour and machinery , and , consequently , of supply and demand , in a particular department of production .
The cotton lords enter the field at a grievous disadvantage . They are divided among themselves upon most essential questions ; it is only a very small minority who evade or violate the existing law , and the failure ofthe cotton crop is a potent proof of the utter madness of making the subsistence and the lives of millions dependent upon so uncertain and precarious a source as that is . For the statesman possessed ofpolitical prescience , the -horoscope is by no means cheering , unless , in some more rational manner , profitable work
and subsistence in return , can be assured to the toiling millions . Our manufacturing system , as a whole , has failed to do so on many occasions , and passing events , in many directions , concur to show that hi future it will be still less capable of providing for the varied wants of a great and growing community . Little more than half a century old , it already exhibits the decrepitude of a premature old age . The spasmodic efforts by which it is attempted to keep it in action , will only the sooner exhaust what vitality it possesses , and hasten its ultimate extinction .
We And that even in America , where the people possess the freest political , civil and social institutions in the world , that the Factory system has broken down from its own inherent viciousness . In Lowell—the Manchester of the United States—a large number of mills are closed atthe present moment ; quite as much from the fact that the cotton growers in the Southern States have also become cotton manufacturers , as from any deficiency of crop . It needs but little intelligence on the Subject to perceive , that if the slaves on-the cotton estates can be trained to the various
occupations of spinners and weavers , and work up upon the estate the raw material grown there , without the intervention of any third party , that they must beat out ofthe market every competitor in manufactured articles . If Lowell cannot withstand this competitionthough it can get its cotton at a comparatively speaking small advance on the actual cost of production—what will Manchester do , which must , under any circumstances , convey the raw material thousands of miles across the ocean , and re-transport it the same distance , after it is worked up ,- in search of foreign customers ?
These grave questions would no doubt have sooner or later forced themselves npon the attention of the public , whether the Ten Hours Act had been impugned or not ; but the re newal of the agitation under existing circumstances , and upon the broad basis announced at the Manchester meeting , will tend immensely to accelerate discussion , and , we trust , decision upon them . TVe confess that we have no faith in the unsound , ricketty , and feverish system , which is upheld by our socalled Free Trade Economists : nor do we
believe that the national welfare will ever be placed on a safe and enduring foundation until the " Manchester School" are deposed , and a well-devised and equitable system of production and distribution , based upon an improved mode of agriculture , shall be instituted . The employment ofthe great majority of the population upon The Land , and in the production of articles of prime necessity and permanent utility , is the . only firm foundation % national and individual well-being . In the meantime , we observe the Ministe
rial "Times '—formerly a consistent and powerful advocate of the Ten Hours Act—has bro ught all its influence to bear in favour of the compromise , and is , in its own coarse and Unscrupulous style , attacking the character and motives of Mr . Oastleb , aud others of its old co-labourers in tbe cause . For this desertion and opposition the' operatives were fully Prepared , and are not in the least daunted , ¦ ^ ey have faith in the justice of their cause ; an d with them we fervently believe ,, despite the desertion of timid lords and ^ eamer-cock journalists , the cause will ulti-^ tely triumph .
Ss^Hj-. Butuwasaot9o:Ifitwereitwotl(Jina...
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The Representation Of Finsbury. A Clique...
THE REPRESENTATION OF FINSBURY . A clique of trading politicians have , for *» netamepast , been making the ill-health of we . members for Finsbury a pretext for exci-^ g discontent with their conduct . It is Jjfcply to he regretted that Parliament . and of f ^ uirtry should have been so long deprived 2 * the active and invaluable services of Mr . tfeSCQU BE , especiaEy } hut we trust that tbia
The Representation Of Finsbury. A Clique...
will not be allowed by . the electors of Finsbury to be used as a handle to promote the selfish and : personal desi gns of small political pretenders , who want to . create vacancies , that they may have an opportunity of filling them . Mr . Wakley has written to his constituents , admitting that the state of his health has prevented him from discharging his legislative duties as actively as before , and requesting liberty to hold his seaVat all events , until next Session , when , if not recovered , he promises resignation . We have as high an estimation of the value of Mr . Wakley ' s public services as any of that _ rn- _ , « .-t- - -ii _— - : .-, ... . - - — .
gentleman ' s admirers , but we must remark , in justice to Mr . Doxcombe , that there is this difference between the two members—the one has been totally disabled from performing any public duty whatever , while Mr . "Waklet : has , —if not continuously , at all events frequentlydischarged his official duties as Coroner , while absenting himself from Parliament . It seems also exceedingly ill-timed to get up an agitation on this subject when Mr . Buncombe—though not yet fully recovered—has resumed his attendance in the House of
Commons , and when his name may be found in the division lists , if his imperfectly-restored health as yet prevents his voice from being heard in debate . That feet alone is sufficient to show the . antmiw of the parties who are engaged in this agitation . If ever a man was entitled to national gratitude and honour , it is Thomas Sltngsby Buncombe . He was , previous to his illness , not only an indefatigable and successful borough member , but to a very large extent a representative of the national , feeling upon most important subjects . He was peculiarly the chosen Parlia
mentary Champion of the industrious classes , and there was not a single abuse in any of our public departments to which he applied himself , which he was not successful in removing . In despite of all the concentrated forces of official power , conservative bigotry , and selfish interests which were arrayed , against him , he succeeded , as an independent Member of Parliament , in winning a greater number of triumphs for the public , than ever before fell to the lot of any single member of the House of Commons , and at last extorted from his opponent—the present Home Secbetarythe avowal that his services had entitled
him to the National gratitude . It was , indeed , in the public service that he caught that disease which for so long a period rendered his ultimate recovery almost hopeless . In prosecuting that , inquiry into the state of the hulks at Woolwich , which resulted in the discharge of those parties who were entrusted with their official superintendence , and in . laying the foundation for most of those improved measures on CoavrctWscipline , which Government have since taken credit for introducing Mr . Buncombe persisted—against the remonstrances of his medical advisers—in attending the House at night , after long days spent in the damp , dark " 'tween decks , " of a hulk . The consequence , was , that the predictions . of the medical men were verified at the close of
the Session . He was stricken down by an illness which , for a long period , threatened to terminate fatally , from which he is still but gradually recovering , and the first use he makes ofhis convalescence is , to resume his place in Parliament , and to vote , if not yet able to speak . Knowing these facts , we fully sympathise with the tone of Mr . Buncombe ' s reply to the Chairman of the intriguers , who , under cover of public benefit , are seeking to advance their own schemes . In reply to the request ie explain the reasons ofhis absence from Parliamentary duties , the hon . Member justly and pointedly remarks : —
I confess that until the receipt of jour favour I did not suppose that there could have been found in the well-infornud aud extensive borough of Finsbury an ; person ignorant of the fact that severe and dangerous illness has been the sole cause of my absence'from Parliament , to the duties of which it has ever been my pride , during the twenty-three years that Ihave had tbe honour , of a seat in the House of Commons , to give an independent and most unremitting attention , and during which period my attendance , I am most thankful to say , has never received a week's interruption until I was overwhelmed by my recent painful and protracted illness .
That there may be no mistake as to the position which he has assumed , with reference to the parties who seek this explanation , he gives them fair warning that he intends to continue the Bepresentative of Finsbury , so long as mutual confidence subsists between him and the great body of his constituents . Here is . his straightforward declaration on this point : — * I am happy to inform you that improved and improving health enables me now to resume my Parliamentary duties ; and also that , baring from the commencement of my connexion with Finsbury , pledged myself over and < wer
again to my . constituents , 'that so long as it pleased tied that health and strengfa should remain to me , and so long as it should please Finsbury to stand by me , I should stand by Finsbury , ' I adhere to that pledge . And further , 1 beg toinform you that , being assured as I am that tbe great majority of my constituents do not consider a pas * , ing illness , contracted in their service , as sufficient ground for . a withdrawal of their confidence , I shall , when Represent Parliament ha » passed away , give to those on whose behalf you address me-an opportunity of recording their votes against we—« a some of them have done before . "We may fairly presume that as far as Mr . Buncombe is concerned thei schemers have got
their answer , and will resfesatisfied therewith . It would indeed stamp the Borough of Finsbury with the stigma of ^ paralleled ingratitude , if they were , under the circumstances , " to allow hia retirement , after so many years of earnest and indefatigable labour in their service , and after the great and valuable benefits his exertions have conferred . upon the country at large . No man has been able to fill hw place during his temporary absence , and it must be the earnest and hearty desire of all friends to national progress to see him speedily , with renovated health , assume his old position as the People ' s Tribune .
Parliamentary Review. Under This Head Th...
PARLIAMENTARY REVIEW . Under this head there is but little to notice this week . No new topic has , up to the time of writing , been discussed in either House , and the old ones are worn nearly threadbare . Lord Palmebston took an early opportunity of making an elaborate statement on the subject of our interrupted diplomatic , relations -with France , which was greeted at its close with loud cheers from both sides ofthe House , though the ' . ' Times" and . the " Chronicle " persist in asserting that it was neither satisfactory nor complete . But we shall no doubt have a grand " field-day" in both Houses upon the Greek Question as a whole , when " noble lords" and " hon . members' * have been
sufficiently crammed by painstaking secretaries , from the voluminous Blue Books and the interminable correspondence which have been made public . It will be time enough then for us to give an opinion on the subject . ¦ Two desultory and discursive nights spent in Committee of Supply , ranged over an unusual number of topics , with the usual result—' namely , the exhibition of gross mismanagement of the public funds , and the usual acquiescence in all the votes proposed by the Government . The enormous excess of the expenditure on tiie Now Houses of Parliament , over their estimated cost , constituted one prominent feature in the discussion of these
estimates . They were originally estimated at £ 700 , 000 , and it is now admitted that they will not be finished for less than four millions sterling ! But , worst of all , after this vast expenditure , it is discovered that the new House of Commons is not only exceedingly inconvenient in : many respects , but that it is by far too small to hold all the members , and that , in order to make it ofthe proper dimensions , one end of it will have to be knocked down ! It certainly must be confessed , that we blunder shockingly whenever we putour hand to a public building . In this case , it would almost appear as if the architect and all concerned had deliberately proceeded to act contrary to aU previous expe . rience in such matters ,
Parliamentary Review. Under This Head Th...
, On TaeBday ; the ; HouseiWascounted out on a motion of Mr . 'Miles , for sending to our colonies the female orphans incur workhouses . It wason the eve of the « Derb y day , " and the House haymg . resolved to take holiday thereon , " our legislators were restless , and too much under the influence of tho holiday feeling to attend to such matters as workhouse female orphans . "" In the Lords , tiie policy of originating Pro-^——y——^—My
tectionist discussions on the presentation of petitions , is steadily pursued by the Protectionist peers . Lord Stanley and the heads ofthe party , however , cautiously abstain from trying conclusions , with the Free Trade party ; a J ? ^ . ***• Disraeli and ; his allies in the Commons , have an occasional skirmish with the Government and the Free Traders , the results are equall y negative .
In order to make up in some degree for the Wednesday ' s holiday , the Commons had a morning sitting in the new House on Thursday , when an Irish Bill was proceeded with . This may be taken as the forerunner of similar sittings pretty constantl y until the close ofthe Sessions , in order to hurry up measures to the Lords before the dog-days and the shooting season take " everybody" out of town . For all the good either the morning or evening sittings will do the industrious classes , they might just as well shut up , what Mr . 0 'Connob truly calls " the show box , ' ' at once .
Chartists, To Your Posts 1
CHARTISTS , TO YOUR POSTS 1
If it is to be presumed that the working classes are prepared to defend those who have sacrificed health , time , and fortune , in their cause , every veritable and honest man will prove his sincerity on . Tuesday nightnext , the ith of June , by being present at a meeting , to be held at the Belvedere , Pentonville Hill , by the Finsbury Electors , for the purpose of
enforcing the resignation of the glorious Buncombe . Chartists' rally like freemen to your posts . . . Mr . O'Connoe is an Elector of Finsbury and , we understand , will be present to . take his part , as he is not likely to forget the assistance rendered by his invalided Chartist friend and leader , both to the Chartists and the Trades , when no other man in his class would dare to defend their principles , © r acknowledge their rights . BUNCOMBE AND LIBERTY FOR EVER ! HURRAH !!
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Guildhall.—Obtaining Property, Bt Fraud....
GUILDHALL . —Obtaining Property , bt Fraud . —Charles and , C . Afachin were placed at tho bar for final examination , charged with obtaining various sums of money and a large number of law books of solicitors and other parties by means of false pretences . A great many charges of the above nature were brought forward on several previous examinations against the prisoners , which having been complete ! , the prisoners were committed to Newgate for trial . AlARLBOROVGU-STREET . - A Bbi on ihk "Damr . "—William Cooper , of No . 23 , Rathboneplace , described on the police-sheet as of . " no occupation , " -was charged with , having obtained from
Thomas Clifford , landlord ofthe Three Doves , Berwick-street , the sum of £ 5 by fraudulent pretences . —Tbe complainant said , the prisoner , who was a stranger to him , came into his house on Sunday , and had some brandy arid water at the bar . The prisoner talked about the Derby race on Wednesday , and boasted that he had got odds to the extent of £ 100 to £ 2 on Clincher , and had in his possession a ticket from Serle's , the Salisbury Arms , Howardstreet , ' Strand , as a voucher for the bet . Witness then asked prisoner if he would make him a bet , and ultimately it was agreed that : witness should pay £ 5 to receive £ 30 and his £ 6 back in case Clincher won the race . Witness gave the prisoner five sovereigns , and received what purported to be a
ticket from Serle ' s of a bet of £ 100 to £ 2 on Clincher . On going tothe Salisbury Arms , to inquire about the ticket , he was told it was a forgery . On Monday morning , having found the prisoner in a betting house in Jermyn-street , he pave him into custody . —The prisoner was remanded , but admitted to bail-in two sureties of £ 50 each ., Shopuftino . —Mary Ann Brown was charged with stealing thirty-two yards of silk , value £ 3 10 s . ; the property of Mr . Digory Northey , silk mercer , No . 1 , Princes-street , Soho . —Charles Easton , shopman to the prosecutor , deposed that on Saturday evening , about seven o ' clock , the prisoner came into his employer ' s shop , and requested to be shown some black satin mantles . He took her iip to the
show room for that purpose , and while he was looking the mantles out , he saw the prisoner take the silk produced , and hide it ; underneath her shawl . Witness then made an excuse to leave the room , and went down stairs and informed his employer of the circumstance , who immediately sent for a constable to take her in charge . On witnesses return he met the prisoner coming down stairs ; be requested her " to return , and on her getting into the room , she dropped tho silk on the Moor . - He then called the constable , and gave her into custody . — The prisoner , who has been twice before convicted for a similar offence , was fullycomroitted for trial . A Sham : Police Inspector . —John M'Hurdy , landlord of the Phoenix Tavern , Stacey-street ,
Soho , was charged with being drunk ,: and assuming the office of an inspector of police . —Police-sergeant 11 C stated that about five o ' clock on Monday morning he was on duty in Oxfordrstreet , when the prisoner , who was much the worse for liquor « came up to him and said , "Is it : all . rig ht * sergjpt ?'' Not knowing the defendant , witness replied , ! ? ' Ob , yes , it ' s all right , " and was proceeding round his beat , when he ( defendant ) stopped him and -said , " I suppose you do not know who I am ; I am an inspector of the A division , and am sent , out at a salary of £ 5 per night to look ; after ' you and your men . " The defendant then leftfhim and went up to another constable , and took down his number on a . piece of pajer . , He subsequently went ud to two
or three other constables , and took their numbers also . As he persisted in following up this species of annoyance , witness took him into custody , and conveyed MmtO ; the station . —Mr . Bingham said defendant had acted . very foolishly in assuming to himself the office of a police inspector , whereby he had rendered himself liable to a penalty of £ 10 . He should not fine him the full amount , but , as a warning to him for the future , lie should fine him IOs . The money was immediately paid . MANSION-HOUSE . — Polish Refugees . — A great number of Poles , apparently in distress , assembled before this court , and one of them stated to Alderman Gibbs , the sitting magistrate , that they came to seek for relief and advice . They were
driven mto this country from various parts of the continent , and being without any resources , and not knowing the English language , they , were unable to procure employment , and were almost starving . —Alderman Gibbs said they should address themselves to the Literary Association of the Friends of Poland . —The spokesman replied thai the secretary of the association was in attendance , and would inform tbe alderman upon that subject . —Lieut . Szulczewski , the Secretary . of tbe Literary Association of the Friends of Poland , then stated that , as long as the association could procure funds for its charitable operations , which have now lasted seventeen years , it always afforded relief to the refugees in distress . But of late its
exertions have not been so successful , and , unfortunately , at a time when the influx of the Poles into England was greater than ever . Since July last above 200 of them were obliged to seek a refuge in Great Britain , and the state of the funds of the association was so low that it could not in any way alleviate the sufferings of those men . Luckily , several of their countrymen abroad having been acquainted with the fate of their brothers in England , sent over a sum of money , and it was upou that remittance that the 200 Poles chiefly subsisted here . They received 6 d . a day , but even that help has now been denied to them , as the sum mentioned is completely exhausted . Under such melancholy circumstances ;
the committee saw no other way of further assisting these foreigners except by stating their case to the first magistrate of the city , that through him publicity may be given to the miserable condition , of the Polish exiles . —Alderman Gibbs said he was applied to last week by a number of Germans , and he could not do anything for them . Why should not these men apply to tne . Society for the Relief of Foreigners in Distress ?—Lieut . Sailczewski observed that tbe Society for the Relief of Foreigners , in Distress declined to relieve any Polish refugees . —Alderman Gibbs : I really can give no advice on the ' subject , nor any assistance , however painful may be the circumstances . —Lieut . Szulczewski thanked the magistrate for having given the Poles a hearing , and withdrew .
The Quben V. Kbkbalt.—On Thursday, At Th...
The Quben v . Kbkbalt . —On Thursday , at the Court of Queen ' s Bench , —Kenealy , Esq ., barrister , was brought up to receive judgment , having been convicted at tbe sittings of last term of committing an assault upon Edward Hyde , his illegitimate child . Mr . Justice Patteson sentenced the defen dant to be imprisoned iu the Queen ' s Prison OT one calendar month ,
; . * National? • Association- Of : J 7 ...
; * NATIONAL ? ASSOCIATION- OF j 7 : i ;; . UNiTEp : ; TRAp ' ESi ; v ^ : ; : .: 7 1 ¦ - ¦ : ;*• . " . ; ¦ . ' - ¦ EetaWi « he £ ' : lM 7 ti 7 ' . \ 7 y ; - , . Conference havihgbrokenup ^ n Thurs ^ day , the 23 rd , as reported in tfie 'Northern Star of the 25 th ult ., the : CenirafiCpmmittee proceeded at oriceto make arrangements for resuming the active operations of the Associato J' It was arranged that Messrs ; Green and Peel should proceed to Wolverhampton , to resume the negotiations with the tin-plate manufacturers of that town , for the establishing an equalised book of prices for the town , these negotiations having been unavoidably delayed
during the Conference sittings . It was also agreed , that the case ofthe Todmo ' rden bobbin turners should receive the earliest attention which circumstances would permit ; that Bndgenorth and Kidderminster should also be . if ? w * * mme ( Hately uPon * ue termination of the Wolverhampton case . ' Messrs . Green and Peel proceeded " oh Saturday morning to Birmingham , and ' attended a meeting of the . inciters of that town , who , although a recently organised societ y , are rapidly increasing in num-^ ers * The report given by Messrs . Green and Peel of the proceedings , gave universal
satisfaction , and a remarkable and highlv encouraging proof of the extraordinary efficacy of union , as a conservative power . One ofthe members reported that he had been offered a reduction of one shilling per week upon his wages , and that he , ' feeling confidence m the additional power he possessed by his society and its connexion with theNational Association , had at once refused to accept the reduced wages offered by his . employers ; that he had obtained another employment at one shilling andasfpence per week above his former wages , ^ " and . ^ th ^ at ^ his old employer had offered him' anj ' . a ' dYahoe ^ of ' . one shilling per week if he'wbuTd ^ top ' with him , ' . but which
offer he had refused . ; This incident produced quite a sensation * in the society , and several additional members were admitted during the evening . On the . s ' ameevening a deputation of tin-plate workers waited upon Messrs . Green and Peel , to request their assistance on behalf of two of their men , whohadbeen refused the payment of the regular trade price for some " Oblong O . G . dish covers ' " they had finished on the previous Saturday , They had been offered eight shillings and threepence j and ten shillings , respectively , for two sizes—9 in . and lOin . — -instead of eleven shillings and threepence and fifteen shillings—the book prices . The two men had refused to receive less than
their proper wages . Messrs . . ' Green and Peel promised to see the employer the first thing on Monday morning . On Monday , accordingly , the employer yt & $ visited , aud , although at first disposed to take a somewhat . high ; position ,, after a ' short discussion yielded the points , and , consented to pay the men their wages for the work they had performed , but at the same time informed the deputation that unless the men could meet him
}> j producing an article of an inferior description , at a lower figure , he should be obliged to give up an extensive West Indian order . The men were advised to submit their employer ' s proposition to their Trade Committee . The successful termination of this affair has given the greatest satisfaction to the tin-plate workers of Birmingham . Messrs . Green and Peel proceeded immediately to Wolverhampton .
Thus have the first days of the new year's campaign been signalised with the most cheering reports of progress , and with a most decided and important advantage obtained for an influential branch of onr Association . The Central Committee , refer with great satisfaction to . the proceedings of the Conference , reported so fully in ' the last number of this journal . They feel justly proud of the honour conferred upon this movement by the personal attendance of their beloved and honoured president , whom they rejoice to find progressing' so rapidly to convalescence , the
same unaltered and energetic champion of labour , as heretofore . They feel justly proud and deeply grateful for the expressions of confidence in them and the movement , which they have received from all parts of the country , and beg to assure the . Trades of their determination still to pursue that policy which has proved during the last few months so effective , and which has called forth so many commendations .. They , beg to announce their intention to solicit from Feargus O'Connor ,
Esq ., a renewal ofhis generous offer of a por-. tion of his columns , for a weekly condensed report of the Association's progress and proceedings , ' and they call upon . the members individually , and theepllectave bodies in connexion with the : < JSatiohal Association , to give their hest ^ fiuppoft to the Northern Star and Nati & nfil ^ trades Journal , the only paper where tJie : . wprkirig men ' s interests are advocated and [ protected , and the official organ ofthe National Association . The Central Committee are of
opinion , and strongly recommend , that every society—large or small—connected with the movement should take one or more copies of this journal for the use of its members , in order that they may acquire a knowledge of the proceedings of the Central Committee , in the execution of the important and arduous mission with which they have , for another year , been honoured and entrusted .. Asa continuation of the report of the Conference proceedings , ' they present the following extracts from a large number of letters which were read to the late . Conference , bearing the highest testimony to the utility and importance ofthe Association , and the reading of which excited deep interest amongst-the assembled delegates .
Letters—extracts from which are here given —have been addressed to the Secretary of the Central Committee , and were read to the Conference : — ' " ¦ ' Carlisle , April 20 th , 1850 . Dear Sir , — -Though we are unable to send a delegate to the approaching conference , we are hot unable to send the best wishes , of pur hearts , and to put that confidence in it whiehis due from us as a body towards . Ithose' talented' and' honest "' men of whom ' i ^ the conference ) may be constituted . We have no ^ e ' ar ' but that the best arrangements' will be maae ' whicu Us honesty rand' talent - can devise , for the pronation ' of the general interests of the association ' . ^ -G . Graham , Secretary . ' . " :. . '• .. ' . '
; -l ' , ; . i'iji ; . ¦ .. r r . ' / , Lynn , . April 10 th , 1850 . . Dear Sm , —I am very sorry : to inform you that it is not .. thejintention of our society of sending a delegate tethe . conference on Whit-Monday next , as work has been very dull , lately , and is so at present ; and the expense would be very heavy on the members . We had a very large meeting on last . Saturday night , and the case was taken into
consideration . Some were for sending one , and others were against it ; and , when put to the vote , it was carried in the negative , but a resolution was passed that every member should pay two shillings each before next conference , to enable us to send a delegate another year . I should very much have liked to have sent one , and so would several of . our members ; but , as that is not the case , I hope you will have sufficient delegates to carry on the business in a proper manner . —Hehrt Bowks , Secretary .
Kidderminster , May 13 , 1 S 50 . Dear Sib , —At a meeting ofthe members , at Mr . Wm . Fawcett ' s , the following proposition was carried unanimously : — " That in order to secure a better representation of the Trades at the annual conference of the association , a fund be created by each member paying one halfpenny per month , to aid the Trades in sending their
delegates to such conference . It is my opinion , sirand I think of theoarpet weavers geuerally-4 hat our connexion with tbe National Association has had a beneficial operation upon our interests . I consider Mr . . Green has , to a great extent , succeeded in organising our" trade ; and the manufacturers being aware of it , I believe that circumstance has prevented them offering further reductions . —With these fi > w , remarks , I am , dear Sir , yours , & o , Geobos . Au . sn . .
Keighiey , May Hfcb , 1850 . Sib , —I am happy to say , that the opinion of our small society is , if the principle of the National Association was properly understood and universally practised , wo should haye done with striken
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wd * 5 ^!^ - ¥ '^ S « t » d ' eTery ' man would re . erne tbe . fuH value of his labour . l-Yours' respect fully , WM ,-BHACKtKTOIf . ; ' ¦ - < : i .- ;•• .
. . i , . v ;; : ' " - : •; Birmingham , ' May 16 th , 1850 . ' Sib , —At a meeting ofthe millers of this town on Saturday , the business paper was taken into consideration , and the general opinion was in favour of tho propositions of the Central Committee , and also of that from Kidderminster ; but at the same time leaving it with confidence to tho delegates there assembled . '• It was the ' sincere wish of the members , of this society that T . S . Buncombe ,
Esq ., M . P ., should be re-elected president of the National Association ; for to lose so worthy and excellent a gentleman would , we conceives be a serious loss to the association . As to our opinions of the association , "and with reference to its' general utility , we think it one of the best societies m existence . Our society is increasing very fast , and an unanimous vote of thanks to Messrs . Green and Peel , and of confidence in the Central Committee and the association , was carried . —Yours very re : snectfuJly , Edward Knight , Secretary . ¦•• . ( '
Warrington , May 15 th , 1850 . Dear Sir . —The spinners of this ' town beg to oxpress their satisfaction with the National Association , by passing the following resolution * . — " That the thanks of this meeting be given to Mr . Peel , and the members of the Central-Committee , for their able and straightforward manner of conducting the above Association . ' ^ Moved by John Simpson and seconded by James Ray . : ; " We are also of opinion , that it would be a good plan to create a fund to defray the . expense of delegates attending Conferences . I also give you my opinion in a few words relative to tho National Association . —1 st . It is my opinion that the above Association is calculated to raise the working classes to their proper liosition in society . ; 2 nd . That no local union m this
country is capable of . elevating the condition of the working classes , andithat , sooner or" later , necessity will compel tho working classes ' generally to come to our conclusions ; 3 rd , We are arrived at a period when capital and its influence is aoj great , ; that nothing Short of a national organisation can reach the evils with which the working- classes are affected . I must confess I am somewhat surprised to seo the Trades so . backward in joining . the National Association ; but I must also confess that they , do not study their own interests , in still wearing tho fetters which have so long bound them down in bondage to other men ' s opinions . I mean those self-interested Secretaries , who do all they can to prevent tbe Trades from joining . the National Association , lours in sincerity , H . A » HTON , ; Secretary .
. - . ' .. Kilmarnock , May , 16 th ; 1850 . Dear Sir , —We , the Tailors of Kilmarnock , are of opinion that some measure should be adopted by the conference about to assemble , towards ; bringing more prominently the real principles and constitution of our society before the Trades of this country . We believe this must be felt by every member of the National Association . We believe , the energies of the Central Committee have been crippled to a very considerable extent , but are of opinion , that an appeal from the Central Committee signed by our worthy and honourable
President , would go far to arouse the ( what we consider only the latent ) energies , of our members , to renewed and increased actios . With regard to tbe election of a central committee : we , without a dissentient voice , give our vote in . favour of the present acting one . We have a cherished faith in the influence and power of the National Association , could its title be made no misnomer . Trusting that the proceedings of the Conference , when published to our members , may operate for our success and well-being , I am , Sir , yours , & c . WlLUAM SPICER .
Carlisle , May 16 , . 1850 . Dear Sir , — At a general meeting of cotton spinners , in connexion with the National Association , held on Saturday night last , the following resolution was passed . — " That , in the opinion of this meeting , the propositions to be presented by the Central Committee , are worthy of their time and attention , and such as we hope will be duly weighed by the representatives ofthe Association . With respect to the principle involved in the proposed plan of registration , we are not in a condition—in the absence of the details—to give an opinion ; but , in . relation to the third proposition , we think that , as it has been successfully acted upon by other societies , we know no good reason
why , n acted upon , it should not be successful with the Association . In the Methodist society , for instance , a fund is established for the support of preachers , in those localities where the poverty of the people , or the smallness of the numbers , renders them unable to support their own preachers . As . to the utility of the Association , I think the history of its past proceedings , of its many successful intercessions in behalf of its oppressed members , ought to satisfy any reasonable man of its general efficiency . True , it may not have succeeded in every case in which it has offered its mediation—but what of that ? The truth of its general utility stands recorded in the history of its operations . No man ought todoubt ' iti'general
utility , because it has not yet accomplished all that heart can wish . The utility of the sun and moon might be questioned upon the same principle . I have no doubt but that many selfish , timid employers have been terrified into justice , at the thought of its power . Like a ghost in the counting house , it has done its work ; it has risen up to startle and annoy those base and selfish men , who make it their study fo plunder their workpeople . In a word , if the principles involved in the constitution and rules of the Association were strictly adhered to by the great body of its members , such a gigantic power could be brought to bear against oppression as must be looked for in vain in any other institution of a similar character—G . Graham , Secretary .
Birmingham , May 10 , 1850 . Dear Sir , —You wish to know our views as to the general utility of the National Association , and whether we have received any benefit by it ? but as we have so lately joined we consider there has not been time to confer any great benefit upon usthe fender moulders . But , as regards its general utility , we believe if the working men of this country would join the association , they would very soon be placed in that position which God and Nature intended them to enjoy . In . fact , we . believe , if the working classes are ever to get a fair day's wage for afair day ' s work , they must cast off their little prejudices and bad feelings towards each other , and become , united in ones ' grand bond of union . Tbe well-paid nrtizan must extend the right hand of
fellowship to the . poor and badly-paid labourer , and iookupon himas a brother , for there is many a noble and honest heart beating within a ragged coat ; and if the working men act upon this principle no power on earth can long prevent them from obtaining their just rights . The masters of this country care nothing about a local society ; but no sooner do you add the word " national " than they become wonderfully mild , and will do anything to assist you . Dear sir , I write these observations from experience , for we have had proofs of this since we joined the National Association . As soon as one of our masters heard that we had joined ourselves into a society he threatened to discharge every one that joined ; some sent a
deputation , and he received them in'the spirit of a tyrant ; and would scarcely consent to listen to them . But when we explained to him the principles ofthe National Association , and that his men had got the Trades of England at their back , then he became quite another man , and promised to do anything for his men . But mark his treacherous conduct ; no sooner had tho deputation withdrawn than he wrote to Sheffield to engage men , and one came on the following Monday , and one of his men was discharged ; but I have written to Sheffield and Ooleb ' rook Dale to inform' them of-this man ' s conduct , and have received letters favourable to our wishes , therefore I think we shall be a good match
for him in the long run . The following resolutions were passed at our last general meeting : — That the best thanks of this meeting are due , and hereby given , to T . S- Duncorobe , Esq ., M . P ., for his noble and generous exwtions in the working man ' s cause , accompanied with a wish , that he may be restored to a perfect state of health . " " That the best thanks of this meeting is , given to the Central Committee for the promptitude with which they have attended to our corsespondence since we have joined the association . And now , dear sir , I conclude with a wish that the blessing of heaven may attend your labours during the sitting of conference , and happiness attend each of the delegates t ^ aJa home . ''—Yours respectfully , Wuk S . London .
Norwich , May 16 , J 830 . . Dear Sin , —TSearsof May 1 st , and the propositions of the Central Committee , have been laid before the trade . We wish we could have sent a delegate , but it was not in our power ; ' but as to the utility of tbe National Association , we think it has done groat good through tbe country . " " We hope it will continue to do so . We fully , agree with the propositions , of the Committee , in particular th » third . ¦ Wm . Snowden , Secretary *
Birmingham , May 17 , 18 ^ ., Dear Sib , —Wo feel the greatest confidence in the Central Committee , and hope they will keep up the agitating system ; and while you can send such persevering men about the country as Mr . Green , the association must prosper . I assure you we , as a-body ,, have received considerable benefit from being connected witwthe association . Hoping the cause may prosper , I remain , dear sit , youta faunfully , Geo . Wainwbiohv .
Todmorden , May 17 , 1850 . •" Dbab Sis ,-And now respecting the conference . I believe thati tho Nation . * } A ^ vviatiw ka tod a
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good effe ct upon our tradei . up to the present , and , I think that the friends to the society of bobbin turners are generally satisfied with the proceedings of the conference , and we leave it with you ,. aa being competent . to manage the , business . Yours truly , Wm . Greenwood .
Kidderminster , April 18 tb , 1850 . Dear Sir , — I should have communicated the opinion of our members upon the case of the ; two men , had I not thought Mr . Barber had done so . We were very glad that a paying firm , like / ours , should have been the first case in the town ; be * cause the agent would act without any reserve . We thought it was well Mr . Green was in the town as our guide . Whence had the interview ( with . a deputation ) with ouremployers—Master and Sons —he gave the best of satisfaction . Since , we have heard that they ( the Masters ) have said "they did not think we had such a man amongst us . " We have watched you very closely through this case , and have found
no deficiency in any way . Our men have paid their levies with satisfaction and promptitude , with a few exceptions ; but they are of much stronger confidence in the union . It is as you say , " that there is always a leading few in a society , on whom lean the bulk ; " and . 1 am proud to think that wo have men of that stamp . Wo think that » by the actions and appearance of Mr . Green , and the noble president of your Central Committee , with the quaint and pithy arguments you use in print , and also by words—we think we only do well when we give our levies to support , and our influence to augment , the National Association of United Trades . —Yours respectfully , James Hardeman , Secretary .
Lynn , May 19 , 1850 . Dear Sir , —At a meeting , held by the bricklayers of Lynn , on Saturday night , I was requested to inform you , that they were quite convinced that if it had not been tor the National Association their wages would bare been reduced two shillings a week two years ago , when the masters offered a reduction . At that time a member ofthe Central Committeo was sent for , who very soon succeeded in gaining our cause ; since that time the masters have not offered any reduction , only by hinting to the men that the wages roust come down ; but as
they find the men are determined to have the wages , they very soon' drop it , as they know very well that we belong to the National Association , and if they did not give us the wages their work would very soon be stopped . We therefore advise all the working classes to join this National Union , as we think it the only remedy the working classes can seek ; and we hope , after the breaking up of the conference , that the numbers will increase mora so than they ever have done yet , for it is numbers we want to stand against capital . —Yours respectfully , Henry Bo wen , Sec .
'. •'- Miners' Conference; (Continued Fr...
' . •' - MINERS' CONFERENCE ; ( Continued from our lost . ) THURSDAY . The Conference met this morning at nine o ' clock for the despatch of business . After the names of the delegates were called over the following laws were passed . 15 . —That the subject relative to advertising tha next Conference be brought before the various districts or county boards , to ascertain what support they are willing to give towards advertising the same . The secretaries to act according to . their best judgment , and the means placed at their disposal .
17 . —That this Conference recommend the various Mining countries to endeavour to emancipate themselves by tbe adoption of the principle of Home Colonies and co-operation as a means of perpetuating the society . . 18 . —That this Conference cannot close its ' labours without earnestly calling the attention of this mining districts of Great Btitain to the imperative necessity of again' bringing ont the' Miners' Advocate' as an organ of instruction , communication , and defence of the British Miners . 19 . —That this Conference recommend to all the mining districts to establish as soon as possible , a system of restriction or regulation of their labour , and that each delegate to the next Conference come prepared to discuss the utility of a uniform system of regulation of the Miners' Labour .
20 . —That the name of the society be Tbe Miners' National Association of . Great Britain and Ireland . ' Adjourned .
AFTERNOON SITTING . The Conference re-assembled at two o ' clock and a long discussion took place relative to the condition of our Scottish brethren , and general sympathy displayed towards them , —also on tbe general plans laid down by Conference and the best means to carry them out , while a most excellent union spirit was displayed . It was then passed that the delegates recommend to their respective districts tbe necessity of a change of lecturers , wheresuch change is wished . Resolved . —That a vote of confidence in , and sympathy for , our Scottish brethren be given by this Conference .
Resolved . —That a cordial vote of thanks be gives to our worthy President and Secretary for their valuable and efficient services to this Conference and to Miners generally . Resolved . —That this Conference adjourn tin Monday , August 19 th , 1850 , at Newcastle-upon-Tyne , to meet at nine o'clock in the morning . Resolved . —That this Conference recommend all mining districts to agitate and petition for the attainment of an ' Eight Hours Bill , ' for the regulation and working of tbe mines of Great Britain .
Arrangements were then made for tbe delegates to address a public meeting , at seven o ' clock , ia Mr . Brindle ' s Concert-room , when the Conference broke up in a friendly manner . Martin Jcde , President . William Daniells , Secretary .
Miners' Public Meeting. A Public Meeting...
MINERS' PUBLIC MEETING . A public meeting of tbe Miners of Wigan , was held on Thursday last , in Mr . Brindle ' s Concert room , Market-place , which was well attended and a good spirit was displayed . Mr . J . Fell , delegate from Durham , was called to the chair , and opened the meeting with a few " sensible remarks . ' . " .. ! Mr . W . Daniells ^ delegate from North Staffordshire , moved the following resolution , and showed in forcible language the importance of tbe same-: — " That from the fact of a Luge proportion of tha children of the Miners being without any education whatever , and , also from the fact , that such
deficiency must necessarily influence the moral conditio * of those cbildren , —and further , from tbe fart that the health of those children is greatly injured and impaired by inhaling for so long a period each day the impure and deleterious atmosphere of a coal mine ; this meeting , therefore , admitting the truth of the above , are of opinion that eight hours per day is amply sufficient for-pit boys to worky and . we consequently agree to petition the legislature to pass an Eight Hours Dili , for the regulation and working of British mines , so that these poor pit boys may have proper opportunities of acquiring a suitable education ; and we strongly recommend aS . mining districts to follow our example . ''
Mr . M . June , delegate from Northumberland , seconded the above ,, and Mr . 5 . Price supported the same ; after which it was put to the meeting and carried unanimously amid cheers , Mb . W . Kklsev , delegate fronx North Stafford , shire , very ably moved the following resolution : — " Tlbat this meeting is of opinion , that it is the duty as well as tbe iateiest of both workmen , and employers / to so regulate tbe production of mines aa 4 o insure to the former a fair remuneration for their
labour , and to the latter a proper return for then : capital ; therefore , the miners , composing this , meeting hereby pledge themselvaa to join the Miners * National Association , ' the purpose and object « I which is , to secure the above , and to do justice * master and men . This , resolution was seconded by Mr , v E . Lawton , delegate from South Stafford , shire * in a long speech , and unanimously passed Votea of thanks were- then given to the chairman and ! speakers , when , the meeting broka-sp .
Notice. All Communications For The '*Min...
NOTICE . All communications for the ' * Minws' National Association" must be sent either to Mr . Martin Jude , Sandyford-hne , Barras Bridge , Newcastle upon-Tyne ; Mr , W . Kelseyn China-street , Uentoni Staffordshire ; or to Mr . C . Meadowcroft ^ Aatleystreet . Duckwitleia , Cheshire . ' r
A Baruer's Shop On Wk Atlmrnex-»On Board...
A Baruer ' s Shop on wk ATLMrnex- » On board the American steam-ship , Atlantic there ia a barberTs shop for the accommodation of passengers . ' The ship , we believe , provides the establishment , the operator relying for remuneration upon what busi ness he canpic ); up in the passages to and from the New World , The roonj appropriated for this purpose is at the entrance tothe companion leading to the dining-room , an . < y the barber provides neck ties , & o . » for those who may have left home in * : hurry , w QVt fV ^ Mttait Ittk vfJUvh neoessaxw
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Citation
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Northern Star (1837-1852), June 1, 1850, page 5, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse2.kdl.kcl.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/ns2_01061850/page/5/
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