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Northern Star (1837-1852), 21st February 1852, Edition 2 of 2, Page 5, NATIONAL CHARTER ASSOCIATION. The Execut...

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      Important Meeting Connected With The Gla...

      « , » amount of our exports , or the number of « moves vat week * Sot altogether so ; but mainly by theworkmen £ ? L , «» 1 ™> r nnitine toeether to prevent any encroachment SSwSBfi Glass Trade , whic \ some selfish Severs may attempt , in order to gain a present Idrantoge , at the risk and cost of the future lett beig of the trade . Some stickler for political Economy may laugh at the terms " rights and privileges / 'as Sed to working men ; but , nevertheless , they were snob fi ^ pinion wnldnot alter the fact . They would all ^ nft % nth him the hardship , not to say palpable injustice Samw ^ tb ! V a week receiving only « ,. ; yet snca ^ too often the case . Whatever might be said indlS--foment of Trades ' Unions , they were indispensable , if ? Present position of the working classes was to be SSJESjE- without them tbe well-skilled and hard-S , artisans of this country would he soon reduced to America

      fte condition of the slaves ra aorta , inebest Soof of the success of their trade was tbe amount of S «?« received for ther labour . Employers denied to ™ rkLn the ri ^ hfc to unite and combine for the protection rfjS trade He was , however , proud to state , that ? L « T were hi « a and honourable exceptions among tbe Socmen who were convinced that this was the only , 3 hod of placing a check upon that competitive system S was by its excess destroying the trade of the counto HelouW wish thatabetterfeeling were reciprocated S ' masters and men-their interests were ident . ca , and whatever tended to injure the working man mustulti-™ jfrebound upon the ' employer . The great point » toSrtain in which manner the interest of capital , and ftoterfXu ^ sE means were devised for producing this happy result SMTfar all oarties . Strange ideas upon the subject

      wenowafloatuponthe surf ^ was convulsed to its inmost depth . However nuicuieu , ^ tftSS ^ BBSS £ S £ S ^* fiaart 5 = 5 was mgner iu . « genius that produced it is SmS taffiffi I * fonclusfon , he hoped that much Sod may be done by that meeting , and that they may mam . ffSeir position as honourable workmen , and secure Sth euiselves a fair proportion of the profits realised upon { heir trade , without at the same time encroaching upon the legitimate rights of thecapitel invested then proposedas the next toastthe

      The Chmkhas , , health of " the employers , " which was acknowledged by Mr Walsh , glass master , of Birmingham , stated that be wis disappointed in seeing so few of the employers present and so many of the employed . He bad great faith in the honesty of the principles inculcated in such societies if nronerly carried out . He did not , however , wish to see an isolated union of masters by themselves , and men by themselves ; such was wrong , and he wished most sincerely to see a truthful and permanent union between both . He was not one who would detract from labour , whether from trains mechanical , or handicraft . He had been a working man himself—indeed all must work . He wonld say to the meetin " , let all parties exercise prudence . For his part , he did notcare whether he paid a man £ 1 or £ 5 per week In wawes , so that he got his six or ten per cent , out of it . Whatever other employers might do be responded to them ,

      and could say . give me your hearts and your Hands , be true to your homes , your friends , and employers , and then the masters who would trade upon your labour , and traffic in your toil , shall succumb to the general interests of the The ne ^ t toast proposed from the chair was the " Glass Makers' Trade Society of Great Britain and Ireland . " which was responded to by Mr . Severight , the Secretary to the society , who stated that he was pleased to meet his fellow workmen on snch an occasion . There was , he was sorry to sav . a misconception with respect to Trades' Unions generally , and but for which they would be more universally

      adopted , both by men and by employers . Their object as working men in " meeting that day was not to injure tho capital of the employer , but simply to claim for themselves a due proportion of wages for labour performed . With respect to the Glass Makers' Society , he was happy in stating that the prospects were cheering and satisfactory in the extreme , and he was also happy to inform them that the principles upon which their society was based were becoming better understood , and in consequence more generally adopted in the district . This wonld most certainly lead to the advancement of the best interests both of ihe master and man . The present assembly spoke volumes in favour of the movement now in progress , but he must tell them that the greatest oppression the trade suffered

      from , and that which was the moat difficult to contend against , arose from tbe conduct of unprincipled men connected with tbe trade , rather than the antagonism of the employers . The society had for its object not only the securing a fair remuneration for labour but to provide for the wants of those who were out of work . It had accomplished much good , aud more glorious things would be yet achieved . The results rested solely with themselves . In conclusion he called upon every man present to throw his whole heart and soul into the cause , conscious that by so doing he would secure to himself and his fellow men that honourable independence and dignity that labour wasfairly entitled , and bequeath to his children an inheritance prouder than that of princes—the inheritanee of freedom and independence .

      On the toast of " Labour , the legitimate source of Wealth" being given from the chair , Mr . GlbblSDEB , dia « iricfc secretary , addressed tho meeting . Be was pleased to find that the inclemency of the weather had not in any way interfered with the attendance . It was a proof of the interest they felt in the proceedings . Mr . 6 . referred to Lord Rosse , as a labourer in the cause of astronomical science , and others eminent in different branches of scientific research . They were an honour to humaniry , and were not more enobled by their titles than by their utilitarian labour in behalf of the common weal . He attributed the degraded condition of the working men to a want of proper self-respect and consideration for each other . England would be ten thousand times greater than she is if the labourer would avoid the cup and improve himself by

      habits of economy and prudence . In leterence to the benefits conferred by the society to those out of work he could not speak too highly . He had heard of masters imposing upon their men sixteen moves a turn , and that some employers in this district contemplate doing the same . Xow he would say that if the society only prevented this it would be a great achievement , and one deserving the hearty thanks and support of every working man . Reference was made to the law of partnership , which he contended wonld be altered in the present Session of Parliament , and that then a society of working mtn would be in a position to start a Glass-house , work it with profit , and also find employment for their

      brethren , who by the badness of trade , or the oppression of the masters , were unemployed . The manufacture of pressed woods , and the system upon which it was conducted was referred to bv some present ; he could tell them the prices paid in some parts of the North , namely—sixpence for making one hundred tumblers , such as he held in his hand . This could not be too highly reprobated , and mark , many in tbe trade vere not perhaps aware of tbe fact , that " notwithstanding the small sum paid , should twenty tumblers prove defective , then the whole turn was taken off . { Loud cries of shame . ) He was glad reporters were present , as he wished the fact to go forth to the world . He considered that fact alone was a strong argument to induce hearty co-operation to resist such wanton and disgraceful

      oppression . The Chariuas next proposed success to the Glass Makers of Tuthury , with thanks to tbe members present for their kindness in coming so great a distance . Mr . Leicester , senior , briefly acknowledged the toast . At * tbe r < quest of Mr . Walsh tbe name of Mr . Sheldon was added to this toast in very complimentary terms . Toast from the chair— " The Honest Members of Our Society . " - * Responded to by Mr . Hekht Barnes . ' * Success lo the Manchester District . " Acknowledged by Mr . Bauford , who stated he had recently been present at a meeting of 10 , 000 working men connected with the Engineer ' s Strike , and be wa < firmly persuaded , from what he had seen at that meeting , that such meetings as the present were absolutely necessary , in order to prevent the utter degradation and total ruin of the working classes in these islands .

      Mr- Walsh , in a very eulogistic speech , then proposed the health of his foreman , Mr . James Woohall , who acknowledged the compliment in an appropriate manner . The health ofthe Chairman wastbendrankand replied to . Toasts— " Success to the Stourbridge and Wordsley district . " Acknowledged briefly hy Mr . Asms . " Success to the Dudley District . " Responded to in a neat and impressive speech , by Mr . G . Saiven , senior . Mr . Gillexdeb , who took the chair on the departure of Mr . Cully , proposed the " Non-society Men , and may they soon learn self-respect . " Briefly responded to by Mr . J . Robsrts . The health of tbe Central Secretary , Mr . Severight , was then given , and acknowledged by that gentleman . The healths of the Central Committee was briefly replied toby Mr . Russell . "The Longport District" was next drank . Acknowledged by Mr . G . Axdrbws . " The Press " was ivenand duly acknowledged .

      g , The heiltU of the " Strangers who have Honoured us with Their Presence" was then given , to which Mr . S . Coos , of Dudley , an old and tried friend in the cause of civil and religious liberty , eloquently and impressively responded . „ . _ , Messrs . T . Williamson . T . Shaw , J . Barnes , and other gentlemen , favoured the company with some excellent aongs ; and the proceedings , which were of the most harmonious description , terminated by a vote of thanus to Messrs . Patereon and Owen , who had so admirably provided the dinner .

      February31, 1832. The Northern Star. 5

      February 31 , 1832 . THE NORTHERN STAR . 5

      Amalgamated Societi Of Engingeurs. Thb S...

      AMALGAMATED SOCIETI OF ENGINGEURS . THB STRIKE . MAXcaEsrEB . —The employers who have opened their shofs at Manchester report that a fair proportion of nanus have gone in on the new terms , and some have got their full complement of engineers and mechanics . The police returns give only one establishment out of the whole forty-8 ix as clwed entirely , and the number of operatives now at work , as compared with tbe month preceding tbe strike , at 2 , 986 against 6 , 164 . A Mr . J . Jones has been in Manchester to engage tbo Free Trade Hall , with a view to lecturing in it on the strike . He sent programmes to both societies of masters and men , but it was difficult to gather his views from the document . To the workmen of tbe Amalgamated Society he also sent invitations , through a Mr . Pearson , to join in a procession , stating that he would engage a brass hand to head them , and provide horses for snch as chose to tide . The Committee of the Amalgamated Society having Wandered the communication , returned the following reply

      Amalgamated Societi Of Engingeurs. Thb S...

      to Mr . Pearson : — "Sir , —The Defence Committee beg most respectfully to decline the offer of Mr . Jones with reference to band , procession , & c . On behalf of the Committee , Fbaucis Dobson . "—The committee also sent a deputation to Captain Willis , head constable , of Manchester , stating that they had taken this step , and that if any procession took place it would not be with their concurrence .

      Depabtube op English Engineers to Belgium . — Last week several agents from the leading iron founder is aud Steam-engine factories Of Liege , Vomers , Charterao , Mens , and other parts of Belgium have been over in this country , for tbe purpose of engaging some of oar best engineers and machinists for their establishments at high wages . In consequence of the strike among the English working men and their masters , they have received considerable orders for machinery ( steam-boats , Ac . ) On Saturday 180 to 200 left on board a steamer especially engaged for Ostend . Others are to follow .

      CAPITAL AND LABOUR . A lecture upon this interesting and important subject was delivered on Friday evening , at the Marylebone Literary Institution , 17 , Edward-street , Portmau-square , by J . M . Ludlow , Esq . The attendance was not rery large , but comprised many influential characters ; amongst others we recognised Lord Goderich , J . Furnival , Esq ., Professor Maurice , Pierre Leroux , and other friends of Co-operative principles . About half-past eight Mr . Ludlow commenced his lecture by stating , that he laboured under an unusual fear , namely , that none but friends were present to listen to him . He belonged to the " Society for Promoting Working Men ' s Associations ; " and as a member of the human family , he thought it not only his dutybut that it behoved all menin

      , , the present dangerous crisis , to come forward and prevent the threatened great disruption taking place between the Master and the Workman . It also behoved that they should not be led away by any feeling of philanthropy , by any feeling generated in a moment of excitement , but that every expression of feeling should be guarded by the stern criticism of truth . He bad endeavoured to divest himself of all feelings of self , and at the same time to take upon himself all the necessary responsibility , by sending letters to the Press , signed by bis own name . He wished to speak as a man , and not as a mouthpiece . Their Society was anxious that the Chartists among them should have full liberty to speak their opinions ; and also that the Conservatives should have the same privilege . He could not conceal his fear that the late measures of coercion , adopted by the

      masters to put down all independence among working men , would lead to a darker period of society , and would be more likely to produce a fearful social war than any events that had yet threatened the prosperity of England . He might be considered a partisan speaker , seeing that for some years he had been endeavouring , by letters and explanations , addressed to leading men , to get an alteration made in their present laws of partnership , so as to promote the formation of societies among working men . But he had endeavoured to guard himself against all prejudice , by reading but little upon the workman ' s side of the question . He had endeavoured to keep his mind fixed on the true principles which should guide the relations of Capital and Labour ; and after taking an impartial view of the question , he must state that no man could regret

      more than he did , that working men should have been forced , by tbe tyranny of the masters , upon the dangerous experiment of forming a Co-operative Society in tbe hot baste in which they had been , and with the bitter feelings against their employers , engendered by these circumstances . More than one-hundred unsuccessful strikes had forced the conviction upon the men , that strikes were not the most emcient weapon mth ^ bAch to combat the influences of Capital , and their minds were naturally led to a scheme of Co-operation . As a friend to the principle of Co-operation , he regretted that this step could not have been taken after mature deliberation , but the men had no alternative . The fault lay not with them ; they were willing to continue to work at their present wages ; were contented and prosperous without a wish to injure their employer's interests .

      They believed th it the abolition of overtime and the regulation of piecework would tend to benefit the honest employer . The lecturer then stated the whole case of the employers as well as tbe employed , and after dwelling with great fairness upon all points bearing favourably for the masters , said— ' But beside this picture of the employer watched , thwarted , addressed by " Central Committees , " " mediated with , " " picketed , " let usnow place' said the lecturer , * another . Little Allsstreet ia situate in the immediate neighbourhood of the great East-end thoroughfare of Whitechapel , and runs into that of the Commercial-road . I know not why the Amalgamated Society placed here their offices ; perhaps by reason of tbe proximity of two or three engineering firms ; perhaps for no reason definite to themselves . But however

      this may be , I cannot conceive of any spot better chosen for the head-quarters of a Trade Society ; one better fitted to remind the working man at every step , at every hour , of those evils against which such societies are instituted to contend . To the west , within afew minutes' walk , towers the huge Aldgate palace ofthe king of slop sellers , whilst many of his brethren , Jew and Gentile , whether in the clothing , the shoe , or any other " cutting " trade , display their plate glass fronts in the chief thoroughfares , and the back streets swarm with the dens of sweaters and chambermasters , by whom their ticketted rubbish is supplied . Immediately behind , to the south , lie the Docks , —those huge asylums of the " casual labour " of London , —where hundreds of unemployed " hands" of all descriptions wait and scuffle for the privilege of a bard day ' s work . Further

      on towards the river side , the working man might come to those public houses where the power of capital exhibits itself in the vilest shape it has ever put on towards the labourer ; where , as the coal-whippers of old , so the ballastheavers now can only earn employment through intoxication ; where the usual privileges of labour are reversed , and the steady , honest , sober man , isinvariably passed over by thecontracting publican , and the reckless drunkard is sure of a job . Eastward , are thickly scattered the " garret-masters" of the cheap cabinet trade , the men who , after toiling day and night to make up some piece of furniture , have to stagger forth with it on their backs through the streets in search of a purchaser . Somewhat further north he would find the Spitalfields weavers , whom the competition of machinery has deprived successively of their high educational ,

      musical , and philosophical acquirements , their tastes , their comforts , their health too often , and who are now reduced to the miserable pittance of some 7 s . 6 d . a-week . Whils all around lies the huge field of what may be called , alas ! the compulsory prostitution of London . Courts and alleys on all sides , where not the abode of open unblushing professional vice , are filled with those wretched women , the slopsellers , and the sweater ' s slaves , who must often toil day and night to earn 2 s . 6 d . or 3 s . a-week—enough perhaps for food and drink . And what are they to do besides for shelter and raiment ? What , with the vast floating population of sailors swaying about in boisterous idleness , with pockets which , if full , they cannot drain too quickly 1 There is a labour-market there , in which the devil ' s work generally finds a more willing purchaser , and often , at least

      seemingly , a kinder one , than the terrible foreman at the outfitters , whose eye is so quick to detect imperfect work , to mark tbe minutes over the appointed hour , to fine for delay , for vermin , for impertinence , the poor creatures whose life-blood perhaps is in the garment . . . . Make up the picture with the low lodging-houses and their vagrant denizens , with the "fences" of Petticoat-lane and tbe thieves who resort to them , with the outcast children trooping on all sides in rags and filth , and say , with me , whether there ever was a place in which from every house-top rises more loudly the cry " Vrn viclis " to the conquered workman in the struggle of competition than that East-end of London in which " Little Alie-streer , Whitechapel , " is situated . " Keep up your wages ! keep all at work , or if not , keep off the competition , of the unemployed I Overtime for aome is loss of employment for others , "—it is the first and universal lesson . Was it not , then , quite as natural for the working man to try to keep or force up wages , as for the employer to look after " profitable

      orders" and to claim to be the " master of hia . own establishment ? " Bat was not the attempt to keep np wages something more'than natural—was it not beneficial to the state ? Th © lecturer then showed , from Adam Smith , Ricardo , Stuart Mill , and Malthus , that such was the case . ' He then examined the demands made by tbe men , which led to the strike , and concluded by showing the great benefits which tbe Amalgamated Society , regarded as a benefit society conveyed upon its members and upon society generally , by acting as a rate in aid ofthe Poor Law , and expressed his firm conviction that , government bad not done sufficient in repealing the Combination Laws . They should have legalised Trades' Unions in a similar manner to benefit societies , and bare thus brought them from their present negative position . As the repeal of the Babble Act had to be followed up by an Act for Legalising Joint Stock Companies , so tbe repeal of the Combination Laws should be followed up by au act for legalising Trade Societies .

      This lecture was the first of series to be delivered in this place by friends to the Co-operative Movement . Co-oPERAirvE Wobhshops . —On Tuesday evening a special meeting of the Executive Council of the Amalgamated Society of Engineers , & c , was held at the society ' s offices , 25 , LHtle Alie-street , Whitechapel , to take steps towards carrying oat tbe establishment of co-operative workshops , for the employment of hands thrown out of work by the strike , according to a proposition recently made by the council , and satsctioned by the different branches of the

      society , by which a special grant of £ 10 , 000 from the general fund has been voted for that purpose . It appears that that sum is by itself insufficient to effect the object upon the scale contemplated by the Executive , and it was stated that a large sum might be raised from the individual savings of members of the society , a great number of whom have expressed a wish to invest money in a co-operative undertaking . Many instances of this nature were mentioned , and , after a long discussion , it was resolved that an address should be printed for circulation amongst members , calling their attention to the subject .

      How The Sotmbbg' Votes Webe Tikblf W Fba...

      HOW THE SotMBBg' VOTES WEBE TiKBlf W FBAKCE . —The court-martial on Tuesiay tried a soldier , named Zimmerm ann of the 6 th regiment of lancers , in garrison at Chartres , for exciting to revolt against his superiors , and disobedience to the laws . It was proved that , on the occa-Bi on ofthe vote on the plebiscite in December , Zimmermann declared that the vote waa not free , as it took place in pre-Bence of theofficera , and that , if it were to be recommenced , he would vote very differently , or not at all . He added , that if there were several men in the regiment like him , they would dme sway the colonel and the officers . The court condemned bin Jo a year ' s imprisonment and the coBtf . "GaUgnani .

      ©O**|Wattte Jtotellfaence

      © o **| wattte Jtotellfaence

      Central Co-Operative Agency, * 1q, Charl...

      CENTRAL CO-OPERATIVE AGENCY , * 1 Q , Charlotte-street , Fitzroy S quare . Weekly Report , Feb . 10 th to Feb . 18 th , 1852 . The Agency transacted business with the following Stores . —Leeds , Banbury , Selkirk , Galashields , Padiham , Hawick . Halifax , Woolwich , Portsea , Haslingdon , Booking , Ullestborp , Burnley , and Norwich . According to invitation , Mr . Shorter , the Secretary of the Society for promoting Working Mens ' Associations , accompanied by Mr . Douthwaite , o / tbe Central Co-operative Agency , attended a numerous meeting of the members of the Co-operative Store , at Banbury ; a lecture was delivered by Mr . Shorter , and Mr . Douthwaite explained the business ot the Agency , and the principles of Co-operative Stores . Mr . Jones , the resident partner of the Agency in Manchester , is to lecture once at Manchester , an d twice at Middlesbro ' . in the course of the current week .

      An application was received from the Brighton Store , who want to be supplied with shirting through the Agency , and accordingly the necessary inquiries have been set on " foot , and the Agency is open to any proposals upon this subject . The division of bonuses for the last six months being now in course of preparation , all purchasers who have not sent in their purchase books are requested to do so forthwith . Under the title of « ' Suggestions to aid in the formation of a legal constitution for Working Mens' Associations , " Mr . E . V . Neale has just published a set of rules which

      are destined to be for tbe Productive Associations what the rules already published for friendly societies are for the promotion of Co-operate Stores . These rules are complete and accurate , and through their instrumentality it will be henceforth easy for any trade to organise themselves into associations with all legal and financial securities . The publication of the set of rules alluded to is so much the more timely , that in consequence of the debates in Parliament oa Tuesday , Feb . 17 th , there is no prospect of the new act for which the working men had petitioned , being passed this session .

      Co-Operative Conference. A Meeting Of De...

      CO-OPERATIVE CONFERENCE . A meeting of delegates , from the Co-operative Societies in Ayrshire , was held in the Black Bull Hotel , Kilmarnock , on Friday , the 13 th Inst ., at two o ' clock in the afternoon . The delegates present were Messrs . John Service and David Wyllie , Kilwinning ; Win . Hill , Ayr ; Thomas Bouskill , Saltcoats ; Robert Stevenson , Beith ; William Aitnn and John Anderson , Darvel ; James Johnstone , Cumnock ; John Pollock , Catrine ; Robert Miller , Ochiltree ; George Smith and Alexander White , Galston ; arid Bruce Taylor , and Andrew M'Crorie , Mauchline ;—Mr . John Service was unanimously called to the chair . —Mr . Andrew M'Crorie , -who was appointed Secretary to the Conference , stated the reasons that had induced Gahton and Mauchline Societies to take tbe necessary steps to procure the present meeting .

      They had become convinced that although Co-operative Societies had been individually successful , that little effort had been made to extend the principle beyond the locality . Such meetings as the present would open up a field of intercourse which would ultimately be beneficial to all . The law of Partnership , however stringent it might be , could , like all other acts of parliament , be evaded , —hut that would be left to future consideration . Ten out of fourteen Societies had responded to the invitation ; and , although Ouchinleek , New Milns , Stewarton , and Troon had : not seen the propriety of sending delegates , the result had , nevertheless , been highly satisfactory ; and if good followed , however little it might be , the object of the originators had been gained . Each delegate furnished the Conference

      with a brief narrative of his Society ' s history , the mode of government , and a financial summary . These reports showed that the people of Ayrshire- are now somewhat alive to the benefits imparted by the establishment of stores throughout the country ; and that Co-operation has now attained a pretty formidable magnitude , which it will be impossible for its enemies to neutralise . These statements occupied the attention of the meeting for nearly three hours . An hour was devoted to the imparting of information to each other regarding the best and cheapest markets for purchasing goods ; and a suggestion was made that each Society should forward petitions to both houses of parliament , praying that the laws relating to partnership

      should be so modified aud improved , as would put Co-operative Societies on the same footing with Joint Stock Companies . A long conversation followed on tbe practicability of joining together in the purchasing of a large quantity of goods , which would have the effect of enabling the several Societies to supply their localities at cheaper rates than at present . However desirable this might be , none of the delegates had received power to pledge their Societies to any particular course of conduct , and it was , therefore , thought expedient , that the present Cor . fereuce should be declared adjourned ; that Mr . Andrew M'Crorie , Mauchline , be appointed convener of a future meeting , and that the several Associations should communicate with him at their earliest

      convenience , stating tbe views held by them on the subject . Thanks were then voted to Mr . Thomas Bonskill for his conduct in the chair , Mr . Service having been obliged to leave town before the conclusion ofthe proceeding ? , and the meeting adjourned at seven o ' clock .

      Co-Operative Association , Bradford, Yor...

      CO-OPERATIVE ASSOCIATION , BRADFORD , YORKSHIRE . Since our annual festival last Christmas , we have taken stock , which proved satisfactory , and also declared a dividend of 6 £ d . in the pound on members ' purchases , the greater part of which was left in , towards taking up additional shares ; and the profits arising from public purchases is appropriated to a reserve fund , for the purpose of extending our operations , and the maintenance of a reading room , which is supplied with the ' Daily News / 'Leader / 'Northern Star , ' ' Glasgow Sentinel / 'Reynolds ' s Newspaper , ' ' Bradford Observer / and other periodicals ; and is attended by many of our members , particularly now that parliament has assembled .

      Since our last report we have enrolled twenty members , thus steadily progressing ; and the receipts at the store average about £ 60 per week . We are also preparing to consign to the central agency a , vast amount of patterns of stuff goods of every quality , design , and colour , which we flatter ourselves we can supply at market prices , and thus secure a mutual advantage , We have recently received communications from Coventry , Barkfoot , near Newcastle-on-Tyne , and Epurith , in Lincolnshire , and sent them samples of

      our stuff goods . We have also sent our petition to the Secretary , praying the legalization of industrial associations ; and as our borough members were here a fortnight ago , a deputation of our members waited upon them , and after explaining our position and requirements , they very honourably promised us their assistance , either in presenting our petition , or waiting upon the President of the Board of Trade . Thus we congratulate ourselves on a gradual progress , which gives the greatest assurances of safety to all institutions , whether local , national , social , or political . Joseph 'Hudson

      Leeds Redemption Society. I Enclose A Re...

      LEEDS REDEMPTION SOCIETY . I enclose a report of the Redemption Society which again exhibits how little we are doing with our Farm to which we might do had we means . Here we are , with excellent water power running to waste , our few Pioneers cooped up in a Welsh Farm House , our Building Fund sticking at about £ 170 , with a guarantee not to begin building till we get £ 200 . Now , had we such a block of buildings up as would accommodate a dozen families comfortably , we might supply the Stores with manufacture of some kind ; and if they would give us a lift , they would have one common interest that might ultimately sure them from coming in competition with each other , a danger they do not perhaps fear , but a reasonable one . R . Jones , Sec .

      Sixth Annual Report Of Thb Redemption So...

      SIXTH ANNUAL REPORT OF THB REDEMPTION SOCIETY , PRESENTED TO THE ADJOURNED ANNUAL MEETING HELD IN THE SOCIETY'S ROOMS , 5 , TRINITY-STREET , LEEDS , ON TBE 12 th irot . The history of a society . like that of its individual members , is chequered—sunshine and shadow—difficulties and victories succeed each other . The greater the object to be accomplished , the greater the obstacles which impede its progress , and the more earnestly should its supporters labour to remove them . In this Annual Report , the Directors feel bound to state , not only the success which has in some measure crowned your efforts during the eventlul year ju « t passed , but also the difficulties , and even the mistakes , which hare hindered , and yet hinder the can-ring out of our great object ; confident that to most of you , it is sufficient that the cause deserves success , and can be made successful by using the

      propermeans , With regard to affairs at the Community ; some who were resideats when the last Report was published , have since left . These are Mr . and lit : Gray , Mr . and Mrs . Gardner , Mr . Denton , Mr , Bradley , and Miss Dennis . The present residents are Mr . G . Williams , Robert Swindsls , Farm Manager ; Joseph Walker , and William Hobson , Farmers ; James Bently , Shoemaker ; Thomas and Charles Arandal ) , Shoemakers ; the last two have not been elected but have gone on trial for three months . You will very naturally inquire why so many have left ? The following is the best account the Board can pive : —Mrs . Gray went to the Community very unwillingly ; she was no communist either in . theory or in practice ; she went because her husband was determined to go ,

      and when she got there did all she could to induce him to leave : her line of policy was to make the place as uncomfortable as possible , and iu this she succeeded . Every member ofthe Community complained of her , and threatened to have en mcuit . Such w & a the state of affairs when the Board sent Mr . Henderson to Wales , to investigate the matter on the spot , He wa » convinced that there could he no harmony while she remained , and as she would not leave without her husband , Mr . Gray consented to leave in order to get her away . Mk . Gardner left in order to live with , and assist iu supporting her widowed mother ; her husband remained for some tune , but ultimately left without giving any social reason for so doing . Mr . Bradley gave as hia reason , that he had promised to go to America with some mends , Ik , Denton refuted to give any

      Sixth Annual Report Of Thb Redemption So...

      reason whatever , though asked repeatedly to do so It rtouires persons of great energy , skill , ami endvLu ^ "" J ^ Z I young community , particularly where the houseVccommnSn i « so limited fas in ours ) , that all have to live and S , ? fi ! ? h same roof . You will see that there is a h afanoe aeafnstThe ^ , forthepaityearof * 42 s . Id . This , Tiow ^ u ' ^ £ L ^ the past year ' sloperations ; it « uM fro m the fact that mam thtan which were gotand consumed m the year previous , have been S for in the year just closed ; so that taking these into coasideTation the farm has really gained during the year . Thegreatwantat present is more house * ; we hare the plans prepared , an educated * man ready to supanutendthe erection and niso to act as governor and £ 168 lis . 7 Jd . in hand towards this desirable object : another united effort to raise the sum of £ 800 at least , will remove this obstacle . Some ofthe branches have done nobly for this fund , and we hope that all will now make special efforts to complete it . During the summer Messrs . Hobson and Smith have visited tbe Estate , aud they speak of it as greatly improved since their former visit . The family live together in h « mony , and the accounts show that they go on improving and increasing the value of the property . A Welsh female has been engaged to manage the dairy , & c , aud w giving satisfaction . Two items in the financial statement require some explanation ;

      the first is £ 412 s . 6 d . to Mr . Heuderson for services . The Congress of delegates from various branche-, which met on the 9 th of June , passed a resolution , that an agent should be appointed to conduct the correspondence , lecture , & c , and Mr . H . was elected to the office , and engaged for six months . This was to be paid by voluntary subscriptions , for that special object ; however , some who had promised did not ( perhaps because they could not ) fulfil their promises , and at the end of six months the above sum was owing to Mr . fl ., and the board had no other alterant ire but to pay it out of the funds , aud so close the engagement . The other item is £ 2 to Mr . Gray j this was to pay their expenses bavk to Yorkshire , according to the by low , which provided for such cases . During the pastyear , three new branches have been established through the instrumentality of Dr . F . R . Lees , at the following places : —Hanley , Loagton , and Newcastle-on-Tjne . The Board in Leeds have taken premises , No . S , Trinity-street , Leeds , where all the business of the Society is now transacted . There is a lecture room , a grocery and atationavy room , a sale room for clothing , hats , & c , and a store room for heavy goods . Lectures on Co-operation have already been delivered in the lecture room , by Dr . F . R . Lees , Mr . K . Jones , and Mr . J . Henderson ; others will follow weekly during the winter .

      We now come to the latest project ofthe Society's progress , viz ., the Co-operative Store . The vapid progress which the cause of Cooperation was making in this country , had excited considerable attention amongst all classes of society . Many of the stores had been eminently successful , and the establishment of the Central Co-operative Agency , had rendered the establishing of such associations safe and easy . It had often been said by subscribers in Leeds , that there was no benefit in being a member of our Society ; so a committee was appointed to consider the propriety of adding a store to the Leeds district of our Society , aud giving an immediate benefit to the members . The committee reported favourably , aud submitted a code of laws for its management ; a meeting of the members wascalled , and the project approved of by them . On the 3 rd of December , the Store was opened , and has steadily increased in business , capital , and shareholders . When the Store commenced , the number of shareholders was fifty-four , the capital £ 23 , and the business done the first week £ 6 10 s . ; now there are eighty shareholders , paid up capital £ 12 , and the business done weekly about £ 25 : one week it reached £ il . A great number of subscribers have been added to the Society by its means , and it also gives us the means of readi ' y disposing ofthe produce of the farm , The directors would strongly urge upon the branches the desirability ef opening stores

      in connexion with their branches ; the secretary at Leeds will give every iaformation respecting the formation of such associations . The Central Agency will supply groceries , < fco ., and in quantity to small stores at wholesale prices , and , If necessary , put them up in packets for distribution . Tbe Leeds Store will supply woollen cloths , stuff pieces , and stationary , to such of the branches as with for a supply . Let your motto be'Wo adulteration , no fraud , ' act up to it and you must succeed We appeal to the members who live at a distance , for their staunchest support during the present year ; we believe witk such support , and the efforts which are now being made , and will be made in Leeds , to be able iu our next report , to point to our little experiment as an accomplished fact . We believe this , because within two months after starting our trading experiment in Leeds , we are doing a good and increasing grocery business , and aro taking rapid , but prudent strides in the extension of our operations to other trades ; and , according to our laws , a considerable portion of the profits will go to the funds of the society The Store wilt thus be the source of a certain and valuable revenue for comdiunal purposes . In conclusion , the board most heartily thank allwhohave assisted them during the past year , and solicit a continuance of their sup Eort . Every obstacle removed is an accession of strength ; some avebeeu removed , aud by manly , earnest , aud enduring exertion , the rest ivill assuredly follow . Signed on behalf of the Board , D . Gbem , President .

      Djartfet Btrtehtgettce

      djartfet BtrteHtgettce

      National Charter Association. The Execut...

      NATIONAL CHARTER ASSOCIATION . The Executive Committee met on Wednesday e vening , the 18 th instant ., at 3 , Queen's Head Passage , I ' afcernogfcer Row , Present : Messrs . Arnott , Bezer , Hunt , Holyoake , Grassby , and Shaw . John Arnott presided . The receipts up to the time ot meeting are £ 1 12 s . Sd ., reducing tbe debt to £ 22 8 s . 4 £ -d . If the sub-secretaries in the various localities would wait upon their friends , we think the sum now owing might soon be forthcoming . As this is evidently a time of thinking more than acting , we recommend the active Chartists to inform their friends that we have a large number of the tracts , entitled " What is a Chartist , " on hand , which can be had on application for Is . per hundred .

      We also suggest to the Metropolitan Delegate Council , as they have taken the initiative in calling a Convention , that they should take decisive and energetic steps to raise subscriptions to forthwith discharge the liabilities of the Chartist party , for to make head as a party , we must not only be out of debt , but have a fund to start with , as it is impossible for the country to be agitated without the means . We particularly call upon Mr . Jones to redeem his pledge , and through tbe medium of bis " Notes" to call upon the people to raise this . sum . iuMae . di 8 . tely . When tbat is done , i ! the people require it , we will call a Convention forthwith . After other preliminary business was disposed of , the Committee adjourned to Tuesday evening , the 84 th instant , at tbe place above mentioned . James G-rassbt , Secretary , pro tern , 96 , Regent Street , Lambeth .

      RECEIPTS . William Pullinger , 6 d . ; Ashton-under-Lyne , per John Taylor , 4 s . ; Bradford , per W . Clark , 8 s . ; Friend of the People , per W . D . Ruffy , 6 s . ; John Shaw , Barrhead , Is . ; George Smith , Salford , Is . ; John Mathias , Is . ; Phillip Martin , Is . ; Victoria Park Locality , per Mr . Petheret , 10 s . Total , JG 112 s . 6 d . James Grassby , Sub-Secretary .

      Whitechapel.-—Mr. Stratton Lectured At T...

      Whitechapel .- —Mr . Stratton lectured at the Ship Inn on Sunday evening . Subject : "The Evils of Socialism when connected with Chartism . " The lecturer divided it into the following heads : —Political , Infidel , and Christian Socialism . He contended that the two former , however right they might be in themselves , were calculated to impede the progress of Chartism , and prejudice many again *; vhem who might otherwise have been active supporters . Christian Socialism , on the contrary , was calculated to accelerate the progress of their demand ( or political power , and to hind up and cement the Chartist cause . At the close of the lecture a spirited discussion ensued , in which Messrs . J . Shaw , Bezer , and Wheeler took part . The subject will be resumed by Mr . Wheeler on Sunday evening next . At tbe close of the discussion tbe locality business was entered into . Considerable feeling was manifested that

      their delegates should have voted for Mr . Jones s motion for the Manchester Council to call a Convention in opposition to their instructions . A special meeting of the Council and members was summoned for Tuesday to consider the subject . —Tuesday Evening . — -At the special meeting resolutions were passed opposed to the Manchester Council calling the Convention . Considerable surprise was manifested that localities should be allowed to have representatives on the Metropolitan Delegate Council acting in the name of the Chartist body when such localities had no place of meeting , and never gave the Delegates their instructions , or received from them any reports . A resolution was passed , calling upon their Delegates as the only Tower Hamlets body of Chartists represented on the Couucil , to inquire into tbe number and position of the various bodies having represent tations on the Delegate Council .

      Metropolitan Dbleoate Council . —This body met on Sunday afternoon , at the Finsbury Literary Institution ; Mr . Farrah in the chair . After the minutes had been confirmed , tbe sub-committee appointed to get up the public meeting at the Temperance Hail , Royal Mint-street , reported that tbey had engaged that place for Wednesday , February 18 th , — Mr . Jones in relation to the report in the " Northern Star " of the previous meeting , asserted that be was represented as saying that Mr . Linton had sold the movement to the middle class . He never made such an assertion ; he had a high respect for that gentleman . The tenor of the report was that the Executive had received a monetary bribe to sell the movement . Ilis statement was that the inevitable result of their policy was to hand it over to the working

      class . —Mr . Wheeler stated that he had inserted the exact words of Mr . Jones , though of course his speech was much curtailed , file mistake relative to Mr . Linton arose from the word " he being inserted instead of "they " in the report . —Reports were then received from the following localities respecting the calling of a Convention : — City-lney were opposed to calling a Convention . —Boston —Ihey had received no instructions . —Ship—Thought a Convention , necessary , but were not in favour of its being called until there was a prospect of there being funds to support one . —Islington—They were in favour of a Convention , but wished first to have the funds in hand . They objected to the manner in which the two persons were lately elected on the Executive . -Fiusbury-They were in favour of a Convention , and were raising fundi for its support . — Westminster-In favour of a Convention , and blamed the Executive for the recent eleotions . —John-street

      Looallty—Had held no meeting . Mr . John James Be-* er objected to his locality being misrepresented . Messrs . E . Jones and Murray had never reported to tho locality , or received any instruction from them since their election as delegates . —The Chairman informed Mr . Bezer that he could not listen to his observations , he not being a delegate . —Chelsea-They had r . o instructions .-The report of the Executive business was then read , in which they declined calling a Convention until the debt was paid , and sufficient funds were in hand for that purpose .-Mr . E , Jones moved the following resolution . ' - "That this Counci , convinced of the paramount importance of the assembling of a ChartisUConvention , give Hi sanction to the Manchester Council for calling a Convention in Manchester as soon as the localities can guarantee to them that their delegates will bring sufficient funds to cover the expenses of their respective delegations to the said Convention . "—Mr . Jones , at considerable length , supported the resolution . He denied that the Executive intended

      Whitechapel.-—Mr. Stratton Lectured At T...

      calling a Convention . They had not the confidence ofthe Country , and would never receive the funds they considered necessary . The Chartists had , in all important localities , decided iu favour of a Convention , and the Executive being ; servants , and not masters , had a right to obey them . Seeing that they would not call it , the duty of doing ' so devolved upon the only three great delegate bodies now in existence . The Metropolitan Council , the Yorkshire , and tho MftHOhestGr - Council ; the latter , from th & convenience of its situation , possession of a hall , dsc , was the body most proper to call it . —Mr . A . Wood seconded the motion . —Mr . F . Farrah moved tbo following amendment : — " That the delegates of this 90 uncil feel satisfied with the present policy of tho Executive , and sincerely hope that they will continue to urge upon the Chartist body the necessity of paying off tho old aooi

      oetqrofresh liabilities are incurred . " Ho thought they thn n f ri ^' - to decide upon calling a Convention before ^ f ! k 00 al ' ties hail expressed their opinions . He approved « ram th ?" , taken hy the Executive , and thought they < tom « ll iv y party mvvin 6 a rkht to call a Convention . Kiffi M wPM «»> ted on that Council could scarcely mwm n ? m , vo - an exi 8 tenoe , and had no right to usurp the Zed luZ n r f 0 gniS 8 d head .-Mr . Washington se-SholIB wtmendr"ent > which was supported by Mr . Weedir m ! £ r ' w x ^ ' Mill 3 > KnowIe 9 . Dooksey > and ritedf duS 22 Lf' ? ne 8 ' 8 moti 01 ' . wnioh ' after a *& bills should be printed JS ^^ tT !^^ 0 b

      ! > > L ° k Lw r P 1 ° b ° srassKto . adjourned ? "' ^ ^ 22 nd ' and the ffieetin « NBWCAsiLK-ON . TtNE . -The members held their quarterly meeting on Wednesday evening , February 9 , in tie Democratic Reading Room , when tho following p ^ ons were elected to serve on the Council for the ensuing quuter •—James Powell , Joseph Dixon , Josiah Thomas , Alexander G mn . George Grant , Treasurer ; John Brown , Financial Soorotary ; C . B . Knight , Corresponding Secretary , No . 2 , Lambton-terrace , Gateshead . Finsbubt . —This locality met at the Literary Institution , on Sunday last , Mr . W . Butler in the chair . Mesa ?* . Butler and Weedon reported from the Metropolitian Delegate Council . It was then resolved— " That this locality call upon their delegates to attend the meeting on Sunday next , to advocate the policy of calling a Convention , and that the visiting committee wait upon all the members oi this society , inviting them to attend a couucil meeting , on Wednesday , February 25 .

      South Lonhon -Haul . —A public meeting of members was held on Thursday evening , at Mr . Iron ' s coffee-house , 118 , Broadwall , Stamford-street . Mr . Langton was called to tho chair . Six new members were enrolled , and a considerable degree of local business transacted . Messrs . J . J . Bezor and Bryson wero elected delegates to the Metropolitan Delegate Council , Mr . Asb moved , and Mr . Prouting seconded , the following resolution : — " That we instruct our delegates to the Metropolitan Delegate Council to disagree with tho proposition lately passed by that body—that tho Manchester Council should immediately call a Convention , this locality believing that the Executive Committee is the proper source from whence these instructions should emanate , and that they will call a Convention as speedily as circumstances shall justify . " The resolution was unanimously adopted , and tho meeting adjourned .

      The New Paper Movement. Asiiton-Ondkb-Ly...

      THE NEW PAPER MOVEMENT . Asiiton-ondkb-Lynb . —The miserable condition of Democracy in Great Britain at the present time , must be a source of regret toevery lov « r ofconstitutional government founded on the extended suffrages of tho whole people . We in tho provinces cannot but rogret that the same foolish policy that has guided many of the leaders of Chartism in years gone by , and has continually kept us in a broil aud ferment amongst each other , is boing carried on at the present hour —antagonism , arising either from a difference of opinion , or so ' me more sordid motive , such as the establishment of some rival paper to tho " Star , " or tho vainglorious love of popularity and array . Wore wo disposed to show the many paper movements since the commencement of the "Star , " and the feelings that actuated the authors , it would not be one ofthe least amusing incidents in the history of

      Chartism . It is sufficient to say that all those paper movements have arisen in opposition to the " Star , " from the establishment of tho " Western Vindicator , " by Vincent and Phelps , till now , and , after a factious and ephemeral existence of some months , tbey have disappeared from the stage of Democacy , leaving chagrin and loss of money to the proprietors , and the cause of freedom in a more divided and helpless condition . If any individual or section of the Chartists of this country are anxious to have a now paper , there can be no objections to it ; but if tho " Star , " that first cemented tho people in this country , and gave the humbler classes to understand what their democratic brethren were doing all over tho world , is to bo slandered and misrepresented , preparatory to such establishment , aU wo can say is , that with such Democracy and Democrats we in the north havo not the slightest sympathy . We think it

      a cruelty on tbe part of any portion of the Chartist party to endeavour to injure either the worldly prospects or honourable feelings of the present Editor of tho " Star , " whom we have all known so long as an earnest pleader on beh : ilf Of civil and religious freedom . Do the Chartists imagine that every sentence a man writes is to please them . And if a sentence escapes the editor or any person who writes in tho "Star , " thatdoesnotexacltymeettbeirviews , we immediately see " votes of censure and want of confidence" passed and sent to tho next "Star . " Much fault was found with " Censor , " a few weeks ago , for expressing his opinions ; but let us ask those who found such fault , if that is either liberty or democracy , that will not allow any individual , however widely he may differ from thO political oreod of Chartism , to expressand write hisopiniohs in an organ , without" votes of censure and want ot

      confidence being passed , and calling on the editor to publish his own injury ? To say the least of it , the thing is unworthy a noble mind struggling to burst tho bonds of social and political slavery ; and we hope for the future , however we may bo deceived , that a course will be pursued by us all that shall not vender us a laughing-stock to our political opponents , and a divided and distracted party amongst ourselves . We now wish to say that in Ashton , in common with our friends in Stockport , have met to consider what we can do to assist the once vigorous , but now prostrate mind of Mr . O'Connor . We recommend subscriptions to be got up and draws , similar to what our friends in the Potteries got up for the Honesty Fund . Let the Chartists think of the many years of hard and arduous labour Mr . O'Connor has given to the cause of tbe people , and if anything can

      restore lus once active mind to that position in which it once i was , the grateful feelings and tangible sympathy of the > people will do more than anything else . Remember tho old I adage— " He that t ; ives early gives twice ; " and if the people B of this country will not by their subscriptions now assist t the fallen champion of freedom , another item will be added ! to the page of history of a people ' s gratitude . We wish also to say to you , Mr . Editor , thatth © oldd friends of Chartism here havo no feeling with the resolu-itions passed at the delegate meeting a few days ago , andd would just observe , that if delegates can meet for noio worthier purpose than that for which they met , they hadid much better stay at home , and send tho money spent inin travelling expenses to London to help to pay off the debtsts of the Executive .

      With a fervent desire that the friends of Chartism willill make the earliest and most vigorous effort on behalf of Mr Jr , O'Connor to engage an accountant and otherwise assist bim / n , We remain , in heart and fraternity , with all the Sincere Friends of Social and Political Freedom , Tub CninnsTS of AsHTON-TJNDun-LTNB . N . Aiikkn , Hon . Secretary . .

      The Engineers' Strike. A Public Meeting ...

      THE ENGINEERS' STRIKE . A public meeting was held en Wednesday eveningpg . at the South London Hall , Blackfriars-road , to conon aider the result of this struggle , more especially as ife i 1 regarded the unskilled labourers . Mr , J . Brysocoi was called to the chair , and introduced Mr . O'Brieaea who addressed the meeting- at great length . H ( H < deeply regretted that neither the employers nor thrthi skilled labourers were present . Without a beiteitei system of legislation , a system which would lead td t <

      the nationalization of land , a species of currencyicjj which would enable the poor equally with the richich to participate in the benefits to be derived from m n sound system of credit , it would be useless fov thithn labourer , whether skilled or unskilled , to attempt bt b ;; co-operation , by an alteration in the laws of pavtneiuei ! ship by a system of short hours , or by any other merner measure of pailiation , to place the great mass of th thi people in the enjoyment of their social and politictticei rights . During his long address he was much applaudeddeti A . collection was made at the close of the meeting , t .

      Preserved Meats In The Royal Navv.—Some ...

      Preserved Meats in the Royal Navv . —Some retuntunt were printed on Wedno day ordered by th < : flouso of Con Com mons , in respect to preserved meats iu the Royal NaviSav ;; The dates of the contracts are given , commencing in Deceiecen ber , 1844 , at 6 d . per pound , warranted for five years , an , ana security required of £ 100 . It is stated that condemnatioBtion of preserved meats have occurred ever since their first irst hi troduction as an article of diet in her Majesty ' s servioirvioiti The earliest complaint of objectionable matter found in t in canister was recorded in office on the 24 th of Novesnbeinbej 1849 . The supplies of preserved meats for the ArotArotb voyagers are stated . Tho contract prices varied from 7 | n % [> to 2 s . per pound . It is stated that , «« in consequence of tl of tU condemnations and rejections at the home victualling tfng ee tablishments , the contractor was repeatedly directed to i to H all the canisters

      move from the several yards containiiainui such rejected meat , in order that the penalties of his cois con tract might be enforced , and that he might be charge d wid wii the excess cost of the meat which miyht be purchased ised lieu . Bis agent accordingly removed from the Royal Cbl Cl ! l rence-yard , in September , 1851 , 2 , 093 canisters , tho ctho COO tents of irhioh wore , in his opinion , in a putrid state , or likcr likee shortly to become so : but the contractor subsequently ditlyii clined to remove any further quantities from either of tof tt victualling yards until he should be recommended to doo do > by his legal advisers . Part of the 2 , 093 caniatera were oere oo ginally delivered into store by the contractor in Septemptempiy 1848 ; part in June , July , and November , 1849 j and p * nd ow in November , I 860 . They were all removed as heft befefi stated , in September , 1851 . " The contract prices for Wor it * and pork , with the quantities , ate stated in the documentoenH

  • Citation
    • Northern Star (1837-1852), Feb. 21, 1852, page 5, in the Nineteenth-Century Serials Edition (2008; 2018) ncse-os.kdl.kcl.ac.uk/periodicals/ns/issues/ns2_21021852/page/5/