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able to fleece their clients that he wou...
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THE cbeit Iiiiiix Pjiw.v-snop;^-Tlie Mon...
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General Dembisski.—By a trick, to which ...
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^^i&CT! REVIVAL OF l THE AGITATION FOR T...
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PROCEEDINGS IN PARLIAMENT. The usual pub...
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THE HONESTY FUND. TO WILLIAM RIDEB. Dear...
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THE LATE TRIAL TOR LIBEL. TO TEAHGUS 0'C...
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TO TRE CHARTISTS OF TIIE UNITED KINGDOM....
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Evafohation from we Thames.-A larger qua...
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may displeaBO^tbe ^ ~, /%^' - '--'- ¦ ''...
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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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Parliamentary Review. The Illness Of The...
longer able to fleece their clients by running up heavy bills of costs , and making law so dear , that persons deliberately preferred to submit to injustice , rather than seek redress . Jhey complain bitterl y of the " heavy blow , and sore discouragement , " their profession las reseivedfrom the Small Debts' Act , and fhey will no doubt stoutly res st any further aggression upon that portion of the domain , on which they can yet grow rich at the expen seof the unhappy wretches , who are forced to apply for their assistance . i » . »» .. I . 1 a 4 nA ~ v » it ..:. _ i : j .. -i :
The tone of the AnonsEY-GElfERAL , and other Lawyers , withreferenceto Mr . Fitzkot ' s Bill , indicated the determined hostility it will en counter from ^ gentlemen learned in the law ; ' * and looking at their immense influence in Parliament , we fear there is small chance ofthe measure being carried . Mr . WontLEYhas re-introduced Ms Bill for legalising marriages within certain degrees of affinity now prohibited , and succeeded in carrying the second reading by a majority of fifty-two . There are a few of the more objectionable clauses of last year omitted , but the Church party seem to have as strong an objection to it as ever . The great object is to
legalise marriage with the sister of a deceased ¦ wife—a measure which appears to us , consonant not onl y with the natural coarse ofthe affections , but with the best and highest social and domestic interests of societ y . By a forced and far-fetched interpretation of certain passages Of SCriptnre however , the opponents hurl ag ainst the BiD—the charge of being opposed to religion—and thus add one more to the long list of instances in which that holy word ja made subservient to the purposes of intolerance , and obstructive ofthe public well-being . We fear that the majority is too small to carry it through the Upper House , especially if the Bishops unite in opposing it .
Inrepl y toab . attack bj Sir I > . Hatx—as the mouthpiece of certain allottees of the Land Company—Mr . O'CoxxOK made an effective reply to the charges which snch persons most migratemlly prefer against a man who has laboured too earnestly for the welfare of such persons . There can be little doubt , we think , that Parliament would grant a Bill to protect the Directors , and to wind up the Company , should ingratitude , desertion , and deceit , compel a recourse to that method of dealing with the question .
Able To Fleece Their Clients That He Wou...
March 9 , 1850 . THE ; NORTHERN STAR . «__ 5 -. J "" i i C "' _ . * 2 ' '" - '¦•* ' * ~ 7 ~ Z 7 ZZ Z ~ "" '"" ' "" ' ' . ' 11 i
.W .. ». W Ii _ B I 1 B U Fob Tbs "Week ...
. w .. » . w II _ b I 1 b U Fob tbs "Week Exdixg Thursday , Mabch 7 , 1 S 50 .
THE HONESTY FUND . BecdvedbvW . Kn > EE . —Derbv , perW . Chandler 21—D-, Berks is—A few Silk Dressers , Harpurhey 2 s . 6 dthreeFriends , 01 dbnry , per B . Wall 2 s—Kaddifle Grosi near Stepney . Mr . Lamb-5 s—Radcliffe Cross , near Stepnej alOTerof Justice 5 s—Radclifie Cross , near Stepney , a Enemy to Oppression 5 s—Radcliffe Cross , near Stepnet John Maithiers 2 s Cd—G . Webster , Xew Bridge Is—B . W B ., J- B ., and W . X . Radian ! -3 s—H . Johnson , Syston Is . 5 i —Bradford Land ilembers , per J . Council It 2 s . 4 d—J Green , Kidderminster 5 s—J . Harrison , Foleshill Is . 6 d-JfflbornePort , per W . Hyde 4 s—Norwich , per J . Ilurrel 10 s—Mr . lewis , Queen-street , Sobols 6&—Bolton , H . Lan caster ls ^ -Boltoo . J . Seeds 6 d—Bolton , T . Uostron 6 dgomervsMre 2 s . Cd-Hevtvood Jpcr J . Seott 3 s . 6 d-W . Goddard Bolton , T-BreperSd—Bolton , X . Cowlej- < W—T . F . Evau Is—W . W . Evam Cd—Xornieb Chartists Association , ne
T . WarrJI —> onncb Chartists , per J . Hurry ISs—Sbrwich , rtw > Friends , per T . Warr 2 s—T . Martin , Xewiown , Mont-Lricesler Is—T . Xenton , Leicester Is—S . White , Leicester Is—Bull , per G . Barnet 1 / . as 7 d—Thorpe , per T . Oxford Ife—Xetreastle-upoii-Tyne , x » er JL Jude It 5 s—Macclesfield , per E . Dean Ss . Cd—Winchester , per G- . Sturgess 13 s—CarHsle , Cumuiersdale Print Works , per J . Gilbertson U . 2 s—Carlisle . Holm Head Works , per J . GilberUon 5 s . Id —Friends , Carlisle , per J . Gilber tson 12 s . lid—Holbeck , Leeds , per X . Xemnanjis—a few Hastings Chartists , per E . Hose 10 s—Nottingham , per J . Swtet 11 . 15 s , Id—Gre ? t Doil & rd , per H- Green 1 L 4 s . Id—Dalston , three Land Members , per an Old Guard 3 s—a tew Democrats , Parker ' s Flats , Derby Is . 6 d—Sheffield , F . L . 2 s—Sheffield , J . Rodgers Cd—Sheffield , E . Joynes Cd—Leigh Glaive . Bochdale fid—Koclidale Chartists , per K . Gill lis—Littleborongh
Chartiits . per il . Gill Ms—Mr . Milhvard , Beckenham , per H . Edwards 2 s . fid—T . B .. Radcliffe Bridge is—Jf . C , Hadclifie Bridge 2 s . Cd—J . B .. Radcliffe 3 ridge Is . Gd—R . Hamer , Kadclifie Bridge Is—J . Lewis , Lantwit Varder Is—J . Cook , Shineliff Colliery 3 d—Cheltenham , per J . Ilemniin Gs . fidan ever unwilling Special { a Bill Stamp ) 2 s—Hanging EcatOH , lltar Beitthury , J . Fox Is-Hanging Beaton , near Dewsbnry , W . Pickles Is—Hanging Beaton , near Dewsburr , E . Xewsome Is—Manchester , Messrs . Kenrin , Worihington , and Moss 3 s—J . F ., Glossop 2 s . 6 d—Walsall Chartists , per J .-Mills Ss—Bishop Wearmonth , per W . Bobbie 3 s—J . Gray , Carrowford , near Clone 4 s—Westminster Land Members 13 s . Cd—T . Harding , Hullathorn 51 —J . Oldfield , Hnddersfield Land Members 2 s . Gd—Mr . James Watson . Xewcastle-upon-Tyne Is—a Paid-up Land Jlember 6 d—Wifliam Tri pptree Is—Daniel lonnean , per WiOiam Tripptree Is—Swindon , per D . Morrisou 9 s .
Received at Laxu Office . —Brighton , perW . GUIs 1 ZPliiHp Elliott Ss-Wm . Eccles 5 s . 3 d—I . S . D . 2 s—Ales . Giles , sen . 2 s—Ales . Giles , jun . Is—George Drysdall Is—G . . Is—Glasgow , per Mr . Sherrington II—H . King Is—Wm . Leicester Is— . Manchester , per AHcock 10 J—John Giles Is—Manchester , per J . Lee 1 L lCs—Mr . Jones , Lynn If—Mr . Ribbey , Tivenon HI—Wm . Wflson , Sacup 10 s—Mr . Henry Foster Is—R . Side , Lambeth Is—T . H . Side , Lambeth Is—E . Brew , Lambeth 6 d—B . Savage , Lambeth 6 d . Beceired by W . Rider .. £ 28 6 s . 9 a . Ditto at Land Office .. 18 8 3 Total £ 46 1-3 0 FOS COSTS OF MACNAMARA'S ACTION . Received bjW , Rideb .-J . Groom , LougBuekhyed ; a few Chartists , Dalstou , per an Old Guard 2 s- , Trieuds , Booden-Iane and Prestwich 3 s ; Cheltenham , per J . Hemmin 4 s . lid ; Holbrook , per J . Huckbyl 2 s ; W . Brakenbridge's family , Manchester is . 2 d . Received Try Jons Assorn . —JSr . Jama Watson , Xewcastle ^ upon-Tyne 2 s . 6 i
FOR THE AGITATION OF THE CHARTER . Received by Jons Abxott . —Collected at John-street , 1 L Ss ; Mr . James Watson , Xewcastle-upon-Tvne , Is : Peter Mnnay , Xeneastle-npon-Tvnels ; Wm . Hyde , 3 Hlbourne Port 1 ; James Hayes , Milboume Port Is . DEBT DUE TO THE PRINTER . Received by Jons Aenott . —Mr . James Watson , Sewcastle-npon-Tvne 2 s . Cd . TO EXEMPT PRISONERS FROM OAKUM PICKING . Beceired by W . Ridee . —T . B ., Radclifie Bridse 6 i Received at Laxd Ofhce . —G . W . fid . WILLIAMS AND SHARP'S MONUMENT . Received by W . Bjdek . —Mr . Uaroottle , per Mr . T . Brown 4 d . MRS . M ' DOUALL , Received by W . Rideb . —Carrington , per J . Sweet os ; SatcKffe , Crabtree , Jtocbdale , per K . Gfll 6 d ; $ . C , Radcliffe Bridge 6 d ; J . Lewis , Lantvrit Tarder Is . FOR MRS . JONES . Received by W . RroEB . —Walsall Chartists , per J . Mills 2 s . 6 d .
FOR DEFENCE OF MR . VERNON . Received bv W . Rideb . —Dalstou , Cumberland , per T . Sowerby 7 s ; T . B ., Radcliffe Bridge Cd . VICTIM FUND . Received atLisn Oitice . —G . W . GO . FOR WIVES AND FAMILIES OF VICTIMS . Received by W . Rideb . —Hamilton Democratic Associamn 11 ; T . B ., Radcuffe Bridge Cd ; Cheltenham , per J . Hemmin 4 s . 4 d . " NATIONAL VICTIM FUND . Received by John Abxott , Secretary . —Mr Rider , as per iiar 11 . 4 s . 10 d . ; Mr . J . Watson , Newcastle-on-Tyne , 2 s . fid .
The Cbeit Iiiiiix Pjiw.V-Snop;^-Tlie Mon...
THE cbeit Iiiiiix Pjiw . v-snop ;^ -Tlie Monte de Pitta was established in Home in 1585 . It is the greatest pawnbroker ' s shop in the world , and one ofthe noblest character . Any person who brings a para can borrow from sixpence to thirty crowns ^« "ont paying any interest , but all that is lent fh i sum pays two P er cent - P a *""™ - At wie end ofthe year the borrower may renew without ap ' expense , but at the end of two years , if the pledge be not redeemed , nor interest of tbe money paid , the pledge is sold , and the overplus of the debt is laid by for the owner , who has it in his power to demand it at any time within one hundred years .
CaxterbuRt Electios . —This election took place on Monday shortly after ten o ' clock . There being no other candidate , Colonel Eomilly iras declared duly elected , having been proposed by Alderman Heztae , and seconded by Jlr . Brent , inn . The Western German Gazette states that the execution of railways running from different parts of Bussia to Odessa , which is now in progress , will have the effect- of enabling enormous quantities of * heat to be brought to tbe markets of Western Europe at a ranch lower rate than at present . Peepjeaticxs os tbe most splendid scale are faking for the celebration of the marriage of tbe ^ ° i of Sweden ' s son with the Princess of the
^ etberlands , one of the richest princesses in inrope . Invitations have been sent to several d istinguished personages in this country to attend ue ceremony and festivities at Stockholm . , Jbe Electios of Lobd Rector , Aberdeen , 7 * been made in favour of Sheriff Gordon , who bad r ^? J % of seventy-t wo over his opponent , the gjtajr of the latter Day Parophlets-Tlioma 5 m Jons Fbaxkus . —a San Francisco paper , tbe ' ««« Good of December 29 th , publishes a vague sot empnt to the effect that Sir John Franklin had woi discovered «• by an English expedition . " vnu „ f ° , MD a ^ tchman , " you may say what To « t i ^ l , pout pad nei S"bonrs ; I bare had te W neighbours asnever was . Mine pigs and mine 5 * 3 T h 0 me " ? dere ears * V > and todder day wo of them come home missing . "
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JLETTERS TO THE WORKING CLASSES . - ^ LXXVIIL " Word « are things , anda small drop sf ink FaiUng—lite dew-upin a thought , produces That which makes thousands , perhaps millions thmk ' BIXON . T . U' . T'p-B'lJB
THE TAXES ON KNOWLEDGE . Bkothee Pkolbtakians , The debate on Jfr . Hume ' s motion—occupying nearly the whole of the evening of Thursday last—occasioned the postponement of Mr . MitNER Gibson ' s motion for the Repeal of the Taxes on Knowledge , which motion at present stands for Thursday next , March 14 th .
In my Letter , in the Star of February 23 rd , I described the several Taxes on Knowledge , and laid bare many of the evils resulting from their operation—I desire now to offer a few comments on the history of those taxes , and the iniquitous laws by which they are enforced and maintained . The curse of these taxes was first inflicted on the people of England in tbe reign of Queen A >* se . Partly to aid in raising the necessary means to carry on the war against France , and partly for the purpose of checking the growth of " seditious papers , '' and the
spread of " factions rumours / ' the Government of that day devised the Taxes on Knowledge . The progress of public opinion had put an end to the censorshi p against wrhichMiLTOS had protested , in his immortal "Appeal for the Liberty of Unlicensed Printing . " But , apprehensive of the people becoming too enlightened , if permitted to slake their mental thirst at the . fountain of unchecked Knowledge—a scheme as injurious , though more sale and less odious than the censorship , was devised for preventing the
progress of political information—the . scheme of fettering the press by fiscal restrictions . The results have fully answered-the expectations of the schemers . For a long time , the masses of the people remained deplorably ignorant as regarded political questions ; and to this very hour , the detestable taxes under notice , constitute the chief barrier to the enlightenment of that too numerous section of the community who are yet uninformed on political questions , and , as a natural consequence , are yet indifferent to their own rights and interests , and the 1 general welfare of their order .
By an Act passed in the tenth year of the reign of Queen Aune , authority was granted to the Government to levy duties upon "soap , silks , calicoes , linens , stuffs , stamped vellum and parchment , paper , and on certain printed papers , pamphlets , advertisements , & c . " I am unable to state the precise amount ofthe duty originally levied on paper ; the sum at present levied is ( as I have before stated ) tln-ee-halfpence per pound weight . For a lengthy period the duty on each advertisement was , in Great Britain , three shillings and sixpence ; and , in Ireland , two shillings and sixpence . In the reign of William IV . the duty was reduced to one shilling and sixpence in Great Britain , and one shillin ? in Ireland . This reduction was
immediately followed by a great increase in the number of advertisements . In the year previous to the reduction , the entire number of newspaper advertisements was 921 , 943 . In the year 1848 , the number had advanced to 2 , 109 , 179 . The entire repeal ofthe duty would be sure to cause an increase in the number of such announcements still more striking ; and were that repeal accompanied by the abolition of the otha * Taxes on Knowledge , there can be no doubt that the number of newspaper advertisements in this country would soon eqnal , and Tery probably exceed , the number published in the free journals of the United States , which may be estimated at not fewer than twelve millions annually .
The tax on public journals and political pamphlets , as imposed by the enemies of knowledge in the reign of Queen Anke , was one halfpenny on each copy—a small sum compared with the amount subsequently exacted . But small though it was , it sufficed to' immediately extinguish a considerable number of periodical publications : others lingered for a time , and then went the way of those which had preceded them in giving up the ghost . The act came into operation on the 1 st of August , 1712 , and forced Steele , the proprietor and editor of the Spectator , to raise tbe price
of his publication from one penny to twopence . The sale of that periodical immediately decreased one hal £ and within a year it ceased to exist . As a writer in the Weekly News not long since forcibly observed , " It was the duty of one halfpenny that crushed the publication of those classic specimens of English literature-ithe Spectator , the Taller , and the Guardian j and in the space of one year , the writings of an Addison and a Steele were suppressed by taxation . " As the country progressed in population andmaterial wealth , the demand- for intelligence
of public occurrences increased ; and , in spite of the Taxes on Knowledge , newspapers did multiply , though by no means to the extent they would have done had those taxes not existed . Seeing the demand for these vehicles of information , the ever-grasping rulers of the state added , from time to time , halfpenny after halfpenny , until the stamp-tax amounted to fourpence on each copy . As a matter of course , not a solitary newspaper existed , really devoted to the interests of the people . Owing to the operation of this tax , even Cobbettnotwithstanding his gigantic mental powers , and great popularity—could not establish a newspaper ; for bis immortal Register , though a newspaper in the eye ofthe law , was not a
newspaper in the ordinary sense of the term . The Megister was largely read , but was bought by only the few . Its price placed it beyond the reach of the masses . It is not too much to assume that the Northern Star could not have succeeded , and would probably not have been attempted , had its projector been forced to publish it at eightpence halfpenny or ninepence per copy . Under the circumstances existing at the time of its creation , it owed its success principally to the energy and popularity of Mr . O'Comor ; hut that gentleman could not have succeeded had not the violators ofthe law gone before him , and made the path straight , by compelling the Government to reduce the stamp-tax from fourpence to one
penny . . The celebrated " Six Acts" of Castle-EEAGHand Sidmouth , having rendered the publication of political periodicals ( unless published as newspapers ) all but impossible , a band of resolute men determined to set the infamous laws affecting the press at defiance . Foremost amongst these men , was the late Henry Hetherixgton— a man who laboured most sincerely to fence the world better than he found it . Thousands of the readers of this journal , were readers ofthe celebrated Poor Man ' s Guardian , which bore on its head and front the daring avowal : " Published in defiance of law , to try the power of ri ght against miht multitude
g . "' A of similar publications sprang into existence , including the Distinc tive , the Working Man ' s Friend , the Cosmopolite , the Man , the Gauntlet , the Republican , CJeave ' s Police Gazette , Consins ' s Political Register , & c . & c . To crush these " violators of law and order , " "the authorities" engaged in a crusade against publishers and vendors . Henkt Hethebikgton suffered two terms of six months imprisonment ; Mr . Watsox suffered twelve months . The late John Cleave , and a host of publishers and vendors in town and country , were punished with " the ntniost rigour of the law . " The writer of these remarks had his share of "
Government patronage" in the shape of three incarcerations — on one occasion for six months . Upwards of five hundred persons were dragged to gaol for selling the Poor
The Cbeit Iiiiiix Pjiw.V-Snop;^-Tlie Mon...
Man's Guardian only ,. It was a glorious struggle , and ; . was . bravely and victoriously sustained , by the champions of freedom - of thought and expression , After a struggle of four or five years the contest terminated in the discomfiture of the Government . The Chancellor of the Exchequer , Mr . Spring Rice ( now Lord Monteagle ) made the humiliating acknowledgment to Parliament , that "the Government had done all that was possible to enforce the law , hut the . law was unable to put down the evil . " Accordingly ( in the summer of 1836 ) the Government introduced a measure for reducing the stamp-tax frem fourpence to one penny . _ . . « . -,. . ' \ i . >"•¦ - •' . . - ' :- ' , V '' . '
Besides the stamp-tax on newspapers , there was a tax of one shilling and fourpence on every almanack published ; and at that time , two shillings , and half-a-crown , were the ordinary prices of the almanacks issued by the " Worshipful Company of Stationers . " The publishers of the unstamped newspapers boldly published almanacks , also in defiance of the law , and sold them at twopence , and one penny each . The sale of these " illegal publications" was enormous , and the Government thoroughly beaten , gave up the entire duty . If cheap almanacks are of any utility , the public are indebted for that cheapness entirely to those who , at the peril of much personal suffering , refused to pay the unjustifiable exactions decreed by the "King , Lords , and Commons . "
Unhappily the combatants for a Free Press were not so successful in the matter of newspapers . The advocates in Parliament of a totally untaxed Press , numbered but an . inconsiderable minority ; while the majority ; composed of both Whigs and Tories , were supported and influenced by the stamped journals . A select conclave of newspaper proprietors employed all the means at their . command ' , to secure the maintenance of then- monopoly . ' The penny stamp insured that monopoly , and deprived the unstamped victors of the full triumph they had struggled for—a thoroughly Free and totally Untaxed Press .
The New Law came into operation on the 15 th of September , 1830 , and a more infamous law was never imposed upon a people facetiously denominated " free "III A few specimens of the law will serve to show its atrocity , and the hypocrisy and tyranny of the faction by whom it was introduced into Parliament . " The Liberty of the Press is like the air we breathe , if we have it not we politicall y die , " was the text long preached from b y Whig orators , while yet on the shady side of the Speaker ' s chair , and , therefore , "friendsof the people / ' glorifiers of " Hampden who died on the field , and Sidney on the scaffold , " & c ,
& c , & c . The hypocrisy of this party is transparent , when such sentiments are contrasted with the tyranical edicts embodied in Spring Rice ' s act . By the seventeenth clause ol that act , a penalty of twenty pounds is imposed on any one who possesses a single copy of an unstamped publication " containing any public news , intelligence , occurrences , or any remarks thereon . " The eighteenth clause inflicts a penalty of fifty pounds on any one who distributes unstamped newspapers . The twenty-second clause enacts that , upon information g iven by any informer before any
Justice ofthe Peace that there is cause to suspect any printer of having been engaged in printing any unstamped paper , the said Justice shall be empowered and required to grant a warrant to search the premises ofthe suspected person , and if , upon such , any unstamped newspaper is found , tbe officers ofthe law shall be authorised to make seizure of all presses , engines , types , machines , implements , utensils , and materials for printing , which shall be forfeited to the crown . The 23 rd clause empowers constables to break open doors fer the purpose of search . "What a commentary on the vain-glorious vaunt that " every Englishman ' s house is his castle ' "
I shall return to this most important question . I have for this week set aside the consideration ol other matters , that I might embrace the opportunity afforded by the postponement of Mr . Miinkb Gibsox ' s motion , to again urge upon you to petition Parliament in its support . To assist , as far as possible , in this good work , I again print the petition suggested by the Newspaper Stamp Abolition Committee : — To THE IIOSOUBBLE THE HOUSE OF COMMONS , THE PETITION OF the Undebsigxed . ( Here insert their Description and Locality . ) Showeth , —That all Taxes which specially and directly impede the Diffusion of Knowledge , are injurious to the best interests of the Public .
That the Tax upon Newspapers—called the Stamp ; the Excise auty upon Paper , and the Tax upon Advertisements , are direct obstacles to the spread of ail kinds of valuable information amongst the great body of the People . Your Petitioners therefore pray , that the Excise Tax upon Paper , the Tax upon Advertisements , and the Stamp Tax upon Newspapers , may be abolished , leaving the proper authorities to fix a small charge for the transmission of Newspapers by the Post Ano toub PETiTiojjnis wot . everPhay . This form of petition must be copied in writing , as no printed petitions are received ; every person signing it should state his or her name and address ; it may then be directed , open at tbe sides , to any member ofthe House of Commons who will receive it post free . -
I will not repeat the reasons given in my letter of tbe 21 st of February , in favour of signing the above ( or any similar ) petition ; I will merely add , that in addition to the vast moral and political benefits which could not fail to flow from a repeal ofthe Penny Stamp , the duty on paper , and the duty on advertisements ; their abolition "" would give an immense impetusio every trade and calling connected with printing-, and publishing . Paper-makers , type-founders , printing-machine makers , compositors , pressmen , public writers , & c , & c ; would all find a new and immense field of employment opened to them .
The prosperity of those parties could not fail to be beneficial to all other callings ; and cheap advertisements , published in cheap journals , read by thousands where now only hundreds read , would be beneficial to trade in general , and , consequently , advance the welfare of the entire community . Let then from every paper mill , from every printing office , from every Mechanic ' s Institution , from every parish vestry , from every town council , and from public meetings called for the purpose , let the voice of the people ascend to Parliament demanding the abrogation of the tyrannical law of 1830 , and the total repeal of the detestable Taxes on KNOWLEnGE .
Without attempting to review the debate on Mr . Hume ' s motion , I must remark that it is difficult to determine whether the speeches ( delivered on Thursday night last ) of our avowed enemies , or of those v / ho profess to be our friends , were the most censurable . "While on the one hand , Sir G . Grey and Lord John Russell vied with each other in giving delivery to the most hypocritical professions of respect for the working classes coupled with the most insolent denial of their rights ; on the other hand , the " Parliamentary Reformers / ' while professing acknowledgment of the rights of the entire
people , gave their . support to a scheme devised Jor the express purpose of leaving the most oppressed and suffering portion of the people in tbe position of " bondmen and slaves ; " at the same time going out of their way to libel and insult a party which , though perhaps not faultless , may proudly claim the virtue of sincerity , and a steadfast adherence to principle—a virtue never known by the "black is white" politicians , who , on Thursday night last , masqueraded in the character of " Friends of the People . '' From such friends " Good Lord deliver us . " ^^^ - -n L'AMI DU PEUPLE . March 7 , 1850 .
General Dembisski.—By A Trick, To Which ...
General Dembisski . —By a trick , to which the French and English ambassadors at Constantinople are said to have been parties , General Dembinski has been renounced by M . Titoffas a Russian subject , and claimed by Baron Stunner as an Austrian one ; Austria having stipulated that all her subjects shall be kept as prisoners in Turkey . By this manoeuvre the General is detained at Schumlah , and is likely to remain there for years . ' Bucjtahest , Feb . 13 . —The crown of St . Stephen , ¦ wh ich Kossuth was supposed to have carried off , is now being traced . An Hungarian refugee named Bolisk has just been arrested at Constantinople , and several of the jewels belonging to the crown were found in his possession . '— Times .
It is said that General Lamoriciere , who bad given several symptoms of aberration of mind ever since the fatal day of the trees of liberty in Paris , has at length been pronounced to be in a state of raving insanity . Caution to the Public . —Messrs . Morison and the Society of Hygeists and Medical Reformers hereby caution the public that they have no sort of connexion with the ointments , pills , farinaceous powders sold in chemists' and druggists' shops . — British College of Health , ls ew-road , London , 1 st February , 1850 .
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^^I&Ct! Revival Of L The Agitation For T...
^^ i & CT ! REVIVAL OF l THE AGITATION FOR THE LAND AKD THE CHARTER . ¦ A numerous meeting ofthe members of the Land Company was held in the People's Institute , Manchester , on Sunday morning last , te take measures to promote the Honesty Fund : The chair was oecupwHTby Mr . John Sutton . Messrs . Clark and M- fcrath were present and addressed the meeting upon the ^ gross , unfair , and partial treatment experiencedtyMr . O'Connor at tho recent trial in the court of Exchequer . A committee was unanimously . ippomted , who immediately set about the work of
collecting , when - above £ 4 was subscribed . The 0 ni « r } n ! TTJ 11011 was m <> ved by Mr . Rankin , and Kr ° y . Mr- Gregorys- " That the Honesty i und Committee be instructed to prepare a petition to parliament expressive of the fullest confidence in J ) eargus O ' Connor , Esq ., and calling on the House to refrain from all interference in the winding-up of the Company ' s affairs , as that business C ^ u « est done by Mr > O'Connor and the members a ? Company . " The resolution was unanimously adopted , and the meeting separated . ¦ ¦
' AFTERNOON MEETING , ittpoo ' clock a meeting of the Chartist body wag held in the Institute , the object be ' ng to rally round Mr . O'Connor , and indemnify him against the expenses of the recent proceedings in the Court of Exchequer . The chair was occupied by Mr . John Walton . Messrs . Clark , M'Grath , Leach , and other speakers , addressed the meeting . A fine feeling of sympathy with Mr . O'Connor ' s wrongs , and a determination to strengthen him against his enemies , was evinced by all present . A committee was appointed , with instructions to act in concert with the committee appointed by the Land members .
EVENING MEETING . Shortl y after six o ' clock , notwithstand the heavy ram which prevailed , the institute was densely crowded in every part by an enthusiastic and spirited audience . Mr . John Walton in the chair . A collection was then commenced j when upwards Of £ . 6 was immediatel y subscribed to the Honesty Fund . Messrs . Clark , M'Grath , and Leach , addressed the meeting amid the greatest enthusiasm and applause . During the delivery of Mr . Clark ' s . "peech , Mr . Feargjis O'Connor and Mr . Roberts
entered the Hall , amid the most hearty and protracted plaudits it has ever been our lot to" hear . The meeting was subsequently addressed b y Mr . O'Connor and Roberts , upon the several topics of the ' day , including the present position of the National Land Company . Mr . James Leach was proposed to accompany Mr . O'Connor , Mr . M'Grath , and Mr , Clark , to Dublin ; and a collection was immediately made to defray his expenses . The following Petition to Parliament was then unanimously adopted .
TO THE HON 0 U 1 UBLE THE COMMONS OV CHEAT BRITAIN ANB
IREIAJJD , IS PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED . The Petition of the undersigned Members ofthe Man-Chester Branch of the National Land Company Sheivetd , —That your petitioners have heard that it is the intention of your Honourable House to interfere with the operations of the National Land Company to the effect of compelling it to wind up its affairs , under tho direction of persons to be appointed by your Honourable House . That your petitioners became members of the said Company from the desire to possess themselves of property in land , and from the unbounded confidence which they repose in the integrity , honour , and patriotism of its chiei
promoter and founder , Feargus O'Connor , Esq ., M . P . ; confidence which has been strengthened and consolidated , by his faithful'and ri ghteous discharge of the duties which have been imposed on him in his capacity of Unpaid Bailiff and Principal Director of the Company . Your petitioners are , from various reasons , anxious that the affairs of the Company should be terminated by being wound up ; but they respectfully suggest to your Honourable House that such a proceeding belongs legitimately to their friend , Mr . O'Connor , and his colleagues—the other Directors ; and therefore pray your Honourable House not to interfere in the business of the Company , and your petitioners will , as in duty bound , ever pray , & C .
At the conclusion of tho proceedings , which may be regarded as the regeneration of , tho Chartist movement , three soul reviving cheers were given for Feargus O'Connor , and three for the speedy triumph ofthe People ' s Charter .
Provisional Committee of the National Chahter Association . —The first meeting of this body , as at present constituted , was held on Tuesday , in the Coffee-room of the John-street Institution , Mr . J . Milne in the chair . John Arnott was elected secretary , pro . tern , lie ( Mr . Arnott ) reported , that an office bad been taken at No . 14 , Southamptonstreet , Strand . The report was received as satisfac'ory . After making several financial and other ar rangements , the committee adjourned to Wednesday evening next , when they will meet in the said office ,
at half-past seven o ' clock precisely . Dundee . —On Tuesday last the festival , for tbe benefit of Mr . Ernest Jones and Dr . M'Douall , came off here . Owing to a variety of causes , over which the committee had no control , the meeting was thinner than was anticipated . . The chair was ably filled by Mr . James Graham , who , in a neat speech , explained the objects for which the meeting had assembled . A number of the scholars of the Democratic School—under the direction of their teacher , John M'Crae—rentertained the company with a number of their favourite recitations , which gave general
satisfaction . Leicester . —A democratic meeting , attended by several paid-up shareholders of the National Land Company , was held on Monday evening , February 25 th , at Mr . J . T . Alphin's , Burkby Arms , Upper George-street , for the purpose of taking into consideration the conduct of John Hudson , who attended to give evidence against Mr . F . O'Connor , at the late trial , and also to decide upon what steps should be taken in order to support that gentleman against such infamous and diabolical attacks . A very animated discussion took place , after which the following resolution was passed : —•• This meeting having viewed the exertions of Mr . F . O'Connor for several years past to forward the cause of liberty ;
believing also that he has expended a fortune , perilled his life , sacrificed his liberty and the onjoyments of family connexion to improve the social and physical condition of the toiling millions—we , therefore , take this opportunity of not onl y recording a vote of entire confidence in him , but also of pledging ourselves to render all the pecuniary aid in our power to prevent his calumniators from having their desire—namely , to destroy his popularity and ruin him with expenses . " Tho meeting then considered the conduct of John Hudson , said to be of Leicester , now an allottee on Snig's end . After a lengthened discussion , which was taken up with great interest , various accounts were given of his private character , while in Leicester ; out of the
many given us we inclose the following as a sample : — " John Hudson , now an allottee at Snig ' s End , borrowed £ 2 10 s . ofthe 'Determined Brothers ' Lodge , " at Leicester , to help him to get on the Land ; he has not paid any money into tho Lodge since that time , and he is now excluded by nonpayment ; he bas been requested to pay . " As to the statement he made respecting his earnings while in Leicester , large numbers who knew him are prepared to prove that he never did or could average more than half the amount ; they avo also prepared to prove that he gave up work several . veeks sooner than he need have done , previous to leaving Leicester , and was drinking the greater part of that time—expending moneys which he borrowed , but has never paid back . A vote of
censure was passed upon his conduct , and a committee was elected to collect subscriptions to defray the expenses incurred on the trial . The committee will sit at the Barkby Arms , Upper George-street , for one month , to receive subscriptions . Tho smallest amount will be booked ; and acknowledged in the Northern Star at the expiration of the month . Barnsley . —The friends of Mr . O'Connor held a meeting in Mr . George Utley ' s large rooni , on Monday night , March Ith , to devise the best mode of obtaining funds-to help to defray the expenses incurred by that' gentleman in defending his character . Mr . John Yallance moved the following resolution : —f- ' iThat it is the duty of the working people of Barnsley to subscribe to rho Honesty Fund ,
to enable F . O Connor , Esq . to defray the expenses of his late trial , without touching his own money . That the subscription be commenced this night , and to be kept open for four weeks , and that Mr . George Utley be treasurer . "—Mr . 'Norton seconded the resolution , which was carried unanimously . The following persons were appointed to receive subscriptions : —Mr . John Preston , Worsbro * Common ; Mr . William Pearson , Burton ; Mr . Michael Dean , top . of "Wilson ' s Piece , Burnslcy ; Mr . James Low , Minion-row ; Mr . Joseph Blades , Dohcasterroad district ; Mr . John Vallance , Copper-street district ; Mr .. Suttliff , Nuke district ; Mr . "William Cavill , Westgate district ; Mr . Frank Mirfield , New-street district .
Norwich . —At the weekly meetingof members on Saturday , March 2 nd , the followuig resolutions were agreed to : — " That this meeting bas the most unbounded confidence in the honesty and .. integrity of Mr . O'Connor , notwithstanding the calumnies of Bradshaw and tho Press generally . "" That this meeting is also of opinion that the expenses which that gentleman has been subjected to belong to the people . "— " That this meeting agree to take £ 1 from their funds towards defraying the cost of the late'libel case . " We trust that all wil ' act in accordance with tho spirit of Mr . Reynolds ' s letter in the Star , of the 23 rd ult ., and assist that gentleman who has risked all for the benefit of the people .
Sheffield . —In consequence of the langour into which our society in this town has fallen , a preliminary meetingof a few ofthe Chartists was held at the Democratic Temperance Hotel , 33 , Queenstreet , on Sunday evening last , to consider the best means-of re-orgahisation . Wo , the undersigned , beg to apprise our friends , that our liabilities are considerable ; wc say our liabilities , because we do not intend tJjjC burden to rest upon one individual , neither willow friends , we think , when they come to reflect , allow any one to be sacrificed without an effort being made to prevent such a disgrace to the
^^I&Ct! Revival Of L The Agitation For T...
Sheffield Chartists .. We . further think , that it is not only desirable , but strictly necessary , that a determined effort should be made to re-organise the Chartists under the plans laid down by . the Pro . visional Executive . Wo further agree that a meeting of the most active of our friends be summoned for next Sunday evening , to further consider the subject ; in the meantime , we beg to remain , yours very respectfully , —Aaron Higginbottom , Thomas Kenshaw , William Cavill , George Cavill . Sheffield . — A special meeting of the Land members was held in-the Democratic Temperance Hotel , 33 , Queen-street , on Tuesday evening , March the 6 th , —Mr . Higg inbottom in the chairwhen the following resolutions were adopted . — .. _ . ^ , . . .
Moved by Mr . Jackson , and seconded by George Goodlad : — That the affairn of the Company be wound up directly . " Moved by Samuel Clayton , and seconded by John Owen : — " That the directors , and all other expenses be dispensed with as soon as possible . " Moved by Gcorg « Trance , and seconded by Samuel Jackson : — " That a balance sheet for the last twelve months , shall be sent to the Sheffield branch directly . " Moved by Mi " . Mitchell , and seconded by Thomas Hague , the following resolution : — " That it is the opinion of this meeting , that inasmuch as we have witnessed with great pleasure the complete failure of the late proceedings in the Court of Exchequer , backed by the whole press of England to injure and ruin the
honest reputation of Mr . O'Connor ; that that gentleman is still worthy of our undivided confidence , » nd we take this opportunity of expressing our warm approbation of his long and unwearied exertions to promote the happiness of the working classes of this country . " The resolutions were carried by a large majority . Leicester . —On Monday evening , March 4 th , Mr . G . W . M . Reynolds delivered an address of about two hours' duration , to a large and attentive audience , in the New Hall , Wellington street , on " The Necessity of Political and Social Reform . " During his lengthy address he was repeatedly app lauded . After dwelling at great length upon the manner in which ' tho aristoowioy had usurped tho
power and wealth of the country for ages , and appropriated the same to their own sole benefit , Mr . R . turned upon the moneyocracy and said , that much as the people had been oppressed under the feudal lords , they would be much more so under the money-lords , if they had the same power . He then touched upon the affairs of Continental Europe , stating they were fast approaching a crisis there , and when the people were once more victorious they would know how to deal out retribution , without being " a bloody democracy . " The speaker in a masterly manner explained the different points of the People ' s Charter , clearly showing that our social condition cannot be permanently improved until we have a fair share in making , and
administering the laws of the country . If there was one part of his address more applauded than another , it was when showing the happy and j rosjerous condition of the American Communists , where they can not only enjoy the luxuries and elegancies of life , by four hours work each per day , but carry on an export trade besides , proving beyond dispute that the people are . Chartists and something more . After stating that it was the first time ho had visited Leicester , and that such a meeting would be an inducement for him to visit it again , Mr . Reynolds resumed his seat amidst the general satisfaction of all present . A vote of thanks to Mr . R ., and the chairman , and a collection towards the " Honesty Fund " concluded the proceedings of the
evening . Birmingham . —On Monday evening , March 4 th , a meeting was held in the Deritend and Bordcsly district , at the Swan , Warwick-street , Mr . Jackson in the chair ; Resolutions were passed fully concurring in the election of the Provisional Committee , and also that a lecture should be given at the same place by Mr . Thompson , on the rights of labour , on Monday night next . Hull . —At the adjourned meeting of ' this branch , one of our Chartist friends having some time ago made a present to be drawn for , the proceeds to be devoted to Chartist purposes , ten shillings ( the sum realised on that occasion ) was given to the Honesty Fund , making £ 1 os . 7 d . collected , to be sent as the first instalment . The meeting then adjourned to Monday night , March 11 th , to give those an opportunity who have not yet contributed to the fund .
Proceedings In Parliament. The Usual Pub...
PROCEEDINGS IN PARLIAMENT . The usual public meeting took place on Tuesday last at the Institution , John-street , Fitzroy-square . Mr . Brown was called to the chair , who after a few observations introduced Mr . Reynolds . Mr . G . W . M . Reynolds moved the first resolution , which ran as follows : — " That this meeting regards as an insult and a defiance , the refusal ot the House of Commons to concede even the limited measure of reform demanded by Mr . Hume last weeki at thesauio time it expresses its indignation and disgust at the wanton , unprovoked , and false attack made by Mr . Hume upon the Chartisl body , whom he denounced as tho enemies of all reforms ; and this meeting moreover recognises the absolute necessit y of the working' classes persevering in a vigorous and energetic
agitation on behalf of the Peoples Charter . "Mr . Reynolds stated that as the debate upon Mr . Hume ' s motion constituted the prominent feature in last week's Parliamentary proceedings , he should dwell especially upon that point . Thej all knew that the measure of reform proposed by Mr . Hume was insignificant enough in comparison with the great principles contained in the People ' s Charter , and yet tho government and the legislature had insolently and audaciously rejected even that demand for a poor and miserable instalment of the popular rights . The defiance was , then , again flung forth from St . Stephen ' s ; and the industrious classes must continue to agitate until their objects should be gained . ( Cheers . ) Mr . Hume ' s measure of reform was narrower and circumscribed enough , It only proposed to raise the electoral body from
a million to three millions and a-half ; and as his scheme was precisely the same as-that which constituted the programme of the National Parliamentary and Financial Reform Association , it was clear , from Mr . Hume ' s deliberate and studied statement , that the Association just alluded to had made a lamentable error in the emancipation of four , millions in addition to the present million of voters . There was consequently a vast amount of difference between the suffrage projects of Mr . Hume , and the middle-class party on the one hand , aad those of the Chartists on the other . Indeed , the value of the . middle class measure would , if carried , he comparatively neutralised altogether by the fact , that tho principle of " paid-representation " was omitted from the scheme . ( Hear , hear . ) Without this principle , the representation would
continue in the hands ot the wealthy classes as it was at present ; and labour would therefore still remain unrepresented altogether . Mr . Reynolds then proceeded to comment upon tho scandalous attack made by Mr . Hume upon the Chartists in general , and upon Mr . O'Connor in particular . Mr . Hume had gratuitously and shamefully travelled out of his way to insult the Chartist body . ( Hear . ) Who were tho Chartists ? . The most enlightened portion of the working classes ; and it was therefore against the great bulk ofthe intelligent masses that Mr . Hume had levelled his insolent accusations . He denounced them as the most dangerous enemies of all reform . ( Cries of " Shame , shame ! " ) Ah ! it was indeed a shame , as ho ( Mr : Reynolds ) would proceed to show them . For Sir Joshua Walmsley , Mr . George Thompson , Mr .
Tindal Atkinson , and other leaders of the Parliamentary Reform Association , had constantl y comp limented the Chartists upon their conduct towards that movement ; and it was likewise a fact , which ho : ( Mr . Reynolds ) would unhesitatingly proclaim , that the very movement itself existed only by the sufferance and / toleration of the working classes . ( Cheers . ) At any momentj any two Isaders of the Chartists could bring the chiefs of that middle-class movement to their senses , by brlngh > e forward at one of their public meetings an amendment in favour of the Charter . ( Tremendous cheering . ) Why , even in the very heart of the City—at the London Tavern—this course could be adopted at any moment ; and the amendment so proposed would be carried by an overwhelming majority . ( Cheers . ) Well , then , the middle-class movement existed by the permission and the forbearance of the Chartists ; and the
Chartists ought not to be reviled and denounced as the opponents ofall measures of reform . Mr . Humehad taken a course which covered him with disgrace , and had ruined him in the estimation of tho working-classes . ( Hear . ) It was now necessary to allude to another point . Mr . Hume , who moved the '' little Charter" In the Hon ; eof Commons , assailed tiie Chartists in the maimer just described ; did Sir Joshua Walmsley , who seconded Mr . Hume ' s motion ,, defend the Chartists and rebuke Mr . Hume ? The newspaper reports said nothing of tho kind , and he ( Mr . Reynolds ) was afraid that Sir Joshua Walmsley had not done what he ought to have done in that matter . Sir Joshua had everywhere avowed himself thoroughly a Chartist in principle ? , and had complimented the Chartists again and again for supporting his Association . Then , why did he not defend them in the House of Commons ? Why did he not vindicate them from his place in Parliament ? It was a painful thing to speak thus harshly of Sir Joshua Walmsley , whom he ( Mr . Reno ! ds ) had always looked upon as a thoroughly sincere , honest , and straightforward man ; but , reaUy , this point required clearing up .
Now , the fact was , that the Chartists must take a decisive course . They must ascertain who were their real friends , and who were their secret enemies . After the abuse which had been heaped upon them in parliament by ' Mr . Hume , and the silence of other self-styled "liberal members " upon the subject ; the Chartists must conduct their own agitations upon principles calculated to absorb , if necessary , all other agitations for minor reforms . ( Cheers . ) This course was forced upon t iie Chartists by the scandalous way in which they had been attacked in parliament ; and now he ( Mr . Reynolds ) would promptly and candidly tell them what he meant to do . There was a Conference to assemble In London in the month of April , — a Conference caUcd by the National Parliamentary and Financial Reform Association . At that Conference all members of the Association would be allowed to bs present , and likewise to take part in the proceedings . i . very individual paying a shilling to that Association and thereby constituting himself a member , would be entitled to speak and vote at the forUicoming Conference . Well , at that Conference , he ( Mr . Reynolds ) now pledged himself to the
Proceedings In Parliament. The Usual Pub...
meeting , and to the country , that he would , in his capacity as a member of the council , -move that the principle of ' « paid representatives" be added ; . to the programme of the Association , arid'that the 'Suffrage clause epecifying the claim " to be rated ; " be altered so us to establish the franchise oh the claim " to he registered . " These propositions would he move at the Conference ofthe National Par hamentary and Financial Reform Association . ( Tremend ous cheer ing . ) Yes : he would perform this duty unflmchirigly ; and let it be well understood that this line of policy was now forced upon Mm by the abuse and the insults levelled at the cause in which he entertained so heartfelt an interest , and against the class to whom-his sympatiues were devoted . The result of . that line of policy would be to let the Chartists know who were their real friends and who were their foes in the ranks ofthe middle-class reformers . They would then act accordingly . ( Hear . ) Mr . Reynolds then called upon those present to prosecute the Chartist agitatien with increasing vigour , zeal , andenercy ; and resumed his seat amidst loud cheers . . . ., •__* . _ . „ ...., _ ,..
Julian IIabnet seconded the resolution , and critised the debate on Mr . Hume ' s motion ; his remarks elicited great applause . M . J . B . O'Brien supported the resolution in a lengthy and valuable speech , which deservedly called forth the enthusiastic applause of the meeting . The meeting then separated .
The Honesty Fund. To William Rideb. Dear...
THE HONESTY FUND . TO WILLIAM RIDEB . Dear Sin , —As a human body is useless without a head , so is a political society , without a leader , und hence we find it to be the object of all who live upon , and not by labour , to cut off from amongst us our glorious champion , O'Connor ; seeing they cannot do it by intimidation or bribery , they are determined to do it , if possible , by " ruining him with expenses . " But I hope those for whom he has so long struggled will at once come forward with their pence in support of his law expenses , and thus prove to Bradshaw , the jury , judge , and government , that an insult offered to him is offered to all the sons of toil . For this purpose a few real democrats , meeting once a wefik at the Light Horseman , Stump-cross , Majidalon-strcct , Norwich ,. have ; sent you an order for ten shillings .
Yours faithfully , in the cause of democracy , John Hurrell ,. Weaver
TO FEARGUS O ' COXKOR , ESQ . . Sir , —I have seen in the daily papers the unjust verdict given in favour of your libeller , viz ., the proprietor of the Nottingham Journal . I have enclosed you a post order for 5 s . towards defraying the expenses you have incurred , and hoping that every Chartist and . lover of justice will do their duty by subscribing their mite , and enabling you to triunipli over your enemies , I remain , yours , in the cause of Liberty , Kidderminster . James Green .
to the editor of me nobthehn star . ' Sir , — The Chartists of Tiverton feel it their imperative duty to respond , at the earliest opportunity , to the call made , upon them , and all who hate injustice , in the Star of February 23 rd . In doing so , they sincerely hope and trust that every locality where Chartists exist—be they few or many—will do the same , and in proportion to their numbers . We have to regret that the number here willing to support the cause from their pocket is so small ; but , in this instance , we have made up for the want of numbers by the amount of our individual ; subscriptions . We have forwarded to the Land-office Yin order for £ 2—this amount being realised principally by subscribers of one shilling each . Sir , a
more infamous case of perverted justice—equalled only by the inconsistency of the verdict—than the case of O'Connor v . Bradshaw , it was never our lot to notice . We see clearly that the policy of " Ruin him with expenses" is intended to be carried , out . Our conscience shall never accuse us of allowing this to be effected . We beg to recommend to the especial notice of the working men of Sheffield , the splenetic Roebuck , -who was counsel for Bradshaw . If this conceited M . P . does not sink to the level of his predecesssor in the representation of that town , and become a servile panderer to a corrupt government , we shall be mistaken . If the men of Sheffield are made of that sterling mettle we give them
credit for , they will call their wusrepresentatjve to account , when he next appears publicly before them . In doing so , they will no doubt , give him some hard nuts to crack , which will cause him to exhibit some of those grimaces so characteristic of the little animal . In conclusion , sir , we beg to say , that it is our heartfelt wish and sincere prayer , that the " curses of hate , and the hisses of scorn , " may accompany those men who have combined to injure Mr . . 0 ' Connor : and that all who appreciate the Herculean labours and untiring energies of that gentleman , may fly to his defence , and acquit themselves honourably , is the fervent hope and trust of The Tivertox Chartists . March ith , 1850 .
The Late Trial Tor Libel. To Teahgus 0'C...
THE LATE TRIAL TOR LIBEL . TO TEAHGUS 0 ' CONNOR , ESQ ., M . P . Sib , —I read the report of your trial with Bradshaw to a few members ofthe Land Company , and they desired riie to express to you their sympathy and affectionate regard , and at the same time to say , that they were disgusted beyond measure at the conduct of your persecutors , and were willing , if they saw you in difficulty , to surrender the entire amount of their subscriptions to tho Company . They were quite pleased to hear Roebuck announce that all the monies and estates were solely vested in Feargus O'Connor , believing that they could not be in better or more honest hands . Yours respectfully , A Paid-up Member of the Land Company . Stourbridge .
To Tre Chartists Of Tiie United Kingdom....
TO TRE CHARTISTS OF TIIE UNITED KINGDOM . " Ha who allows oppression shaves the crime . " Brother Democrats , — Having been present during the whole of the trial of the action for libel , O'Connor v . Bradshaw ,-1 feel it to be my duty to call your particular attention to the facts of the case . In the first place , the libel tvas proved ; and had the plaintiff been any other man in England besides Mr . O'Connor , a verdict would have been given in his favour . Secondly , —the defendant pleaded a justification , and how did he attempt to prove it ? By "introducing a set of scamps from Snig ' s End . One fellow , formerly a frameworkknitter , from Leicester , had the unblushing effrontery to state to the jury that he' had been ; in the
habit of earning a guinea per week , and his wife from five to seven shillings , and from which he had been decoyed by Mr . O'Connor ! lYhen cross-examined , he would not swear he could earn ten . What will the framework-knitters of Leicester , Settingham , and Derby think of the statement' of this individual ? Is it not a well-known fact that the average earnings of the trade will not amount to ten shillings per week , and but few earn more than that sum ? And yet he wished to make it appear that he had suffered grievous wrong by getting a better house than ho ever lived in before ; some land on which he ought to have laboured , and a considerable sum of money which had been subscribed bv woi'kinff men : surely he was dreadfully
deceived . Another roan , a slater , from Derby , told a rigmarole tale . about earning two or three pounds per week , and about keeping two horses and carts ; but he could not find time to cultivate the land after spending your money , because he had become churchwarden ; he would rather find fault than pay what was justly due . Another , a weaver , from Scotland , said he could earn a guinea or more per week . Why did not these people stop where they were ? The Land Plan was not meant for prosperous individuals like them , but for the poor weavers , stocking-makers , arid labourers , whose earnings very seldom amount to ten shillings per week . My own deliberare opinion is , that if it had been an
angel from heaven , or tho Saviour of mankind , without spot or blemish , tho prejudices of the jildge and jury would have given a verdict against him Their object being to " ruin him with expenses . " I ask , will you , the working men , stand tamely by and silently submit to this act of injustice ? If so , you have received as much freedom as you deserve ; if otherwise , act promptly , and show that you heartily sympathise with , and will assist , a mana gentleman—persecuted for the crime of endeavouring to assist the down-trodden slaves of humane and enlightened England ! I remain , yours respectfully , Nottingham . James Sweet . P . S . ~ I shall return a gain to this subject .
Evafohation From We Thames.-A Larger Qua...
Evafohation from we Thames .-A larger quailtity of matter is raised from the Thames by evaporation than is generally supposed . Upon Mr . Glaisher ' s estimate 678 , 505 gallons evaporate from an acre of water in a year , which is at the rate of 1837 . 0 gallons daily . The bed of the Thames , in London , is estimated approximately at 2 , 245 acres , consequently , 4 , 170 , 000 gallons are raised from the Thames , on an average , daily through the year . The quantity evaporated at low water is , perhaps , much less than this ; on the other hand , the evaporation in summer is more active than in winter ; and the proportion of decomposing organic matter in the water , and on tbe banks exposed to
evaporation is greater at low than at high water . Upon the whole , it is probable that in summer four million gallons , or about 18 , 000 tons of water are raised from the polluted Thames daily , and discharged into the atmosphere 'which is breathed by the inhabitants of London . It remains to determine how much of tho organic matter in tho water is raised with the vapour at different temperatures . Amongst the officers of the French post-office is a police-agent , to examine all printed mottoes on letters , and to seize all which government .
May Displeabo^Tbe ^ ~, /%^' - '--'- ¦ ''...
may displeaBO ^ tbe ^ ~ , / % ^' - ' -- ' - ¦ '' may displeaw-tflfi ; ( 25 fm > ,-:- y - \ £ dVXe >' "" :- - ""¦*' & % < il ^ V-- - . r - >* 4 £ fef ; ; gj c ^ fcj |^ Cl w \ i **; V *''¦ 'A ^ i ^ J ^^^^^ B
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Citation
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Northern Star (1837-1852), March 9, 1850, page 5, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse2.kdl.kcl.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/ns2_09031850/page/5/
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