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TO THE IMPERIAL CHARTISTS,
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<nfea?tt0t smitttgittt*.
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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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JIT Dsislt Beloved Emends , —I now » ae to the narrative of mj Yorkshire tour , and in truth & glorious oae it was . I left Manchester at seven e ' efock on Monday morning , sod met with the eecre-£ rj"bf the Bradford Chartists whcrwas ie accompany po to Uttio Berton , where we were to join the pio assoa . Smith is an Irishman . 1 merely mention that fact as part of the answer to Mr . O'Connell ' s asser tion , thai in England there teas no Irish Chartists" Smith doesidi make an exception , bat on the contrary , wherever I jjo I find Irishmen taking
an afitive lead in the present movement , and I hare tltf great satisfaction to know thit they are greatly reepected by their En / sHsn fellow-working men . We Bet the procession at Little Horton , and proceeded When ce to Bradford , in the order reported in last ireek'rStar ^ oTthe turn out" in honour of Chartism at Bradford . I mxj truly say that it not only astonished as , bat literally paralized every , foe to liberty who witnessed it . Of the many great and g lorious demonstrations I erer saw , I am bound in jasticc to say that according to population , Bradford beat all . It would be utterly impossible to make
% gness at the tens of thousands who congregated cpon the occasion , while the order , good eonduet , and decorum at once refuted the charge of licentiousness , so often made against our friends . One thing , as regards this demonstration , is very carious . It is this ; one little fellow who guesses for the Bradford Observer , wrote ns down as 6 , 000 , while he who performs a similar office for the York CffurasX , makes ns but 3 , 000 ; now was the chap $ f the Observer drunk , or was M t ' other beggar *' Hind I which was it » These fellows are becoming of great serrice to ub jast now , a 3 they
enable the middle classes to judge of the Talne and Teracityof their organs , Yoa saw the resolutions ihat were passed ; but you « onld not judge of ihe eaihusiasm of the meeting and of the ability of the speakers . I here met West , the West Riding lecturer , for the first tine ; and although I had heard much of him , yet had report , which was loud ja his praise , fallen far abort of hi 3 meriu , I cansot spare much space to & description of him , while silence would be neglect of duty . He is Tery young and very small , but uncommonly well pat together . He is one of the most modest men I ever met ; in fact he requires shoving to force him into his proper position , and I feel convinced that
obi friends in all other parts will be happy to recognise an addition to their strength in the fact that West , another Irishman , is acknowledged by all to be second to none in the art of debating , and in power and willingness to expound and support the gnat principles of democracy . I think he makes James Leach his monitor , and worthily he follows in the track of his great preceptor . In fact he is a host jn himself . In ihe evening we had a grand Soiree . Mr . Ciarkson filled , as he ought to do , the post of ioDOur both within and without , and discharged the duties of cffice welL This gentleman is of the pextest use to Chartism throughout the district , and is generally respected and beloved .
I must now mention the work cut out for me in the evening . load to address those who took tickets for the Soiree , in the Social Institution , and then to pro-¦ eted to the Mechanics' Institute , the second largest building in the town ; and both of them much too snail to give satisfaction or accommodation to oar mnnerons friends . In txet we conld haye filled * building at one shilling a head , capable of holding 6 , 000 persons . I enrolled fifty-seven new members at the Mechanics' Institute , asd then I returned and enrolled forty odd at the Social Institution . This is work which I will never undertake
again ; going from one oven to another . It was raining the whole time . This is too much to expect , but is nevertheless frequently arranged for . But , once for all , I never again will attempt it . Upon the whole , I should say that nothing could exceed the Bradford demonstration from btguuusg to end . She day was beautiful ; that is the Chartist part of U . It was a Whig xoornixig , fall of promise , bat it -deceived us ; it was a Chartist day , fresh and Emiling and a Tory evening—no mistake about it—just what ii promised upon our breaking up the out-door . meeting , dark , dirty , and pelting .
I cannot conclude without returning thanks to ihe Committee for their excellent arrangements , always and nevertheless excepting those relating to myself , which though good-cat&redly intended were too severe . However , I got through ; and upon -ttte whole , I learn that the " ttselets dLpbzy " and its results have been most beneficial to our cause in Bradford and Halifax . On Wednesday , the Halifax Demonstration came off , and , in truth , it also was a bumper . 1 was met by several thousands , with bands and banners , at the Sowerby Bridge Station . I wna wholly incapable
of addressing them , but West was kind enough to make the want unfelt . After a short delay at Sowerby , the Halifax procession arrived ; and , after Yam attempts to form them into four , six , or even iwefre deep , we proceeded , en route and en masse , to Halifax . It is great folly to attempt anything like processional ordei with such numbers ; as I feel -assured that either the Bradford or Halifax masses , if arranged four deep , would reach from Bradford to Leeds , a distance of ten miles . When the profession reached the town it was literally astounding . I thought it more numerous than that of
Bradford , while West and others , who were at both , considered Bradford much the more numerous . However , 1 never Eaw , for the population , ( always bear that in mind , ) so many moving as at Halifax . It ns like one great tide of human beings , « arrybg with it every opposing obstacle ; all seemed to be in motion . Our part of the day , as on Monday , was splendid , and nothing seemed to m ** 1 the- delight , save and except one very low-bred and ignorant act of a gentleman on horseback . I believe one of the London * lice . " who could not wait for two minutes at a
crossing . No , no , it would be beneath his dignity ; bo he literally rode through , or rather across the procession , to the great amusement of the body , who , instead of hooting or insulting , set up a derisive laugh , and exclaimed— " Tour day is pone , old chap ; &o ? t ail spite . " Yes , in his ignorant presumption they witnessed the fall of pride , and Iobs of Btation ; bnt I hope these experiments will not be too often attempted , as I know not what I might be tempted to do , if a gentleman ' s horse trod on my toes at the biodiag of its master . I don ' t like practical jokes , * ad therefore I never play them ; and I would recommend the same forbearance to all . When the
procession arrived in front of the Odd Fellows ' Hall , the crowd was immense . I addressed them briefly , as did the Rev . Mr . Jackson , and then the living tide receded , and in less than half an hour no trace of the busy bustle remained . In the evening , howerer , and very early , too , the door of the spacious building was beset by thousands . It is capable of holding between three and four thousand S but , as obs erved by the Committee , it was incapable of holding a tenth of those who would have willingly paid for admission . Old Ben Rashton , that prinee « f patriots , waB in the chair : and , believe me , Be
had no sinecure . When I arrived , every inch was Hocked , and I had to be literally wedged through the dense crowd to the hustings . I beg pardon of the Weekly Chronicle , bat it was really smoking , wedging orer head and shoulders , enthusiastic , and everything that the knowledge-monger conld wish " , * ad something more . I wish M Cotton Twist" had fc * en present . It was impossible to proceed for a length of time , in consequence of the rush at both u o * M , and the eternal knocking outside vrhen they " ere dosed . However , at length we got to worki * od sever had Chartism a greater treat . I will jot Kentiea the speakers , and then the reader
* ill appreciate the diligence of the Coxsnittee . BdLtf Maaeheeter , West , Rev . Mr . Jackson , Mr-* wderick Lee * , of Leeds , Knowles , of Keighley ( who , I think , made tie speeek of the evening , ) and you lm » Me servant ware all present ; and I should like to meet an equal number of oar leaned foes . O , what athr&skbjt we womld give them I After the Proceedings , we enrolled more tb * n » ne hundred new Members ; and thus ended the Halifax Demonstra tion . There is one circumstance I cannot avoid ttentisHLing just here , and ene which , in my mind , is most important . Wken the Whigs were in power , the aEcouncement of a public meeting was ¦ ttTiriably foliovred by a proclamation from the
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great unpaid , or by a Government order , to have the troops under arms , and in readiness ; but new whY * e ver I go , I find the soldiers , without arms , mixing with the people , and no warlike preparations whatever . Whether this proves Whig folly and cowardice , © i Tory wisdom , and foresight I cannot say ; bat so it is . At Aberdeen alone was there a declaration of war , and that was made by an upstart Whig mayor , whom nature cut out for a journeyman , but system made a master of him . Indeed to such a frightful extent was the plan of regimental preparation carried
wider the peace and retrenchment" Whip , that I fearlessly assert , had not the over-zeal of administration been tempered by the prudent caution of Colonel Wemyss , we should have had more than one revolution in Lancashire during th « peaceful reign of Whiggery . The fact I believe is , that England owes to Colonel Wemy S 3 , more than to the rascally Whigs , the preservation of the peace of the North . I have most closely watched the conduct of Colonel Wemyss , the Commandant of the district , for many years , and I unhesitatingly declare , that his mild use of the power committed to his hands , has , more than royal proclamations ,
magistrates' proclamations , and ministerial proclamations , tended to the preservation of the peace of the country . I know some gallant gentlemen , who would have made a mess of things long since . I mention these facts , because while I write , I fiterally tremble at the very ides of the use which a Whig Government might and would have made of their physical power , if in office , during the present distress , which they have been mainly instrumental in creating ; because , during ten years , they denied its existence , and feared to look the monster evil , steam power , in the face .
J ) ewsbpey . —On Thursday , at five o clock , I joined the Millbridge and Heckmondwike procession . I drank tea with that good and consistent Chartist , Mr . Penny , of Millbridge . We proceeded , at six o ' clock , to Heckmondwike , with bands and transparencies , to meet " the men of Dawsbary When we arrived at Heckmondwike the numbers were immense , and I was induced to address them from the window of a Tory that was , a Chartist that is . Yes , he has seen the folly of hi 3 ways , and has become a convert to the holy and orthodox creed of Chartism . The spectacle was beautiful in
the extreme ; a mass of human beings , with their faces all directed to one point , the night serene and beautiful , while a strong belief in our increased strength seemed to animate the bosoms of all present . As soon as I had concluded , we proceeded towards Dewsbury , under the command of that indefatigable and zealous chieftain Moseley Siott . When the Dewsbury procession joined , our numbers were tremendous , while none appeared to dread an improper use of our power . The old women who manifested mush fear of us in 1835 , are now much more afraid of opening their tills
or of closing their bankers' accounts . They have transferred their apprehension from the hobgobblin of Chartism to the substantial reality of pauperism , Those who used to curse us , now cry , " God bless tcto , am ) mat tou TROSTSB .. " I fear they are the prayers of the wicked ; however , we take them as they are meant , and help ourselves without relying upon the prayers of our friends . At Dewsbury the good fellows built a very fine and commodious pavilion , at a great expense ; it ia capable of accommodating about 4 , 000 in the body and about 300 in a gallery . Another Irishman ,
Daniel Head , was called to the chair , and discharged his duties like an Irishman ; I need say bo more . He was loudly cheered . West Bpoke at great length , as did that good and never-fading friend , Titus Brooke , who read the National Petition as well as it could be read , and subsequently , in a very able and kind m « - "n « T explained the evils which the proposed document sought to remedy . He was loudly cheered by his townsmen , and made a good impression upon his audience . I need not tell you that I spoke , as you will doubtless hare guessed that .
Now , just a word or two . I would recommend those national edocational gentlemen , who are not total abstainers , to beat least moderate , if they are magistrates , lest their seal may get the better of their prudence and lead them astray . When they dine oit , they should drink , it at all , moderately ; and if they have not sufficient education to teach them the value of self-possession , why then they should take the pledge at once , as a necessary mode of self-defence against self-destruction .
The men of Dawsbury , I am glad to say , intend to convert their pavilion , which is to remain up till Christmas , to the best possible account . I understand that the Rev . Mr . Hill is to preach a sermon or two there on Sunday the 19 th inst ., ( to-morrow week ) , and it is the intention of the committee to invite a series of popular speakers , to effect the double object of promu ] eating Chartism and of paying the expense of
the building . I beg to observe that Euch spirited conduct deserves praise , and that those who thus venture an experiment in aid of Chartism should not be allowed to suffer . We experience greater inconvenience from want of public buildings than from any other source ; and surely bo good a substitute was very desirable ; therefore let not those who supplied it become sufferers , but rather let it be an example to those of other towns , to go and do
likewise . Selbt . —On Friday , I started for Selby , a towH which I had not previously visited ; and in truth I was amply rewarded for my trip . The Chartists upon learning my intention to visit them , made application for the use of what is called the ** pablio room f * bnt like tne toast of the " people the only source of legitimate power , " when the people alone are excluded from power , at Selby the public room signifies the room from which the public alone are excluded . I christen it Ficmw hjlix ; and henceforth let it be known
and called by its new and proper name . Well , ia this dilemma , application was not made to Mr . Linton , engineer and millwright , for the use of his extensive premises ! no , Mr . Linton did not wait to be asked ; but like a good and generous man , he set his ever hand to the work , and in three dayB , ( will it be believed ) this wealthy master actually removed his boilers , fixtures , tons of iron , and all other moveables , and erected a very excellent and commodious hustings in a building capable of accommodating nearly 3 , 000 persons . It contains 285 square yards , and was comfortably filled , while
the numbers who occupied windows and open 6 paces between the place of meeting and its twin workshop , would have crammed it . Mr . Linton himself was in the chair ; and when I arrived in company with West , that indefatigable and honest man , Stall wood , was in the act of addressing the meeting ; and if I am to judge from the enthusiasm , with no small effect . West next spoke , and made , as did Stallwood , a famous impression upon the almost maiden soil of Chartism , They tell me that ay speech did them much service , and that is my ample reward . In order to inspire the drooping with hope , I mast meation that whereas Selby sent
no petition daring last yaar , there are already one thousand eight hundred signatures attached to the GBEAT NATIONAL . We enrolled some new members , and I retired for a short time to the homse of Mr . Linton , where I was delighted to be put in possession ot his agricaltnral statistics , whereby it appears that after paying a labourer Ss . per day for ten hours' work , he is able to make profit over rent at £ 5 . 6 s . 8 J . per acre and all other expences , at the zate of £ 16 per acre . He has in the whole not more than three-fourths of an a ere ; and not more than twenty-four . perches , or one fifth of ihat threefounhB , in cultivation . He last year had one oow
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but the PRODUCE BEGIN TO PHESS 80 HEAVILY UPON the means of consdmpiion , that this year he has two oows , a flock of geese , some pigs , and so forth . Last year , with only twenty-four perehes . cultivated , the profit over all expsHces , after paying £ . i rent for three quarters of an acre , which is at the rate of £ & . 6 s . 8 d . peracre , andafterpayingforlabour , for seed , and all other expenees , the profit was about £ ) 2 \ and mark , only twenty-four perches , a fifth of the three-quarters , or one-seventh of an acre in producing order ! If the whole was highly cultivated , ( as the grass land yields little or nothing , ) it would leave profit , after outlay and rent , eiqutt-fiys pounds per acre per annum . This is no crotchet . There is the land , and there are the accounts .
This for our cause is one of the most valuable experiments ever made : many persons come from a distanoa to wUnesa the capability of the soil ; and after one glance , the mist of political economy , as preached by the dogmatists of the cotton-lord monopolists , become dispelled as if by magic . I would recommend Colonel Thompson , Cobden , and friends to make a party of pleasure , and to visit this New English Poland ; but , perhaps , it would be a sin againBt the holy Steam Powers to advocate the Gothic doctrine of eating Euglish bread and beef . , Selby has a population of only 5 , 000 : and therefore many must have come from a
considerable distance , impelled with more noble motives than those of mere idle curiosity . Upon the whole , I was highly delighted with my first trip to Selby , and , life permitting , it shall net be my last . Chartism here owes much , very much , to Mr . Linton ; and no little to the admirable Association of York , the members of which never fail to eater for Sal by ' s instruction , by inviting every star . to visit this rising spot of democracy . I prophesy that Selby , ere long , will be first among the foremost , and rejoioe to know that Stallwood gives an equally cheering account of the whole of his diocese , which he assures me is Chartist to the back-bone , and merely requires the necessary
cultivation-Huddersfield . —On Saturday morning I started for Cooper-bridge , the Huddersfield station , where I was met by Clayton and George Hague with a carriage and four , and in which we instantly started for Holm&rth , a distance of seven miles . This was the last day of my tour , and was the only wet one . Long before we reached Holmfirth ; the rain fell in torrents , nevertheless , we had a large procession entering the recent hot-bed , but the present cold grave , of Whiggery . The Chartists had engaged a room capable of containing about 700 , which in less than five miuutes was literally choked , while the crowd appeared but little diminished . Here
another gallant Irishman was called to the chair ; and I addressed them but very briefly , in consequence of the over-powering heat , and also in consequence of one of the beams giving way . The place was very low , and I suffered more than I had ever suffered before , always excepting the Ove . v at Alloa . We then retired to another room , when a very good , but a very foolish fellow , rend ered completely useless and profitless the few hours I had to spend at Holmfirth ; he was drunk and intolerably quarrelsome , I trust that he will become a teetotaller , as he cannot trust himself with moderation . It is really too bad when captious and quarrelsome fellows interrupt the harmony of a large party .
From Holmfirth we were to hare gone in prooeasion to New Mills , a distance of more than two miles , bat in consequence- of the dreadful state of the weather , I succteded in making them abandon the project . At four , we started for Honley , where we were met by an immense concourse of the working classes , with bands and banners . I was here presented with an address by the Youth ' s Association of Honley . It was prefaced by an admirable speech from one of the Youthful Association , and was received with loud oheexa . X spoke out of a window ; the crowd was great . We then started for Huddersfield , four miles , in procession , with illuminated balloons , transparencies , Iamp 9 , bands , and banners : and notwithstanding the rain . which was
awful , the bight bye of Yorkshire appeared to be open and wide awake , for when the procession reached the town , it was a grand sight . As we turned to go to the Philosophical Hall , where the meeting was to take place , some cowardly ruffian threw a large stone at me , which hit me a severe blow on the right shoulder , and had I got it on the head , it most probably would have had the desired effect ; but I caution the brave engineer against a repetition of his skill , for I assure him , that had he been caught , I doubt much that a Jury would have been empannelled to try whether guilty or not . This is a most logical way of supporting a false principle ; but let the would-be assassin take care lest he should yet be found out .
In a few minutes the spacious building was crowded in every part , and as I had to Btart that evening for Manchester on my way to London , I was oblige to derange the proceedings by commencing rather prematurely . I spoke , however , for nearly an hour , and I found that all attempts to gain a footing for the League at Huddersfield had failed . I left Huddersfield at eight : and from that
time to the present moment I have been afflicted with the most severe cold I ever had in my life . When I arrived at Manchester I was still very warm , and I very foolishly dipped my head and neck in cold water . I now protest against any more out-door meetiBgg , as far as I am concerned , during the winter . I protest against being taken from one place of meeting to any other place during the same day .
In my fortnight ' s tour I have disposed of more than 1 , 400 cards for the Executive . I think I have inspired a fresh life and vigour into our tasks . I have found all united and determined , and have discovered that the several lecturers and missionaries have fully done their duty , and successfully expounded our doctrines . I SHALL BE IN BaTH ON MONDAY EVKNINQ , THE 20 th of this month , where I hope my friends will
make arrangements for a public meeting upon that eveniDg . We must have 5 , 000 , 000 , instead of the paltry number of 4 , 000 , 000 of signatures . Let no man sign more than once on any account . Let all be careful in the selection of delegates to the third Petition Convention ; and shoald a doubtful man be proposed hastily , let some good fellow require time to consider . Much will depend upon the character of those who are now chosen as delegates to the coming Convention .
In conclusion , I have now to inform you that in my next I shall laj before you , firstly , the machinations resorted to by some of the Lancashire delegates , a fortnight before the first Convention met , on the means of destroying the body of which they had been choBen as a part . I shall also put you in possession of the tricks of the " Plague . " But we are wide awake . // they join ut , it must bk fob KVZST BRISTLE 15 THB ChaKTBS . No mOW humbug , whether " Universal Suffrage" or "the Ballot ; " we are wide awake now 1 Tke factions gave us a sleeping potion in 18 S 2 , but if ever they catch us napping again , I am a Dutchman !! ! I au , fellow labourers , Y » or d « TOt * d friend and servant , FiAfiOVS O'CONNOB . P . S . Universal Sufrage and No Surrender . ' 11 London , Dee . 8 , 1841 .
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Cin ^ i / Titi-H H A Tff . —A Bameromdy-a'ttended meeting was held on Monday evening Hat , at the Mechanics' Institute , for the purpose of farther considering the necessary steps to be taken in fortherasce of the important struggle now pending at the new Houses of Parliament , against the relentless tyranny of the foreman , Allen , as also of his employers , Grissell and Peto . A series of resolutions in favour of the masons were passed , and an address to the oouatry was adopted .
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MANCHESTER . —Mr . James Cwtledge lectured on Sobday evening last , at the Chartist room , Strand-street , when fire new members were enrolled , and a considerable number of signatures were at * taohed to the petition . DSWBBUnr . —At the Wejrt Biding Delegate Meeting , held on the 28 th alt ., it was resolved , that a delegate fund be established , to be supported by the levy of one halfpenny per member throughout
the nding . Also that each distnot in the riding be recommended to tike immediate steps to raise funds for the forthcoming Convention , and be prepared to give in a new list of members at the next delegate meeting , in order that the expenees may be proportionably laid . That in future no leoturer Bhall be employed in the West Riding until funds are furnished to pay him , and that any place , not paying in ad ranee , shall have no claim on the services of the lectures ; and all places are further requested to pay all arrears .
LOUGBBORQCGH . —It was agreed to have a public meeting on Monday evening , for the purpose of getting up » memorial for Frost , Williams , and Jones , and the adoption of the National Petition . At the meeting , on Monday , both , these were agreed to . WEIQH . —The stat » of trade in this place is really distressing ; not one half of the silkweavers have been employed for some months past ; hnndreda of hungry perishing wretches . many with large families , may beseen ^ very day walking through our streets , destitute alike of work , food , and clothing ; scores ,
who tftoiyjh they may live many years , &r « clearly in a ftate of destitution and want , and Who will receive that physical injury which , in all probability , will tend to shorten their days . The case of Betty Thompson , who , last week drowned her own child , and then hang herself , and which was the result of extreme want , has been one cause of inducing the 5 e ntry of this town to call a public meeting in the ' own-hall , for the purpose of opening subscriptions , in order to afford some temporary relief to the starving operatives .
NEWCASTLE . —Total Defeat of thk PiAotJB . —On Wednesday morning last , the walls of this town were placarded with large bills announcing that Mr . Acland of the Plague was to deliver two lectures ou the Repeal of the Corn LawB , with a N . B . saying , that Mr . A . would be happy to answer any questions that might be asked . About eight o ' clock , on Wednesday evening , Mr . A ., with a great retinue of broadcloth gouts , made their appearance on the platform . Mr . A . commenced his lecture by asserting that this was naturally a commercial nation , aud that consequently every possible facility ought to be given to commerce . That the Corn Law was aa anti-commercial measure , and that as a matter of consequence every good man ought to advocate its repeal . He then went over the
old clap-trap cry of cheap bread , but the trap was not sufficiently baited . Mr . Owen , a Chartist , asked a question , but in consequence of the uproar around the platform , by the panic-struck plague , we could not learn itt * purport . Mr . Fainlough then rose , and asked the gentleman to prove that this was naturally a commercial nation . He then alluded to the immense amount of pasture in large farms , and instanced one in Staffordshire of two hundred acres , having on « hundred and twenty of these under pastare . Mr . A . replied that the existence of the Corn Law as a barrier to commerce was a proof that this was naturally a commercial nation , and that we must have beef and mutton as well as grain . Mr . Cockburn then rose , and complained of being
confined merely to ask questions instead of being allowed fairly to examine his lecture . He hoped tho answers to the questions he ( Mr . C . ) was about to put would be as concise as possible , in order to afford the public as much information as their limited time would admit . 1 st . Was Mr . A . friendly to free trade in every department 1 If so , what would become of the various branches protected by import duties i Was it true that there was a duty of thirty shillings per dozen pairs on women's shoes—24 s . on men ' s , and 541 . on boots ! He then enumerated the import duties rpon variouB articles , and asked how the makers of those articles were to be remunerated , if they had to compete with the foreigner 1 In reply to those questions , Mr . A . stated that , upon
the duty being taken off cepper , tin , and wool , they had risen in value from forty to fifty per cent . Mr . C . then asked , whether Mr . A . meant to contend that the corn would rise in proportion , and this was his reason for advocating its repeal . Mr . A . stud that tha oases were materially different ; the one was paid to Government , ihe other was for the protection of the landlords . Mr . C . again rose to reply , but Mr . A . refused to give him a hearing unless agreed to by the meeting . On being put , that Mr . C . should be heard , it was carried by a majority of two to one ; when Mr . A . made some objection to the decision , and in the midst of the confusion which ensued , Mr . A . walked away : whereupon Mr . Cockbura wrote the following note to be presented to Mr . A . upon his appearance on the
hustings on Jbriday evening , viz .: — "Mr . A . Sir , in consequence of the unfair manner in which you treated my questions on the 1 st instant . I have resolved to challenge yoa or any of your friends to fair discussion on equal terms . If you and your coadjutors aro sincere in your enquiring after truth you cannot consistently deolino this offer . Please read this note publicly to-night , and allow me to subscribe yours respectfully , John Cockburn . P . S . I hope you will conclude your lecture as near nine o ' clock as possible , to allow more time for discussion . J . C , 3 d December , 1841 . " Mr . A . refused to read the note until he had conoluded his lecture , which he did about ten o ' clock . Whereupon he said it was contrary to his arrangements with his employers-to discuss with
any but approvers of the present Corn Law . Mr . C , in reply , said that he was opposed to its repeal without accompanying measures . The meeting called for a Chairman , whereupon the Plague proposed a Mr . Walker , from Wolrerhampton , which was negatived , and Mr . Sinclair was appointed chairman . Mr . C . wished distinctly to state his terms , which were , that equal time should be occupied by both parties ; whereupon Mr . Acland said he wished to know if any other person had any questions to ask him prior to the commencement of the discussion , when a strange gentleman rose with that view and completely overturned all Mr . A . ' s arguments ; after which , Mr . Curry moved and Mr . Pickering seconded the adoption of the following resolution , viz . " That the thanks of this meeting be given to Mr . Acland , and the other speakers this evening , for the evidence they had given in attributing all the
existing erils to class legislation , and that the only remedy for those evils was to be found in the People ' s Charter . " Mr . Rayne moved and Mr . Rucastle seconded , as an amendment , that the word " Charter" be omitted . But upon being put from the chair the original motion was carried , by above four-fifths of the meeting . Mr . Acland moved a vote of thanks to the Chairman , for his impartial straighforward conduct in tho chair , which was seconded and carried unanimously . Three cheers were then given for the Charter , three cheers for Mr . O'Connor , three cheers for Mr . O'Brien , three cheers for Frost , Williams , and Jones , ana the meeting broke up at a few minutes to one o'clock , Mr . A . commenced his lecture in his usual strain , bnt finding that hia sophistry did notBuit , he turned his subject , and gave , what may be considered , a first-rate Chartiat lecture .
The Chartists held their weekly meeting for business on Tuesday evening , Mr . Pickering in the chair , when the following resolutions vrere agreed to : Moved by Mr . Cross , seconded by Mr . Scorfield , " That a pablio meeting be got up as soon as possible to consider the propriety of memorialising her Majesty on behalf of Messts . Frost , Williams and Jones ; whieh was carried unanimously . Moved by Mr . Crothus , secoaded by Mr . Sinclair , " That the meeting be held in the Chartist's Hall , Goat Inn , Cloth-market , on Monday evening , the 18 th instant , at half-past seven o ' clock , and that the Seoretary be instructed t » get 200 bills ( announcing the meeting ) printed immediately . " Carried . Mr . Crothus moved aad Mr . Purvis seconded , " That the thanks of this AssooiatioK be given to Mr . Chadwick , of Roohdale , for his straight-forward conduct as'a magistrate , in asserting the right of Englishmen ' s homes to "be their , Castles , and reprobating the conduct of anv one who would enter
it forcibly , without a sufficient cause . " Carried . TBOWBaiDGE .-0 n Saturday last , a ptblie meeting was h « ld ia the Democratic Chapel , to hear Mr . Clark , of Bath , also to hear What projrresa Chartisaiwas making in tie different localities that he had Tinted \ u his tour through the southern part of Wilts and S ?* erset . He was listened to with marked attention After which , Mr . Moore read a paragraph from the Stof respecting the Qaeen ' r , mtentioB of pardonUg all the convicts of g « cvd behaviour , on the baptism of the young Prince . I * was resolved that a public meeting be called On Monday , to » e » orialisa her Majesty on beb-j 3 f of Frost , WilliamB , and Jones . On , Monday evening , a public meeting was held in the above ohap ' .-l when a goodly number of both males and females * / ere present . 'Mr . John Moore was unanimously called to the chair , who stated tho objects of the m mating ia a neat speech , and read tho memorial fvhioh was unanimously agreed to .
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SELBT . —At the olose of the demonstration held in Mr . Liuton ' s factory , on Friday evening , in honour of the liberation of Mr . O'Connor , the following resolution was unanimously carried at the Association Room . " That a vote of thanks is due aad hereby tendered to Mr . Edmund Stall wood , of London , for hia bold and manly exertions in the oanse of Chartism in this district . " ZiEXTH— Since Mr . O'Connor ho cg ed us with his presence here the good cause has been rapidly
progressing , and it may be some satisfaction to oar distinguished champion to hear that his visit , and our subsequent lectures , have increased our numbers fourfold . At our last lecture , delivered on Tuesday , the 30 th ult , the National Petition was unanimously adopted . During successive lectures delivered by our talented friend , Mr . Abram Duncan , the Anti-Corn Law League , have b « e » invited to come forward and discuss the question of the big loaf and low wages . None e representatives of the League nave yet appeared .
DERBYSHIRE —Bonsall . —On Tuesday last , Mr . Bairstow delivered a long , argumentative , and spirit-stirring lecture in the large room of the Britannia Iun , to the hardy mountaineers of this " cleft in the Peak hills , which , was rapturously applaeded , and produced a deep impression . Mr . Tickers , of Belper , was ia the chair . The National Petition was carried unanimously . An Association was formed , consisting ef twelv « good men and trae . A liberal collection was-made ait tha olose of Mr . B&ixstow ' s lecture , and many Chartist publications were sold . A vote of thanks to Mr . Bairstow was carried by acclamation , and the meeting dispersed highly gratified . Matlock . —Ob Wednesday evening , a very attentive meeting -was convened in the large room of the Crown Inn , to which Mr ; Bairstow gave an impressive lecture . The National Petition was adopted . The members here number eighteen , with the most encouraging prospects of success .
Bklmr . —On Friday evening , Mr . Bairstow delivered an interesting lecture in the Market Place here- The proceedings went off with the greatest eclat . On Sunday afternoon and evening , Mr . BairBtow preached to large audiences in the Belper Market Place , and in the National Charter Association Room , Holbrooke Moor . Liberal collections were made . Chartism through Derbyshire wears a most healthy aspect , and threatens , ere long ,, to rise and rule lord in the ascendant .
NEWCASTr ^ B—The Chartists Newcastle held their weekly meeting for business on Monday week . Mr . Kirker presided . The following resolutions were agreed to : — " That , in the opinion of tbo Chartists of this locality , the rule filed in the Court of Queen ' s Bench against Feargus O'Connor , Esq ., for the act of his servants is unjust , and contrary tattle constitution of these realms ; and they believe the rule to have been filed for no other reason than his unflinching advocacy of tho cause of the industrious classes- " "That this meeting place moet implicit confidence in Feargus O'Connor , Esq ., Peter Murray M'Douall , Esq ., and Mr . George White , and do hereby pledge themselves to Btand by them , ao lone as they advocate the cause of Universal Suffrage . ' "That the thanks of this Association , are due to Mr . Neisby , for his manly opposition to the despotic disposition of the Government in their attempts at erecting barracks at Bolton , for the
parpose of compelling the industrious classes of that locality to submit to be starved to death quietly ; and we do recommend every town in England to imitate the conduct of the rate payers of Bolton , in nobly opposing the attempts to locate a body of hired as-Bassms , to deprive them of their rights . " IifVSSWADE . —A few choice Bpirita have long talked of endeavouring to get a co-operative store opened here , being convinced that it is the only way to bring the shopkeepers to their senses , and cause them plainly to see the justice and expediency of the People ' s Charter . They have now , however , set to work in right earnest . A meeting was held here on last Thursday night , and the subject debated in all its bearings . After which a large Committee was appointed to oanvasB for shareholders , and four individuals were chosen to draw up a codoof laws for the guidance ef the society . From appearances there is every reason to believe that a very efficient store will be opened here before long .
BATBSRN . —Mr . Skevington , of Loughborough , addressed the friends at this place , on Sunday afternoon , after which arrangements were made to hold a publio meeting tho following evening , to adopt a memorial to the Queen on behalf of Frost , Williams , and Jones . BRADFORD . —The National Petition is now in course of signature here , and is expected to be numerously signed . Council Mbctino , North Tavern . —The Council met as usual on Sunday evening at six o ' clock , and elected Mr . Arran to preside ; after the different localities had brought in their monies for the Executive , and for the expenees of the district of Bradford : Mr . Brook moved , and Mr . Stead seconded ,
" That a hundred cards , with a printed heading , be prepared for the purpose of collecting funds towards the expenees of the National Petition , and of the forthcoming Convention ; " which was unanimously carried . Petition sheets were delivered out to the various localities for signature . Mr . Burrows moved , which was seconded , and carried , "That meetings should be held in Bradford and the adjacent towns and villages , for the purpose of memorialising her Majesty to pardon Messrs . Frost , Williams , and Jones , and all those who have been transported beyond the seas for political offences . " A resolution was then carried , that the different localities should immediately elect their councillors , and return their names to the next meeting , after which , the mooting adjourned to next Sunday night .
Demonstration Committee . —This committee met at the Association room , New Leeds , at two o'clock , oa Sunday afternoon , fox the purpose of settling their books ; only seven of the committee were present , it not being known that they would meet ; agreed to adjourn the meeting till next Sunday afternoon , to be held at Mr . Brien Stead's , Canary-street , Manningbam , whea all persons who stand indebted to the committee will attend and pay the same ; every member of the committee is requested to be present if possible .
Fkmalb Chartists . —The female Chartists of Wapping held their weekly meeting , at tho North Tavern , at sevon o ' clock on Sunday iiight last , when Messrs . Jennings and Edwards delivered each a lecture on the rights and duties of women , to interfere in the political affairs of this country , and showed the necessity of their persevering till the People ' s Charter become the law of tho laud . Mrs . Jaekson was elected president , Mrs . Blayzi was chosen secretary , and Mrs . Corrodus the
treasurer . Mipdleton Fields . On Monday night , the 6 th of December , at eight o ' clock , Mr- Jennings delivered a lecture to the Chartists of this place on the science of Government , and of the necessity of the working classes uniting together to redress their grievances , and to cause the Chaster to become the law of the land . The meeting agreed to memorialise her Majesty on behalf of froBt , Williams , Jones , and all political convicts . Whitk Abbey . —The Chartists of this locality mustered strongly on Monday night last , in their Association-room , Graceohurch-street , when the two
following resolutions were carried unanimously : — "That it is the opinion of this meeting that we ought to memorialise her Majesty to pardon Frost . Williams , and Jones , and all political convicts . " "VEhat thi 3 meeting pledges ' itselfto use every exertion to obtain signatures to the memorial oa their behalf . " The resolutions were ably supported by Messrs . Smith and Hodgson * in speeches of considerable length . Every meeting night , the society gains strength by an accession of new members . The thanks of the meeting were voted to the ladies for their attendance .
Dkamond Street . —A nwnber of Chartists in Deamend-street , met at the Paul Pry In » , on Monday evening last , and agreed to join tWr National Charter Association . Twenty-niae mambers gave ia their names , and said their eoBtributions , and elected Mr . Wm . NeU » and Mr . G . Fletcher to the General Council . Mr . J . Brook attended , and delivered a short leciMe on the * eefltsitv of onion , and waned them againit having anythinc to do with crotchtt-moniert , as nothiRjf abort of the People ' s Charter woold ever emaacipata the workisg classes fro * the misery aad degradation in which th « y art a * present placed . Ghobqb-strkbt . —Mr . Arran delivered a leetnre to ihe Chaxtuts of this street , on . Monday night last , at eight o '« l * ek , i » their meeting room , when they agree * to memorialise her Majesty on behalf of all political eomvicts .
DAVTBUHOB . —On Saturday evening last , Mr . James Cartledge , Of Manchester , lectured ou the principles of the Charter , and tho advantages to be derived from locating the people on the land , chowing from practice , the benefits to be derived from epade cultivation .
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<*^ // - / J > 4 PBSfiTOlff . —Chahtish it Cork Iaw Remsak . —The questions of Chartism and Ccta Law Repeal hav « bad a thorough investigation herb , during the latfc three weeks . The Chartists threw flown the gauntlet in defence of their agitation for the Charter in preference tu the agitation for the Repeal of th « Cora laws , and the . "wit haa been , that we have bad our Association c «> v * ed each weekly meeting Bight , and some spirited d'Jsuawons , which hare been adV joaraed from week to Wt ^» *! r . Curtis , Mr . Livewy ,
Mr . Brown , and others have' been tha advocates of Repeal , and their opponent * hav £ bten Messrs . < Mleam , Murphy , and Swindlehurst on * the part of the Chartists . On Monday evening , the blowing reso tion was triumphantly carried : " That in" Ww opinion of this * meeting , the Corn Laws are iniqu ^ totui and unjust , and ought to be repealed , but we see ito bops of carrying their repeal until the People ' s Chart ** becomes the law of the land . " These meetings hata u ' ona much geod to our cause ; thirty new memben having / owed our Association doting the last fort-¦ tehu
LON 1 * OW . —Tailors . —The Tallow , of the Three Cranes , Richmond-street , held their usual meeting on Sunday last Mr . Martin lectared on "Prejudice . " At the co « las ! on , four members were enrolled , and there is a good spirit in the society . Eastemj Division- of Boot and Shoemakers . — On Sunday erening Ust , i&ia body of Cbartlsts mtt afe their Auocfotlon Room , Star Coffee House , Goldenlane , to hear a lecture fro * Mr . Farrer , who ably exposed the fallacy of the repeal of the Corn Laws , andt the grosa absurdities put forth by the League in support of the big loaf delusion . At the conclusion of the lecture three new members were enrolled . Mr . Walkerdine was nominated as member of the General Council .
Cahbebweli . mo WALwoKm—The Chartists of this locality held their weekly meeting , on Monday night , at the Montjreliar Tavern , Mr . Carter in the chair . It was resolved that a public meeting 5 a holden ia the large room , Moatpalier Tavern-, to adopt tbe national Petition , on aasaday , Dacemier 20 th , eavea for eight o ' clock , p . m . Chartism Is progressing fe this locality . ' Meeting . —An association was foraed' at a poblie meeting , * t the Albion Goffde House , Sboreditcta , os Friday evening . The meeting was addressed in aa able manner by Mr . M'Sfrath . A large number ef members were enrolled . CONGLETO 33 " . —M-. O'Brien visited thbplsaw on Saturday last , when then was a good number of the working classes met to hear &u , Jft delivered a moat heart-stiff iiu teeiure .
NOTTINGHAIW .-Mr . W . D . Taylor , attended as the Noah ' s Ark , Coalpit-lana , on Saturday evening , after wtiicH seventeen new members were enrolled . Tbe association at this house i » now gtttiog ver strong . C 9 AESNAU 6 HTOK . —A meeting of delegaU ^ froa . the various associations in this district was held in Mr . M'Donald ' s rooms , on Saturday , the 4 th instant , Mr . Oeorge Rafctary , of Alva , in tbe chair , when it was resolved that Mr . A . Duncan be sent to represent t&t » district in the National Meeting of Delegates to bo held in Glasgow . It was also resolved , that Mr . Duncan b » engaged for one month as lecturer fur this district T . Roberta was appointed secretary , and T . Hall , treasurer ,, to the Central Committee during tha ensuing tone months . It was then resolved that tho next meeting of delegates be held in the * New Hall , Cjalsnaughton , oa Saturday , the 18 th current , at six o ' clock , after whicb tbe meeting broke up .
DAISY BZIiZk—The Chartists of this village held their weekly meeting on Sunday . Tha c * &sa is progressing ktiadily bat armly . It was Agreed to call a . meeting on Tuesday , the 14 th of December , at eight o ' olock in the evening , in the Primitive Methodist Caapel house , to memorializs her Majesty , praying she will be znoht graciously pleased to extend the Royal clemency to Frost , Williams , and Jones . SU 0 BURY . —Mr . Huffy Ridley haa delivsred three lectures oa tbe principles of Chartism ia - this plaC 9 » which have been the meaas of much good . An associa tion ia about being farmed here . WESTMINSTER . —Mr . Wnaley lecture * at tbe Charter Coffee-bou 3 e , Stretton-grcund , o& Sunday evening . Two . new members were added .
iaiDD £ ETON . —At the weekly meeting , on Sunday uigat , several new members were enrolled ; , asd * . after some discussion , a veto of thanks was passed to Messrs . Brophy and O'Higgias , for thsir praiseworthy exertions in tbe cause of the suffering millions , HOLLJNGWOOD . —The Chartists of this plaee opened a new room oa Sunday last Mr . Taylor , of Royton , lectured in tbe afternoon , aud Mr . Lsach , oT Manchester , ia the evening . Several new member were enrolled .
STAI . YBR 1 DOE . —Mr . Thomas Storer delivered a lecture en Sunday evening last , to a respectable audience , in the National Charter Association-Room . At the close of the lecture the following resolution was adopted : — " That this mestiag views with abhor , ence all attempts to create disunion in the Chartist ranks , and that the attempts to injure tbe onaraster of Dr . M'Douall and B . 6 Brien ore weak and u&founded , and calculated , to injure the people ' s cause ; and farther , this meeting places unbounded confidence ia Dt . M'Dou&ll and Mr . B . O' 3 ciea aa acamchins advo cates of ( be people ' s right * aad liberties . "
NORTH LANCASHIRE—The delegate meeting of North Lancashire took place at Acctiugtoa , on Sunday last , Mr . Fothergill , Item Lancaster , ia the chair . Delegates were present from Accringtoo , Blackburn . Burnley , Clitheroe , Colr . e , Sabden , Lancaster , Har wood ; Bacup , Preston , and" Cuorley being absent It was resolved , that J . T . Luad , from Lancaster , be . the ieeturerfor North Luncaahire , for the next six * weeJuv , Mr . Afanden wishing to retire ; that tho lecturer ' s salary be thirty-two shillings per week , and that each association send in moneys to the district seoretary , ao that a fortnight ' s wages can be paid to the lecturer before setting out ; that the lecturer visit the following places , in addition to the usual route , viz . Kendal , Kirkby Looadale , Higbsr Bentham , Little aad Long Preston ; aud that Mr . Beesley , of Aceriugton , be tha district secret try , as usual .
WORCESTER . —At tbe usual weekly meeting of tbe CfaartUt i of this locality , held at their room ia Fouadsy-street , Mr . George Davie in tbe chair ; a long discussion ensued regarding tbe propriety of joining tb& Birmingham district for the support of a lecturer , ia which Messrs . Clark , Davie , Hockias , Powell , aud Williams took part At the close it was resolved that the secretary be instructed to writs to Mr . Maeon , inviting him to pay a visit A voluntary contribution was entered into towards defraying his expenses .
GATEHOUSE . —Od Wednesday , the 1 st instant , a public meeting , took place , in tha Mason's Hall , to hear Mr . VVardrep , from Dumfries , deliver a lecture oa the rights of labour . Mr . Donaldson , grocer , was called to the chair . The lecturer , upon rising , was received with enthusiastic cheering from all parts- ot the house . He commenced by taking a surrey of tha political affairs of this country daring tbe last fifty years , showing , in glaring colours , the manner ia wbiclx the rulers of this country had trampled oa tbe rights and privileges of tbe working classes . Having spokea . for sometime on the distressed state the country was now reduced to , he then explained the People ' * Cbaxtwrin all its bearings , and urged upon his audience tb » necessity of uniting , as one m&a , for the attainment of their rights , and never to cease their exertions until tha Charter became the law of the laud .
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XJ 3 EDS .... Weekly Comtwbutioms to the unemployed operative enumeration fund : — £ , b . d . Balance brought forward ... 20 & 44 Ditto , James Binits and Sons , per S . H . Horn - ... tt S 3 From Ripley and OgleTs , per Joseph Thompson — — 0 3 2 fc Ditto , Fenton , Murray . * and Jackson ' s . per James Hope 9-16 ^ Messrs . Ripley and Ogle ' s , per Edward Metcalfe ... ... .- ... ... ... » . » 2 S Ditto , Mr . Cawood '^ flax-mill , per Thoa . Card ... ... .- ...... ... . m . ft I * 0 Ditto , Messrs . Fenton , Murray , and Co .,
per Wm . Heeketh ... , ~ . Q 3- 11 Ditto , Mr . Holdforth ' s , per James Hale 0 L 9 Ditto , Titley , Tatham , & Walker ' s , per t . child ... ... . » . ¦ — ~ * y * o Ditto , Messrs . Marshall ' s overlookers , per T . Wildredge — - «• * 5 11 Ditto , Sheepshanks ' s per Joseph Saville * 3 0 Ditto , Messrs . Dickinson & Barradough ' s * per Marwlle Wild ... ... ... ~ r « 2 3 Ditto , Messrs . Btownridge ' s , per Joseph Appleyaxd — - •*• — 0 4 3 Ditto , Messrs . Sherwood and Booth , par
Isaac Coates .... " *•• 0 3 11 Ditto , Messrs . Fenton , Murry ^ Jaek-. sou ' s , smiths and strikers , per .... John Cariton ... ... .- — v- ... 0 2 1 Ditto , RoUrt Scarth' s , per Tborj&s Greaves •»• , ... 0 1 8 Ditto Messrs . Brown and Co . » Man aallstreet , perT . Knowlea ... .. ... 0 15 Ditto , Messrs . Prichard's * Barley Mill , per B . Binks ... .. * ... ... ... .. 0 2 3 Ditto , Messrs . Tittey , Tajham , a ad Walker ' s , per H . T&uas ... 0 4 0 Ditto , Wm . ' Robinson and Co . & , per Alex . ¦
Towart ... . «»» . ••»_ ....... ... 0 * 5 Ditto , George S » uth and Co ., per J . Shacklecon »« s .. ... ... ... 0 1 1 Ditto , Titley , Tatham , * : Walker ' s , per G . W . Tbomaa ... ......... ... 0 4 O Ditto , Lord aad Bvook ' s , per Richard Ditto , Mr . HQwavd ' 3 Low Fold mill , JSv ^ jSLAF ^ v Japes Her . p 3 ... ... ^ VjfeSffl ^ aTvv Collected at the Shakspeare * IWBS «^ 7 ~ ^ § 5 $ r \ York-meet , per Mr . ^ loU ^ MwM ^ W \ DonaUonafromtwo Frieuds sgf' ® i - ^ 5 rjsji ^ kj
To The Imperial Chartists,
TO THE IMPERIAL CHARTISTS ,
≪Nfea?Tt0t Smitttgittt*.
< nfea ? tt 0 t smitttgittt * .
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AND LEEDS GENERAL ADYERTISEH . _
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TOL . Y . HiO . 213 . SATURDAY , DECEMBER 11 , 1841 . pmca « " ^ SSl . T ' * ,. ^^ r
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Citation
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Northern Star (1837-1852), Dec. 11, 1841, page unpag, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse2.kdl.kcl.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/vm2-ncseproduct872/page/1/
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