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.THE HOftTHllJN STAR, _ April S > _ 1 ^B...
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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 Hoftthlljn Star, _ April S > _ 1 ^B...
. THE HOftTHllJN STAR , _ April S > _ ^ B , ^ 5 ^ -- .. I i r ii-irmrn-rnn tti Miff ¦¦ ' III I '" " IITi'TfiTTr— 'fTrtfVf ' ITi' -niiirH i '¦ ' Ill IHNill "" " ""' ai ^^ " ^ ¦¦»¦ " ¦¦ * . J-JU .- > ¦¦ —*—ti ! OS £ r- . < mn „ ¦ ' ¦ ¦¦ " * ' " ' ^
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punbem outoftbe r ^ eet . ^ , anow the oersuasion ^ ° " ^ T ( S ^ oB on them . would hare wflioted summary ven gea ^ Bebbt Edoe .-A ' ^ "SfKld at the bouse of Mr James Re . d , painter , gerr * „ totake March 9 th . at two oelocS £ Jae ^^ into consi & r atoon the necewjy » ^ S ort of the delegate to the Convention . All members are requested to attend . "SSlosdoh Chartist H all-Mr 0 * Bnen will lecture in the above hall on Sunday evening next , April 9 th , at eight o clock . Subject :- 'The Revolution ia Europe . ' A meeting of shareholders of ihe hall will lake place on Monday evening , April 17 th , at eight o ' clock ; all persons holding shares are earnestly requested to attend . ak » Dobh district
NoaTHr ^ BBR ^ D ^ -A dele , gate meeting of the National Charter Assoc . ntion , las held in tha hou ? e of M . Jude . C o ck Inn , New-Se on Way , April 2 nd 1848 . Delegate » pre-Knt-Newcastle , Mr M . Jode ; Sanfler-and . Mr H . Haines ; BiAopmrmouth . Mr W Dobbie ; North Shields . Mr J . Pratt ; South Shields , Mr R . Wightman ; Jarrow . Mr Joseph Mitchell . Mr Mitchel ! in the chair . Resolved :- ' That this delegate meeting earnes t l y request each branch of tbe Charter Association in these counties , to raise the sum of 6 d er memb e r to defray tbe expense of sending the
p , delegate for these [ counties to the Convention ; and they are requested lo forward the same to M . Jade , the treasurer , immediately . ' 'That the delegate te the Convention , be paid the sum of 6 s per day , while employed upon thef business of the Convention I ; and that ho b © paid his expenses for cab hire while in London , and his travelling expenses from Newcastle t o London , and from London to Newcastle . ' _ That the next district delegate m eeting be held in the kouss of Mr Winlow , Patent Slip House . Jarrow en Sunday afternoon , April 9 th , at two o clock , but that the secretary ba empowered to call a delegate
meeting before that time , should any circumstances arise that may warrant him in doing so . * Newcastw-opok-Tvse . — The members of this branch ef the Land Company , are informed that the money club , for deposiU in tbe National Land and LabourBank . 'is now ran ' out , and will recommence next Sunday , April 9 th . Persons desirous ot joining this money clnb , will attend the Land meeting next Sunday , April 9 th , and give in their names to the EQCT & tSiTY * Tivehton . —The monthly meeting of the Chartist Association took nlace in the large room at the Half
Moon Inn , on Saturday last . The leading articles were read from the N orthern Star , and commented upon at some length by Mr William Kibbey . The secretary stated that upwards of 3 , 500 si g natures had been obtained to the National Petition . The following resolution was then moved , seconded . ^ and carried : — 'That this meeting present William Rowdiff e , Esq , of Runnington . wi t h their sincere and heartfelt thanks far Ms benevolent and welcome subscription of a sovereign to the funds of our Association ; and whilst gratefully remembering his former aid to the advaneemeat of truth and justice , ho p e he may long be favoured with health and life , t o see the canse he has s » much at heart triumphant throughout the world . ' Arrang ements were made to procure signatures to the petition for the return ofthe expatriated patriots—Frost , Williams , and Jones , A vote cf thanks was then given to ths chairmanand the iieeting separated .
, „ ,.,,. Middlesbio * ok-tess . —A braneh of the National Charter Association has been o pened at t his place ; upwards of forty individuals have already enrolled themselves as members . On Saturday and Sunday evenings last , two very respectable and well attended meetings were held , for the adoption of a petition for the liberation of Frost , Williams , and Jones . A sab . eeriptionw & s also entered into & r the support of the Newcastle delegate to the National Convention . The association is held in Mr Alcook ' s School-room , trhich is open to the public for reading and discussjon every Saturday night , at lix o ' clock , and Sandys from ten o ' clock in the fotenoan . Question for discussion on Sunday next : — ' Whether physical or moral force is the best calculated to obtain any desired object . * Chair to be taken at six o ' clock .
EiscTioiiojDBtEaiTEsto the National Convention far London . At a duly convened meeting held on Cierkenwell Green , Monday raid-day , April 3 rd , Mr Wm . Dixon in the chair , Messrs William Cuffay , Henry Child , and James Bronterre O'Brien , were declared duly elected . Addresses were delivered by Messrs Ernest Jones , Lazsin , and others . Horkcastle . —On Tuesday evening , the 28 th March , the first meeting ever held in this place of ouietnseiand relrsat , was convened for the furpose of giving an explanation to the principles of the Charter , on w hi c h occa s ion , we were favoured with the visit of Dr M'Doual , who gave us an excellent lecture to the entire satisfaction of a numerous and ? ery respectable audience , which haa proved
exceedingly beneficial to the causa ofthe people , by removing a vast amount of ignorance and prejudice whioh previously existed . I am happy to say that the principles are fast extending in theie parts ; for , although tbe working elagsc , generally speaking , are better off than in many places , still the burdens upon the people are so heavy , chat ther are quite bound down ; and tbe general impression is , tbat something mast and will speedily be done , the sooner the better . Makchesteb . —One of the most dense and enthusiastic meetings that ever took place within these Trails , occurred at the People ' s Institute , on Sunday evening last . Mr Grocott , as usual , in the chair . Proceedings were commenced by the chairman readin g from the Stab , United Ieishhait , and what is
sew here from the Mxkcheiier Times , as well as from onrold friend , the Makcheske Examixbb , several soul-stirring and remarkable leading articles . Are not these signs ominous ? But the ' Charter , same and all , ' is still our rallying point ! If they are honest , God speed them welcome . Bnt no matter what their professions may be—if they join u ? , they must come prepared to embrace those principles for ¦ which we and our glorious leader have contended for , unaided and alene , amidst the scofft and persecutions of those who now profess to agree with them . Let us be cautious . No half-measures—no jobbing—no curtailment—nor addition , will we grant , to please any party . The six points are the people ' s rights—tho ? a rights obtained—all minor things will
follow . Messrs Rollinson and Archdeacon , and others , addressed the assembled throng with an eloquence and truth that won admiration . Each one presen t felt that these were net times for childish play . The game is liberty—where the tramps have hitherto been played into the hands of a selfish and haughty oligarchy—abont to change into the possession of ths legitimate people I The people know this , and are prepared to employ the only effectual means of reasoning with this crew . We have to war against * h it is called ' Constitutional Government '~> ( Query f—Brute force ]—and to contend against this with , moral power alone , is a moral humbug . Let
the people have justice done them . That refused-US them take it , and God defend the right . The meeting separated highly delighted , and firmly related ; to fupport the leaders ofthe people . — Oat-door meetings take place here every night , and Trill continue so daring the whole sitting of the Contention . These meetings ought to be simultaneous Clever the country . Tbat renowned calculator—the Ejuare-yard arithmetical man—gives the numbers attending the meeting was six thousand . I , howerer . dare set np my judgment against this extraordinary biped , and assure the country that no less than ten thousand or twelve thousand werefpr-esent . So much for the man of numbers—yclept the
Manches-TIE GUIEDUS . North Wales . —The Chabteb . —A meeting of the workmen employed at the tubular bridge now erecting over the Menai Straits , and of the inhabitants of tke neighbourhood , was held in the open si > , on the evening of Monday , the 27 th u 46 ., at file vili & ge of Menai Bridge , for the purpose of adopting the National Petition ; and , although every means had been used by the magistrates and clergy to prevent the meeting , yet upwards of 400 perssns at te nded , the majority of whom had many miles to wnlk to the place of meeting . Mr James Steel was called to tiw chair . After reading a copy of the National Petition , he called upon Mr Craigie to move the first resolution , which he did in a lengthened and powerful speech , explaining thelprinciples of the
People ' s Charter . The resolution he proposed was , That , from the reckless and extravagant manner in shich the revenue of the country , is expended , it proves the great necessity for the adoption ofthe People ' s Charter . ' Mr Lorimer seconded the resolution , which was carried unanimously . Mr Walker proposed , * That the Charter ought to be enacted ; i and that this meeting pledg es i t self to use all l aw ful i endeavours to make it the law ef the land . ' Mr ; Bannan seconded the resolution , which was carried unanimously . A committee was appointed to carry i oat the object of the meeting , and get np a meeting i in favour of the Charter in Bangor . A vote of ; thanks was passed to ihe chairman . Three cheers ' were given for the Charter , and all separated < auietly .
Mr M'Grath delivered an excellent lecture to a iTsst audience in the Amphitheatre , Leicester , on j last Sunday week . Whitehaven . —The Chartists and Repealers at i ihis place have fraternued . Soothamptok . —Great open air meetings are being ] field every night . The excitement increases . Gbeat Chabtist Meeting at Leigh Field . — On ' . Tuesday evening , March 28 , the long club room of S thft Fox Inn , in this village , situate about two miles i and a half from Charterville' (\ fin * ter Lovel ) was < densely crowded . At least five hundred persons were 1 pr ???? t- Mr Edward Upstone was unanimously ' eahed to the chair , and briefly opened the proceedings ofthe evening . Mr Henry Ross , in an argumentative I STk ?? ? " ? speech , moved a resolution setting sSaffif ^ -seara
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Commons Hense of Parliament , in accordance with the principles contained in the People ' s Charter . Mr Edmund Stallwood . » n a very forcibly speech , which met with much applause , seconded the motion , which was carried unanimously . The National Petition was then read , and its adoption moved . Mr John Gstbard , iaanablespeech , which elicited the warmest applause , seconded its adoption . Carried unanimously . A vote of thanks was awarded by acclamation to the chairman , and the meeting dissolved . Gmcckstbb —The theatre waa crowded to suffocation , on Thursday , the 30 th ultimo , to hear an exposition of the Peop le ' s Charter ; and most ably was it expounded by Messrs T . Clark . Dowding , Sidaway , Bowly , and others . The victory which Chartism achieved over faction on Thursday night last , was decidedly important , inasmuch as it willbe the means of firmly establishing in this city the sacred princip lea of t be most ri g hteous of causes—the People a Charter .
A Declaration of the People's Rights ha * been aqreed to at a conference of the Essex and Suffolk Land and Chartist Union held at the Charter Assoelation , 12 , St Jihn ' s-street Colchester , from which we give the folh » wing extracts . 1 . tfnierssl Suffrage . 2 . Yut * by Ballot . 3 . Ahdiiioa ^ ftheFrop erty Qualifioationfor Members of Parliament . 4 . Payment of Members . 5 . Anaual Parliaments , end G Equal Electoral Districts . bis 0 lt 8 likely to follow ths attainhesr of ths peoilk ' s sights : — 1 st . The just Representation of the whole People la tbe House of Commons . 2 nd , Tbe same protection te the Poor Man ' s labour as to tbe Rich Man ' s Property .
Jrd . A reduction In the expenditure of the country , specialty in the items of State Cburch—Pension List—R > yal Household—EnlRrging Palaces—Army—Havy—National Defences , & c . & c . 4 tb . Reduction in Poor ' s Rites—Jail Rates , & o ., by enabling the Poor to live on their own industry . 5 b . Increase of Home Trade , by bett ^ iiug the con . ditton ofthe Home Labourer , 6 tb . The cultivation ofthe soil by its rightful owneis —tbe People ; rendering Great Britain independent of Foreign supply . 7 tb . The improved Social Condition of all classes of the people . TO THE PEOPLE OP ESSEX AND SUFFOLK .
The above are the principles and obj- cts of the National Laufi Co » pany and National Charter Assooiatioo , and it is to promote tbese two national institutions tbat the Essex and Suffolk Land and Chartist Union has been formed . We , the delegates appointed by the branches of those ivroassociations , in the different towas of Essex and Suffolk , in calling your attention to the above principles , suggest , that tbe operatien of those principles will te btneSeial to all classes of the csmmusity , from the'bauble on the throne' ( more to be pitied for the mockery of her position than reviled for the
txtravagtDce of her income , ) op to the industrious artisans whose skill and ingenuity have raised England above other nations of tbe earth , and whose determined end united sfforts to uproot injustice—to destroy Kingcraft , Priestcraft , and Corruption , will raise the natioa in tte seile of moral dignity snfi grandeur—will cause It to bo , not an object of fear and hate , but an object aflovo and admiration , the great teacher of religion and moralityof arts aud sciences—a model country , encouraging all tbat is good and excellent in principle and practice , the civlllser , not tbe conqueror of tho world .
This most numerous and important class would ba benefited because they would be permitted to enioy tbe rights of citiz . 'nsbip . Being themselves practical men they wouli choose men of moral and Intellectual qualifications , whether rich or poor , for legislators . The nest important class—the shopkeepers and honest tradesmeu , would bo bsnefitsd , because the social conditioa of the masses being improved , a much larger demand for the necessaries , comforts , and even ornaments of life , would be the consequence , and the burdens ot poor and county rates would be proportionably lightened , Tho lowest—because least useful , least moral and least
Intellectusl—tbe arisloeratical class , would be benefited , because by stopping their wholesale plunder of the other two classes , their means ef dissipation and profligacy , which is rendering them miserable , pony , selfish beings , whose gratification is at the gambling house or the brothel , and whose lives are passed in the most burdensome frivolity , impeding the progress of the country whioh tbey disgrace ; yes , by curtailing the incomes of these miserable creatures , tbey would be in s , better position to receive those truths which accompany tho declaration , ' How hardly shall tbey tbat have riches enter the kingdom of heaven . '
Bally , then , men and women of Esses and Suffolk , be not behind those of other countries in the struggle of national independence , national prosperity , and national virtue . Let & vm $ one who pants for freedom , aud who ia tired of slavery—the slavery of class legislation—ira mediately communicate with the secretary to the branch in the neighbourhood , whose name is attached—unite withyoarottn order in this great national movement . Obtain by jour peaceable efforts , what France has beon struggling for in blood , and tears ; remembar that nnited honesty , Intelligence , and industry , is more powerful than a combination of frand , profligacy , and ind o lence though the first may bs clothed in fustUn and rage , aad fare moderately , and the latter covered in broad cloth and 'flue linen and fare sumptuously every day . ' Signed on behalf of the Essex and Suffolk Land and Chartist Union , E , S . Clubs . Secretary .
The Colchester branch ot the National Land Company and cf the National Charter Association , meet every Mosday evening , at eight o ' clock , at No . 12 , St . loon-street , where new members to both are enrolled . Secretary to the Land Company , Mr II . S , Clubb , 51 , North-street ; Financial secretary to the Charter Association , Mr W . J . Nickels , 165 , Magdalen-street , Colchester . Lokqton , Staffobhshiks Poiibbirs . —There were two glorious meetings held in the Working-man ' s Hall of this town , on Wednesday and Thursdayi March 29 th and 30 th , when Mr Donovan , of Manchester , delivered two noble and patriotic lectures on ' The Charter , and the means to obtain it . ' All is life here , anxiousl y waiting for the result of the
presentation of the petition . Mr Donovan at the close of bis tasfc lecture strongly recommended the people to be very watchful ofthe Police and specials , and see that they kept the peace , as he said they—the police—were the parties , in nine cases out of ten , to break the peace . It has been since seen that our noble lecturer is right , as only two days subsequently one of the most blood-thirsty outbreaks took place by the police and specials , on the public , in the Marketplace . On Saturday night last , betweenfi ? e and six o ' clock , a murderous onslaught was made by the police , first on a poor' navvie , ' and then on the peop le generally . The people repelled the assault with stones and brickbats , and the police were glad to take refuge in the shops . Considerable excitement continued throughout the evening .
Dsvosport . —At a meeting of a few friends favourable to the principles of tho People ' s Charter , field at Mr Earl ' a , Si , Granby-street , on the 21 st March , a branch of the National Charter Association waa formed . Thomas Abrahams was elected secretary , John Jin treasurer , and a committee of three appointed to carry out tbe principle ofthe association . Exetbb . —Since Mr T . Clark ' s lecture on Monday week several have joined the National Charter Association ; we have distributed through the city over 1 , 000 tracts , * What is a Chartist . ' We have got many thousands printed . In future , the members of the National Charter Association will meet every Monday evening , at eight o ' clock , at O'Brien ' s , 49 , Holloway-street , where all who are interested in tbe progression of liberty are requested to attend .
CHiRTBKvnxE . —At a public moating of the occupants , held in the School Room of the Minster Estate , near Witney , on Wednesday evening , Maroh 29 th ; Mr John Gathard , in the chair . A letter was read from Mr Doyle offering his assistance in the work of co-operation . The following resolutions were passed unanimously . On the motion of Mr Edmund Stallwood , from London , seconded by Mr Jackson , from Manchester : —* That aa a lasting memento of the glorious principles that called thoxe industrial free labour fields into existence , this estate shall henceforth be known and called Charterville . ' On the motion of Mr Benson , from Manchester , seconded by Mr Dunford , from London : — 'That it is desirable that each and every allottee should co-operate for the better and cheaper obtainment of coals , flour , < fcc , and that we hereb y pled g e ourselves , individually and collectively , to support measures to that end . ' In order to carry the second
resolution into practical effect , the following persons were appointed committees : —Coal—Messrs Pickeragill , Dyson , and Knight . Ftoim and Cobi » . — Messrs Gathard , Benson , and Dunford . Tea , Sixgab , & c—Messrs . Stallwood , Williams , and Barnes . Potatoes . — -Messrs Dyson , Dunf o rd , and Bubb . The corn committee , since its formation , resolved on the purchase of a rick of wheat , thus forming at once bread stuffs tor the family , and meal for the pigs , & c , as bran , pollard , & c . The coal committee also resolved on getting several boat loada of coals from Staffordshire by canal . The tea committee , not less active , resolved to have a wholesale supply of tea , & o .. from London . The beat spirit appears to prevail amongst the allottees . It ; is determined to apply to the postal authorities to have a post-office e ,, ! esia Also , as soon as the school-house shall be finished , to have a public librar « . for the mutual advantage of the allottees and friends Visiting the estate . God speed Charterville
' Blackbubn .-A meeting of the Chartists and Land members will be held at Nnrtoa ' a Commercial tonee-house , . Back-lane , on Monday next , the 10 th instant , at eight o ' clock in the evening , Wokcbsxeb . —Oa Thursday evening last , a lar g e public meeting was held in the Guildhall ( granted by the Mayor , ) when Mr Doyle , one of the Executive , delivered a most splendid address , which excited the utmost enthusiasm . On Friday , a publio meeting was held for the election of a delegate to the Conv e ntion , when Mr Edward Walters was elected . An address to tbe noble people of France waa njiahi mously adopted . The Special Wssr Riwso Dsleoatb Mbewk 6 was held at Dewsbury on Sunday last . Delegates
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present—Dawsbury , Mr Watson ; Halifax , Mr Cul . p an ; Leeds , Mr Harris ; Bradford , Mr Clark . ' Keighley , Ms ? Emmott ; Wakefield , Mr Mennell ' Littletown , Mr Schofield ; Huddersfield , Mr Sy kes ; Holmfirth , Mr Marsden ; Hebden Bridge , Mr Hitchen ; Queenshead , Mr Shaokleton ; Sowerby . Mr Leaver ; Lower Warley , Mr Wood « Bradshawlane , Mr Hope and Mr Summersgilt ; Ovenden , Mr Kershaw ; Mill Bridge . Mr Sheppard ; Ileckmondwike , Mr Hatfield . Mr Hatfield in the chair . It was resolved , — ' That a West Riding demonstration be held on Skirtcoat Moor , on Good Friday ; the chair to be taken at eleven o ' clock in the forenoon . ' ' That the members of the Chartist Association , at Halifax , be the committee of management to arrange
for the election of hustings , bills , Ac , for the above meeting . ' Mr Shaokleton then submitted to tbe delegates a requisition to the Lord Lieutenant of the Riding to call the meeting . Feargus O'Connor , Esq ., M . P ., having already promised to attend the demonstration , it was resolved tbat the following gentlemen be invited : — * Ernest Jones , Esq , W . P . Roberta . Esq ., the People ' s Attorney-General ; R . Cebden , Esq ., M . P ., Colonel Thompson , Esq ., M . P ., Mr Joseph Barker , and that a letter ba sent to the Confederates Council , Dublin , for a deputa ion from that body . ' 'That the Chartiats of Halifax draw an resolutions for the the demonstration
and submit them to a delegate meeting , t o be held at Nicaolla ' a Temperance Hotel , Broad , street , Halifax , on Good Friday , April 21 st . Business to commence at nine o ' clock in the forenoon . ' ' That Mr Harris be proposed to tbe chair at the demonstration . ' That Mr John Culpan . jun ., Union-at ., be secretary for the demonstration committee . ' There has not been such a great number of delegates meeting : together in this part for along time , and the unanimity that prevailed shows that Yorkshire is up to the mark , and that she is determined toTnake another e ort to crush tbat Hydra-headed monster , class legislation .
Chartism in Fife . —Important Meeting at St . ANDRKW 8 . * -At length aroused , by thestirring events which are daily passing around us , from the apathy which has too long disgraced this locality , as well as Scotland generally , in reference to the great movement in behalf of the people ' s rights , a number of the ' Old Guards ' recently resolved to attempt a revival of the goad old cause in this city , and ; ns a first step , having procured copies of tho National Petition from the Executive , called a public meeting of the inhabitants on the evening of Wednesday , the 29 t h nit ., for tbe purpose of adopting the same . The City Hall , which had been kindly granted by the magistrates , was by eight o ' clock well filled by a numerous audience of all classes of the community , and
bafore the proceedings were well commenced , was crowded to the door . Mr George Berwick ( cabinetmaker , ) having been unanimously called to the chair , briefly opened the proceedings , exhorting 'Peace , Law , and O rder , ' th e reb y evincing tho peop le ' s fitness for the franchise . Resolutions declaring the opinion ofthe meeting that the time had now come for the destruction of class-legislation—the institution of a new policy , suited to the times , by our legislators—approving of the People ' s Charter—of the National Petition—and the taking immediate vigorous steps for obtaining signatures thereto , were moved , seconded , and carried by acclamation . The resolutions were supported in able and stirring speeches by Messrs T . G , Murtarde , and Charles
Stewart , mason . After awarding thanks to the Ch a irm a n as well as to the magistrates for the gratis use of the City Hall , the meeting quietly broke up . A considerable number of signatures were , thereafter , obtained to the sheets , among whom we were happy to observe several ot the students attending the University . The proriaional committee , with a number of other volunteers , having divided the city into convenient districts , have set to work canvassing , and , we believe , notwithstanding the shortness of the time allowed , we shall be able to send the most aume . rously signed petition that ever emanated from this hitherto priest-ridden place . Immediate steps sre , we understand , to be taken to re-organise the Chartist body here .
TBlCHPHAWr JjBMOmTRAXlONi—VmOS OF ClTARTisra and Rkpealrhs in Macclesfield . —On Saturday morning last a bill was posted , announcing that a meetin g would take p lace in the afternoon , en Parsonage Green , for the following objects ; To give a public demonstration of the good feeling and cordial union existing between the Charter and Repeal Associations—to adopt an Address of Congratulation to the brave French people—and to appoint a delegate to the National Convention in conjunction with Stockport . When the hour of meeting ( five o ' clock in the evening ) arrived , being only about ten hours after the announcement was issued , at least five thousand people had assembled , and at least ten thousand were present before the close of the
proceedings . The magistrates were busy during the whole ofthe day swearing in' specials / the only duty for which some of them are fitted . Mr Thomas Leech was unanimously voted to the chair , and called upon Mr Bowies to propose the first resolution , which was as follows : ' That in the opinion of this meeting the present deplorable condition of the working classes of the United Kingdom is mainly to be attributed to their want of union , and wo hail with heartfelt pleasure the resolve of the Irish Re . pealera to unite with the English Chartis ts , which uni o n , we confidently hope , will ultimately giveEngland tothe English , and Ireland to the Irish . ' The resolution waa seconded by Mr White , and supported in an effective speech by Mr Nixon , d £ Manchester . —
Mr Balfe proposed the second resolution , as follows : ' That we are of opinion that the present representative system is an outrage on common sense nnd common xhonenty , inasmuch as it excludes sixsevenths of the male adult population of this empire from all participation in the election of members of parliament , and that we pledge ourselves with a firm determination to use all the powers with which God and nature have endowed us , to cause the People ' s Charter to be made the basis of British legislation . Mr James Leach , of Manchester , seconded the resolution in an excellent speech , which was frequently interrupted by the plaudits ofthe meeting . Hesaid be was fully convinced that something more than speech making , passing resolutions , and getting up
pe t itions , would b © necessary , before the working men of this country obtained their rights . When he saw the House of Commons treating tbe people with such insolence and contempt—when he saw them Uughing at popular principles , and sneering at the advocates of those principles , he could not help believing that its days were numbered . —Mr William Massey proposed the next resolution : — ' That we pledge ourselves to assist the Repealers in their exertions to obtain a Repeal of tho Union , which , in the words ef Chief Justice Bushe , ' was carried by the basest corruption and artifice ; ' all the worst passions of the human heart were entered into that service , and the most depraved ingenuity was tortured , to devise hew contrivances to effect it . '—
Mr Hargreavea seconded the resolution , which was supported by Mr Treanor , of Stalybridee , He contended strongly tbac the Irish people had a perfect ri ^ ht to govern themselves , and pointed out some of the atrocities that had marked the conduct of the British government towards Ireland . Mr Treanor ' s speech was renewed throughout with the utmost enthusiasm . —Mr John West was then called on to move tbe adoption of an address ' to tbe French people . Mr West was received with the most en * thusla « tic applause . After an expression that Mr John West was a fit and prooor person to represent Macclesfield in the Convention , and having given hearty and enthusiastic cheers for the Charter , the Convention , O'Connor , & c , the meeting broke up in the most
peaceable manner . The meeting would have been much larger , but for the numbers kept away to bs sworn in special constables . The excitement in Macclesfield is raised to the highest pitch—every bodv is asking —• " What will the house do with thepetition ? Will they dare to treat it with contemp t ? Bradford . —On Sunday a Chartist camp meeting was held on Wilaey Slaik , near Shelf and Bradford , at two o ' clock in the afternoon . The morning was beautifully clear , and the sun shone out in splendour , when about twelve o ' clock the atmosp here suddenly lowered , and a storm of thunder , rain , and hailstone comm e nced , such as had not been witnessed for many years . Several trees in the nei ghbourhood were struck with tbe electric fluid . In one of the
dissenting chapels the sexton was knocked down , and the forms were thrown about , but no serious damage was done . Many of the good Sabbath going folks declared that the infidelity of the Chartists in holding a camp meeting on the Sunday , was the cause of tho storm , and the anger of Providence was observable in the elementary war . On the Chartists' side , it was declared they were the chosen band , for many thousands of them were out amid the storm , and not a hair of their heads was touched , while their voices resounded amid the rolling thunders of Heaven—• That Britons never shall be slaves . * When the storm sub aided , a waggon was procured for the speakers , and Mr Frith was called to the chair . The spectacle was a grand one—not less than 20 , 000 persons had assembled to declare they would have the Charter . Messrs Hurly , Webber , Smyth , Glissett , Roberts ,
and Leghtowler , addressed the meeting . Resolutions were adopted for the Charter , and to support and abide by the decision ofthe Convention . A vote of thanks was tendered to the Chairman , and the meeting marched off the common with a tcicotoured dag before them in the most peaceable manner . —Ob Sunday evening , the Chartists of Little Herton , met at Squire Barker ' s , Yorkshire Divan , ajid formed a locality of the Chartist Association , when forty members were enrolled . —The Chartists of Great Herton met on Sunday evening , to form , a locality , when above fifty persona enrolled their names . —Oh Monday evening , a meeting waa held at New Leeds , when a number enrolled their names to form a locality ofthe Chartist' Association . —Meetings were also held at Bowlinp , Manningham , and Wapping for the same object . The organisation is rapidly progressing in Bradford .
Choblev . —The Chartists and Laud mejnbers of this town met for the first time in their new meeting room , in Market-street , behind the Rope-market , rfn the 2 nd inst . Meetings will he held eve * y Sunday afternoon , at two o ' clock , for tho parpose of reading and discussion , and at six tfglgcjr jjq % ha oven / tag for
Punbem Outoftbe R^Eet.^ , Anow The Oersu...
r eceiving BubBoriptionB , nnd enrolling members . # At 'he above meeting subscriptions were entered into for the purpose of taking in theUsiTBD Ibisiiman , and other valuable journals supporting Land and Chartist principles ; and as a demonstrative proof of the _ procress of Chartism in this town ; theNoBTHBRN Star , alon g with other democratic newspapers , has been proposed to be taken in by the Chorley Mechanics Institution , whioh is about to be re-established . A meeting of Chartist and Land members will take place on the 0 ; h mat . ' , . ,. i- * i Birmingham— A most enthusiastic meeting took place in the People ' s Hall , on Sunday last , when addresses were delivered by Messr s James Le a ch o f Manchester , John Mason of Birmingham , and the delegates from Wigan , Bolton , and Paisley . Sixty membersjoined the Association .
new Stockport . —Two exoellentaddresaeaweredelivered her o on Sunday last by Mr John West . Mr Rankin of Manchester , also addressed tbe evening meeting . Both gentlemen gave the greatest satisfaction , and were warmly cheered by their delighted audience . S « ALVBninaB—There was a public meeting in this town , held in the open air , at which there were 10 , 000 persons present , to memorialise the government to recall John Frost , Zepbaniah Williams , and William Jones , nnd all political offenders . A delegate meeting waslimmediately held , lo arrange for 4 camp meeting , on Sunday the 9 th of this month , to be held in this district , to take into consideration the proceedings of the Convention , and to act accordingly .
Merthyr Ttdvil . —A publio meeting waa held id this town last Saturday , to adopt a petition for the liberation of Frost , Williams , and Jones , and was signed by several thousands on Sunday . A public meeting will take place on Monday , the 10 th inst ., at twelve at noon . There are publio meetings held here every evening , and they are well attended , and a noble spirit manifested bv all . Chrltbkham . —The secretaries of the National Charter Association of the towns of Cirencester , Winohcombe , and other localities in the Cheltenham district , who have not yet communicated with us , wishing to be represented in the Convention , are requested to correspond with Clement W . Frames , 6 , Bath'Btreet , Cambray , Cheltenham , secretary pro . tern , ot the Cheltenham branch . A county delegate meeting is in contemplation .
Barnstaple , —A Democratic library has been established in this town , at which the Nowhbmj Stab and other Democratic publications are taken in . Stbovjed . —A publio meeting was held in the Victoria rooms , on Tuesday evening , Maroh 28-b , to adopt the National Petition : more than 508 were present , including a great number of the tradesmen of the town , and ope or two manufacturers . —Mr J . W . Hatton occupied the chair . —Mr J . Sidaway moved and the Rov . Mr Parsons , the anthnr of the Tracts tothe Smock Frocks and Fustian Jackets , ' seconded the first resolution , pledging the meeting to the Six Points of the Charter . —Mr James Newman moved , and Mr Sidaway seconded , the petition , and after speaking at great length , the Rev . B . Parsons supported the petition , which with the resolution
were both carried unanimously . —Mr Joseph Partiidge , one of our leadinejnanufaeturers , spoke in favour of tbe Charter . —The meeting was considered the beat ever held in Stroud upon the question of the Charter . Signatures to the petition are hourly increasing , and we hope by Saturday to number 3 , 000 , On Monday evening tbe members met at seven o ' clock , at the Coffee-rooms and Temperance Hotel of Mr Ro w l a nd , Swan-yard , Stroud , when the following persons were appointed as the Council : —Messrs H . Pritchard , G . Fowles , F . Fant , F . Mayo , 'J . Newman ; Mr G . Rowland , treasurer ; Mr Samuel Clissold , secretary . A meeting will be held every Monday evening , at seven o ' clock , at Mr Rowland's Coffee-rooms , Swan-yard , Stroud , when the Council will be happy to receive the name of any person wishing to be a member of the Association .
Revival op Chabtkm in Newport , Moismoijihbhirb . —A requisition was presented to the Mayer , signed by fifty-four of the most respectable inhabitants of the town , among whom were three Town-Councillors , to call a meeting for the adoption of the National Petition , The , Mayor said be bad no persons ! objection to call the meeting , bathe bad received a communication from the Home Office , and therefore wished for time to consult the two borough magistrates . He did so , and the consequence was that he refused to call the meeting or grant the use of the Town Hall , consequently the requieitionists , on their own account , jcalled a publio meeting for Wednesday evening , Maroh 29 th , in the large room , Old Bush Inn , Commercial-street . The
room was crowded almost to suffocation , many hundreds had to go away unable to gain admittance . The resolution and petition were carried amidst the greatest enthusiasm . —Mr Thomas Clark , of the Executive , made a splendid speech . A branch of the National Charter Association was established . Aberdeen , Maroh Slat- —A public meeting was held this evening in the Union Hall , Blackfriarsstreet , for the purpose of electing a delegate to represent the city and environ ? , in a Convention of tue working classes which is to sit in London . Mr W . Lindsayjun ., was called tothe chair . The chairman called upon Mr George Smart , whe moved a variety of instructions to be observed by the delegate when at the Convention . Mr John Smart seconded the
motion , which was carried unanimously , Th 6 secretary reported the state of the funds , whioh were encouraging , and intimated that already within the city the number which had signed the petition was about 15 , 000 . The secretary then read a draft of a letter he had prepared by order of tbe committee , to Ca pt ain Fordyce , R . W ., the cit y m e mber , which letter met a hearty approval . The meeting then proceeded with the election of the delegate , when Messrs Archibald M'Donald , A . B . Kenny , and J a m e s Shi r r o n , were p ut in nomin a tion , and ably supported by the movers and ( seconders . Mr James Shirron proved the successful candidate by a
sweeping majority . The meeting ordered the necessary funds to cover the delegate ' s ex p ense s , | and requested the secretary to furnish him with legal documents for admission to the Convention , Three cheers were then given to encourage the men of England , three for Old Ireland , three for the Star and the Express , three for the father of the Chartist family , namely—Mr O'Connor—and finally , three to the chairman ; the meeting then dissolved . Barnsley . —All paid-up members of No . 1 branch of the National Land Company , are requested to attend at Mr George Uttley s , on Monday night , the 10 th inst ., at seven o ' clock , and pay tbeir local
expenses . Rochdale . — On Sunday last , the 2 nd of April , a public meeting ofthe inhabitants of the borouahof Rochdale , was held in the Chartist room , Yorkshirestreet , to adopt a petition in favour of the restoration of Frost , Williams , and Jones , and all other political offenders . Blackburh . » . A glorious meeting numbering between throe and four thousand of the man of Bl a ckburn , took place in the Old Size House . Chapel-street , on Monday evening last , George Co well , a working man , being unanimously voted to
the chair , opened the meeting in a neat and impressive speech , and called upon Mr Marsden to propose the adoption ofthe National Petition , which was seconded by Mr W . Smith one of the Old Guards . Mr S . Kydd then followed , and supported the motion in a brilliant speech of nearly an hoar and a half duration ; which during the delivery received repeated bursts of applause , and sat down amidst the most enthusiastic plaudits . Mr Marsden was chosen unanimously to represent Blackburn at the forthcoming Convention . After a vote of thanks to Mr Kydd , tho chairman and others , ths meeting quietly dinpetted .
Cnv and FiMsnoRY Locautt . — Saffron-hill . — March 26 th . 1848 . —Mr T . Salmon in the chair . Mr Fennell reported from the Metropolitan Delegate Committee . Report received . Mr Nobbs moved , and Mr Gover seconded : —* That three delegates be sent from this locality to assist the Delegate Committee . ' Carried . Messrs Cater , Blake , and Bag " nail were appointed . Mr Gover moved , and Mr Fennellseconded , the following resolution : — 'That this meeting learn , with feelings of indignation , tbat subscriptions have been opened at Messrs Drummond ' sBank , at Charing Crobs , to reward the police for the part they took at the late meeting in Trafalgar-square , being of opinion that such a course of conduct is calculated to stimulate the brutality of
behaviour , so universal among that body , . We , therefore , call upon every person , who values tha right of publio meeting , to protest against such subscriptions . ' Supported by Messrs E . Nobbs , Cater , and Overton . Carried unanimously . Mr Gover moved , and Mr Cater seconded , the following resolution . — ' That tbe previous resolution , in connexion with tbe ono lately passed , repudiating all connexion with the Trafalgar-fquare meeting , and the subsequent disturbances , be sent to Messrs Drummonds , and to the Secretary for the Home Department , with a request that he would pub a stop to such an unconsti tutional proceeding . ' Carried unanimously . Mr Nobbs moved , and Mr Gover eccoEded , the following resolution : — 'That this meeting return their
sincere thanks to those working men who have been compelled to serve as special constables , for tbeir noble resolution to fraternise with the people , if a brutal government attempt to suppress public opinto °£ rried unan ™ ° w 8 ly . Mr Fennell moved , and Mr Nobbs seconded , tho following resolution « — That we view the prosecution of MessrsW Smith O'Brien , John Mitchel , and T . F . Meagher , by tha Whig government , as a fresh proof of their determination to govern Ireland by fovea of arms , and not by justice ; and as a fresh proof of their blundering incapacity or legislation ; and regard this base
attempt to stifle public opinion as calling espeoiolly & r tb-e strongest reprobation and sternest opposition of the Chartiata of this country . We hereby express wr warmest sympathy with those gentlemen , with the Irish Confederates , and Re p ealer s , holding their principles , and also assure them of our firm determination to obtain the Chatter for England and Repeal for Ireland . ' Supported by Messrs Cater . Gover , and Overton . Carried unanimously . ThjO voting for the delegates was then taken , and the meeting adjourned to April 2 nd , atseveno ' clookin the evening . Severa & ew members were enrolledai tho close ofthe meeting .
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f-rVm e » r own CorresjxmdentJ Dcdlim , 3 rd Apart , 1848 . How , whilst the tUe of revolution ia careerlng * . over Europe , and whilst changes ore being effected and events occurring which will mark one ofthe most memorable epochs in the history of Christendom , itis a proud rtflec-Hon for Irishmen , that their long-oppresoed land is not destitute of the ways and means , and heart ? and souls , adequate to a glorious struggle for tbat nationality and liberty , to which for many a gloomy century she has been a stranger . A proud reflection It is , \ say , for Irishmen . Only that Ireland has a voice within her the Saxon tyrant migbtetW omlleon at the political earthquake rrhioh this moment shakes Europe to Its centre ; and only that
Ireland has nursed heroes , the blood-dyed flag of Britain would still sweep land and sea , and slaves would pine on hopelessly , and cowards litis tbe dust beneath its shadow . But Ireland avseara that such no longer shall be tbe case . Ireland arouses , In her an ? er , and in her wildness , and in her yearnings for revenge , and vows tbat nhe no longer will be held in' durance rile' by those a a o hates , and who have long centuries ago deserved the bloodiest retribution which a maddened natioa could bestow . And It is remarkable—too—is tbe highest d eg ree r e markabl e , —that notoloneon their 'native soil ' are Irishmen taking John Bull by the heard , but even in hisownland—in tho very heart of London—a son of the Emerald Isle taunts Wm with hia villany , and BWCBrs that his threatf , ' or his bullying , shall not save him from the consequence of his misdeeds—that he will lead
millioEB of Englishmen to the battle , and be their general in the campaign agalust robbery , and corruption , and misrule . Yes , it is , indeed , a proud boast for this country , that an Irishman—Mr Feargus O'Connor should prove , in the very stronghold of British awaythe very focus <> l British power—ono of the ' chief difficulties ' of British government ; and not only he found fearlessly expressing bis own daring sentiments , but actually combining , and organising , and concentrating in tha bosom of England , the moat formidable aad indefatigable and effective ' opposition' wbich ever rose ngalnat tyranny and misconduct . It looks rather more like some ordination of a just Providence , than one of the mere accidents of time , or chance , or circumstances . God Is just , and it is not tbe first occasion when Heaven chose ' the weak things of this world to sonfound tbe strong . '
I often predicted that the day would soon arrive when tho name of Mr O'Connor would be a credit to Ireland , and his conduct meet tho applause aad approval of bis country men . And I was right . That time has came already . Already is the great Chartist leader identified with the leaders of our ' movement' in Ireland ; and at every assembly , and club , and meeting , chWB for Feargus O'Connor and tho English Chartists are coupled with those for Smith O'Brien , John Mitcncl , and our other genuine patriots . The stale slanders against O'Connor ere uttered no more . His old enemies are silent ; and those who , no t six mon t hs a g o , were pre * judiccd a g ains t tba t ge nt l eman and looked on Chartism with disgust , now view the former with a feeling of national pride , and the latter a something , which , though not exactly suited to Irish wants , may still be very good for Eagllih labour and Industry ; something which will open a pathway to British independence and British prosperity .
Tho last letter ofMr O'Connor to the English Chartists , exhibits tbat chivalrousg-entleman in a bolder light tben years of tpesohing , or agitating , or dodging , could create . He there tells what he intends . He does not cry ' To your tents , ob , England I' but be lays , he will lead bis ' Old Guards' to the very note of the chafed Hon , and his bellowings shall not frighten him from his duty ; nor threats , nor bullyingB , nor the prospect of death itself , deter him from prosecuting his scheme in a bold , fearless , bat quiet , steady , end constitutional manner . Tbis is the way to speak . Such language as this alone is suited to the obtuse faculties and stiff-necked doggednese of John Bull . This is tbe tone fer every slave to adopt . Whtoery , and bogging , and petitioning , never did anything good ; and never will , and never can , do goad . Let men speak like MEN ; and then , if they 6 nd that warning , and remonBtrance , and ' challenge , 4 & re unheeded—why , then , In God's name , let them SO , or DIB like MEN .
And this doctrine Is gaining ground quickly In Ireland . The people ef this country , forgetful of last year ' s fam i ne and fevar , and braving the destitution and desolation which , even at this moment , prevail over the land , are shaking off their old cowardly prejudices , and are determined TO BE FREE . ThUisaseaion of anxisty and ia « peneo la Dublin . No man knows what to do . Many still cling to the O'Connell policy , but tbe overwhelming masses are bent for the adoption of 'the Paris fashions for February 1 ' The Paddy . go-easy syitcm is on its laat legs In Ireland , and the grey-coated rustic , as well as the unemployed mechanic , flings ' moral force * to the tomb of—no , not to the tomb of the Capulet *—bat to that of ltaniel O'Connell . Pikes and barricadso are now more res .
peotable names in Irish households than Repeal R ° nt or Conciliation Hall addresses ; and the lest 'shreds ' and ' planks' of the ' constitution' are laughed at with as much cJHtemptuoae nonchatonee ei if yoa spoke of paying homage to the cap and feathers of some idiot or harlequin : It U beyond a doubt the people of this island are contemplating an appeal to arms , and , mere than that , they are at ao pains to conceal their intentions . People have ao hope in English faith or English promises , even if tbat faith were plighted , and those promises given ; but when they find that the very mention of ' Repeal' or Justice for Ireland , ' is received with derision and * sneers' in the British senate , they are resolved
to seek tbeir claims with more imposing weapons than sheets of foolscap or begging petitions to her Majesty ' s ' Honourable Houses , ' or ' Faithful Lords and Common ; . ' The young men of Dublin are losing no ground , at all events . Thry will lead the van , as in t ru th t hey should lead it . They are establishing Rifle Clubs' and shooting galleries in various quarters of the city , where they intend ' making their hand' for a future day . P i kes are manufactured publlely , and I have Been several of a formidable 'fashion . ' They are sold without hesitation , or any effort at concealment , whilst every gun . smith and armourer" 'in town is completely ' out of stoc k , lock , and carrel * , ' such is th e ' run ' for fircaims of e . cheap and middling deicription .
In the meantime , the ' powers ' here are leaving nothing uidene to meet the anticipated struggle . Addi . tlonal troops are coming ia every day in the week . The military preparations continue to be carried out on the most extensive scale . The following arrangements have been decided npon by the authorities : — Application bas been made to the Provost by the government for accommodation within the walls of the college for a strong military detachment .
The benches of the Queen ' s Isn « have also been-applied to for permission for the military stationed in tbe Linon . hall to exeroias in the grounds attached to tho inns in Henrietta-street . Leinster House is being fitted np for S 00 infantry and a strong ( quadron of cavalry . tbe C 7 th are about to move to the Belfast district . The 13 th light Infantry , now at Birr , are to proceed to Scotland , TheS 2 nd Light Infantry and a battalion ofthe Guards aro under orders of readiness for Dublin .
The 1 st Royals will be moved from Belfast to Dublin , A wing of the 48 rd Light Infantry Is to form part of Dublin garrison . A ftrsng company of Sappers and Mi nsra has arrlvad from Chatham , and taken up quarters in the barracks at tbe Lineh . ball . Nowise daunted by the preparations of government , the cry of' Arm , arm , ' raised b y Mr Mitchel , ia being cheerfully responded to . The run for pikes is rather on the increase , and to meet the demand very inferior weapons are vended in Patrick-street , Bridgeforfc-street , and in the neighbourhood of the Liberty , at prices ranging from etehtpence to one shilling . The primest article manufactured gees as high as 3 s . 9 d ., with ready Bales . Gunsmiths ' shops are the great centres of attraction just now . Around them are to be seen groups of idlers
casting longing eyes upon the tempting wares exposed to vie w ; , and I am assured that within the last fortnight vast quantities of cheap and inferior arms , which bad long laid mouldering on the shelves , have been eagerly purchased up , at remunerative rates to the sellers . I am further informed that a person largely engaged in the iron trade received a country order for 2 , 000 pikes , but that before he undertook to execute the commission , he a ? ked professional advice as to the legality of the transaction , and was told there waa no law in existence to prevent the manufacture of pikes , but that government might at any time , issue an order to se'ze and confiscate them . In order , therefore , to save his property from any such contingency , the maker determined to com . pleto the job by instalments , and despatch them scire by score to their destination until the whole were finished .
_ Repeal appears to bo becoming a aeoond-rate quea . tion . A Republ ic is now proclaimed to be the only tffectual remedy . The United Irishman and Nation , of last Saturday , speak out in the plainest possible style . Under the head of' Our War Department , ' Mr Mitchel gives the following , with a promise that the subject shall henceforward form a leading topic in the columns of his journal : —
AHMED CIXB 9 . An United Irishman ( Cork ) wishes to do informed of 1 some plan for tho formation of a Rifle Club , to be composed of persons of limited means , to enable the members of such a club to purchase and Ie & rn the use of arm s . ' Minute thenion , — -A good strong serviceable rifle , three feet In the barrel , eleven grooves , patent breech , sonnd back action lock , plain feteel mounting , without strip or trap , and of any calibre , can be mado in Dublin for £ i ; ortbosame , with brass mounting , for £ 2103 . Suppose a hundred persons form a club , each of whom will subscribe 2 s ( 3 d . per week . let CI . of Bach oontri , button be set apart for tha general expen & es of the club and for the payment of a person competent to train and ins truct in rifle praettcq , or drill , or the mo ofarma generally . Tho remaining 2 a . of each subscription is carried to the stock fund of the dub ; and thus each week amasses £ 1 ( 1 ; by which four rifles ( at £ 2 10 s , each ) can be each week suppplied te the club , or ten
F-Rvm E»R Own Corresjxmdentj Dcdlim, 3rd...
rifles ( at £ 3 each ) every threo weeks . Each wsek's , q * three weeks' supply , should be distributed by lot 1 or alphabetical order , among tho members—with the understanding tbat if they fall to pay op tbeir subscriptions for three or four weeks ( or other definite number of weeks ) succes « slvely , unt i l all a re arm e d , then they forfeit all right to their rifles . The weapons purchased should be restored every day after practice into tbe hands of the treasurer or other person selected by the club , until all are armed ) unless—always unless—It be necessary , in the mean
time , to bring into action whatever arms may have been obtained . By th is me a n s t be whol e hun d r e d m mbers can practise , and receive instruction from tbe first week and at tho end of twenty . five weeks all will be supplied with rifles ef their own , a t £ 2 10 s . e a ch , or at £ 3 , at the end of thirty weeks . Of course , It the members can afford to pay double tbe subscriptions above mentioned , they will all be armed in less than half the tine ; If they can only aflwrd to pay half that subscription , it will require something mora than double tbe time to arm them . But , whether tbe time be long or short , they can Still , from the beginning , practise the u » e of arms .
We shall be happy to make arrangements in Dublin for the supply of any such club ; but we recommend clubs in tbe provinces to employ , as a matter of justice and economy , local artificers , where possible , in the making of tbe stocks and locks , and tbe finishing of tho barrels —the latter , we believe , can be bored in Dublin only : A slight addition to the cost will provide a short sword , or lon g dirk , which should be fixed on tbe end of the barrel in place of a bayonet . If a rifle club were established on the p lan we have deocribed , part of Its funds might be expended is the purchase of pikes thus , a fund of £ 10 a weefc would provide three rifles of tbe superior kind , and ten first * rate pikes , ten feet long , steel heads . We recammend this distrlbutien , wherever it can be practised . When the wealthy members are armed with rifles , tbey can bestew their pikes on the less wealthy—there is no eha « ritable donation like pikes for tbe poor .
Or , in a large city like Cork , or Limerick , or Dublin , clubs might be easily formed for the general armament and drilling of all , and the armament of each with weapons suitable to hia means . Arranging the members of this club In three classes , thus : — Per weefe . 1 st Riflemen , subscription for rifles ... 2 s , Od , 3 nd Musketeers , ditto for muskets and bayonets Is . Od . 3 rd Pikemen , ditto for pikes ... ... 0 s . id . These classes become armed contemporaneousl y , eacU class within a definite time , proportioned to the cost of the weapon , and the amount of weekly subscription ; while all the classes and members , by an additional « ub > scrlptlon of S < 5 . or 3 d . each , weekl y , can learn drill , and exercise and practise the use of all arms , from the rifle to the pike .
We do not propose these clubs as a movement to super * geta or interfere with , In the slightest degree , the National Guard to which the Coufederation is pledged . On the contrary , when the Confederation shall have matured its plans , and laid a programme of organisation before the p eo p le , It will be for these clubs to carry that organisation at once into effect . To be enabled to do so , they should at once organise for their individual armor ment . This is followed by directions for the accoutrements of the patriotic army , as thus : — For musketeers , the belts and pouches should be tbe same construction as for rifleman—ammunition in car * fridges , and pouch larger . For small sword , bayonet . Calibre of muskets same as the British army , in order tbat , should the Royal troops run short of ammunition , we may be enabled to supply them , and v ' m cend ,
Forpikemen , t ha accoutrements are g r e a sed br o gues , and a stout arm . Every endeavour should be made to obtain ammunition of all kinds , and every care should be taken to know where it can be had when wanted . The stores of food are the sinews of war . Care should be taken of them too . Not alone should rifles , muskets , and pikts be procured , but every gun and weapon in the island should be put into immediate order . And he adds : —
Where bayonets cannot be had , we beg to remind oil tenant-right-less farmers and able-bodied paupers , that a strong English reaping-hook straightened , with the saw edge ground sharp , and rounded , and a socket hilt welded to tbe tang , makes a weapon which , when attached to a duck-gun or long fowling piece , Is as deadly as the pike , and as complete as the bayonet . Tou can make it any length eonvenient te your purpose , and tbe length ef yonr barrel from one foot to tbree , A scythe blade , fixed by a welded socket hilt on a half pike , or shaft of six feet , become * & weapon equally deadly . Such are the glorious / arw / wurs by whleU Poland avenged her slavery , when ahe failed to win her freedom . Meantime ' the virtues of tho hour are patience and . perseverance , ' to get guns and run bullets .
Such earnest , plain , and distinct teaching cannot be without its effect in Ireland . That it is telling , is proved by the fact that , although his paper ia only two months old , its circulation Is without parallel ia the weekly press of Ireland , and that his readers ara spread over the whole of the country . The Natioh backs up its contemporary in the same spirit . _ Speaking of the determination of the Confederation to summon the Council of three hundred , Mr Duffy says—But it is said the English Government would prfia vent by ioreo Of arms the election or assembly of sneb a body .
It could not prevent their election . If it issued a proclamation . The people ought to disregard it . If it brought troops to the place of election , tho place ought to be changed . But the thing is impotaible . To suppress three hundred elections in one day would leave every barrack , garrison , and guard-room in Ireland vacant—vacant , perhaps , to be filled no more . When the assembly was actually elected , the govern , ment would scarcely venture to impede the direct com - munication between such a body and the Sovereign . If they did—if tuck an honest attempt to bring to a peace . ful issue the universal disconttnt of this country were impeded , parley would be at end . The assembly might be adjourned for a month , to meet under tbe guns of en Irish army , in tho capital of a free nation . If it come to thl » , Russell will hove blundered more unpardonably than Gu zot or Metteraich . ' And he further thus states the spirit in which the Confederation are prepared to act .
Whatever come , tbe Confederation will meet it firmly ; There shall be no rashness and no retreat . Not so much as a stop . If they ara proclaimed down , they will trample upon the proclamation as so much waste paper —which his , If the Coercion Act is extended to Dublin , they will tall back upon the other great towus in Ireland , and agitate them tUI there is no city in the land but will require a proclamation and a garrison of its own . The people in both islands must take one pre . c & atioo , not to move before their time ; the government , if they are not all reckless of life , and all impenetrable to teaching , should take their time , the present hour , to make terms , Ofthe two parties the people are the loss desirous of blood . But , ( fit must come to blows , ' may God defend the right '—that is , the right ef the people !
The Limerick Reporter announces the formation of two or three rifle clubs in that city , adding the following information with regard ta the purchase of arms : — In reply to ' a Subscriber' as to the price of firearms , and the best description of them , we beg tossy that n first-rate single gun ( twist barrel ) can be bad atMara ' a for about £ 2 . 2 s „ and an excellent description of a gua too , that would answer good purposes , for about £ 116 a . For a short distance or for general purposes , it would just answer as well as a rifle that would cost £ 7 . or £ 8 ^ The refusal of Mr Butt . Q . O ., to sign the declaration of confidence in Lord Clarendon , and his satisfaction with the present mode of governing Ireland , is a proof that the disaffection extends to all parties . Mr Butt is an eminent Conservative , and was a great opponent of Bepea ' . It is etated positively by the Cork Examiner that he has given his adhesion to the Confederation .
_ The most important demonstration of this disaffeo tion to English rule yet made public , is the following declaration which has the sanction of the leadins men of the learned professions . A fellow of Trinity College , a Conservative , being one of its warmest supporters , and which has a great number of influential names appended to it . TO HIS EXCBLtENCV GBORQE EARt , OF CtAHEHDON , LOUB LIEUTENANT ( 1 ENEBAL ANP GENERAL OOVEBNOS OF IRElJAtiD , We , the undersigned , desire to express our respect for your Excellency , personally , and as representative of our Sovereign , and to declare our determination to maintain the prerogatives of the Crown , the privileges of the peerage , the rights of the public creditor , and the inviolability of private contracts .
We have witnessed with regret and disapprobation the avowal of designs incompatible with social order , and with the legitimate enjojujent of the fruits of industry ; aud wo are resolved and ready with force and arms toresist any attempt to subvert social relations , or to effect revolutionary changes in prcperty . At the same time we are bouod to declare eur conviction that a general and well-founded feeling of dissatisfaction pervades society in Ireland , joined to an earnest and growing desire for a return to our ancient constitution . The failure of the Imperial Parliament to provide adequate means for the relief of our poor , and their refusal of Inquiry into the defects of the yt 4 & M \ t \ ifij \ ttt and partial system of Poor Law taxation , joined to the systematic continuance of a pernicious and unconstitutional policy of centralisation , cause us to sympathise & tha present feeliug , aa" 3 to participate in tbe general deaire for self-government .
Considering that extreme opinions and violent language , however censurable , are but the natural exponents of sd great a mass of discontent , we humbly beg to represent to your Excellency our opinion , that it would be exprdient to treat tbe violent demonstrations which have lately taken place , rather as evidences of the prevailing desire for a change of policy ; than as iudiuidual oflunces against the law ; and pray your Exctftency to recommend to y < s « r government the speedy adoption of measures which may restore to Her M » jesty ' s Irish subjects & £ ir obj feei & jgs of resp-. ct fer tie laws , and ol
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Citation
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Northern Star (1837-1852), April 8, 1848, page 6, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse2.kdl.kcl.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/ns2_08041848/page/6/
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