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ftmwrg 185;. THE NpRTHERN STAR, ..
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THE JARROW COLLIERY. We g ive the follow...
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THE MISERS OF THE XORTH. A meeting of tb...
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DERBY AND NOTTINGHAM MINERS . A public m...
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THE MANCHESTER CONFERENCE, WEDNESDAY. Th...
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toerfal f arlfamcM
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TUESDAY, Feu. i. HOUSE OF LORDS.—The ses...
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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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Ftmwrg 185;. The Nprthern Star, ..
ftmwrg 185 ; . THE NpRTHERN STAR , ..
The Jarrow Colliery. We G Ive The Follow...
THE JARROW COLLIERY . We g ive the following extracts from a letter jriiich bas appeared in the Mining Joubnai . which painfully shows the alarming aiateof the Ja rre * Colliery , and the daring recklessness of the manager , in enforcing tbe ase of gunpowder in a pit charged wi th imitmmable gas . After alluding to the vast sacrifices of life in this colliery , the writer proceeds to say : — When I show the present condition of this mine , its mode of working , and the unusuall y dangerous processes to which it is subjected , tbe surprise will be that the catastrophe has not alread y arrived . Upwards of eight years ago the utmost ventilation in the main passages was little more than three feet
per second , which dwindled down in the boards to one foot and one-ei ghth foot per second , two-thirds and one mile and a quarter an hoar . ( ShieldsMining Report , p . 34 . ) It may be imagined what it is now , with eight years workings , and the low-main seam additional , with no additional means to ventilate it . At that period , three years before the last accident , tberecord of thesefactscontained this startling warning : — "That the air thus struggling through these extended passages , where gas oozea at every pre , should become surcharged and explosive is a p hjacal consequence as clear as a mathematical
demonstration . In sucb a system there is everything to encourage the production of an explosive mixture , just sufficient air to prepare in some neglected recess tbe combustible , not enough to dilute or sweep it away . Perpetually ready , on the slightest derangement of auy ofitsmachinery . it fells naturally at once into a vast arena of subterraneous thnnder , whose terrors a boy ' s finger can unloose . " « ' This , " said the Economist , " looks like prophecy read by tbe light of the late explosion ; But it is only sober science and common sense , tracing the necessary connection which subsists iietween cause and effect . "
Let us again apply them . Br . John Hutchinson , of London , wbo made some most interesting investigations in the northern mines , when examined before the Committee of the Lords , in 1819 , is asked by Lord Wharncliffe , { Evidences , p . 117—qy . 1 U 7 , ) " What mine are you speaking of i" Answers , " I am speaking of Jarro w Colliery . Mere was , by way of ventilation in the trine , just Vie least movement of air , lite as if it were a man gently breathing upon you , from the extremely constricted state ot the shaft . "When 1 was going towards that mine , I asked a miner , ' which is the way to Jarrow Colliery V and lie said , * Sir , I do not know of any colliery ; but there ( pointing in the direction of the colliery ) is a butcher ' s shop . ' It was very distressing to see it , bat more so to go into it . "
And Mr . Wood , tbe distinguished viewer , is asked by the same Lords' Committee " What is the present state of Jarrow ? we see that there are frequent accidents there . " And says , "That is the same seam ; it is the Bensham scam , and His an extremely ftry coUwry , cKscftarguKf avast qwinlity of gas , not only in tho coal itself , bat from the floor of the mine . I think those mines are certainly liable to accidents of considerable magnitude , under any circumstances ; and therefore the only way of working such mines ( as Jarrow , ) with safety , would be to work litem entirely with lamps . " ( Minutes of Evidence , p . 212 . ) This view was taken of it by the proprietors and ¦ viewers after the last explosion ; its terrors operated as a means of safety to the survivors , and no caked light was for the future to approach this gas magazine .
John Atkinson , deputy from Jarrow , examined by the same Committee , says ( 5499 ) : — ** At Jarrow they work all with lamps ; no candles have been allowed to go down ever since tbe last explosion . " This was said in 1849 , but in 1 S 50 , growing bold by immunity from accident , for they bad been nearly five years without any , the viewer resolved , in the face of every danger , on the introduction of naked lights for particular purposes , and the men , alarmed for their lives , struck work , —with what reason aud result we shall shortly see . Considering tbe fatal antecedents of this mine , the absence of
ventilation , the enormous quantity of gas , in 1830 , by tbe force of a single blower , detaching six tons of solid coal , ( Phillips' Report . T 850 . —Appendix 5 o . 4 , by Thomas Taylor , p . 7 . ) and in 1841 filling 7 , 700 , 000 cubic feet of passages in three days . ( Sfdelds Report , p . 7 , ) and considering the conviction , right or wrong , that the Davy lamp is a security against circumstances so eminently dangerous , it might be supposed that the proprietor and viewer of auch a mine would have been rejoiced to Save secured their people and their works against tbe always impending destruction , by its continued adoption .
But no ; a calculation is made , and it is found that the cost of working the coal by lamps , where gunpowder cannot be used for blasting , amounts in addition to about 3 d . per score , one penny per ton , and would cost the colliery about £ 100 a year . So that , for this miserable saving , hundreds of valuable lives are to stand daily on the brink of a preci pice , to be plunged , there is a pbysical certainty , at no distant day into tbe aby ? s ; and for this , numbers of families living in constant terror , part daily from their husbands , fathers , sons , and brothers , with dread forebodings of each day ; and , at last , their worst fears realised in the desolation of their hearths and homes ; and for this a whole district is to be laid in mourning and in woe . Was it not time for the Government to take tbe
mines of Britain under surveillance , and tbe people under protection ? Let us see . The men , in June last , struck work , chiefly because they were ordered to blast with gunpowder , and to use naked lights to do so . I find this reference to it in a local paper ( Shields Gazette , Aug . 9 , 1 S 50 ) : — " With the wages question we have nothing to do , that being a matter which masters and men xsnst settle between themselves ; but we cannot retrain from expressing our astonishment that , in a pit so notoriously ill-ventilated and dangerous as Jarrow , tbe use of gunpowder as a means of blasting should be thought of , even although tbe hewers should not be asked to fire the shots , but this should be done by others . Loss of life will very probably be the consequence , and it is a heavy responsibility that man takes npon him who encounters such a risk for the sake of saving a little money . " - It was
then agreed that there should be no blasting , and no naked lights , and the people , reassured , resumed work . But it appears the manager of this colliery had not foregone his fatal intention , and baving discharged some of those men wbo had been most prominent in refusing to be accessories to their own destruction , he insisted soon after on tbe coal being blasted with gunpowder ; and to slcrover tbe practice , or for some other motive , which 1 will not seek to penetrate , be insists upon the men , at the same time , working with the safety-lamp . Working with the safety-lamp , and blasting gunpowder with candles , not only in the same mine , but in the very workings which , by the adoption of the lamp , are emphatically pronounced unsafe by the viewer ! This is a most extraordinary course of conductindefensible , criminal , self-condemned , and big with fatal results .
The men . much alarmed , before the appointment of inspectors upon the 13 ih November , memorialised the Home Secretary , urgently praying his immediate attention to " the great danger to which they were exposed by their master introducing powder ai a means of blasting coal in a pit so notoriously ill-ventilated as Jarrow . " These are their own words , from their own document , and no better coarse could be adopted than by throwing themselves , in the emergency , upon the protection of Government . The charges against the men risking the lives of themselves and fellow-workmen by recklessness does not bold good here , at any rate , and probably in most other cases ; but tbe silence of tbe grave is not easily broken .
Sir George Grey , it appears , had immediately on tbe appointment of the northern inspector of mines referred the workman ' s memorial to him , for we find Mm at Jarrow on tbe 29 th November , accompanied by some of the men and the viewer , examining the . condition of the mine . The nature of his opinions and suggestions , of which copies 1 understand were given to both masters and men , may be learnt from another memorial to the Homo Secretary , which is expressed so well , and breathes such fast and proper sentiments , that I cannot do better than leave this part of the case in their own hands . " At a meeting of a large number of the workmen of Jarrow Colliery , held on Tuesday , December 17 , I was requested to forward to you the following
details regarding the safe working of the pit , and the continuance of the process of blasting the coal , as before complained of to you . The workmen are desirous to express their gratitude to you for the prompt attention in directing the inspector of mines for this district to examine into the causes of such complaint , and tbey beg to intimate tbat they were highly satisfied with tbe attention that inspector gave to the case , tbe result being a confirmation of the justness of sucb complaint , attended with kindly suggestions for removing tho cause thereof , but which suggestions tbey regret to observe have not been attended to , nor bas the practice of blasting the coal been discontinued , the master refusing to
order the said practice to be laid off . Under these tatoward circumstances , they feel themselves necessitated to appeal to you , trusting tbat something will be done to induce their employer to take some steps , either to increase the quantity of air , or to cease blasting the coal whilst the current of air is so weak as It is at present . They desire also to state that they have appealed to their employer on tbe subject , bat he refuses to adopt any sucb modes as were so kindly suggested to him by the inspector , his answer being , that the whole of the workmen wbo thought themselves in danger might leave tbe colliery , thus leaving them no alternative but either to risk their lives or to allow their families to . want
bread , the depressed state of the coal trade rendering it next to impossible for them to obtain emplovment elsewhere . Tbey would , therefore , iumbfyuitreat ( seeing the pit is subject to sudden
The Jarrow Colliery. We G Ive The Follow...
3 i ^ comni vnly termed blowers , one o JSSrf y v 5 **** » g ° . ^ ted by th 3 L I . * Ao created considerable alarm among them , but which , happily being of small force , was attended with no loss of life ); that some attempt should be made by tbe authorities to take cognisance of the matter , and for which ' attention , in addition to the regard the case has already had at your hands , they will consider themselves under deep obligations . " I am , Sir , on behalf of tho workmen , " Tour humble and obedient servant , "Dec . 20 , ' 1850 . " " The following are tbe names of the workmen j who guarantee the above statements , but whose names are forwarded in confidence , seeing the individual who wrote the last letter to you has been discharged from bis employment at the colliery . " The Home Secretary , true to his duty , it appears bad sent further instructions to the inspector on the subject , and sigain we find bim at the colliery on the 30 th of December , investigating the case ; and a day or two after tho following report , found in the hands of the owners and workmen , each having received a copy , enables us to give it entire : " Newcastle , Dec . 31 . —Having yesterday again visited the east workings of tho colliery , I have to observe , in reference to my former report , as follows : —! . Tiiat the quantity of air passing into the colliery is considerably increased by sundry measures . —2 . That the doubling of the cross-cut doors
is incomplete , inasmuch as one of the doors is only a swing door , instead of a frame dcor . —3 . But , notwithstanding the increase of air , upon viewing the continual extension and change of circumstances in these workings , the universal system of brattieing , and the number of swing doors , together with the acknowledged necessity of working entirely with safety lamps , I am bound to declare against giving my sanction to the practice of firing shots with candles , even under the discretion of the overman and deputies , in a seam six feet high , and so liable to sudden discharges of inflammable gas . "Signed by the Inspector .
Tbe increase of air named in the first article is only a portion drawn from another part of the mine , and sent to this point of greatest danger , or rather immediate alarm , weakening that other pnrt . There is no means , and no increased power has been attempted to be applied for -ventilationthe mine remains exactly as it has ever been in that respect . And I know that tbe entire air consists of little more than 7 , 000 cubic feet per minute , split anddivided amongst about sixteen working boards , giving in them an imperceptible breathing of airnot a mile anhour .
The writer then alludes to the Walls End Colliery , where the same description of coals are worked , and where the viewer will not allow a shot to be fired j or a candle to go within a mile of such workings ; and concludes as follows : — If any viewer ia allowed at his pleasure to precipitate British subjects to destruction , to take the exact course to produce it , to set aside the repeated warnings of experience and clear consequences , to defy the officers of Government appointed to protect the miners and the mines , and repudiate the opinions and practice of experienced viewers , then farewell to Davy lamps , inspectors , and all appliances of ssfety .
It one viewer may so act , so may all , and British mining , instead of advancing in safety and in science , will again retrograde , under such auspices , into a state of barbarism . This faint description of the condition of things here , will , I earnestly hope , be in time to aid in arresting , what I cannot but conceive , an impending calamity .
The Misers Of The Xorth. A Meeting Of Tb...
THE MISERS OF THE XORTH . A meeting of tbe miners of Handsworth Woodhouse , near Sheffield , was held on the 29 th ult ., to reorganise the Miners' Association of Great Britain . At the appointed time , seven o clock , tke large room belonging to Air . John Stamforth was filled . After the appointment of a chairman , Messrs . Daniels and Clark addressed the meeting in a masterly manner showing tbe benefits that would result from a union of masters and men in destroying competition , which is fast reducing the small capitalist to bankruptcy , and the working man to the bastile . The address gave entire satisfaction , and was listened to with the greatest attention . Thirty members were enrolled , and a meeting was appointed to be held on the Saturday following to form a committee for carrying out the above object . Tbe petition for an Ei ght Hours ' Bill was numerously signed by tbe meeting .
Derby And Nottingham Miners . A Public M...
DERBY AND NOTTINGHAM MINERS . A public meeting of the miners of Shipley and its vicinity was held on Monday last , in the Marketplace , Shipley , and by adjournment at the White Lion Inn : the large room of which was crowded . Mr . "W . Walker , of Clay-cross , was called to tbe c bair , and opened the meeting with some very ^ sen sible remarks . The following resolutions and petition were moved by Messrs . Clark , Brown , Hensoi ? , and Cottbbill , and ably supported by Mr . W . Damells , in a long speech , which was loudly cheered : — " That this meeting is of opinion that , while almost everything is improving , the condition of
the miners of Great Britain is getting worse , and being convinced that they cannot protect their only property , which is their labour , unless tbey are united together , and cultivate a spirit of lore and friendship towards each other ; therefore , this meeting resolves to join and support the Miners ' National Association , being convinced that tbat society , if properly carried out , has a tendency to benefit both masters and men , and will injure no party . We are the more determined to join the above association , as one of its objects is to settle all differences between masters and men by arbitration and fair argument , instead of baving recourse to disastrous strikes . "
" That this meeting is convinced , by dear-bought experience , that among the manifold grievances by which the mining trade is now suffering , tbat underselling each other among tbe masters , and over working among the men , are not tbe least evils ; consequently , in order to remedy this injurious state of things , and to remove the ignorance now prevailing among the mining population , we resolve to petition the legislature to pass an Eight Hours Bill for the working and regulating the mines and collieries ot Great Britain , so tbat wo may have time to obtain information ourselves , and be enabled to give a proper education to our children . "
" To the Honourable the Commons of Great Britain and Ireland in Parliament assembled , the petition of the undersigned respectfully sheweth , " Tbat your petitioners are miners , and from the nature of our employment are subjected to many and various dangers ; that we are surrounded by noxious life and health-destroying gasses , and are for the greater part of the winter , shut out from the light of the day . That owing to the hard and long hours of labour to which your petitioners are subjected , premature old age and earl y death are common among us .
" That your petitioners deplore tbe ignorance which unhappily prevails among the mining population , and are convinced that this great evil can never be remedied whilst the present long hours of working in mines , and the physical exhaustion consequent upon the hard , unnatural labour among miners continues ; therefore , your petitioners earnestly pray your honourable house to pass an Eig ht Hours Bill for the working and regulating tbe mines and collieries of Great Britain , to especially apply to all boys and young men employed in the mines under eighteen years of age , bo that they may bare time to obtain proper instruction , and that the present deplorable ignorance may be effectually removed . "And your petitioners , as in duty bound , will ever pray . "
It was then resolved : — " Tbat a short report of the proceedings be sent to tbe people ' s paper—the Northern Star . " Three hearty cheers were then given for the union , and the meeting broke up . After- the public meeting , a delegate meeting for the two counties was held , delegates being present from most of the mining districts . Mr . Walker was again called to tbe cbair , and Mr . W . Daniells was chosen county corresponding secretary . ^ After the local and financial business were disposed of , and the report of the delegates given in , from which it appeared that the union was in a prosperous state , the following resolutions were passed : —
1 st . — " That a Tictim Fund be established , and o j ' per week » per member , be paid thereto . " 2 nd . — " That -we strongly advise all organised mining districts to do all they can to brin ^ out again the Miners' Advocate ; and , in the meantime , that Mr . Daniells he requested to write a pamphlet on the question— ' What do the Miners want ?' Such to be sold at a cheap rate . " 3 rd . — " That the Victims pay be 7 s . per week , and 3 s . 6 d . per week boys . " 4 th . — " Tbat beds be provided for tbe lecturers , at the respective places which they may be at . "
A most excellent union spirit was displayed by the delegates , all be ng determined to do their best to forward the good cause . Meetings have lately been held at Old Basford , Underbill , Cossa , Ripley , Heage , North Wingfield , Hunston , Dronfield , Woodhouse , Handsworth , Woodbouse Mill , Whittington , Staveley , Brimmington , Swanwick , Heanor , & c . Five new lodges have been opened , and many added to the ranks of tbe association . All the above meetings were addressed by Mr . Daniells , and several by Mr . Ciarfe ,
The Manchester Conference, Wednesday. Th...
THE MANCHESTER CONFERENCE , WEDNESDAY . The minutes of the previous day were read and confirmed . The secretary read tbe following letter from Mr . Duncan Sherrington , of Glasgow : — " 48 , Rumford-street , Bridgeton , Glasgow , January 25 tb , 1851 . "Dear Sib , —I have no doubt but the Council In Manchester will be surprised at the Chartists of Glasgow taking no part with them in the present Conference , but I can assure yon tbat the leading portion of them are very dissatisfied at the Chartists of England for showing so much party spleen as they are doing ; believing as they do that no evil results could flow from any portion of the country
holding a Conference to endeavour to organise the scattered elements together . They , along with you , think tbat some change in the mode of agitating the people must be adopted . We must have no more bluster and braggadoci ; wo have now , I think , bad sufficient experience to teach _ us the evils resulting from such a mode of agitation , and I hope tbat the spirit manifested at this Conference will be such as to give a loftiness and respectability to the movement , that the Press will be compolled—instead of insulting and degrading us—to aeknowledge tbat wo are progressing onward : for whatever some may think , there is no mistaking of the matter , that the minds of the vast maj ority of the neonle of the country are moulded by tho view
that the Press puts forward regarding us . Wo have only to look back to the position we occupied in 1848 in the minds of the people , before the wrangling and bluster commenced , at least in Glasgow , I can assure you that the middle classes were all but coming over to us , and subscribed very liberally- to assist the movement , but so soon as the Press launched forth its vituperation , so soon did tbey begin to show a different spirit , and when called upon for assistance , we were pointed out tbe conduct of different parties , and told that if that was Chartism , they could not countenance it ; indeed some ef them told us that they would rather subscribe for a rope to hang us , than subscribe to support such characters . Now seeing the influence
the conduct of those attending this Conference , is likely to produce on the minds of both the working and middle classes , 1 do hope and trust that the course pursued will be such as will give no handle to the Press to abuse , but the contrary ; and that no measures of an extreme nature will be added to the Charter . Indeed I do think that if we bad all along argued the necessity of adopting the Charter as a measure of justice to the unenfranchished people , instead of terrifying the various interests and classes about their annihilation , that we would have stood in a much better position than we now do . These remarks may be adverse to the opinions of some of the parties attending the Conference , but I can assure you that , from the experience I have had in the movement , and of the various failures I have seen , together with the opinions I hear expressed by the parties that I have mixed with , bas brought my mind to the
conclusion that I bavecometo regarding the outery for social rights and co-operation . First get the Charter , and then I have not the least doubt but tbat measures of a social nature will soon spring out of it . For instance , fell tbe aristocracy that you intend to make the land national property and destroy them as a class , and you at once make them your mortal enemies ; tell the middle classes that as soon aa you get the Charter that you intend to do without them , and institute labour bazaars for the , exchange of your labour ; and , I would ask , i * it at all likely that they , as a class , will assist you ? No , sir , they will throw every obstacle in your way that they can . To avoid making enemies ought to be the greater part of our policy ; create friends among all classes of society , if we can , and if we succeed , our triumph will soon be acbieved . " I am , dear sir , yours in the Cause of Progress , "Duncan Sherrington . "
Mr . Clark said , he would now , with the consent of Mr . Leach , tbe seconder of his motion , substistuto the following for that before the Conference , namely , " That this Conference recommends tho Chartist body to aid and assist tbe endeavours of all societies , whose objects are to obtain the reformation of all or any of the institutions of tho country . " Mr . Leach seconded tbe motion . Mr . O'Connor thought it would be better to frame a resolution , simply stating that the Chartists would offer no opposition to Other parties J but not p ledging them to render support . The resolution proposed by Mr . Clark would create divisions among the body , and cause this Conference to be looked at with suspicion and distrust . Mr . Leach , said , that every act of his in that
Conference was grounded upon the fact , that there was at present no Chartist organisation in existence . They were met there to lay down principles for the guidance of a movement , which they thought best . The question as to how the rights of the people were to he obtained must not be any longer tampered with . If they wished to make the Charter an act of parliament they must not only achieve the old system of obstruction , but aid every reform which would be likely to strengthen their cause and hasten the time of its triumph . He would not lose his time in attending mere Financial Reform meetings ; but meetings called for the extension of the franchise , however small tho measure , should have his support . He ridiculed the idea tbat partial enfranchisement would prove an injury , as too despicable for refutation . Mr . Mantle ' s resolution breathed the most
foul suspicions of other political parties . If they indulged in this they should not be surprised at retaliation , He thought that the worst enemies of the people were those who were continually circubiting insidious suspicions among them . Whatever might be their resolve on the point before them , be would , while holding firmly by the Charter , support any party seeking power , for bis order . Mr . O'Cok-voh said , he would now move an
amendment , which , while it met the views of all parties , would , at the same time , show that they were not catering for middle class popularity . He would move " That the people shall offer no opposition to any party who will honestly join with them for the establishment of the People ' s Charter , whole and entire . " And as nearly all had said that they bad confidence in Messrs . Bright , Cobden and . Walmslcy , even those , if they would go honestly for the Charter , were included in his proposition . Mr . Lawson seconded Mr . O'Connor ' s motion .
Mr . Clark said tbat Mr . O ' Connor ' s motion proposed just nothing at all . It mo . t generously asked them not to oppose those who would houestVy support them , lie did not think that a resolution of this body was required to induce the people to do that . The principle of his resolution was that the Chartists should countenance , aid , and support tbose reformers wbo did not go the whole length of the Charter as the surest means of rendering that document law . He strongly deprecated the system of denouncing politicians as dishonest , because they did not come up to their standard of perfection . Mr . Bright had been frequently , mentioned . He belie fed that that man was as honest in bis convictions as any Chartist in the land . Mr . Clark said he ' hoped they would never have a democracy in England that would ascribe differences of opinion to dishonesty , instead of errors of the judgment .
Mr . O'Cosaob . —I have no more confidence in your manufacturing reformers , than I have in a band of robbers . Mr . Clark thought that they were as honest as any otber men , and Mr . O'Connor mistook popular opinion , if he thought that ungenerous suspicion and class antipathy were congenial with it . By acting in the spirit of bis resolution , they would enrol an association a thousand times stronger than any he had ever witnessed . They should not act under tbe impression that all must be conceded to them whilst they conceded nothing . Mr . O ' Cossob said that Mr . Clark , in order to prove tbe integrity of the reformers , said they might as well say that Mr . Cobden was not sincere
in advocating Free Trade , as to say that he was not sincere in advocating reform ; but he would ask what proofs had these men given of their devotion to the cause of the people ? Had they ever voted for tbe Charter ? If they thought to get the Charter from these men , they might as well think of snuffing out the moon . They should entirely rely upon themselves , o The Charter was the only thine for them ; but he would advise them to wait until tbe Conference met in London to see what kind of an organisation they proposed for the people . ,., „ » Mr . Maktm had no objection to Mr . O'Connor s motion . It was a transparent attemp t to shelve that of Mr . Clark . He would advise Mr . Clark to withdraw hra motion , and take nt > i \ ntbev aottee of the point to which it referred . .
, „ Mr . North said his constituents would offer no opposition to any party . He would support the Parliamentary Reformers himself . . , n »• Mr . Leach said if the proposition of the l ' ni'liamentary Reformers were bad , let them be honest , and tell the people to oppose it ; if good , to support , . it . If they , pursued the old system of obstruction they never would gain strength . He had no objection to adopt Mr . O'Connor s proposition ; he was sure they would be unanimous upon it , tiecause it merely asked them to agree with their friends . ...
Mr . Horsfall said be would have all parties free to oppose , or support , as their jud gments directed . Mr . Hubst supported Mr . Clark ' s proposition . Mr . O'Consor said tbey should keep the Charter clear of every "ism" and confide only in themselves ; they should not look for aid from any other perty . Look at the Pavliamentarv Reformers ; they gave , on one platform ,, £ 1 , 560 to promote their own measure ; but they would not give one farthing to carry the Chaster . To show how hostile they were , they were opposed to his speaking on their platforms , He implored them to dQ-amiag
The Manchester Conference, Wednesday. Th...
that would create division or suspicion . There never was a time when union was more required . They would witness- during the next session such a strugg le as never took place in the house before , ue wished it to be understood by the country that no division was in this Conference ; but , as for co-operation with the manufacturers , he would f ' ~~" " il 1 may the lamb with the lion unite , ihe mouse with the cat , or the lark with the kite . " After a few words from Messrs . Mantle and Pickvakce .
Mr . M Grath said that , as they yesterday condemned the past policy of the movement , it was now their duty to define an improved one . A party without a policy , was like a body without a soul . . It would not do to bo satisfied with merel y talking . about the Charter , without pointing out some tangible and intelligible means of rendering that measure law . As Mr . Leach said , political change could onl y be accomplished in two ways—by physical revolution , or by an act of the Legislature . . To . the former means the people of England , were immovably averse , and ho was pleased , that such was the fact . Then tho rccommendable and available means was through the Jaw . « , ft "" a settled Point | he asked , was it not their hr-stand paramount duty to win the support and affection of tho electoral body ? How was Parliament to be influenced . exeept through them ? And with tbat class hostile to them and the
aristocracy irrevocable enemies , what would be the people s prospect of emancipation ? An intelligible answer to that question had been often asked but never given . It was their duty to contend for tho Charter in its integrity and entirety , but it would be their folly to refuse aid from parties willing and able to render it . They have aforetime petitioned even for the repeal of the rate-paying clauses in the Reform Act ; then why should they curl up their lips in contempt at so extensive a measure as that proposed by tho Reform Asseciation ? He was for
preserving in its integrity an association for the Charter , but working in amity and good will with every other reforming body . The policy of the resolution was the policy of the men of Manchester , as expressed at the large meeting on Sunday night last . It was the policy of every sensible Chartist in England , and if the men of Manchester stood by-it , he was sure this would soon be the rule of action in every locality in England . The Chairman then took tbe rote , and Mr . O'Connor ' s motion was carried unanimously . Mr . Clark ' s was carried ; Messrs . O'Connor , North , and Mantle dissenting . Mr . Mantle ' s was lost , tbat gentleman and Mr . North alone supporting it , THURSDAY . The minutes were read and confirmed . The Chairman said that the next point in the programme was whether they should agitate for the Charter , pure and simple , or whether they should ally it with social rights ? Mr . O'Connor moved , that the object of tho Association be the Charter , —whole , entire , and alone . Mr . Leach seconded the motion , which , after a few remarks by Mr . North , was carried unanimously . Mr . Leach next brought forward the subject of co-operation . He was ever an advocate for an extensive application of tho principle by working men . He was confident that if the
members of the Land Company had done their duty they might have oent thousands weekl y to the Land Fund . He thought they would do well to encourage this principle on account of- the strength it would give , by binding the people together by tho tie of interest . He ( Mr . Leach ) then went into detail , showing that co-operative societies of working men were rapidly spreading throughout Yorkshire and Lancashire . Among others , he said that the Bacup Co-operative establishment was worth oyer £ 5 , 000 . Generally connected with theso societies were found libraries , reading-rooms , and classes for educational purposes . These , by
improving the circumstances of tbe members , must soon produce a telling effect upon society . ^ They were rapidly spreading intelligence ; and that was the only basis on which to rear up a durable monument to the liberties of a people . He did not propose to connect co-operation in any way with the Charter , but be thought that body would act wisely in recommending the widest possible extension to the principle . He moved that tho Conference recommend to tho working classes the establishment of co-operative stores aa an available and practicable means of improving and elevating their condition .
Mr . Clark seconded the motion . Mr . O ' Connor could not agree to this recommendation . Ho did not see that co-operative stores were likely to do much to promote the Charter . They might confer some benefit upon thoso wbo belonged to them ; but , as he often told them , the man earning £ 2 a week looked with contempt on him who only earned £ 1 , and the man who earned £ 1 looked with contempt' upon him who earned ten shillings . He could not support any recommendation that would ; in tbe remotest degree , mix up the Charter with anything else . ' Mr . Clark said , the same argument now used by Mr . O'Connor against Co-operation was used
against the Land Company , by those agitators who see no hope for the people but in crisis ' and convulsions . He hoped that they would never see any other Democracy in England than a liberal , tolerant , and conservative one . Tho Land Company proved the means of enabling the Chartists to obtain the use of the niost magnificent Town Halls in England , in which ' to promulgate their principles , until the language of some orators oxoluded them from such places of moating . He supported tho motion as one which recommended a principle likely to benefit the circumstances of the people , and whatever had that tendency was calculated to strengthen their demand for their political rights .
Mr . O Connor would define the effect this system would have on , tho people . He met a number of tbe allottees after their location at Minster , and inquired whether they were not free traders before coming to the L < ind ? They replied that "they were . " He asked them " Wero they free traders now they were on the Land ? " Their answer was " No ; because the effects of free trade would bo to lower tho price of land produce . " That would confirm his maxim , " That self interest is the basis of man s action . "
Messrs . North and Lawsonsupported the motion . Mr . Leach would state a fact which would show that tho Co-operators were not averse to ' politics . During tho imprisonment of Ernest Jones tho Balifax , Co-operators subscribed most handsomely—he believed upwards , of £ 52—towards the support of his family ; whereas the veritable Chartists , as they call themselves , would not subscribe the means of exempting him from the degradation of oakum picking . These men would join , a sensible and rationally conducted agitation , but they would ever hold aloof from political . buffoonery . Mr . Hurst said , that Co-operation was a great engine of amelioration in the hands of working men , to work which nothing was wanting but the will in themselves . Ho . cordially agreed with tbe resolution . Mr . O'Connor said that he would offer no furthei
opposition . The motion was then put from the chair and carried , Mr . Mantle dissenting . Mr . Mantlb submitted the following resolution : — "That the delegates feci it to be their'duty before separating , to make public their anxious desire that neither this Conference nor any of its acts , may bo deemed disrespectful towards , or antagonistic to , the LondOn Executive . And , further , this Conference cherishes an anxious hope that tlie Conference to be hold in London on the 3 rd of March next , rony be so emphatically tbe representative of the people , " as to be powerful to legislate for , and inaugurate a national movement , at once worthy of the English people and the sublime object of the People ' s Charter . " - He said he hoped that some of
the members of this conference would moderate the feelings which seemed to actaate them towards some persons on the' London' Executive ;; He had heard some of them declare that they would never again act in concert with those parties ; he did not admire the modeof their election . He thought this Conference should throw themselves into tho breach with a view to restore union and confidence , Let them , by all means , take their seats in the London Convention , ' and there combat whatever -they thought wrong in the management of those men . He thought they had , in that Conference , . that
which was essential to a great movement . They had the long experience , the unquailing resolution , the unwavering devotion ; and the tried honesty , which could alone create a sound organisationand could alone consummate a just aud great cause . He would , therefore , implore the delegates present to go to tbe London Conference , and there combat and conquer any improper views of policy expressed by those parties in London . He did not fit all see that the adoption of his resolution- would at all compromise their honour , their position ) or their judgment . Mr . North seconded the motion .
Mr . O'Connor said that he did not think he had ever listened to a more conciliatory speech than Mr . Mantle ' s ; and if he had studied for a whole month be could not have penned a belter or more timely resolution , than the one now before them . Surely , if their object was union they must adopt it . He thanked Mr . Mantle most cordially for introducing it . Mr . Clark said , the resolution now before them , if adopted , would stultify the Conference . Ho thought that they were assembled to conduct their business irrespective of any other body ; but they were now called upon to make their labours subservient to those who had continuall y maligned and misrepresented them . It would be impos sible for them ever to co-operate with these men , until their mode of agitation underwent a thorough reformation . It was theirduty to fulfil the mission for which they were sent , regardless of what tbe Losdon Exe-
The Manchester Conference, Wednesday. Th...
cutive or any other body thought of their conduct , They * C * me there to perfect a plan of organisationlot them complete their work , and let the country judge it by its merits . He , for one , would not consent to submit their proceedings for ratification to the London Conference . And as for antagonism to the so-called Executive , that body was the exponent of a policy , which the Conference had already condemned . He never quarrelled till ho wasfirst assailed , and as long as he lived ho would not permit an assault upon him with impunity . from the
Mr . M'GnATii said , that Mr . Mantle , commencement of their business , had been fighting the battle of his patrons with zeal and ability . His first act was an attempt to get the Conference to vote itself a nonentity . He then opposed every motion proposed , and now , at tho eleventh hour , ho proposes to make some body , not in existence , supervisor of their proceedings . Ho could not consent to vote the incompetency of that body to do its own work ; let them perfect and promulgate their organisition and policy , and let tho London Executive and tho London Conference adopt them , or reject them at pleasure . Were they not awaro that the proposed London Conference was convened in direct antagonism to tho present one ? And were
ihoy not also aware , that the most unmeasured calumny and abuse wero heaped upon all thoso favourable to the Manchester Conference ? He hoped that they would proceed firmly , like men , in prosecuting the great work for which they had met . If a peace offering was to be made , let it come from the aggressor , and not from the aggrieved . Mr . North thought that the Conference about to assemble in London would be a fair representation of the people . He was sure that the blood and thunder men would bo at a discount in the Conference . He felt certain , after what had been seen they would not be listened to by this generation . Whoever goes from Bradford would support all the views of that Conference , except
aiding and assisting other reformers . Mr . Hurst said , considering the antecedence of their movements , Mr . Mantle asked them to do too much . He should consider the amount of denunciation with which they had been assailed within the last two months . Every man ought to have some feeling of personal respect , and the passing of that resolution would imply an entire want of it on their part . They did not pretend to represent a party , though ho might say , in passing , that their policy had already received the sanction of a great number of individuals throughout the empire . They must
not leave their work half done , that would be but weaving Penelope ' s web . Ho hoped Mr . Mantle would withdraw his resolution , which was ill-timed , and calculated to do no good . Mr . O'Connor said he differed with Mr . Hurst , as to the effect of Mr . Mantle ' s motion . It was one likely to create union . As regarded tho Executive he was , it is true , a member of it , but he stood alone there . He had submitted motions in that body , respecting the Manchester Conference , to which he could not got a seconder . He know that antagonism existed , and be wished to put a stop to it .
Mr . LbAch said be regretted antagonism as much as any person , but could not consent to put it down at the expense of principle . The Manchester democrats sent him there to do their work , and he coubl not degrade himself , nor would he sneakingly desert his post . He expected nothing more than that a few approvers of the past policy of the Executive would form the London Conference , and he for one was not prepared to submit his labours to their award . They were there to attempt to create a new mind , and they must show , by their conduct to tlio country , . that they were competent to the task , lie knew that Manchester would send no
delegate to London . Let their own actions go forth to the world , and let them be judged thereby . The resolution , in its present shape , was an abnegation of all tbey had done . He would , therefore , move us an amendment— " That the latter part of the resolution be wholly rejected , and for tho words ' antagonistic to the London Executive' there bo substituted the words , ' to any political body who are endeavouring to aid the people in the attainment of their rights . '" Mr . M'Grath seconded the amendment .
Mr . &/ . IKH said the better coarse for Mr . Mantle to pursue would be to withdrawals resolution , and endeavour to imbn e his friends in London with his own amiable sentiments . Mr . Mantle told them that they would be opposed bitterly , unless thoy propitiated , by their good offices , the London Executive , He hoped that this opposition would be estimated at its real worth by the Conference , and tbat , by their vote , they would show themselves capable of doing justice to the wishes of their constituents .
Mr . O'Cosxon would advise coacnintion , and that Mr . Mantle would not press the latter part of his resolution . Mr . Mantlk refused to withdraw it . After some further ' discussion , Mr . P . Rorerts said , although not a delegate , he was anxious to g ive his opinion on the resolution . Ho judged of it by itself . At the present time their movementappeared to him beset with two difficulties . The one was that there wero violent men who went to meetings and talked fustian ; these men were dangerous . They have taken the emblem of red , which he supposed to be symbolical of sanguinary intention . Ho thought Chartists could never be too much on their guard against theso violent men .
Ho believed his countrymen were too deeply imbued with the love of order , ever to be made the dupes to any great extent by those designers . They are treacherous and cowardly ; their extravagance should bo satirised and ridiculed whenever it is cxhibitedi The other , which presents itself to my mind , iaadesiroofgontGolising ourselves . Whilst we avoid tho Scylla of redisrn , lot us also avoid the Charybdis of gentility . Thoy could not shut their eyes to the fact , that for tho last ten years reformers bad been watching them , and it was only the other day they saw their wants for the first time . Did
not this show dishonesty ? Why did they not recognise the Chartists before ? These men were the opponents of all measures calculated to relieve labour ; they did not honestly desire the Charter . They only wanted a wider extension of the franchise to prevent Protectionist ascendancy . Theso men would compromise with the . government any day far a less measure of justice than that which they pretended to seek . Those who had always foujrht the battle should still continue the leaders of the people , and if they countenanced anything less than the Charter they would inevitably be juggled and sold .
The Conference here adjourned until Friday morning .
FRIDAY . The minutes of the preceding day were read and confirmed . The adjourned debate was opened by Mr . Leach , who said , every man who votes for that resolution will confess his incapacity to perform his duties . It was virtual admission of their incompetency ; and he thought that such men as Mr . Roberts should be very wary how he stigmatised as dishonest , parties , who were going for less political re formers than themselves , if there were any parties upon whom they ought to look with suspicion , it was upon those who had neither the magnanimity nor the humanity to believe that there integrity was only resident among themselves . Manchester , by many largo public meetings , had affirmed the policy and the resolutions their passed . ' He was sent there to support a policy very dificrent from the spirit of the resolution proposed by Mr . Mantle .
Mr . O'Connor said , he hoped that Mr . Leach would not press his amendment to a division . What objection could he have to tho London Conference ? He would guarantee that the Conference should not be the tool of the Executive ; and if their plan was one which ho could approve of , he would recommend it to the delegates . He could not see bow any one could object to a single line in Mr . Mantle ' s proposition . Let them not make it known to the country that any antagonism existed . He would not surrender his political principles , whatever trafficking politicians may say or do . The people Would never associate with Messrs . Bright , Cobden , and Hume , if he could , help it . Nothing : ever annoyed him more than hearing Messrs . Bright , Cobden ,. and Hume , Jauded as . consistent men . Their ( the delegates ) purpose should be union , and there never was a time when it was more necessary .
They would be astounded at the convulsion which the next session would exhibit . If three hundred thousand elected him to tho London Conference , their united voices would not induce him to give a vote contrary to his convictions . They would find bim . there as energetic as ever : ho would go with that party that represented the people . Although he had little influence with the Executive , ho succeeded a few evenings since in preventing a socialist resolution from being introduced , at a meeting in John-street . Mr . M'Grath said , Mr . O'Connor in his speeches and writings mado frequent mention of trafficking politicians . He thought that Mr . O' Connor should distinctly state who he meant , in order thnt tho tho deceivers
people may be on their guard against . This phrase was now used in another place , and tbat , too , with an exceeding ly bad grace . Men who derived from four to six pounds per week from the Chartist agitation should be the last in the world to prate about trafficking politicians . If this insultin" phrase was intended to designate men who honestly gave their time and talent for a stipend less than mechanic ' s wages , he thought it both unjust and cruel . Tho labourer was worth y of bis liire , and the Chartist lecturer , who honestl y performed his engagements with the public , was as honourable a man as he who earned his living in the heated factory by tho sweat of his brow . He had beard no argument to induce him to alter his opinion respecting Mr . Mantle ' s motion .
Mr . Mantle said , that that Conference should not attempt-to . force its plan against the will of the majority . He- felt certain that the policy of the Ejfecutfre wotii ^ i Je rejected by the London Confe-
The Manchester Conference, Wednesday. Th...
rence , and that tho policy which that body would sanction would be a conservative one , that being most in unison with the genius of the English people . Tbe principle of order was deepl y rooted in their hearts , and was not to be oisily " eradicated . Thoy should sacrifice private opinion for public * good . If the leaders pursued a course inimical to union , the people would taboo them in every town in England . Mb . Hurst had listened with pain to tho misdirection of Mr . Mantle ' s talents . The course wbioh he now advised would terminate the whole of theso proceedings , and place them in abeyance till some body , winch might or might not assemble in London stamped upon them the seal of their sanction . He , for one did not recognise the authority
sougnt to be established ; he acknowledged no fealty towards it . Who called this London Conference ot which they had heard so much , and to which , in humility , they were to submit their labours ?—the so-cnlled Executive . Who will respond to thecal !?—the people . ' no , but the fraction , which supports the Executive . Tho policy of that body was well known ; it had been considered already in their resolutions . Their platforms wero more exclusive than those of either Whigs or Tories . He could mention a case where a . young man , not twenty years of ago , was prevented from addressing a public meeting by a vote put . by members of tho Executive . He had no confidence in men who could act in this anti-democratic spirit , and would never consent to submit his labours to the supervision of them or their patrons .
The Chairman then took the vote upon the resolution and the amendment , when there appeared for tho amendment , Messrs . Leach , Clark , and M'Grath . For the resolution , Messrs . O'Connor , Mantle , North , and Lawson . Tho resolution was consequently carried . The Chairman stated that tho resolution just passed was tantamount to a dissolution of the Conference , and that he , as Chairman , should proceed no further with the business . Mr . M'Grath coincided with the Chairman , and said , that as the men of Manchester had in four public meetings held during that week confirmed tho policy sanctioned by " the Conference , except tho last resolution , it was for them to pursue their onward and independent course , lie would go before the meeting on Sunday evening next , and despite all the logic and eloquence in the world , be would obtain from the men of Manchester a vote confirmative of their policy . Messrs . Leach and Clark having expressed their unwillingness to proceed further , the Conference dissolved .
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Tuesday, Feu. I. House Of Lords.—The Ses...
TUESDAY , Feu . i . HOUSE OF LORDS . —The session of IS-51 was opened to-day by her Majesty in person . The doors of the House of Lords wero thrown open at twelve o ' clock , and shortly after the peeresses and other ladies who had been fortunate enough to obtain orders from the Lord Great Chamberlain 'beaan to arrive , and continued to do so until the house was crowded !> y a galaxy of beauty and fashion , greater and more diversified than was ever witnessed on a similar occasion . There was also an unusual
number of peers , judges , and foreign ministers present . Shortly before two o ' clock , the Lord Chancellor took his scat on the woolsack , and soon after tha booming of cannon announced tho arrival of her Majesty . Her Majesty , who was attired in a whits satin brocade dress , embroidered with gold , mid wore a splendid tiara of diamonds , entered the bouse at twenty minutes past two o ' clock , being led by tho Princo Consort , and accompanied by the officers of state , heralds , pages , & c . Her Majesty appeared ia excellent health and spirits .
The Prince Consort wore crape on his left arm as mourning for tho Queen of the Belgians . When her Majesty hud ascended the throne , the whole bouse rose , and remained standing until her Majestv motioned the house to be seated . At this period the scene presented was of a most brilliant anil dazzling character . The sun who so often lends his rays to gild these gorgeous spectacles , shone with unusual splendour for this season of tho year , and heightened the effect of the scene . Mr . Pnlmaii , the deputy usher of the black rod ,
having summoned the Commons to the bar of their lordships' house , tho silence which for some minutes had reigned in the magnificent hall , in which were assembled the greatest of England ' s nobles and tha elite o her beauty , was broken by the rushing and jostling of the members of tho Lower House , who , headed hy the Speaker , dressed in his robes of state , all but fought their way to the bar . After order had been with some difficulty restored , her Majesty , witha clear voice , and distinct accent , read the following : —
My Lords and Gentlemen , It is with great satisfaction that I again meet my parliament , and resort to your advice and assistance in the cousideration of measures which affect the welfare of our country . 1 continue to maintain the relations of pence and amity with foreign powers . It has heen my endeavour to induce the States of Germany to carry into full effect the provisions of the treaty with Denmark which was concluded at Ikrlin in the month of July of last year . I am much gratified in being . able to inform you that the German confederation and the government of Denmark are now engaged in fulfilling the stipulations of that treaty , and thereby ptlt « ting an end to hostilities which at one time appeared full of danger to the pcac- of Europe .
I trust that the affairs of Germany may be arranged hy mutual agreement , in such a manner as to preserve the strength of the confederation and to maintain the freedom of its separate states . I have concluded with the King of Sardinia Articles Additional to the Treaty of September , 1841 , and I have directed that those Articles shall be laid before you . The government of Brazil has taken new , and I hope efficient , measures for the suppression of the atrocious traffic in slave ? .
Gentlemen of the House of Commons , I have directed the Estimates of the year to he prepared and laid before you without delay . They have been framed with a due regard to economy , and to tbe necessities of the public service . My Lords and Gentlemen , Notwithstanding the large reductions of taxation which have been effected in late years , the receipts of the revenue have b . ; en satisfactory . The state of . the commerce and manufactures of tbe United Kingdom has been sucb as to afford general employment to the labouring classes , I have to lament , however , the difficulties which are still felt by that important body among my people wbo are owners and occupiers of land .
But it is my confident hope that the prosperous condition of other classes , of my subjects will have a favourable effect in diminishing those difficulties and promoting the interests of agriculture . Tbe recent assumption of certain ecclesiastical titles conferred hy a foreign power bas excited strong feelings in this country , and large bodies of my subjects hava presented addresses to me , expressing their attachment to the throne , and praying that such assumptions should be resisted . I have assured them of my resolution to maintain the rights of my crown and the independence of the nation against all encroachment , from whatever - quarter it may proceed . I have , at the same time , ' expressed my earnest desire and firm determination , under God ' s blessing , to maintain unimpared the religious liberty which is so justly prijed by tbe people of this country .
It will be for you to consider the measure which will be laid before you on this subject .-The administration ef justice in the several departments of law and equity , will no doubt receive the serious attention of Parliament ; and I feel con . fident that tbe measures which may he submitted , with a view of improving that administration , will be discussed with that mature deliberation which important changes in the highest Courts of
Judicature in tbe Kingdom imperatively demand . A measure will be laid before you , providing for the establishment of a system of Registration of Deeds and instruments relating to the transfer of property . This measure is the result of inquiries which I have caused to be made into the practicability of adopting a system of registration calculated to give security to titles , and to diminish the causes of litigation to which they have hitherto been liable , and to reduce tbe cost of transfers . '
To comoine ihe progress of improvement with the stability of our institutions will , I am confident , be your constant care , "We may esteem ourselvis fortunate tbat we can pursue , without disturbance , the course of calm and peaceab { a amelioration ; and we have every-cause to be thankful to Almighiy God for the measure of tranquillity and happiness which , has been vouchsafed to us . Tho Address , in answer to the speech from the Throne , was moved by the Earl of Effingham . The
noble earl expressed much satisfaction at the amicable state of our foreign relations , ' and at tbe prosperous condition of tbe revenue , attended , as these favourable circumstances , were , by remvaerative employment , and increased comforts on the cart ot the people , especially in the m anufacturing distHcW He did not deny that considerable distress ex una amongst those engaged in a griculture , particuJariy tenant farmers ; Sut tho labourer wasi in a better condition , and he had no doubt thnt Brit » h « W would bring the farmers throug h their pres at « W »;
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Citation
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Northern Star (1837-1852), Feb. 8, 1851, page 7, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse2.kdl.kcl.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/ns2_08021851/page/7/
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