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    April 5, 1851. THE NORTHERN STAR 7

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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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    April 5, 1851. The Northern Star 7

    April 5 , 1851 . THE NORTHERN STAR 7

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    ' - . J > ATIj [& A £ COXVgNTlQJg ^ .., _ , This body assembled on Monday , at ten o clock iri r te Lvg * Hall of the Partheriiuriv Roonrl , St . jljrtin * s-lane . -At ; th » hour but few-Delegates had arrived , and business-was ~ not entered into until eleven o ' clock ; at which hour Mr . > John Shaw was called to the ehauvand-brlefiy opened-the business of the Convention . .. a .- _ .. :- ^ : T . *•« -: o :. Mr . Bmsoxbs moved , and Mr . FrstKS seconded , the nomination of Mr . J . Arnott as Secretary . > Credentials : were then handed in frbnv G . W . M . Reynolds ; for Greenwich and Kent . John Gray , ¦ North Lancashire . " * ThorntouHunt , ' - : Portsmouth " Alfred Hunuiball , Marylebohe and

    West-• „ . - « - '¦ '¦ „ '' nnaater . : George Shell , Surrey .- - j ohn . Shaw , 'Tower Hamlets . James Rnien , - Finsbnry and City A . Robinson , Bradford : Thomas M . Wheeler , Exeter and Tiverton G . J . Mantle , Manchester . Thomas Savage , Bristol district . George J . Harney , Worcester ditto . WilliamBenfoid , ¦ ., ¦ Stockport Ernest Jonesi Halifax district . James Capewell , v ; Banley ditto . John Bezer , ... Sheffield ditto . 1 W . A , Daneanson , Paisley ditto . William FelkiD ,.:. - . Nottingham .

    The above credentials baring been received , Mr . Ernest ^ Jones handed hv £ 2 lis . from Halifax , for the Convention Fund * ; Mr . Shaw ^ . 10 s . from the Tower Hamlets . ' Several other sums were also given for the above purpose ; " ¦ * - ' The Secretary-then proposed the following business arrangements , viz .: That the Conference assemble atjiiaa , adjourn at half-past twelve o ' clock , re-as 9 emble at two o ' clock , and adjourn at five o ' elockl - . Mr . WmutEB moved , that tbe Conference meet at tea o ' clock , adjourn at one , re-assemble at two o ' clock ; arid adjourn at five o ' clock ; which was carried . " ; ; ; '" " It was then decided that the mover of a resolution or . amendment should be allowed twenty minutes , - and- each other speaker ten minutes , arid that . eaeh motion should be handed up to the Chairmaiim writing . ' ¦ " ••< - " ¦ -

    On the motkm-of Mr . Mastlb , seconded by Mr . HrasiBALL , the members of tbe Executive who were not' elected as Delegates were requested 'to take their seats at the Convention , but without votes . " . ., ; . ~ Correspondence was then read from the Oldham district , stating ; their inability to send a delegate , and inclosing funds for the Convention ; and abb from an individual at Cambridge . :-.--On the motion of Messrs . Wheeleb arid Ghat , Messrs . Arnott , Harney , and Reynolds , were appointed a Committee to review all correspondence . On the motion of Messrs . Was ' susand Gray , a Committee , consisting of Messrs . Mantle , Bezer , Gray , Robinson , Felkio , Capewell , and Hunniball , were appointed to investigate ; a disputed ' election ease at Glasgow , and such others as might occur ..

    The Delegates then gave in their reports . Mr . Retsolds stated that a fine healthy feeling prevailed among his Chartist constituents in the county of Kent . He could not boast that they were great n numbers . The reason why'Chartism had not penetrated into the agricultural districts of that county was , that the Law of Primogeniture was not there in operation . Land was greatly sub-divided . The agricultural population were , better paid and more . coHteiited than in- any other . charity - in -England . The state of that county was a great argument in favour of their doctrines , and showed the grx > d effect of improved institutions . - His" | constituents at Greenwich , Woolwich , and other towns in tbe county were enthusiastic , and devoted in their adherence to the . cause , and were in favour of an agitation for their Social Rights , concurrent with that of the Charter . - .. i

    Mr . Ghat stated that his constituents . in North Lancashire were as devoted as ever to the cause of Chartism , but owing to the apathy prevailing throughout the kingdom , they confined their exertions chiefly to their own domestic- circles . In Colne , '' great poverty prevailed among the handloom wearers . They had discussed the Executive prograrhme , and approved of it with some additions . They were in favour of the Convention considering the question of Co-operation . The same feeling

    prevailed in all the towns in that district , more especially-in Bacnp , where a flourishing store existed , and they believed it might prove an effectual lever in the cause of democracy . His-district belicved-that something- more than , the voluntary system was necessary to support the- organisation . He believed that Co-operation was the link that would bind -them , together- ¦¦ . His constituents thought that an organisation similar to that of tho Odd Fellows and others , would prove an addition to the present system . ; ' ;"

    Mr . Thobsion Hrjsx stated that in . the . county of Hampshire , though there was but : little . Chartism existing , yet the bulk ofthe population-were fully prepared to enter into a well organised ' political organisation . The same might be " . said of Wiltshire . The want of large towns in that district prevented , in some degree , an efficient agitation for the Charter ; means could , however ,, be taken torender the agitation attractive . Mr . H 055 IBAU , stated that great apathy existed in the district of London which he represented . Party bickerings arid quarrels had tended to produce this * resrilt . His constituents were in favour of an agitation for Social Eights , and considered the Labour question , and the distribution of wealth to be questions of parainonnt importance . They were tired of the mere alpl abet of political reform .

    Mr . Shell said that in L ^ be ^ theywere ' iiot so well organised as they had been some years back , but an enthusiastic feeling prevailed among those who still continued their support , and they looked with anxiety to the course that , would be adopted by the Convention .. "" Mr . J . Shaw reported from the Tower Hamlets . Great poverty existed among the , weavers and shoemakers in his district . The feeling-relative to Co-operation was a divided one ; some looking upon it with great approbation , —others were too steeped in poverty to ho -able to avail ¦ ¦ themselves ' of . any benefits to be- derived from it . -They also' thought that great good might be effected by an agitation among tbe Trades of the Metropolis , and thought simultaneous meetings . throughout the country would be an effectual means of raising a great feeling in support of the principles they were in favour of .

    One o clock having arrived the Conference adjourned . : - - Afternoon Sitting . At two o ' clock the Conference re-assembled . Jthe whole of the Delegates answered to their Task's <> n the roll being called . ¦' < Me & srs . Frith . and Martin were then appointed Doorkeeper and Messenger at the usual salary . The I ^ lectionCammittee then gave iri their report relative to the Glasgow election case , and stated that from the evidence they had received they had decided tha * - Mr . Paul was duly , elected ., On the motion of M / vWh * kikb the report was received . Mr , T . Hurt handed in credentials , from Edinburgh , and stated that he expected a colleague to arrive from that district . .

    -....--Corresponderice'wSsthen read from Bristol , commenting upon the past policy of the Chartist movement , and after dwelling upon the present phase of the movement , recommended that the : Chartist organisation should be kept distinct from any Social movement . A discussion then took place relative to tbe funds to be subscribed to the Convention Fund . Many ¦ delegates spoke upon this subiect . - Mr . - Wseeekb recommended that the delegates should endeavour to get their localities to subscribe S 3 largely as possible ; the utility oi tbe Convention -would , in a great measure , depend upon the funds p laced at its disposal . v-Mr . Minns stated , that many of tbe districts were very poor , and had heavy expenses to pay ; thev were willing , hut poverty did not allow them , by monetary gifts , to show their enthusiasm . The reports were then resumed . . '

    Mr . Fbtekn . reported from the City of London ; His instructions were in favour of an agitation for an amnesty for aU poHtical- victims , and that they should not ; in any "way , mix theriiselves rip- in any agitation for' a less measure of reform than'tbe People'a Charter . He had another ' ., instruction which plight create a smile , and , perhaps , be thonghPSnperfluons-tbat they should endeavour to create hatred and disgust against the truckling system adoptedty &>«»? ' ** R el m aJf « i leagues . He wa » also instructed to advise the Convention toabstain , as far as possible , from entering into any personal questions in . « l » gf Wg " slow upon measures of generalpohcy . - £ """ £ <* should !«

    and not men , -wereibe guides they **» , He was likewise requested to refer 'to a teal question-viz ., that the Executive should take a nail in some central situations-it could be done at We aarae expense they paid for their present office ., B » constitaentswere in favour of the agitotion tor serial rights concurrent vrlth their political . nghte . Mr . Gbat stated that his constituents were in favour of the movemenfrbemg kept in a high moral position , and that intemperance should beinevery ¦ way discouraged . . They were iri favour ofthe present ExecrJUve beim ? continued in office , andttat a definite sum sbonld belaid down to be subscribed for their support . They recommended a levy of 3 d . oa each member .

    Credentials were then received from Mr . Yates , Coventry . Mr , O'Connor , Manchester . Mr . J . Barker , Northampton . Mr 6 Wray , Leicester . Mr WHKBXEareportedfrbmExeterand Tiverton . They were in favour ofthe agitation for-the People * 8 Charter being kept distinct from any otfier

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    WS ^ S ^ J ? SaR tt « a f but keeping them - selvesaloof Mmrthem ;^!«^'^ --- •¦';' - •* - * : - - ^^ JH' '¦ - •' ¦ 0 \ C i >! iSoa : , * tated that his - constituents wer-opposed to any . other iinj . being mixed up with theagitaUonfpr ' the . Charter . ' . ' ; . ; " . T * . Mr . Manilsi said tbathis ' ins ' tructldris weresimilar to those of Mr . ( y ^ ohrior . ' Hehad 1 ' no doubt that the course he should-teke in that Contention would-disappoint many of his personal friends . The movement in Manchester was not a Bed Republican mevemenv jS «> eial economics- ; were a subject of great debate . . sAiany-jWerejinr favour of turning England into a Vgreat chee . se and bacon shop ''others were opposed to it . They , in Manchester , were entirely ripposed to personal bickerings among their leaders . If these lasted any longer , the

    constituents who elected . him would cease their connexion with . such a suicidal ; party . . Relative to the . question ' of " the Parfiariientary Ke'f qrmers , they , thought that it should be left' an open question , for each individual member to , act according to their respective . judgments . .. They , should look to their own , business , \ , and attend to that , ' leaving other parties . to follow " a similarline of policy . The question of Social"Bights was ,, he feared , one which ' would prove , destructive . to the unanimity of feelbg which at present" prevailed in the Conference . -fie'trusted ; that a conciliatory policy would be adopted . ' . " , ' !" . * - ' A deputation was then received from tbe London Association of -Working Tailors ; 432 ,

    Oxfordstreet : - - " - . - ' . ' , ' . ' - Mr . Bss . vr was heard on behalf of the deputation ; and after congratulating the Executive on their advocacy ] of Social Bights , read an address fVom his ' body to the ' Convention , giving iri , their adherence to the great principle of reform , as propounded irithie People ' s Charter , arid ' expressing ' a hope that they would pursue the same policy which the Erecntive had so wisely adopted , *; "'' ' * Mr . Mantie moved , and Mr . CArswxu seconded , a resolution eipressive of thanks to the deputation ; arid assuring tbem that ' every effort' ! of the Convention would be directed to ensure their social emaricipatioriand political salvation . - ; , ' '• ,.. / . ' Oh themotion of Mr . E . - Jones , a simple vote of thanks was given tp . the deputation . He was riot anxious to commit the Corivention by any expression of opinion upon the question of Social . Bights ' . , Mr . G . J . B ^ Ri « tT \ re ^ rtod ^ rom Worcestershire and Gloucestershire . He was not acquainted' per- .

    serially with the district ; . but his communications informed him that great apathy existed / They were in favrinr of the Charter being made ;_ theigreat leading question of the movement . ; They also were in . favour , of any "honest attempt . to improve the present Laws of Partnershi p / arid advised ' that a deputation should wait upon the' Parliamentary Refortriers , to ' see if they would honestly joiri i «; the agitation for ' . the Charter ^ dr ' if "they wouldbonsent to : the calling of a Kationrf Convention to \ settle thiit disputed ^ qaestiori , ; '" " ' '' . " ' '' . i : i :. jii '' Mri Savao b reported that his constituents were entirely . opposed to any humbling to the Parliamentary Befprmers . They would receive their adhesion if they would come to them , but were . ppposed to corirting or coquetting with them . .. .. '» - ^ - > Mr . E . Jones stated that his constituents were in favour of the Executive Programme , with the addition of the Nationalisation of the Land . They were also in favour of a General and Liberal Convention

    Fund . : " y ' ' . , . ' , ' '¦ ' >¦ . The . Rev . A . Doncakson ; reported from Falkirk . They deplored the , division among the leaders ; it bad inflicted great injury upon the cause . If leaders fell out , they , should find some other medium than the public press to arrange their'disputes . .. jfe was sorry to" hear suchi desponding reports . Bethought that the faculty of hope . was rather deficient in many of the delegates . ;; " . . '' . ' .-. l-t : Mr . Fblkis stated that they . were not so strong in Kottinghamshire as'they had been , and . had been much occupied in Trades' agitation .... ' ... i ; l ¦'¦¦' ¦ Mr . Capewell said , that , in the Potteries they were in "favour of the . agitation , for the Charter being kept distinct | from any other movement ,

    leaving any individual open to give his opinion npon any ' Social question . : . ' ' . ' ¦ - ' : ' - . ;; ; , " . Mr . ; Bxzkb said that the instructions he . had received were , that the association should oSbr no obstructiori to . the propoundera of any . other , movement , leaving individuals to act . according , to their own judgment . They were in favour , if ¦ trie funds allowed , of . ' appointing lecturers , they not'being members of the Executive body ^ . ' ¦¦¦ - ¦ ' Mr . ' Bahker stated that his constituents deplored the evils which "dissension had created among them , and be was to oppose any . recurrence of such a false policy . They were in favour , of a national petition , with the names and addresses of the parties to be attached . : .. .- " - ' ,. . ... , "'*

    - Mr . Wbat said that they were very disorganised in Leicestershire , and be was sorry to say , that when trade , was good they thought but little Of their political rights ., Thej . thoagbt that a better system of organisation might be adopted . . , . . Mr . Besfold said his constituents were infavour of a better system oforganisation . ; :. They r . were , for tbe agitation for the -Charter being kept , distinct from any other- movement . They were , also ; in favour ofthe adoption of a non-obstructive policy , and of a system of propagandism . by means of tracts . : .- ¦ - .- . . ¦ ¦ ...-..- - - - ' ; .: " On the motion of Messrs . Mastlk and JOHES , the Conference then adjourned . ^ -... ; The attendance of visitors was rather numerous , : and great interest seemed , to' be , taken in the proceedings ; __ - "' : -.: i j 1 ;! , ;; ; . ? .-v

    - TUESDAY . . - ... . ,. ; . The Convention resumed its sittings-at ten o ' clock ; Mr . John Shaw ; inthe chair . Credentials were -given iri frorii the following gentlernen : — ' ; D . W . Ruffy . South Shields district . ' ThoaiasHurst , .- Huddersfieldditto . ' ., - "Walter Pi-fngle , ' ¦ ¦' ¦ ¦ Edinburgh ditto . ' ! * - James Graham , "' : Dundee ditto / ¦ < John Moss , •'•" ' ' Derby ditto . ^; - ' . James Watson , Uewcastle-upbn-Tyne . Reports were then resumed J " ^

    = Mr . Yates reported from Coventry . They-were in favour of Social as well as Political Reform . '' Mr . I > . W ; Rmrmr stated that bis ; only -instructions were relative to ths employment of lecturers or missionaries ;' - ' " - ' ? " ' u- ¦ •• - > Mr . W ^ Pbisgib said his only- instructions ' were to allay all-ill feeling among their leaders . The spirit of democracy was spreading , - though great apathy existed . They were in favour of an agitation for the Charter and something-more . ' The calling of the Convention had created a great 'degree of

    interest . ¦¦¦' ' ¦ Mr . Hurst stated that they had been very apathetic in Huddersfield since 1843 . His instructions were to amalgamate an organisation for Social and Political Reform . ' - ' - - ¦' ¦ ' ¦ ' '¦ v Mr . J ; Gbaham stated that the divisions among tbe leaders of the Chartist body had been deeply deplored in his district . His constituents were , for Social as well as Political Reform . They bad . also instructed him to give something of a more practical shape td ' tbe agitation . " 'They were ' ' opposed to ' any junction with the Parliamentary ' - Reform Association . ' ' : ••' ¦ ' ¦ ¦ '••" ¦ ' ¦ ¦ ¦ ¦ >' ¦ ' ¦ ' ' >;"'¦ ¦*¦

    Mr . J . Moss stated that the attempt to . mix up Social questions with that of the Suffrage had done great harm in thff Derby district , arid -had greatly reduced the numbers of their members . . He was to take every possible means to destroy the ill feelbg which had prevailed among their leaders . - ' . Mr . O'Coksok stated that having given in their reports , they should now endeavour to do away with all cause for dissatisfaction . He was not opposed to . the riiixing up of Socialism with Chartism , provided they understood what Socialism meant . He understood by Socialism the < fitness , of things to society . He was opposed to anything of a religious nature being mixed tip with the agitation . He was therefore opposed to Commu ' nism . "He did not believe that there was' a true Cominpnist in existence;—one willing to-carry out his principles to their full extent . H tbj & y banished all personal conteations they would have great eflect upon the be unitedand

    government . He implored them to , not to mix up any «« ism' ^ with Chartism . ; Lord John Russell had intimated Msintention of bringag forward some measure of refonai They must net expect to receive any beneficial measure from government . He was pleased tfrseetbenuammity that prevailed upon thequestion of not lointog the Financial Reformers . ' •' - ' ' ' ' ' , 'j ¦ , T Mr . Watsos having arrived , handed in Ins « e * deritials from Newcastle-upon-Tyrie > and reported the state " of feeling-in that'district ... DemopratW principles werenever better kriown or ¦ respected , but there was a lamentable want ' of organisation . He was instructed to press that ' subject upon the notice ofthe Convention . ' He was also expressly desired to take any steps which would- allay the jealousies existing among their leaders . ' They were in favour of an union of the Social and Political Reformers . - ' - ¦ •'¦* ¦'>¦ ¦¦'¦' ¦ ¦ ' ¦¦ ¦ ¦ - ¦' ¦ — - - " [¦¦ "'

    Rev . Mr . Dukcasson read the instrnotions be had received from Glasgow . They were , opposed to any other than the political question being connected with then * organisation . ' j ¦ - >¦ - Correspondence was read from Bolton and various otherplaces . " ¦ - - " ;¦ - . ' Messrs . Retkoxds and O'Comron moved and seconded , ' That tickets of admission be furnished to- the' various Daily -Xewspapersi " - Soriie discussion took p ' ace on this question , which was ultimately carried . - ' - '< -- . •• ' ¦ :: ¦ v :-.- . ;; .. Mr . ' MASiJ-B moved , and Mr . Rum seconded , " That Messrs . Arnott , Hunniball , ' and Finleri ; be appointed a committee to procure 'delegates to attend at the various Metropolitan meetings . " Carried . - Mr . Robissos said he was instructed by his con ^ stituents to make a motion relative to the Temperance cause , which , he accordingly did ^ buttfae motion was not seconded . ' : »¦ .- ;• - ¦ - ¦ - - ' . ..

    The Convention then went into the consideration 0 f The Executive Trogramme , " ¦¦ ¦ _ , ; , , Mr E . Jones stated " that her'Was deputed by bis brethren . to lay their programme , before ! tnea .

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    , lfeyj ^ hestowed great attention' inciting-their measures to tiie-presen ^ F ^ TPtb ' e ^ agltWon ^ m this country .. i . Somethiwg . Waswanted ; to press the Chartist-cause . imore . cloBelyrto . the ; heartscot tbe people . - ^ Theyjhad , erred in itbinkingtbatr the mere agitation for abstract , political rights ; without identifying it with present beneficial results , would ever rouse the feelings of the , working class to tbeneces- ! saryj height ; to i cause , them , to ' .-.. put forth ., their dormant energies . ^ - . .: ; ,-, { . ; .- . -s . i . ---o ' . i ; Mr ' . jE . . 'JoMBs . then read-the-prograrrimeof the Executive , ( which has been already published ;) and moved its reception . - p . ., , ; ; . ;; - , ; ,: j ., o' ;

    Mr .-F .,. O'Connor said he was opposed to that portion ,- of . the programme which dstated- ; that soldiers . were , necessary , for . theL support , ofitheir colonies—they had no right to force soldiers upon their , colonies . ' .-The colonies would be far more flourishing were . , they independent ofithe , mother country . ' The abolition of a poor law should also be inserted ; .. It ; was aimost valuable document , and he seconded the motion for . its reception ., Mr . E . Joses gave some explanations relative to the . subjects mooted by Mr . O ' Connor . ; . The programme was then received , arid ., ordered to . bej iHjmediateiyprinted . . ' / , | . Spmie '' discussion took place relatival to the delay that would be j becasioned by ttie printing , and it Vas decided that the Convention ' should proceed to discuss the first clause iri the interim .,

    ¦ Chartist Policy and Organisation . ; - . - . ; Mr . Ebsest"Jokks then read the first clause as follows ^ - * - " The parariiount- ' duly -. rif " a - Chartist National Convention is to promote' Chartist organisation ; to keep that organisation distinct from every other political movement of ^^ alloy , and to spread'through all classes- political and social knowledge to the utmosfc-of its -power . " 'It is , therefore ; recoiririierided'that for'the better ireprganisation " of Chartismj the following resolution be adopted relative topolitical agitationir- ' ^ That since by-each and all the-franchise measures now before the people , excepting that embodied : inthe Charter , tbe middle -class would gain far more votes than the'w ' orfcing classes would obtain , which

    would place the latter in a mora powerless position than at present . The Charter must ' be agitated for * iri fts-- 'eritirity . ' -That the omission of-any one of' its points -would impair -the utility' of the remainder ; and that , therefore , popular-support mustibe withheld from all' franchise measures fat ling short of its provisions ; ¦¦ ' * ,:: .. ; ¦ ¦ : ¦>• .-:.-. Mr . Fislkn moved , , and Mr . Watsos seconded , a motion for its adoption . .. --. Mr . Mantle could -not agree , witbtbe resolution in their present-iweak . position , it' was an actof suicide , to array the middle class against the working :. elass ,. He admitted the } truth ofthe whole resolution , ; but , he ' thought it would embitter against'thera ^ the truo-hearteu of . the middle class ; Therewere inaniy , good men in Hie world who did not go exactly to the' same leneth aaI themselves .

    vrho entertained a notion , however erroneous ,. that good resHlts ' would spring , ( rbm a middle , class : agitatipri' for a portion of the Charter . He did not Want to hand pVer the movement or the . organisatiop to , any . other class . ; He believed that they might , place . exactlythe same , views upon ' record without its being done in so offensive . a . form . , He concluded by moving thefoildwingame ' nuriient 1 :--" That since ^ allthe franchise , measures except that of ; the . Charter ,, now'befo ' re the : public ,. come short of . that , principle of represerit ' atiori jshich . is necessary to allay for ever , the hostilities of class , it is the duty of all classes ' ; whos ' e . i ' nterestsare involved in the eonseryation of " , public peace ; to " strengthen their several riibveriients by referring the national goveramerit to the legitimate legislation of the national will . *'; : ; " '; ' .. '• " , ' •) ' . ' . \ - ' . >' , ' .. ¦ :: i

    Mr . DnscAjfSON seconded the amendment ! A strong feeling prevailed upon that subject iri Scotland . !) He . believed that neither the middle or-working classes were able to work out their own emancipation , and therefore-they . should adopt a conciliatory policy . """ ' -i *• ¦ - ' ¦ ¦ - ' ¦¦ - ¦ ' ¦" . » >¦ Mr ; pBAHAM ' said , that Mr ; Daneanson must only speak for his own district . The partof Scotland that he came from , if polled , would almost to a niari vote forthe resolution . The middle class were tho most bitter , among their opponents . , Mr . Qbat stated , his constituents were entirely in favour of the sentiments in the resolution .:

    . . Mr . . O'Connor was in favour of the . resolution . He shbuld ' ^ be glad if the middle classes would honestly " unite ; with theni , but they never would ; their interests were opposed ; If they joined itherri , they would be treated only-as tools and -puppets . He had always opposed : working men uniting with other bddies ; let them . be united among themselves , arid they . could do . without the aid of others ; He advised them to attend their meetings , ! as they could thereby . avail tthemselves of large places of meetm g . arid a d , | fferent audienoe to what they usually had ., . '" ^ ' . " , ' ,, ' . " . ' ., " . ., ' . . i ''' " , Mr . Watsok . expregsed similar sentiments , as also did Messrs . Savage ; ' Shell , and Bbkfold . " Mr ; Manili explained that he did riot wish tbem ' tojoin the middle class , or in any way impair the efficiency of their organisation . All he wished was ,

    not for them to insult the feelings and : sympathies ' ofrthe honest portion of the middle class ,. which , iri his opinion , the resolution did . . . '• ,. . Mr . . HrissiBALL , thought , it ' , was worse , than a waste of time to appeal to the sympathies . of . the middle class ! 'If they were honest , in their professions ; they' ^ wbuld have long ; before joined with the '¦ people ; " so long as they lived " upon the wages of the working men ; so "long woulcf they ' be opposed ' to the true interest of the working man . ; „ -, : Mr ; 'D . ; . W . iRuFry . denied -that : ; the . iresolutidii threw any insult upon , the middle class . He had nq faithin . the , professed sympath y . of that . body . . He thought Weir ' true position was to . continue strictly

    to ' phrsno their own ., organisation , independent Qf tho ' agitatiori' of any ; other body . ' - , ! " " i i . ., * . ' Mr . Reynolds supported the' resolution / They never had , nor ever would get , anything by , pandering the middle class . They had ever been the direst opponents to working ? men . when the ] least possible opportunity had been afforded them . There were some honest men among tbem , but . they ' we ' re a , contemptible minority . The ; ' only , question ' was , ' could they attain their . object without ,. the aid of the . middle class—without the aid ,, in fact , pf : their enemies ; He had no doubt ihey could do so , and advised tbem to beware ' of irijririri g their own interests in any unwise attempt to conciliate the middle classy' . •" ¦ - ¦ ¦ ¦ ¦ ¦¦¦ : " ¦ : •¦ . -. ' ¦"• v ., : ¦ :: ¦ ¦ : ¦ ¦ ¦ '

    : -Mri - RoBiNSOH thought that it ' was unwise to iridnlgaiu-, vituperation of the middle class .: They should recognise hi them the . common . feelings of humanity ,. Theymight . be . honestthpugh . mistaken . He-knew their interests were opposed , and they should take that into consideration as ari extenuatjori'of their conduct . He was in favour of'the resoIutio ' n , 'but he thought they should not look with such a jaundiced eye upon the motives or exertions of others . ; - : " - .. ! : ¦ •!¦ ¦; . : ¦ . ¦; •? . ' -.-, ¦•; ''""'

    Nix . - E . Jones eloquently defended the resolution . Because . they were weak they ought to . beimore guarded in the- policy they adopted towards ' other ^ lass ' es ^ . . They . did not wish . tb interfere , with the a ' gitatiori of the middle class , but to prevent them fromcarryiri g it on at tho . espense of the ¦ tiirie ,. mori ^ and ' interests of working men . It was -riecessary that tbe Conference should expressn . de ? eided opinion upon that question ; as some even of tbe Chartist body- were ad vising-a junction with tbe ParliamentaryvReformers ., .

    Mr ; Holtoake , who had not long taken , his seat , owing to absence from town , stated , that he was entirely opposed to the spirit of , the ! , resolution . - ; It was characterised by a . complete feeling' of exclustveriess . He did riot evcri" admit the fact it presumed—viz ;; that the measure -advocated 'by . the middle class : would strengthen that tody and weaken the powers of working men . ; Independent ¦ . of any results from j such a measure , they should assist their neighbours . to better their , condition , if it could be done , as . he , maintained it could be , without injury to their . bwn interests . They- weir . e following up then * old . policy of jcaiou ' sy and disr trust , —a policy which all past experience showed tb'have ^ ri suicidal in the extreme ; ; He sttongly advised them' to refrain from an expression of uhcharitabie feelings . -. ¦ uv . -i ' ¦;¦ =. ; i . f . v .-i , ¦ : ; ,, t "

    --Mr . 0 'Co » jh > b said that be would rather see the working men represented in parliam . entby lanfllords ' than . by the middle , class .. . The resolution , expressed nothing , offensive to , the . middle . class \ it , merely declared the impolicy of joining with them , j .. ., - Mr . Capewzu . stated that he did riot [ agree with either theoriginal . resolution or trie amendment . f The- Conference then adjourned for the dinner hour ; ' ' - - ' ' " ¦ ¦ - ¦ ¦ ' <¦¦" ' - ¦ - ¦'*¦ \ -.. ! .. -. ' : ! : Afternoon Sitting * : ¦' . : Mr . Capbwmx re-introduced the discussion upon the first clause inthe Programme , . He objected to that portion of the resolution , which pledged ; them to withhold any . support from any , mpyementi short of the , People ' s Charter .. If & M not . strictly speaking , deprive " them of the rig ht' of self-govern ^ mentfitdidBo-by implication . ' He thought they sbohld ^ not * make any regulations , whatever , ^ respecting ; their policy with regard i tcTothor par ties . li ujpbu iiumw i

    out leave enureiy au "" - ' * - ™•; .. had truth en their side iwould ultimately piW % He concluded iby moving the following resolution ,, as a rider .: —? . « , That the business , ^ thiB , . Ce » ventipn , be ' conhied . 'to , . ; tbe ;; establia | ane ' nt , of ,,. an e » g » wa-. " tiorifor . the ) Charter ^ w . hol ^ and , ehtire . f ( , . ; ,, ,.. 1 J : Mrl 6 'CosNOBseeoridedthe ' rider . " •'• =. . i ^ ' The ' Cbaibmaii decided that the rider was out of ' order ; it would rict as ari amendment upon the . whole Programme , and prevent any further discussion ; ofthe subject . - •» ; j ;; i , i . , Messrs . Hubs * and , Moss supported , the resolution .-, : :. i ¦ - .-. . ; , ; -. ' - : '¦ ¦¦ -, , ' . „ Mr . Babkbb gave his opinion m . KWOW ot tne amendmerit ' pf Mri Mantle ., . He . thought that they had no necessity to make any definite legislation uponthesubject . ... ; ' " ,, , ' ,. : Mr / Harkbt ' expressed some' eurprlae at the line of policy adopted by Mr . Hohoake ^ relativetotbe reflation , Uiu ' oxtuca ^ M ^ . ftiljoaie was not

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    S ^ s . -- ^ ii * iiS * of Exequtive „ when . the Trogramme ~ t ; with whichMhor politicians 'Sli : ? x a ! : ' P a ; tthe £ . Chartists , . because , they Z ° JH false - policy ., Jf- they werekeld in contempt it was because . they , bad not exerted their ! SL ? i . as TorHin S . mw ,. and , not because of ; any p ; s 5 ''r % ia ^ adopted- tow ards . other ' classes , ™„» t 0 j ; t ^ - ' KB . form , vBiUi , the middle ; classes arid S , membe « of Parliament professed [\ Chartist principles , ; but . 'no sooner . were their-own interests

    twi , to ; tba riithey , . deser ' ted , ; th ; e ' , cause of the Z ! Sr ' ' ? lwhile nearly ; i 06 . ' metubers ; . ' of . Parluv pient could be found to , vote for the , Little Charter omy ten or filteen voted ' for the CharterVntire . It was not . they , who . insulted tho feelings of " the midnffi . rtn ' ut t ) lat - ^ wmofl' ' uUed thBui . by WwS « g a ™ easuro , of . reform which ; was a mere ^ 5 L . Tb J ' did not ' array ; themselves against r ? Lv- F ¦ cl hut . the . middle . class did array iiS ^ - ^^ ' tbepeopie . , The working hian ; £ 2 ?! % i >' . . of partwri ght arid . Hunt , bad been nrst in the field . If there , was division or dissention on toe subject , itwas not „ createU by them but by their opponents / ' - " - ' " "' ¦ ' - •' - '¦

    : . Mr . f . Hbsi stated that he perfectly agreed Iwith the sentimenta expressed' by Mr . '! Holyoake . They naaenoughto'dote- ' lay'down ' rules for what-they w [ t ? > without going into the boundless field of what they would hot do ; : - - "' ' " - . Mr . Bezkb should vote for the resolution ; It was an insult to working men to deprive them of tho franchise . ' It was a battle betweeri those who had and those who had not , and they could not make any compromise . " ¦¦ ' ¦ ' ' ¦}¦' ¦ . ' ' " " ; ; , Mr . Wueewr stated that his instructions were to oppose any junction with ' the-middle'classes ; but , in his opinion , thequestion before them was not whether they should unite or not''unite ; with another party , but meretv whether they should

    express - or riot express an opinion upon the results likely , to follow from a middle class organisation . fl e . , as m favour of the r ' esblutiori , because he believed that it wasorie . which ' created great attention a , 5 ? t' the Chartist Body ; and it was necessary , for the" perfection ; of their'organisation , ' that they should lay down some rule . upon the subject ; * ' Mr . Finmw having replied , the question was put to the vote , ' " when three persons' voted- for tbe amendment ; arid twenty-four against ; it . ^^ - ¦ " ; Mr . DuHCAiisoN / then raovedi as an amendment iipori'the-latter'portiori . of the-resolution " , the following words ' ::-. " But at the 'same time 'we , ' as n Conventibri ; doi riot give' any opposition to other political reformers , arid recommend to the country

    to continue their agitation for the Charter , all and whole | and'rioVto' rest Satisfied till it is ^ obtained , and also to sympathise with and and assist every otherciassof-reformer ' s who are proceeding in a srrriiiardirection . '' . They had produced great injury by their exclusivo policy ; ' They had wealth , talent ,-arid power'td ' . fight ^ against , ' backed' iip by the physical force of the whole country ; and unless they adopted a ' coribiliatory policy they could - never carrytheir views ; "The Charter was ^ not' all he wanted , ' 'but heweritfor'the Charter as a portion of the whole ; ' Ori the sivriie pHriciple , they should not adopt ' atr obstructive " : policy towards-other parties who did riot entertain such extended views ; ; ! Mri ; Barker seconded the amendment . ' ¦

    ' The CuAinMAS- expressed a 'decided' opinion against . the amendment , and alluded . to the manner in which'himself arid ' btfier victims' had ' been treated by middle classiuries ; '' - ' " . ' . "''• •¦ ' ; • Mn Homoarb expressed his opinion in favour of the amendment . From ' ' the feeling expressed by the Chartist party , in relation to adjunction with Social'Reformers , heifelt impressed withanidca that they entertained , a-. wish to widen their boundaries and fraternise with other . classes of reformers , . llispririciples / were . to assist-every ! one in . the attainment ' of their rights . without entertaining the question , whether , he . himself would be benefited orin ^ ured by pnrsuingthat , conduct .- Ho felt disappointed that such sentiments met with no

    response . from , the majority ; of . the . delegates . His experience during lii ' s visits , in the . provinces-bad led him to entertain a very different idea-relative to the improved condition of the Chartist mind . If they pursued the line , of . policy they had hitherto done , they , wouldlose many of their adherents , and would never infuse that new blood into their organisation whichiwas so essential , toatssuccess . - ; , , Mr . Hab ' sby . at . some length defended the policy of the , Executive , and the . Chartist body . . They had no , desire to offer any opposition to the Parliamentary Reform Association . By , their resolution they stated ,, that ; as . the ParJiamentary Reformers did not advocate what . they considered to be justice , - they , bolieyed , they-were not . worthy of popular Support . . )• : ' . ' ' :

    • Mr .. Bufft , denied j that .-.. the -resolution was either an insult or a declaration of war upon the middle , class ; it was merely an . enunciation ' of principle . He thought they had already wasted toomiuch . ' . tiuio discussing ¦ their-relation to the middle classes ;"; They should : hold themselves entirely , aloof from them , ; neither unite , amalgamate , or oppose thorn ; , -If the middle class were honest , theyiwould joinwith the pebple ^ andplacethe question . onabroadand / lasting . basis . , . ; , ¦ Mr . Mantle stated he could not vote for the

    origiriar . ! reBOlution , 7 / but \ he .. 'mu 8 t : vote . against ; the amendment of Mr . Daneanson . He did not wsrit to array-the middleclassesagainst them , but he could aofc . consent to placefaith > or confidence , in thenu He was prepared ioargue the ? question with " ' Mr . Holyoake ; upon ihis own grounds > that they should do to others as they wished-others ; to do to theni . They should so , act- as ; to ' make the Pariismeritary Heformers honest . They were -acting ; a dishonest part , or , ' : they would . come out fairly for . Universal Suffra ' gei : ; Their constituents—the men they proteased to represent—were infavour-of that measure ; But the < leader 3-. were : disbone 3 t ; vand'WOuld not act according to the : views of the bulk , ot itheirowri party . ' :. ¦>¦; - ., u -:-if ;; -:-i ¦ ' ¦ ' >¦ ¦ ¦¦ ¦ ' . ¦ •¦ ¦{* ¦ ¦¦ . ,-r . ¦ ' i Mr . Bezer thought that they were much to blame iu attending the meetings of the Parliamentary Reformers . - -. They / gave-them ; a numericalimportarice

    which otherwiseitheyiwould- never attain . - .. ; ¦ ¦! . Mr . THOKNTos . Hunt was opposed to the resolution , but still / he did not approve of the amendment , ; because it did not define the exact policy they should adopt towards that or ' other parties . Magna- Charta produced the Bill . bfciRights ; and that produced the Reform Bill , which was , iin ; rhis opinion , a step towards attaining . 'Universal Suffrage . He thought every extension of the Franchise would be'beneficial to their : cause . He , wished that . Mr . Duncanson . wouldwithdraw the amendment ; and have a distinct motion upon the whole ; question relative to their policy towards other parties . ; : : i -. f ' . "'' . [ : ¦ Mr . Dosoaksonexplained ;'; : He denied that the extension > of itb © . Franchise , ; as : prop ' o » ed by the Parliamentary Reformers , ; would-. hinder them in their efforts for attainingithe ; Charter .. ; ¦

    Mr . Jokes at some length showed'that the measures ofthe 'Financial Reformers . would give the votes to the aristocracy ) of labour and not to'the democracy , thereby , depriving ' _ the latter qf the sympathy and supporfrof the former ; He was ; like Messrs . Duncanson arid . Holyoake , in favour of love and conciliation , but ; it would not be advisable to throwtheir , love upon thoae whoVould only receive it with hatred . ; : If that was Christian philanthropy he-repudiated it . 'It : was . not sound-policy , and would not assist them in ; producing ! that result for which the Convention had ^ assembled . t They were bound to stand quietly by with folded arriis and let the middle class combat with the 'aristocracy , and When-they were wearied in ; the contest they could step in and attain the : prize ; , - '» . ; :. •' .- : V ;" ,.- ;; Mr . Besfoid drew a distinction' between the great capitalists'and theismnll shopkeepers . The term middle classes . was very indefinite . -

    Tho amendment was then put , and received three votes ; The original resolution was then carried withoutopposition ; : ! : '• : i \ '( . . {/ : : > . - ¦ : A discussion took place relative to points of order ; which being . disposed of , the Convention adjbiirne'd at five o ' clock . ' ; Tbe attendance of visitors was numerous . '; During the latter part of theafternoon sitting Mr ; O'Conrion obtained cleave of absence to attend the House of Commons . , , . ^ ^ WJSr ^ ESDAT ; ;; - ;' : '' ; ; ,.: , , . The , roll having ' beeri . called / the minutes were read arid corifirriied . Correspon'derice ^ was : read from , . Camberwell . and . Walworth ; ' the burden . oil which Was that no . other ,, " ism " should be attached to Chartism ' . ' . ' " , ' ; ., ' . . ;•/ . , '; , ;¦ " ' . J" ; ' ? , ' ,: " . ; ..- ' i , ., : ¦ "" Mr ; ' Jokes niade-soma statemerits relative . to the money ho had lianded . ih froiri Halifax . , " : . '¦ . ' . '

    ¦ i > Corresponderic , e ; was readfrerii seyeral persons , enclosing smallfunds for trie ' usp of the Convention . T v £ he .. printed-sli p ^ . ' of' / the . programme having arrived , Mr . Beeer " moved ; and ; Mr . ' ; fyCossoB seconded , ; "' That the . second . ' qjaus ' e , be adopted . "; . , ( . ; ..- . ' . < ; Amendment of the " Charter . : , ; ^ RcrF . o , pd , ; aria ; Mf . i , GRAv .. seconfied , an amendment , "That the clause be omitted . ' : ' : . - - ; -. . Mr . HABNErvthought to alter , ; , the ' . details ofthe Charter wbuliJ at this stage ; of the proceeding be injudicious ,. and might lead to further ; tampering with that-measure ; ..., ' ,... . .. ; -,, ; : >• , ; o

    - i . Mr ., 0 , Con » obthought that the Conference was fully justified in altering that clause of the Charter . Tho , Sturge Conferericeat BJrmingbamhad effected many alterati pps m-, point ' s of . detaih ; He-thought theprwbta ' nioredeliberateand honest assembly-, and fully able to . deal with ' . the , matter . , VK &] person was , tran 8 ported ; for .. severi . years , be might ) on : his return be elected ja s riiember . of Parliament , why then should he be . deprived of bisyote as . an elector ? _• Messrs .. Jonas , .. jYaies , Jvsvss ,.. . Bs » p 6 ld , and F . spoke in fa . veur . of the clause ; : , - ¦ , ; i ; . - Mr . WBSEi . BR thought the clause was bad and needed ain ' endriieat . ' „ But he was ; averse . topicking out that peouliar . clauae " for ' ariieridriient ; ^ many other details ofthe Charter could be improved . , 1 S they thpught'that ' theyhad time to investigate the whole ' of the details / with a view- tr > their improvement ; hei ' shbuld' -be happy to- agcee to it , but be thought it rinwiseto . deal only witoone'olause of-it . Mr . Kaiwowa said that misfortune was too often

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    treated ^ as , crime , giving instances of tbe samo . Every ' principle of mercy and' justice demanded its ' ebUteration ;* ,- 'c . •; , ; -. > ,-:,-: ; .- ; , . . . , iy . ; Mr . ( Suaffi said . that ; his constituents had . often discussed the clause , and he was fully justified ; in voting in'it ' s favour ; , i . ---. -.-. .. <;' r Mr :-SnBLi ( said that , his constituents were in ' faVdur ofthecbaDge . , He had , suffered imprisonment for the cause , and he , thought it highly unjust ' thai he and ., otber victims should be , from that reason , deprivedIpf . tbeji-yotes ., : . , ' . . - "• - . ; Mr . Wusblbb suggested the amendment should be withdrawn fthey were all of opinion that the clause was badl It was entirely ' a question ; of policy ; . ; ' ' " . . . ' The amendment having been withdrawn , I Mr . Grahau moved a similar amendment which was seconded b y Mr . J . Habnet . ' ' ' Messrs . Huranuri , Jones , O'Connor , Hurst , and Bezbr ' spoke in favour of the clause in the

    programme , Mr ; WnBELEBshowed that by the words " untainted by cririie , " a person once having paid the penalty for that crime was corisidered , in point of law , to be free therefrom , He believed that the Sturge Conference had amended the clause , ' Mr . Moss and other delegates also stated their belief that the clause had been amended . Mr . Harnbt thought that due notice should have been given by the Executive to the country , if they had intended to revise the Charter . Many great and noble-minded men thought that there was a still greater , injustice inflicted by that clause , in excluding women from the suffrage . They were setting a bad precedent in so acting without due notice .

    ; ; Mr . T . Htjht thought that'if they intended to re- ' vise the . Charter they , should call a Conference fur that express purpose ; it was uriwise to bo too often disturbing . the text ofthe Charter . ' j D . W . Rum stated that if the clause was to be altered he should propose that the word male be expunged .. Ha , was in , favour ofthe suffrage being universal . . Why ; should the better half of the human race be disfranchised ? •• -- ¦!¦ - ¦ ; , The vote being . takeri , ' six persons voted for the amendment , which was consequently lost , and the clause ofthe programme adopted . " .

    Public Meetings and Petitions . 'Mr . ' O'CoNson proposed ,-and Mr . ItTatsos seconded i "The adoption of , the third clause ^ ¦ ¦— , After some remarks from Messrs . O'Connor and -Hunt , ,: ¦ ¦ - :. ; ; v : ¦ ¦¦; , « . ' ¦ ,,. ' . . - ¦' Mr . Grat said he was aware that whatever ' was the decision of the Convention , neither he nor the majority of his constituents would ever petition again ; he therefore moved , ?• That the words relative to petitioning be omitted from the clause . " Mr . Yatbs seconded the amendment .

    ¦ A Mr ; , Doscanson moved a rider , which was not seconded . > , ,-,.,, -.. ¦ ,. , : Mr . Robinson was . opposedto petitioning , with ' ri hope of gaining anything from the government ; but as a method of giving-publicity to their " views he was in favour of the clause . ; . ; Mr . Shawsaidhisconstituents were opposed to petitioning the House ef Commons ,. but they thought simultaneous meetings would be productive of great good . , . , It-would be rio compromise of opinion to carry out , the plan ofthe clause , at those meetings . ... - ... ' •• . . . .. .. . . .. ; ' ' . '

    Messrs ; Watson , Bbnfom ) , and Savaob , supported the clause . ¦ . -. •¦'; . ; . ! ¦¦;¦ ¦ :- •¦ - - ¦• j Mr . iB . uCTT was of opinion that , the time oftre . country could be far better-employed than in SUCY childish paatime > as . petitioning ; he trusted they would learn wisdomfrom the . past , andihave more solid grounds for agitation , than begging-that contemptible house for their rights . Delegates stated that it was the best method of bringing their views before the ; world . : ihe thought that , could be . done equally well-by public . meetings ,-without adopting petitions jpoor . Cuffay and others bad been sacrificed by the . agitation for the last petition . ¦ Mr .. O'CoN « oa ; denied . thatthe , fatq ofCuffaybad anything to . do with petitioning . ; ,. .. , . ., ' '• Mr . E . - JoMBSsaid that government were anxious to put down public ; moetings ; , The only , way they could hold degal public meetings was , by petitioning

    Parliament at those meetings . They had but three ways-of . spreading - Chartism ,, viz ., by tracts , lectures , and public meetings ; and they must riot abandon that right ; ; . ) .:, , .-. . •¦> Mr . WHEKirBB protested against ther idea ' that they should shrink , from , holding public meetings for any and ; every object without being compelled , to adopt petitions . - . He believed they , could hold them -with'quite as beneficial , effect without petitions ; but ' as one means , of agitation he was not against it , and should vote for the clause . ' ' ¦ Mr . 'REYNOU ) S / stated , ^ Englishmen . had no right by law ; 'to meet for any other purpose but for petitioning parliament ; and , even then , not more than fifty in number , and not nearer than one mile from the parliament house ; - ' They were compelled . to . do many-things which might be considered humbling , but which were not disgraceful because they were sanctioned by law . ¦¦¦

    '¦ ' Mr . 'W ' nBBMtR showed , that by Mr . Reynolds' information , which he knew was correct , the meetings proposed by the clause would be equally illegal with those proposed by Mr , Ruffy .. ' ¦¦ * Mr . Hubkibalii said , his constituents were tired of petitioning ; they- might l take : better methods of creating a public mine hv favour of their cause ; but as one method of agitating < he . was willing to support the clause . " .. ,. . -- . ;• :.. ¦ . - ! Manti , b had often'expressed himself against petitioning ; but thought that the subject would bear re-consideration . He should therefore vote for the clause . -

    • -Mr . ' - ' Shell said ,, if the Executive thought that petitioning would be the best means of agitating he would vote for , ' it ; hut not . with any hope of parliament attending to their . requeBts . It was explained-that the petition was not to be signed by the persons composing the meeting , but by the Chamnan on their behalf . ; Mr . Grat ' s amendment was then put , and received only three votesi ,- • , : :, , ; Mr , Ddncanson then moved the following as an amendment'to the resolution : —' - * That in the present disorganised and dismembered conditio !) of the Chartist movement over the country , it' is impolitic and . unwise that , we get up at present a national petition ; unless It be' to expose our own weakriess . and furnish , a-fresh' instrument to our

    enemies to use against . us ; btit that we advise the country to continue the'agitation ; arid that a 'great series of lo calpetitions be got up when the country is in a healthier position ; and that the riiethod of getting up the petition be that each locality call a meeting ' arid'that these meetings be held simultaneously over the country , to agitate the question and move the petition , 'and set a going an organisation to obtain signatures ; and also that the name and address Of each petitioner be added to the petition . " He was , of opinion that they were not in a positioned getup a-great national petition ;

    they would only show their weakness , not that Chartism had-not spread ,-biit because ofthe apathy which existed at presentumong them , and to SO many that , participated in- ' their principles standing aloof froriy themi He '' thought the plan laid down in the ; clause would ' give rise to much deception , and produce the evil effects which arose from the-petition of ' 184 S . .. •¦ ,.. . ' Mr . Barker ' seconded the amendment .- He thought the plan laid down in it would rebut the calumnies made relative , to ithe last . petition ' , and produce good effects from the verification of the signatures . ; ' ' . ¦••¦¦ . -... : ¦ .. <>

    > Mr . Hunt supported the amendment . Heihad prepared a plan of a similar . nature , the details of which he intended to lay before them . ¦ ¦ ¦¦¦¦¦ \ Mr * - Grat said the handloom . weavers and bis other constituents in North Lancashire , had not come to any . hasty decision- upon that question . He ' denied that much good had-attended their efforts in petitioning . • Converts : to Chartism were not made at public meetings of that nature , but at lectures , discussions , and by the distribution of tracts ; -- ' - •' - ¦' . - ; ; : ;' •¦ .- "¦ . : ¦ ¦ .. '• . ¦• ' - Mr . CapewblIim was opposed , to the amendment , and in-favour of the plan in the programme . ' Messrs . Bezer , Hurst and Moss , spoke in favour bftheclauseJ ..-. - , .- * -. ¦ - ' ¦? « .: ¦ .. - ..- ¦ . . ¦; : ¦ .

    . Mr ; = 1 Habsev was in favour of the plan because it'was a ; thing , practicable at the present time j one by which they could get upsiriiultaneous . meeting 8 > and in . m « ny instances they might get theriv eoniyenfld by the legal authorities in the various towns and boroughs . - ;; ¦ - - . . ' :. .- . ;¦••/ , , i > . , ; . ' Mr . ; Dunca » son s amendment received eight votes .- The clause was thenput , whensixteeuvotes were given in favour of its being adopted ; - < The- 'Convention then - adjourned . ; . ; i : •; ¦ . '• ¦ ¦ , ; ::,,, !; , ; Afternoon Sitting ; - ' " ¦ ' The Roll haying been called ; , -. ; . ' vu ' j- 'T JBltttton ' . Ca » didafes ' . . .. ;• ..: , r Mr ., Hunniball moved , and Mr . Grat seconded , ' the adoption of , the . fourth clause . ; ' ¦ ¦ .. ;¦ : Mr . BENFou ) supported . tbe clause .

    ; , Mr . 'Whbbibb had received express instructions onithat-. point , ¦ . ¦ The , great , good . that ,- not , only the Chartist body , but tho public generally , bad di-rived from Mr . Harney . being pvit in nomination for iTiv . ertori in . apposition , to . Lord ,: Palmerston waS _ well known .,: ; iri- Exeter they ' were , desirous ,, of s funds permitted , - of a candidate ) professing Chartist prm ciplos being-brought forward for that ; pity ..: ;; i- . Mr . Wrat stated ^ . that great exertions were ! being made to secure the election of Thomas Cooper for Leicester .-, „ : !! ¦¦ : > r-r . l ::- - - - . ^ : ¦;;¦ ¦ - \ l ¦'¦ ' . '' : \ ¦ ; . Mr . Robinson made a similar statement relative to Mr ; G . ; W . M . Reynolds for the borough of Brad Mr . Grat asked , some questions rolativo to the line of policy to be adopted towards . Whi g and Tory candidates .-:: !^ , ' ; . .- . ¦ ¦> ' •¦ ¦ '• • . ; ; . . - ' ..

    „ > Mr ; Shaw , as Chairman , explained that this would depend upon local circumstances . ,:.. ' .. i ' ' Sir . ManuB ; andiMr . , RopFY- ' made similar averments . , Mr ; Mantle-stating that at . Warrin ' eton they wished to propose a Chartist candidate . ;

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    Mr . Barkeb said , that at Northampton they invariably ^ votcd . for . a man who professed his willingness to vote for , Chartist principles , but , ho was always absent wlieii adivision iri the house took place upon that question . . Mr . Josss thought , before proceeding further with ihe ' programme , they should appoint a Comriiittee- to draw up a plan of organisation . Messrs . Wheeler , Arnott , and others 9 * r ported the idea ; it would not interfere with anydweusssion upon the programme . Mr . Rum opposed it , but on explanation withdrewhis opposition . . . Arnott proposed / and Mr . Watson seconded , that five persons be appointed to draw up a plan-of organisation . Messrs . Watson ,. Graham , Wheeler , Arnott , Duncanson , Jones , Robinson , Mantle , Harney , Yates , Bezer , and Hunniball were proposed .

    Mr . Duncanson declined , as did also Mr . Harney and Mr . Jonesi . . Messrs . Graham , Watson , Wheeler . Arnott , and Robinson , were elected by a majority of votes . Messrs , Graham and Moss moved and seconded the adoption of the clause referring to local agitation . . Mr . Capbwsu said , in Hartley and Shelton they had taken an active part inall local matters , and had elected in all instances a majority of Chartist officials , who bad given great satisfaction to the inhabitants generally , and effected groat improvements . In Stone upon Trent they had carried out tbe Land plan ,-instead of paying able-bodied paupers out of the poor rates . They bad in that district made a profit of £ 35 besides vegetables . A man no longer asked for charity of the parish , but for employment . Mr . Bbsfolb gave an exhiliratinj account of similar exertions at Stockport .

    Mr . Wiibelkr gave a statement ofthe good they had been able to effect by similar exertions at 0 Connorville , in tho midst of a bigoted agricultural district . Many other delegates expressed similar views . Mr . VY atvon gave a good account of their proceedings at Newcastle , but said the localities generally needed good instrnotions upon that point . The clause was then unanimously adopted . Mr . Gbat proposed , and Mr . Savage seconded , the adoption of the third section in the clauses of tha programme , relative-to an agitation among Trades Bodies .: , Mr . Shaw supported the clause , and stated that his instructions were definite and express upon that subject . . Mr . Grat wished to know whether the words "Associations of Working Men" applied to Odd Fellows , & C . It was explained that it applied to all associated bodies , and reference was made to the sailors on strike . '

    Messrs . Yatbs moved , and Finlbn seconded , ther adoption of the next clause relative to an agitation in the agricultural districts , and the distribution of tracts . . Mr . Reynolds supported the clause . ' Mr . Mantle stated that he could' not vote for it , because ho did not see how they could get at the Irish people , or' the agricultural districts , for want of tho necessary funds , and thus it would share the fate of many excellent resolutions w hich had been propounded by . various Chartist' Conventions . He thought they should first agree to a plan of organisation . They must follow out the plan' of the Wesleyan 'Methodists , and other religious bodies , and send down a person acquainted with the localities in the district to be agitated . The localities would be the most eracient agents in this work of propagandism . He moved ; and Mr . Shell , seconded , that its consideration bo deferred .

    Mr . E . Jones showed that in many localities , both English and Irish , they had no men imbued with their ideas , ' and consequently they must leave it to tho Executive . The object of the Convention was to eteato ' ftmind ; that of the Executive to organise that'mind . : ¦ - - ' : Mr . CAPBwELii ' said . 'that ' the plan of organisation only referred to the members of the Chartist body , whilst this referredto the ' creation of a mind amongst those who were not members of their body . ...,, - Mr . Hurst spoke in opposition to the clause . Ia his opinion . the distribution of tracts might be made , in a pecuniary sense , self sustaining ; but tha clause did not seem to include the manufacturing districts .

    Mr . Reynolds showed that Mr . Hurst did nob take a correct view of the question—it included all portions 'of the " country . They bad specially named the agricultural districts , they ' having been hitherto much ' ' - neglected . He showed , ' . by'the experience of [ the Anti Corn League and other bodies , that there was a necessity for the Executive being made the head quarters for the dissemination of tracts . " . f ' . ' ; ; ! •'" " ' . , Mr . Wubbleb showed thai the ' clause applied to ) trades' bodies and ' - '' associations ' throughout the country , also ' .. to colliers ,: miners , and railway labourers . Surely great bodies of these were located in the manufacturing districts , therefore it could not bo said that they were " neglected . All delegates , agreed to the ' necessity of an agitation in the agricultural districts . Be was expressly instructed ! upon that point ; Mr . Bbsjold expressed a strong opinion relative to the usefulness of tracts .

    Mr . Ru fyy . stated that while lecturing in the agriculturarcouiities of Wilts , Somerset , Glocester , & c , he found a lamentable degree of ignorance present as to what the Chartists really meant . . Mr . BEKBri urged that the real question was not whether they should supply tracts , lecturers , die , but whether it should be passed ' aow , or referred to tbe Committee of Organisation . He was in favour of the clause . ' Upon explanation , Mr . Mantle withdrew his opposition .. . ' After some remarks f rom Messrs . ' Ba . rk . hr and Jones , the section was unanimously adopted . The . Coiivehtiori ' then proceeded to discuss tho latter portion , or preamble . of the programme . The Land .

    The first portion of the programme , commencing with " Your Committee is further of opinion , " was then agreed to be omitted for the present ; and Mr . lATES-moved , and Mr . Savaob seconded , tho first clause of the programme , commencing with tho Landj and the Establishment of a Board of Agriculture . In answer to " questions , Mr , Jones stated that , by the word Legislature they meant any government then in existence . Mr . Wheeler wished to know whether they were to understand by tbe clause , that they were to agitate trie country in favour of the government appointing a board of agriculture .

    Mr . Mantle thought the clause meant , in an underhand way , to tack something to the Charter , about which many good Chartists differed . He wished to see their platforms open to the expression of any-sane doctrine ; but not to say that those were the only heterodox Chartists who were in favour of the Nationalisation of Land . He was in favour of that doctrine ; but did not wish to . 'thrust it down thethroats of other persons . At this stage of the proceedings credentials were received from Mr . Thompson , of Dudley . Some discussion arising , Mr . Mantle moved , and Mr Whbeler seconded , That the Convention go into Committee . "

    The : CiiAiRMAN-decided , that in accordance with the rule agreed upon on Tuesday , the Convention , had resolved itself into a Committee . Mr . Mantle said , that the clauses were so multifarious that neither themselves nor their constituents could cordially agree upon them . He , therefore , moved ;—¦ * ¦ That the proposition should simply stand as follows ; and that the whole of the details be omitted : — 'This Convention believes that the Land is the inalienable inheritance of all mankind ; the present monopoly of the soil and its minerals ia therefore repugnant to thelawsof God arid nature . '" Mr . WnBELEB seconded the''motion . He was

    pleased that a body of men representing , as the Convention did , a great portion of the mind of the country ! should even advance as far as that . If they went further they would only create . bickerings arid dissentions . ' , '• ' * ¦¦"'' Mr . Josbs ; said , What ' would be the use ofthe Charter Without tbe details accompanying it ? It Would be entirely useless . ' -: -They must lay down a plan bri Which-th ey could take their stand . Ifc would not avail'them to go into the agricultural districts and inform the poor labourers that the land was theirs by right , unless they showed them , howtoobtainit . ' ¦ ' - . " '• ' . ' ' .. •' , ' . .

    Mr . "Wheeler said , the principle ; of : universal suffrage , and the other points of the Chsrter , had been propounded many years before ithe details of the Charter -were . Even yet , difference of ropin ' lOQ prevailed as to those details .--They would find plenty of employment for alength of time to come , in familiarising the public mind with . great- princip les without encumbering the agitation with details , which in their present divided stote . ofopinionupon the Subject ; must necessarily bo very imperfect . ' They had no more fight to legislate for futurity than to be obliged to abide-by the re « airic . ted legislation of the past . ' They were not in a position which'lwould' justif y such a proceeding ; it would only . create . bickerings amongst themselves and their constituents : '< ¦¦¦ ¦ ¦¦ ¦ .. -...

    ; .. Mr ... FiM , wi said , , tbe ; Convention was - cognisant of the great fact , that the'land was public property , but they had also toriiake the country cognisant of it . They , . would stultify themselves , and render their proceedings ' ridiculous , - unless tbey carried out these priubipleB to their full effect ly a detailed plan . He . was grieved to see that men of gi'r . iua should , t & ke ' . such a . 'ies ' trictr d vuw . of thequestion . . Tltipast . experience ' of the Chartist body ought to show , tbeiu the folly of ' agitatinir for puie and simple Chartism . Unless they agitated , fcr social rights ,.. they ,. would ,, never"etilist the sympathies ofthe general portion of the public ; He did not agree with , the whole of the programme , tut re-

• Citation
  • Northern Star (1837-1852), April 5, 1851, page 7, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse-os.kdl.kcl.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/ns2_05041851/page/7/